Over the past year, we have seen our share of new restaurants open to major acclaim and old heavyweights continue to awe, as San Francisco continues to be on the top of the list of foodie destinations. We recently asked our Facebook and Twitter communities what their favorite restaurant was of 2011. Just like this past year, new restaurants joined the list as San Francisco classics held down the proverbial fort and kept giving us a reason to go back again and again. Without further ado, here is the list you have all been waiting for.. The Top 9 Restaurants of 2011.
Honorable Mentions: Umami Burger, Fresca, Epic Roasthouse
9. Frances (Map)
Only a couple of years old, Frances has caught the eye of many people and made it on to a lot of Best Of lists. Situated in the heart of the Castro Neighborhood, they serve top quality food in a casual setting according to food critic, Michael Bauer. Who are we to argue with him?
8. Tommy's Joynt
The first classic San Francisco restaurant on our list, Tommy's Joynt has been serving food and delighting customers for over 64 years. They've been featured on shows like Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, but they haven't let all the attention get to their head. Their hand-carved turkey, roast beef, pastrami, corned beef and world-famous buffalo stew is still as delicious as it was 64 years ago.
7. Roam Artisan Burgers (Map)
Priding themselves on being eco-conscious and only using sustainable meats (100% grass-fed beef, free-range turkey, all-natural bison and an organic veggie burger), Roam Burgers brings to San Francisco that much-needed go-to burger joint. Options range from the classic burger all the way to the southwest-inspired Tejano Burger. Meals are very affordable, so not only will you leave with a full stomach, but your wallet too.
6. Cafe Claude (Map)
Located only a few blocks from the hotels in Union Square, Cafe Claude has been delighting people for sometime. Armed with impeccable French food and foot-tapping jazz music, there's no wonder this place has amassed over a 1,000 Yelp reviews and a 4 out of 5 star rating.
5. Locanda (Map)
Opened by Craig and Annie Stroll, the same people who brought you San Francisco staples Delfina and Pizzeria Delfina, Locanda sits in the heart of the Mission District. Receiving nationwide recognition, Locanda channels the traditions of Rome in the delicate bowls of pasta they serve.
4. The Stinking Rose
Long been on the list of must-eat places for the visitor, The Stinking Rose is a garlic-lovers paradise. Specialties include 40 clove garlic chicken, porterhouse pork chop, roasted Dungeness crab (two-plus pounds), vegetarian lasagna and light pizzette. As they say, follow your nose to The Stinking Rose. You can't miss it.
3. NOPA (Map)
NOPA is a neighborhood based restaurant designed to attract and comfort those from all over the Bay Area. They serve simple, rustic food created with seasonal ingredients sourced from local purveyors. They also have a killer Hamburger, but that will be our little secret..
2. Limon (Map)
Not just known as a top South American restaurant, Limon continues to awe San Franciscans day in and day out. Their ceviche is to die for and their sangria is a must-have. Their chicken at the Rotisserie falls off the bone, so do yourself a favor and order it already.
1. Anzu
Recently remodeled, Anzu shot up the list this year to #1 and captured the palates of visitors and locals alike. Anzu provides the prime of land and sea: U.S. prime beef paired with masterfully prepared sushi, a world menu and wine list in a relaxed high-service environment.
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