Reservations are a challenge at this modern stunner, located on the Embarcadero and with a killer view of the Bay Bridge. The Slanted Door has managed to stay atop tourists’ hit lists thanks to its Northern Californian spin on classic Vietnamese cuisine. It’s an efficient and professional place; and while the décor is quite stark, the servers are all warmth. Instead of the cellophane noodles with crab or overpriced shaking beef, diners should stick to more solid offerings like gau choy gow, featuring pan-fried dumplings with Gulf shrimp and garlic chives accompanied by a zippy soy and fish-sauce dip. Take advantage of this kitchen's varied repertoire by sampling more than one of their vegetable sides, like the crisp and spicy broccoli with pressed tofu.