Spruce

Set in one of San Francisco’s snazziest neighborhoods, Spruce draws a regular following thanks to its elegant take on Californian cuisine, matching refined simplicity with impeccable seasonal ingredients. Lunch is more casual, with approachable options like salads and sandwiches; the experience at dinner has a more elevated air; a starter of fluffy ricotta gnudi is bathed in a tangy sauce vierge and capped with crisp guanciale, displaying a keen sense of balance. A main course of roasted duck breast, crusted with coriander seed and pistachio, served with stone fruit gastrique, pairs bold flavors with careful technique. For dessert, a decadent crème fraîche cheesecake is thick and creamy with sweet vanilla flavor and a classic graham-cracker crust.