By Beau Prichard
San Francisco has many great options for dining, from chophouses with sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, to authentic hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurants in Chinatown. It is also home to several restaurants that offer fun and unique dining experiences.
Forbes Island
Forbes Island, a man made island just off Pier 41 on San Francisco's waterfront, has been in place for decades. Only recently, however, has Forbes Island included a restaurant. Catch a yellow shuttle boat from Pier 39 out to Forbes Island, and enjoy views of San Francisco as you ride to the island, including the Forbes Island lighthouse and local sea lions. You can dine below deck with underwater views through aquarium-like windows, or above deck with views of the city. The menu is traditional American cuisine, and the desserts are recommended.
Forbes Island
Boats depart from Pier 39
(415) 951-4900
http://www.forbesisland.com
Foreign Cinema
Local filmgoers and filmmakers alike have been spotted dining at the Foreign Cinema, which features a covered outdoor screening area for classic and foreign films. The menu features an oyster bar, seafood, small plates and entrees, all inspired by California and Mediterranean cuisine. Locals often show up for the substantial brunches, which feature hand-made poptarts and local organic eggs. The Foreign Cinema also features a cafe, which serves lighter options like sandwiches.
Foreign Cinema
2534 Mission Street
San Francisco CA 94110
(415) 648-7600
http://www.foreigncinema.com
The Tonga Room
Located in San Francisco's celebrated Fairmont Hotel, the Tonga Room and Hurricane Bar offers Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine and tasty tropical cocktails in an island setting. Enjoy thunder, lightning and rainstorms while you eat, as well as life music and dancing. The Mai Tai is widely regarded as the city's best. The drink goes well with the restaurant's buffet, which has a one-drink minimum. Drinks and discounted food are also available the Tonga Room's award-winning happy hour.
The Tonga Room at the Fairmont San Francisco
950 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA 94108
(415) 772-5000
http://www.fairmont.com/SanFrancisco
About the Author:
Beau Prichard has been a freelance writer and editor since 1999. He specializes in fiction, travel and writing coaching. He has traveled in the United Kingdom, Europe, Mexico and Australia. Prichard grew up in New Zealand and holds a Bachelor of Arts in writing from George Fox University.
