Nisei is a fine dining restaurant in Russian Hill with thoughtful Japanese American dishes.

The Cinch is a queer-friendly beer bar in Russian Hill.

Seven Hills is an Italian neighborhood spot between Nob and Russian Hills that makes good pasta, but everything else is hit-or-miss.

Macondray is a cocktail bar in Russian Hill with plenty of fruity drinks and more plants than you can count.

Amarena is a small Italian spot in Russian Hill that’s great for dropping into on a weeknight for some solid pasta.

Bacchus Wine Bar is a tiny wine bar in Russian Hill that's perfect to sit at while you wait for a table to open up at Elephant Sushi.

You can get great pizzas in Russian Hill from Fiorella on Polk Street.

Abrazo is a Spanish place in Russian Hill that’s great when you need a last-second table.

Head to Loving Cup in Russian Hill for rice pudding and frozen yogurt when ice cream just isn’t what you want.

Elephant Sushi in Russian Hill usually has a bit of a wait, so try to head there on the early side (they open at 6).

Cocotte is a small French place in Russian Hill where you should go for a midweek date.

Head to Sam’s in North Beach for a late night burger when you’re done bar hopping.

Trattoria Contadina in North Beach serves fantastic pasta in a warm and welcoming setting.

Hot Sauce and Panko serves wings out of a tiny shop in Russian Hill.

Cheese Plus in Russian Hill is a great stop for sandwiches and picnic supplies.

The Market Restaurant at China Live in Russian Hill serves an extensive menu of Chinese food in a large, loud dining room.