An oasis in San Francisco’s barren desert of BBQ. Enjoy it in daytime, in sunlight, with a beer, on the patio.

Alba Ray’s is a Cajun spot in the Mission that will trick you into thinking you’re in New Orleans.

Nourish Cafe is a neighborhood spot in the Inner Richmond that also happens to be good for you.

We love Lers Ros for a big group dinner, especially when your group is down to eat some spicy alligator. This Thai joint is best if you get adventurous.

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in North Beach has nearly every style of pizza you can ask for all under one roof.

Dancing Yak is a Nepali restaurant in the Mission with excellent chicken momos, plus great curries and thali plates. Use it for a casual dinner.

The Italian Homemade Company in North Beach is a great and easy spot to drop into for homemade pasta.

Causwells is a much-needed brunch spot in the Marina, that works well any time of day. Especially since the burger is always on the menu.

Little Skillet in SoMa serves Southern food in a space perfect for groups.

The burgers at Popsons in Mid-Market are the right mix between fast food and fancy.

For a casual last-minute dinner in the Marina, The Italian Homemade Co. is a solid option.

Bonita is a TNT crime drama of a restaurant in the Marina – satisfying, but never quite award-winning.

Hit Palm House’s Happy Hour in Cow Hollow for alcoholic slushies and Caribbean bar food.

Pizzeria Avellino in Cow Hollow is one of the best (and only) pizza-by-the-slice spots in SF.

The Embarcadero location of The Plant is a prime spot to grab a healthy lunch.

Unsurprisingly, the choices at Rosamunde Sausage Grill in the Mission are sausage and sausage.