Americano

(Embarcadero)
8 Mission St.  
415-278-3777 Map it
www.americanorestaurant.com

$$$-$$$$
Contemporary American
bar scene, breakfast, brunch, business lunch, good for groups, hotel, outdoor dining, singles scene, view

SCENE: Housed on the first floor of Chip Conley’s sleek Hotel Vitale and across the street from the Ferry Building, this new spot is, nonetheless, no run-of-the-mill tourist stop. The light-infused space pays homage to natural elements (echoing the hotel’s modern aesthetic).

EATS: Italian dishes get a Northern California twist, like flaky-crusted pizzas topped with everything from nopales to shaved black truffles. The Scharffen Berger tartufo—a flourless chocolate cake with cinnamon crema and coffee gelato—is a decadent way to end your meal.