Aqua

(Financial District)
252 California St.  
415-956-9662 Map it
www.aqua-sf.com

E + D Award Winner
$$$$
Seafood
business lunch, fine dining, lunch, notable wine list, open 7 days, private dining or party space, prix-fixe menu

2008 & 2007 EAT + DRINK AWARDS: Best Business Lunch


SCENE: Business bigwigs and starry-eyed couples out for a special occasion are met with equal graciousness at this Financial District institution. Grandiose floral arrangements and warm lighting offset the conventional tan-and-white decor.

EATS: Chef Laurent Manrique’s sumptuous Cal-French cuisine highlights complex flavor combinations with a distinct emphasis on the sea. Re-envisioned surf-and-turf, as in the yellowfin tuna with bordelaise sauce or the sturgeon and veal cheek “Bourguignon” are classic with a (very successful) twist. Aqua’s signature wine—a 2003 Pinot Noir crafted by Manrique and former sommelier Sean Crowley—is exceptional, and desserts, such as a milk-chocolate mousse bar, nearly steal the show.