Bar Tartine

(Mission)
561 Valencia St.  
415-487-1600 Map it
www.tartinebakery.com

$$$
California
bar scene, business lunch, dine at the bar, notable wine list, open 7 days, romantic

SCENE: Luckily for fans of cult favorite Tartine Bakery, its beautiful sibling, Bar Tartine, takes reservations. Creamy walls set against a striking black plank floor are accented with floral paintings, tarnished brass sconces and an antler chandelier. In fact, the lighting makes everyone look good.

EATS: The Cal-Med menu is best when things are kept fresh and simple. Pickled sardine pintxos are served with piperade, parsley oil and sieved egg. Mains include grilled poussin with lentils, brussels sprouts and foie-gras sauce, and a raisin-and-pine-nut-studded Moroccan lamb tagine. Desserts, such as a sticky date cake with roasted apple, are a must. Note: The seats at the long marble bar are kept open for walk-ins.