1550 Hyde Cafe & Wine Bar

(Russian Hill)
1550 Hyde St.  
415-775-1550 Map it
www.1550hyde.com

$$$
California
dine at the bar, notable wine list, romantic

SCENE: This tiny neighborhood spot keeps it simple: Decor is spare, but flickering candles and an inviting bar create a warm and friendly vibe as cable cars rumble by.

EATS: Don’t miss the fritto of the day, such as the lightly fried green beans sprinkled with grainy salt, to dip in lemony aïoli. Spaetzle paired with earthy braised rabbit and a subtly flavored mustard-Madeira sauce is extraordinary. The maple-syrup tart with tangy crème fraîche tastes like pecan pie without the nuts to get in the way. A flight of the evening’s three-ounce pours comes with extensive wine notes to educate your palate.