Grand Cafe

(Union Square)
501 Geary St.  
415-292-0101 Map it
www.grandcafe-sf.com/

$$$-$$$$
French

SCENE: Underneath hand-painted murals, a well-dressed crowd of tourists, theatergoers and locals gathers to enjoy the Grand Café’s refined Parisian ambiance and updated Gallic fare. The beautifully restored ballroom’s airy 30-foot ceilings and mosaic columns give it the feel of an upscale brasserie.

EATS: The French menu has a California sensibility. Starters of impeccably fresh chilled shellfish, various charcuterie and seasonal salads offer a crisp, clean first bite before you dive into “plats” of steak au poivre and rosy slices of duck garnished with Provençal flavors of rosemary and olives. Save room for the deconstructed banana cream pie with a macadamia shortbread crust and gooey coconut-caramel sauce.