Paul K

(Hayes Valley)
199 Gough St.  
415-552-7132 Map it
www.paulkrestaurant.com

Dinner only
$$$
Mediterranean
good for groups, notable wine list, romantic

SCENE: Owner Paul Kavouksorian has created an oasis—and one of the city’s best-kept secrets—on a busy thoroughfare. High ceilings and a long mirror behind the bar foster an airy feeling at this small but sophisticated eatery.

EATS: Inhale the intoxicating aromas of sumac and thyme wafting from the open kitchen as fragrant Mediterranean dishes are prepared. After dipping warm house-made flatbread into two kinds of hummus, order the meze platter for falling-off-the-bone lamb riblets and kofte kebabs. For entrées, pomegranate molasses sweetens up a Syrian-spiced duck breast. A sundae with house-made almond ice cream provides a sensuous finish.