Universal Café

(Mission)
2814 19th St.  
415-821-4608 Map it
www.universalcafe.net

$$$
California
brunch, dine at the bar, good for groups, lunch, open kitchen, outdoor dining, romantic

SCENE: Situated in loft central, Universal’s sleek details mirror the neighborhood’s industrial look. A close-quartered open kitchen and tall chalkboard cocktail menu cozy up the space. While tight-knit tables make for easy eavesdropping, the casual feel creates a choice date place.

EATS: Rustic meets sophisticated on Leslie Carr-Avalos’ inspired, mostly organic menu of New American dishes. Share the crispy flatbread with pesto and fresh-stretched mozzarella, then dig into red wine–braised Niman Ranch pot roast or a dish of paella with local seafood.