Belinda Leong's wildly popular new pastry shop faced sellout crowds in the early going, but has settled into its groove as customers flock for her famous kouign amann, the exquisite grande macaron, and the luscious chocolate-caramel-toffee mousse.

Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello's new Spanish spot is packing them in for tapas, inventive cocktails (liquid-nitrogen sangria!) and the ever-exquisite Bay views. At only 50-odd seats, though, this one's a hot ticket that's filling up fast; reservations are a must.

Yeah, it's a museum restaurant, but with the gorgeous Bay views in that glass box, Cal-Med fare from Loretta Keller, and master sushi chef Sachio Kojima manning the raw bar, this one's not to be overlooked. You don't need a ticket to dine, but do note the wonky hours; it's really only open for dinner on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and the latter night is 18+ only, so don't bring the kids.

SF's most expensive restaurant has moved to a gorgeous new home, and Josh Skenes' fire-driven creations define "hot" in more ways than one. The new $88 lounge tasting menu is a good entry point for those who can't drop $400 for dinner with wine pairings.

Alums of Bouley in New York and Coi in SF, husband-and-wife team Sarah and Evan Rich spent months fine-tuning the menu for Rich Table with a pop-up. Now their Hayes Valley restaurant is fully formed, serving refined riffs on comfort fare such as pork belly panzanella, and a wicked market-fresh cocktail list.

Chef Chris Kronner's once cult-followed Bar Tartine burger returns from the ashes at KronnerBurger. The menu includes the famous marrow burger, "crabburger," beef cheek-gravy-covered fries, and cocktails from current Locanda bar manager Gabe Lowe. Dinner is served until late every night but Saturday, in a vacant space next to Bruno's—adding the right dose of edgy mystique to make for true "hotness."

Ryan Ostler and Scott Youkilis' new 'cue spot in the Mission is lively, tasty, and won't leave you feeling like you've swallowed a bowling ball. Grab one of Scott Beattie's wild-cherry bourbon rickeys and order up the tender ribs, the sake-braised pork belly, or the insanely good brussels sprouts. They're serving all day now, too, with $2 beers at lunch and killer new desserts from Katherine Zacher.

This adorable Mission wine bar, housed in a former record shop, has an intriguing menu of small plates from Sea Salt alum Anthony Paone to pair with its lovely mid-century modern decor and thoughtful wine and beer selection.

Chez Panisse vets Sam White and Rayneil De Guzman have been earning raves for the authentic bowls of noodles and tasty small plates at this Oakland hotspot (but with no reservations, be prepared to wait, and wait). A sleek woodshop feel, earthy handmade dishes, and cocktails expertly shaken by Beretta alum Christa Manolo complete the picture.

Chris Pastena's latest project is getting attention for Huw Thornton's meat-heavy pub menu, the inventive cocktail program, and a strong beer and wine selection. The cool historic vibe of the Tribune building doesn't hurt either.