There are plenty of factors to consider when planning a date. Whether it’s your first time getting to know someone or you’re months into a relationship, nailing that pitch-perfect spot feels great. If you’re on a budget or just looking for someplace unique to share with that special someone, this map can help narrow down some restaurant or bar choices, depending on the person, the occasion, or what type of mood you’re going for, all in the Chinatown and North Beach area. Here are some options for taking your partner — or potential partner — for a night out.
Read MoreWhere to Take a Date in Chinatown and North Beach
The best date spots in the neighborhood
For a first date, drinks: Comstock Saloon
For cocktail connoisseurs who prefer a spot that offers a measured take on, say, a classic cocktail like the Sazerac, Comstock Saloon is a solid choice. Housed inside a historical space, it’s a lovely place to spend time in, and if things are going well, it’s easy enough to extend the date with dishes from the kitchen and live music that typically kicks off at 8 p.m.
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For a first date, drinks: Mr. Bing’s
For the types who prefer a dive bar — and prefer a partner who does, too — Mr. Bing’s could be a great place to test the waters. It’s an easygoing space filled with (mostly) locals, and drinks skew toward the classics. That means no overly complicated menus or cocktails to worry over when ordering so you can keep your attention on your date.
For a first date, coffee: The Coffee Movement
The Coffee Movement takes its coffee seriously, but it’s also a shop where one can learn about coffee. The shop’s tasting flight features three different coffees, or one coffee prepared three different ways, perfect for nerding out on a first date and trying something new. There’s practically no seating here, however, so plan on taking your drinks out to the small parklet or on a walk around the neighborhood.
For a first date, meal: Flour + Water Pizzeria
If you’re taking a chance on a meal for a first date, Flour + Water Pizzeria offers a sit-down experience via its Columbus Avenue entrance, with starters and salads to add onto your pie. There’s also a pizza shop side for grabbing a slice or whole pie to-go — drop some change into the Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game to complete the nostalgic experience — perfect for bringing to nearby Washington Square if the weather’s nice.
For a second date, moderate: Cassava
If you’re looking to keep an eye on the budget, but still want an impressive meal out, Cassava is the place to go. This French-Cailfornian bistro has a three-course menu available for under $55 per person — as well as a five-course version for slightly more — and there’s an a la carte menu if preferred. An optional beverage pairing is offered with the three- and five-course tasting menus.
LTR, moderate: Portofino
Portofino is a charming seafood restaurant, serving items such as whole roasted Dungeness crab, cioppino, po’boys, pasta, and more. The decor and ceiling only add to the restaurant’s allure, and now that you’re in a long-term relationship, you likely won’t mind cracking into a messy crab together. This is the kind of low-key spot that’ll prove you’ve still got some tricks up your sleeve.
LTR, expensive: Mister Jiu's
The gorgeous dining room at Mister Jiu's is a joy to discover amidst the typically lower-key restaurants in Chinatown, especially when paired with chef Brandon Jew's contemporary takes on Chinese food. The restaurant now offers a $125 prix fixe menu that rotates regularly and typically includes a mix of individually plated dishes and communal entrees. Don't skip out on the cocktails or dessert.
Where to lock it down: Quince
If you and your partner are the food-loving types who enjoy a fine dining experience, it doesn’t get more high-end than three-Michelin-starred Quince. Led by chefs Michael and Lindsay Tusk, expect a multi-course meal that showcases local produce sourced from West Marin. Add to the glamour of the night with selections from the cheese and vintage amaro carts at the end of the meal.
Breakup spot: Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge
A karaoke bar may seem an odd choice for a breakup spot, but the more you think about it, the more genius it becomes. There’s plenty of music to drown out any of the more heated moments in your conversation, people are too focused on the singer to notice you, and you can even sing a swan song if needed.