San Francisco is known for producing restaurants that stand the test of time. We expect these exciting new spots to stick around awhile.
Gitane Chef Lisa Eyherabide's menu at this dusky Union Square spot (pictured) begins in Spain and travels to Portugal and North Africa. The intimate restaurant's eclectic design and off-the-radar alley location are as alluring as its stellar cocktail and sherry list. Try: Jittersauce, made with gin, Scotch, sparkling wine and bitters ($9); bacon bonbons ($9); cataplana ($24). 6 Claude Ln. (at Sutter St.); 415-788-6686 or gitanerestaurant.com
Nettie's Crab Shack Seafood (including Dungeness crab, the West Coast's sunken treasure) gets its briny due at this sophisticated reconsideration of a familiar genre. Try: Wood-grilled Dungeness crab with cornbread ($20); clam chowder ($8); warm Dungeness-crab roll ($25). 2032 Union St. (between Webster and Buchanan sts.); 415-409-0300 or nettiescrabshack.com
Humphry Slocombe Some say the artisanal ice cream movement needs to chill out. Naysayers will change their minds after visiting Jake Godby's charmingly retro ice cream parlor, located deep in the Mission. His innovative flavors include Thai chile lime and "secret breakfast" (bourbon and cornflakes). Try: The Gabba Gabba Hey sundae with balsamic-caramel ice cream, a brownie and amarena cherries ($6). 2790 Harrison St. (at 24th St.); 415-550-6971 or humphryslocombe.com
Zaré at Fly Trap The love child of Persian cuisine and Chez Panisse, Zaré at Fly Trap brings Iranian-born chef Hoss Zaré back to the SoMa site of his first Bay Area restaurant gig. Attention night owls: The vibrantly spiced menu is served until midnight. Try: The lamb burger ($14); ménage a foie ($15); roasted baby eggplant ($10). 606 Folsom St. (at Second St.); 415-243-0580 or zareflytrap.com
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