CITIZEN CAKE—Inventive contemporary cuisine near the War Memorial Opera House and Davies Symphony Hall, with an excellent selection of desserts. $$–$$$. Serves light breakfast and lunch Tu–F, dinner Tu–Sa (and Su when the Symphony or Opera performs), brunch Sa–Su. 399 Grove St. 861-2228 Map 1, B7

CITYSCAPE—Located 46 floors above Union Square with a contemporary menu showcasing fresh seasonal ingredients. The views are incredible. $$–$$$. Serves dinner nightly, jazz brunch Su. Hilton San Francisco, 333 O’Farrell St. 923-5002 Map 1, C6

EQUINOX—San Francisco’s only revolving rooftop restaurant, atop the Hyatt Regency, gives everyone window seating with a 360-degree view. $$$. Serves dinner and cocktails W–Su. Hyatt Regency Hotel, 5 Embarcadero Center. 291-6619 Map 1, F5

FIFTH FLOOR—Zebra-print carpeting and deco chairs create a chic setting for Melissa Perello’s creative cooking styles. The tasting menus include a five-course vegetarian option, and à la carte dining is also available. Jackets recommended. $$$. Serves dinner nightly. Hotel Palomar, 12 Fourth St. 348-1555 Map 1, D6

FOREIGN CINEMA—Regional ingredients shine on a Mediterranean–influenced menu that changes daily. The raw bar features super-fresh bivalves. Classic films are screened nightly in the heated courtyard out back. $$$. Serves dinner nightly, brunch Sa–Su. 2534 Mission St. 648-7600 Map 2, I7

GARY DANKO—Named for its star chef/owner, the understated elegance, impeccable service and fabulous French-inspired California cuisine earned Mobil’s five-star rating and make this one of the city’s best restaurants—and toughest reservations (walk–ins are welcome at the bar). $$$. Serves dinner nightly. 800 North Point St. at Hyde St. 749-2060 Map 1, B2

GLOBE—This 45-seat Jackson Square bistro offers housemade pastas and such comfort foods as braised short ribs with mashed potatoes and mac ‘n’ cheese. It’s one of the city’s most popular spots for late-night dining. $$–$$$. Serves lunch M–F, dinner nightly (until 1 am M–Sa). 290 Pacific Ave. 391-4132 Map 1, D4

GRANDVIEWS—Thirty-six floors above Union Square, this restaurant offers stunning views and an eclectic menu that includes grilled seafood and broiled steaks, plus casual favorites such as pizzas and sandwiches. $$–$$$. Serves lunch and dinner daily. Grand Hyatt Hotel, 345 Stockton St. 403-4847 Map 1, D5

HAWTHORNE LANE—Dazzling Mediterranean- and Asian-influenced dishes featuring the freshest in seasonal ingredients and jet-fresh seafood from around the world, with a full bar. $$$. Serves lunch M–F, dinner nightly. 22 Hawthorne Lane. 777-9779 Map 1, E6

JARDINIÈRE—Elegant French–inspired cuisine in a spectacular setting. $$$. Serves dinner nightly; seating continues for 45 minutes after performances end at the nearby symphony hall and opera house. 300 Grove St. at Franklin St. 861-5555 Map 1, A7

LUELLA—An intimate Russian Hill spot along the Powell-Hyde cable car line that serves seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Favorites include the Coca-Cola braised pork shoulder with a white-bean purée and lamb sugo with pappardelle. $$. Serves dinner nightly. 1896 Hyde St. 674-4343 Map 1, B4

THE TERRACE AT THE RITZ-CARLTON—The Sunday jazz brunch buffet features a lavish selection of caviar and blinis, made-to-order omelets, breakfast meats and even sushi. During the rest of the week, the restaurant offers seasonal cuisine with Mediterranean influences. $$$. Serves breakfast and lunch daily, dinner M and Tu only. 600 Stockton St. 773-6198 Map 1, D4

VIGNETTE—Modern American cuisine with French and Italian influences in a bright, airy setting. $$–$$$. Serves lunch and dinner daily, plus a three-course pre–theater menu; call for information on tea service. Orchard Hotel, 665 Bush St. 956-2972 Map 1, C5