Restaurant Gary Danko, San Francisco

The recipient of the coveted James Beard cooking award, Chef Gary Danko practices his genius at his eponymous, 75-seat Gary Danko restaurant. Reservations usually have to be booked two months in advance. Luxurious appetizers, flavorful entrees, and decadent desserts are the true crowd-pleasers here. The prix fixe-only menu includes dishes like Lobster Salad with Fennel, Citrus, Avocado and Mustard Tarragon Dressing and Seared Maine Scallops with Black Truffle, Leek and Potato Puree. Indulge in the special Flambeed Pineapple with Macadamia Nuts and Coconut Sherbet, prepared table-side and with gusto. An outstanding wine list featuring hundreds of California and French bottles is available.