Before Nate Appleman helmed Chipotle and Daniel Holzman started his “baller” empire (The Meatball Shop) the two chefs were lighting up the food scene in San Francisco. That’s why today we’re premiering a new throwback Thursday column where we get recommendations from chefs in the cities they got their start in! Up this week, the essential San Francisco, let’s hear it from the boys…
Nate Appleman
Best breakfast…
Boulettes Larder or Il Cane Rosso at the ferry building.
Best burger…
In-N-Out. Duh!
Best brunch…
Best late night cocktails…
I don’t drink but I will offer late night eats. Bob’s Donuts is open 24 hours and they fry the doughnuts at night. Glazed comes out around midnight. Also House of Thai, Pinecrest Diner, and Grubstake.
Best spots to camp out for never-ending dinners…
Best fine dining…
Saison, Benu, Aziza, Commis and Coi.
Best oysters…
Waterbar, Zuni Café and Swan Oyster Depot.
Best healthy options…
Best power lunch…
Best brasserie fare…
Best weeknight dinner spot…
Spices II, Nojo, Nopa, State Bird Provisions, Kin Khao and The House of Prime Rib.
Best neighborhood vibe…
Bar Tartine and Delfina.
Best people-watching…
Lers Ros in the Tenderloin. You see all walks of life in the area.
Best hangover food…
I don’t drink but I can offer the lazy Sunday spots…Nopalito, Arguello Market for the turkey sandwich, and Pizzeria Delfina.
The up and coming spot…
Merigan Sub Shop, Outerlands and Ume.
See next page for Daniel Holzman’s essential San Francisco…