Wayfare Tavern
Perhaps it's the roaring fireplace, warm lighting, or cool black-lacquer trim around this spot, but Wayfare Tavern is the place to go for loads of ambiance, plus a solid bite to eat (the deviled eggs, popovers, and pretty much everything else are a must). Can't score a reservation? Belly up to the bar upstairs, where you can also get your grub on.
Wayfare Tavern, 558 Sacramento Street (between Montgomery and Sansome streets); 415-772-9060.

Photographed by Maria del Rio