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Radhaus

After holiday shopping at the lively West Coast Craft, brave a wait in the Fort Mason wind tunnel for a seat at Radhaus, a move you will not regret upon gaining entry to their airy, light-drenched (and warm) interior. Within minutes you’ll have an authentic German lager or cider in hand, and a first course on the table thanks to their well-paced service. Staple starters include the unfussy but delicious pretzel & obatzda and fries, both familiar favorites dressed up with their respective dips. Having never associated a fish sandwich with German cuisine, the fischbrötchen surprised as a favorite, its buttermilk batter perfectly complemented by the bright slaw and tangy remoulade. Sandwich aside, it’s the cozy bratwurst dish that will bring you back: perfectly succulent sausage sitting atop a bed of mashed potatoes with sauerkraut and a dark pork jus. Dare we propose a Radhaus Brat Winter?


Mamanoko

Whether for a first date or weekend lunch with the group chat, the Marina’s Mamanoko makes for an elevated yet approachable dining experience. The servers are attentive but never rush patrons through their courses, which affords diners the opportunity to sample dishes from all three of their menus: sushi, maki and izakaya. Fresh from Tokyo’s Toyosu Market, a sampling of their tuna nigiri is a must. For a hot starter, the miso glazed cod melts in your mouth, paired with crisp baby kale, which adds crunch to buttery softness. The Mamasan roll, while not revolutionary in its ingredient list, was notable for its quality, balanced flavor, and mouthfeel. You’ll long for the Phone Eats First era of yore, as every element from the decor to the plating is ‘gram-worthy. Perhaps after a few Mrs. Roboto gin cocktails, you’ll just hit post anyway.   

Empire Pizza

Any East Coast transplant who has watched Dom personally drizzle their Di Fara’s pie with olive oil, or has navigated the subway gauntlet toting a paper plate and a slice from Joe’s, knows the New York Style claim is often unsubstantiated here in the Bay Area. At Empire Pizza they earn it, offering the first triangle of pepperoni hope for many a Brooklyn-to-Bay transplant. While this SoMa beacon is currently closed, they’re planning a second act in Spring 2025. When they reopen at 3rd & Mission, don’t sleep on this spot just because you’ve found another reliable pie. Their other gut-busting menu standouts like the old school eggplant parmesan or meatball hero will keep you in an Empire state of mind.