6 SF Eateries I’d Like to Try

When considering a dinner date, there are a few factors: dietary restrictions, availability of reservations, and any cravings. For me, it’s easy to fall into habits, returning to the same restaurants over and over. Why mess with a good thing, right?

However, there are some SF restaurants I have yet to try that sound so good. Maybe we should explore them together?

But First, an Aside…on the Intersection of Hooking and Luxury

Escorts are often reduced to clichés. Many imagine we demand $700 dinners or gifts with four or five-figure price tags. While it’s definitely fun to go to nice dinners and receive lovely gifts, these stereotypes ignore both the diversity of sex workers’ lives and the ways in which luxury intersects with class, social mobility, and identity. It’s easy to slap a label on someone, but it’s harder to explore the nuances of how we move between worlds and define what luxury means to us.

Personally, I’ve found that luxury isn’t about expensive things alone. It’s about having the freedom and resources to treat myself, but it’s also about savoring the small, meaningful moments. A perfectly made taco from a client’s favorite taqueria can bring me as much joy as a Michelin-starred tasting menu.

As I started to write this article, I realized the spots I listed are all high-end fine dining spots. And, I do genuinely enjoy that. But, I’ve had as much of a great time eating at Mixt, PF Changs, or a local diner as I have at some of SF’s finest dining experiences.

I absolutely love amazing, creative tasting menus, unique wines, and beautiful settings. I am so grateful that I’ve gotten to experience these things and I treasure the special experiences I’ve had over the years. And I want to let you know I’m not a one-trick pony. Get you a girl that can do both (ie, take me to your favorite dive bar?).

What impresses me most is the kind and considerate people who value me as a person, value our connection, and support my endeavors, regardless of what we may do together. Maybe it sounds a bit “Pollyanna” but it’s true: that’s real luxury to me!

And now onto a list of beautiful and delicious treats I’d like to try…

Should I Make Us a Reservation?

1. Aziza

Aziza originally closed in 2016, but it’s been back since 2019. It’s a restaurant by celebrated chef Mourad Lahlou, the same mind behind the recently shuttered Mourad, which I also enjoyed a lot. According to reviews, Morrocan food is the central focus, with some California additions, in a gorgeous space. Multiple reviews mention the Basteeya as a crowd favorite—a flaky pastry filled with shredded chicken and spiced nuts. Sounds yummy!

2. Verjus

As a Francophile, I love the vibe of Verjus. They call it a Cave a Manger—a winery or tasting room serving food. It originally closed during the pandemic in 2020 and only reopened in October 2024. It’s a casual offering from Michael and Lindsey Tusk—the creators of Quince and Cotogna, both of which boast three Michelin stars. Their locally driven menu changes weekly, and they have a variety of exciting wines to try.

3. The Wild

Chefs Mark Zimmerman and Peggy Tan, the team behind Gozu, a Wagyu steakhouse, opened The Wild in August 2024. Their goal is to connect diners with the natural world. They play bird sounds throughout service, use local foods from California and the West Coast, and offer a warm, hospitable, “cabin-like” environment. Reviews mention delicious food, creative plating, and thoughtful poetry on the menus as highlights.

4. Liloyoho Yacht Club

I’ve heard great things about this spot but haven’t had the chance to go there yet! Liloyoho Yacht Club opened in 2015 under the guidance of chef Ravi Kapur. It’s a mix of Hawaiian, Chinese, and California cuisines in a posh energetic space. It sounds delicious and fun.

5. Merchant Roots

Merchant Roots is an incredibly creative restaurant where each season’s menu falls under an immersive theme. They go all out. The decor, menu, plates, and beverage pairings change to match the theme and make it as comprehensive as possible. Every three months it’s basically like a whole new restaurant, but with the same amazing quality and attention to detail.

6. Altamirano

Altamirano delivers a more classic dining experience. According to the menu, Chefs Carlos Altamirano and Eric Chumacero take classic Peruvian dishes to a new level, with a bit of California flair. I adore Peruvian food so I’d be so excited to go here!