MARINA DISTRICT. For good times and great sushi, head to Ace Wasabi's, where you'll find a happening crowd and a diverse menu, including appetizers, salads, and seafood cooked and uncooked. Innovative sushi rolls are a specialty, as indicated by the Flying Kamikaze (spicy tuna, asparagus, and albacore) and the Three Amigos (tuna, eel, and cucumber). Fresh ingredients are standard, and daily specials up the ante on options. Friendly service is also a plus.

MISSION DISTRICT. This spacious establishment offers both globally inspired tapas and a selection of wines that is similarly far-reaching. Ahi tartare tacos and Vietnamese spring rolls hint at the food options, and reasonable prices make it easy to share a variety of dishes. The large wine list is available by the glass, flight, and half-bottle ­ treat yourself to Spanish reds, German whites, and a host of Californian vintages. While you sip, enjoy Andalu's upbeat ambience and clean-lined decor.

COW HOLLOW. One of the Bay Area's best values is this Cow Hollow classic. Boasting a trendy Pan-Asian (or, Pacific Rim) menu and sleek, vintage Chinese décor, Betelnut is great for celebrating big events, business deals, or just enjoying long meals. Specialties include tasty appetizers like chile-encrusted calamari and wok-roasted clams and innovative entrées like spicy coconut chicken and tea-soaked duck.

NOB HILL. Entering this Euro-Asian restaurant atop the Plaza building, you'll feel as if you've just stepped into an exciting, undersea world. The house specialty, crab prepared three ways, is incredible, and roast crab is a delicious signature dish too. Also famed are garlic noodles, whose recipe is so well-guarded that they must be prepared in a separate kitchen! Well-trained staff.

MARINA DISTRICT. Dragon Well creates comfort through simplicity. Owners Gary and Christina Tan offer pure, unadulterated Chinese dishes that ably satisfy, including kung pao chicken and steamed butterfish. If you're looking for a prelude to the meal, consider vegetarian potstickers or sauteed pea shoots, both wonderful additions. Although you won't find extravagant decor at Dragon Well, you'll be thrilled by the great food.