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.

PACIFIC HEIGHTS. Superior Mediterranean-style tapas draw eager patrons into this eatery owned by talented Pascal Rigo. Given that the place is small, waits are not uncommon, but once inside, you can indulge in dishes like grilled squid, Spanish asparagus tortilla, potato omelet, and grilled lamb chops. A largely European wine list is available by the glass, and beers are available.

RUSSIAN HILL. Warm, intimate Frascati teems with neighborhood folks who appreciate its comfortable ambience and toothsome cuisine. (For people not so close, the Powell & Hyde cable car runs just beyond the front door.) The menu covers that nebulous territory that unites Italian, Mediterranean, and Californian fare ­ to wit, lamb carpaccio with minted eggplant caponata, pan-roasted pork tenderloin with Italian sausage and creamy basil farro, and tiger prawn risotto with melted leeks and prosciutto. Cap your choice with artisan cheeses or the restaurant's coveted black and white chocolate bread pudding.

SOMA. Take organic ingredients, superb wines, a chef's sure hand, and a sleek, romantic dining room. Then impart everything with the cachet that comes from affiliation with Mayor Gavin Newsom, and you've got a hint of what Jack Falstaff is all about. The menu is rustic but sophisticated, composed of offerings like quince-glazed Arctic char, five-spice duck breast, slow-roasted pork and seared sea scallops. Artisan cheeses and decadent, organic desserts like lavender crème brûlée and bananas Foster bread pudding also make a satisfying appearance. Great wines are priced just above retail.

COW HOLLOW. Playfully bestowed with the Italian word for "optimist" ­ that is, one who always believes that the glass is half full ­ this wine bar also has a way with Italian-inspired tapas. Offering more than 200 by-the-bottle options, Ottimista showcases a changing 25 by-the-glass selections, concentrating on northern Italian vintages. Choose your favorite, and couple it with items like truffled mushroom risotto, a hand-crafted salumi plate, artisanal cheeses, pumpkin ravioli, or a roasted half-chicken. A great date-worthy place.