MISSION DISTRICT. Charanga adds a Latin twist to San Francisco's melting pot of restaurants. Reasonably priced dishes are a great find and include patatas à la brava (fried potatoes with tomato dipping sauce) and grilled pork chops with potatoes and green beans (which gain kick with a passion-fruit jerk sauce). In fact, many dishes pair meats, seafood, and rustic bases with a sweet-tinged accompaniment, creating a terrific combination of flavors.

THE CASTRO. This South American restaurant is a favorite with locals looking for a fun place to gather. Its ambience is that of a bistro, comfortable and welcoming, and tapas are the name of the game. They include ceviches, empanadas, spicy scallop cakes, sauteed tiger prawns with sofrito puree, and blackened duck breast. Salmon, grilled sirloin strips, and quinoa with grilled vegetables are also available. Well-selected wines and cocktails promise apt accompaniments; there's also a prix fixe menu and a Sunday brunch.

PACIFIC HEIGHTS. Harkening back to Cuba's glory days in the mid-part of the century, this restaurant captures cuisine, decor, and ambience beautifully. Amid tropical palms, an exuberant mural, and wrought-iron detailing, diners relax into a menu of Latin American favorites. Among them are ceviche, plantain-crusted tuna, and tiger prawns in Cuban Creole sauce. Additional possibilities include skirt steak, rack of lamb, and pan-seared duck breast. Caribbean rums and cocktails add to the authenticity of the experience.

MISSION DISTRICT. At La Taqueria, you'll not only get a great Mexican meal, but you'll save a little cash too! The menu specializes in burritos, tacos, and quesadillas served with beef, pork, sausage, or chicken. Carne asada comes highly praised, and chorizo sausage must be sampled before you leave. Long wooden dining tables are shared by guests, so enjoy a delightful meal and the opportunity to socialize with locals and tourists.

SOMA. Burnished walls and chunky wood furniture hint at Maya's Mexican heritage, but the inspiration absolutely bursts forth in the Nuevo Latino cuisine. Earthy flavors and the chef's sure hand distinguish the wonderful dishes, which include lamb sirloin with adobo red wine sauce, pan-roasted red snapper, and lobster and shrimp marinated in achiote paste and served with roasted corn puree. Three-course prix fixe menus, available at lunch and dinner, make for affordable dining, and complimentary appetizers served during happy hour promise savory nibbling.