While the United States is certainly famed for region specific cuisine, no state gets quite the eyebrow raise as California.  With an eclectic mixture of trendy and traditional dished, Cali lays claim to some truly inspiring and revolutionary food concepts and eateries.  San Francisco restaurants lead the pack in this regard, primarily because of its adventurous spirit and award winning offerings.  For instance, one would be hard pressed not to find a raw food or vegan establishment along San Francisco beaches, two cultural movements that have influenced a lot of the locales dishes.

It is also known that San Francisco restaurants can cater to any crowd, from the surfers, to the family group.  That said, they are most noted for posh, romantic and ritzy establishments that are pleasing to the eye and palette.

This could be among one of the many reasons why many foodies love traveling to the city. With fantastic dishes in mind, most of them pull out their trusted forks and appetites and hop the most noteworthy San Francisco restaurants in the area.

And just why do so many tastemeisters and chef's flock to the 'Cisco shores?

It could be the fact that the highly competitive local industry tries hard to cultivate customer by being innovative and creative.

One particular stand out is the Jardinière Restaurant. Established in 1997, the place has become something of landmark to locals and visitors alike.  As if wrested from a bygone era, Jardinière's French eatery provides an opulent and rich setting that no one should miss out on.  Chef and owner Traci Des Jardins also ensures that the place is a cut above other San Francisco restaurants because of its elegant grandiose designs and sensual food.  No other restaurant in the city can lay claim to a winding 19^th century style staircase and the lavishly detailed Bar is truly a neighborhood Hayes Valley treasure.  The romantic atmosphere is perfect for couples and since it is close to many local theaters, it is the perfect go to place for an after movie bite.

Jardinière's success in no way mitigates the offerings of Venticello Ristorante however.  With an exquisite menu that consists of Tuscany inspired meal offerings, the Nob Hill establishment provides a full service bar alongside wood burning ovens and a breathtaking bay view.  Another standout amongst San Francisco restaurants, Venticello provides a miscellaneous assortment of fine California wine in an inviting setting that puts one in mind of a cozy Tuscan farmhouse.

If you are looking for fun yet glamorous outdoor ambiance, the Ducca Restaurant and Lounge is the place to go.  As far as San Francisco restaurants go, the concept is unique and appealing.  Based on Venetian concepts, Ducca considers itself to be an  "urban Venetian Mecca" located in the heart of San Francisco.  The title is apt as it can lay claim to mouth watering Italian foods that are specific to the Venice area but more than welcome in the California foodie community. Elegance personified, a fresco terrace compliments silk screen patricians and soft, moody lighting.  Of note however, are the copper dipped forks at each table, a nod to the early venetians who were the first Europeans to eat with utensils.

The above San Francisco restaurants are but a slice of the numerous cultured and classy establishments in the city.  Indeed, it goes without saying that alongside neighborhood beaches and lovely homes, the dining experiences found along the Pacific coast are truly beyond compare.

If you plan to visit the West Coast are and want to create memories that last a lifetime, partake in the wondrous cuisine found at local San Francisco restaurants.  In doing so, you will not only be able to get a taste of paradise, you will  also join the ranks of the refined elite who know that in order to sample the best life has to offer, one has to splurge every once in a while.