I love a date that gives you something to talk about. These are my go-to SF date nights: a few activities that beat another dinner reservation, a couple of sunset spots, and the restaurants I pick when I want the night to feel special.
Map
Go on a Thursday for NightLife: adults only, DJs and bars set up among the aquarium tanks and exhibits. Way more fun than it sounds.
California Academy of Sciences
Roller disco inside a 120-year-old church near the Painted Ladies. Rent skates, fall down a little, laugh a lot.
Church Of 8 Wheels Roller Disco
Japanese-style communal baths in Japantown. Check the schedule for co-ed days, soak, then walk over for dinner nearby.
Kabuki Springs & Spa
The classic SF comedy club, small and loud in the best way. Grab a late show after dinner.
Punch Line San Francisco
Pick out a book for each other at Green Apple on Clement, then get dumplings or dessert on the same block.
Green Apple Books
Walk the lagoon around sunset when the rotunda lights up. Free, easy, and it never gets old.
Palace of Fine Arts
Tiny hilltop park on Russian Hill with a big view of the Bay and Coit Tower. Bring a bottle of wine for sunset.
Ina Coolbrith Park
The most romantic spot from the State Bird Provisions team. Low light, seafood, and great people-watching at the bar.
The Anchovy Bar
Candlelit French wine bar in Jackson Square. Share an omelette, some seafood, and a bottle of natural wine.
Verjus
A dim, old-school Cow Hollow institution. French onion soup and a steak at the bar, and you will stay for hours.
The Brazen Head
As low-key or fancy as you want. Snacks and wine at the bar, or the tasting menu for a birthday or anniversary. Get the porcini donuts.
Rich Table
Warm, brick-walled Italian in Jackson Square with a wood-fired oven. Order the raviolo with the runny egg yolk.
