Restaurant Spotlight: The Slanted Door (San Francisco)

First opened in 1995 by Chef Charles Phan, San Francisco's The Slanted Door has grown wildly in popularity over the years, thanks to their commitment to classic Vietnamese dishes, but with modern, locally-grown & farm-fresh ingredients.

The Slanted Door was the first in San Francisco to combine the three winning elements of stylish ambiance, locally-grown and organic ingredients, and Vietnamese flavors. When the restaurant first opened, Phan said, “Many of my staff thought I was crazy. I refused to cut any corners, use any bottled sauces or the typical Vietnamese crutch, MSG.”

His vision proved to be a huge success. Over the years, the Phan family has opened multiple restaurants in similar style throughout the city, including the famousMoss Roomat the California Academy of Sciences.

Check out their menu, get more info, and book a group meal at The Slanted Door on theBlendAbout website.

Where to Take Your Brooklyn Date

Dating in New York is messy enough— there’s no need to throw the “Where should we eat?” confusion into the mix. That’s why I've picked out five date spots for you to choose from that any Brooklyn guy or gal will love.

1. Black Mountain Wine House

Nothing says “let’s cuddle” more than sharing a bottle of wine in a rustic cabin-esque bar, complete with a crackling fireplace. Black Mountain Wine House has a cheese-centric menu filled with shareable goodies like a goat cheese tart, classic Swiss fondue, and even a wild mushroom, Gruyere and truffle oil mac & cheese. Despite its wine bar label, it’s completely unpretentious, offering a relaxing environment for you and your date.

2. Palo Cortado

There’s something sexy about tapas, isn't there? Palo Cortado is a tapas and sherry bar that serves up plates perfect for sharing. Go for the Garbanzos Fritos, or fried chickpeas, the Paella Palo Cortado with saffron rice, shrimp, mussels, clams, and chorizo, and my favorite—the Pulpo a la Gallega, which is Spanish octopus with fingerling potatoes and pimento vinaigrette. Don’t forget to ask the server for a sherry pairing recommendation!

3. Vinegar Hill House

If you’re looking for somewhere (literally) off the beaten path, head over to Vinegar Hill House. The eatery is tucked away on a cobblestone street in Vinegar Hill, a neighborhood with limited subway access but charming old homes and swoon-worthy streets. The restaurant offers unique specials, changing their menu with the seasons, but is known for a perfectly-crispy cast-iron pan chicken when it’s available. They don’t take reservations for parties under six, but you can stop by the restaurant’s new wine bar Hillside just a couple doors down while you wait.

4.  Brucie

Unleash your inner Lady and the Tramp, with this adorable Italian eatery. The menu boasts uber-fresh homemade pastas, and classic Italian-American plates with a modern twist. The Tagliatelle shines, as it’s topped with house-made burrata, tomato butter, and toasty Brussels sprouts. For a sweet ending, share a Coolhaus Ice Cream sandwich, or get two and try a little of each!

  

5.  Zenkichi

You may walk by Zenkichi without noticing the first time you visit. The unmarked door in Williamsburg is a fitting detail in this maze-like restaurant of cozy curtain-encased wooden booths. Each table is equipped with a buzzer to make the waiter appear. The dark surroundings are dotted with dim lights, making for a romantic evening. Try the 8-course Omakase tasting menu paired with sake for a unique showcase of Zenkichi’s offerings, which includes plenty of fresh fish and traditional Japanese plates. 

Enjoy!