Fodor's Expert Review Michael Mina

The flagship outpost for this acclaimed chef remains a beacon of refined dining, with a Middle Eastern–inspired menu that loosely channels Mina's Egyptian family background with luxury elements and plenty of creativity in prix fixe menus. The restaurant's predecessor, Aqua, is where Mina first made a major name for himself in San Francisco before growing a worldwide restaurant empire, and you can still opt to include some of his early signature dishes, like lobster pot pie, here.

For a more casual experience, try Mina's nearby restaurants at 101 California St., Pabu (for sushi) and The Ramen Bar.