Bushi-Tei

I tried the new Twilight Menu at Bushi-Tei and it's a real find for a luxe SF meal. For $25 you get two courses, which is plenty of food. I had the fabulous House Cured Sardines and organic Irish Salmon while my date had the succulent Kurobata pork with bacon and apple-ginger relish.

Should you go with the regular menu, the big winners are the Miso Marinated Wagyu Beef wrapped around upland cress, green apple, and fennel - it's simply amazing. Who knew miso could go with blue cheese? Their wildly popular Foie Gras with Kabocha pot de creme is so decadently blissful. It's no surprise to see why executive chef Seiji Wakabayashi earned a Michelin star. His creative thought process and artistry is evident in his French-California cuisine.

For dessert, the Epice Chiffon Cake came with a refreshingly zesty Yuzu Mascarpone Mousse. I absolutely loved the Black Sesame Blancmange with coconut milk reduction. I can eat that every night!

Lunch is another great option. The Croque Washugyu looks very, very tempting, along with the Eden Farms Pork Cutlet. The $25 Sunday brunch features a French Brioche Toast and the Red Crab Cake and Poached Egg (a refined twist on Eggs Benedict). For an epicurean splurge, definitely reserve the Omakase dinner or the monthly wine pairing. This month they're doing it with Tulocay and Trueblood wineries.

They're also opening a new bistro this winter in Japantown. At reduced prices, the casual menu will incorporate a broader range of Asian influences. Also check out the Open Table promo for 11/17 - 11/21. They will offer a three-course lunch menu for $24.

Bushi-tei
1638 Post Street
415.440.4959
www.bushi-tei.com