SAN FRANCISCO
Boulevard
(415) 247-7770 • boulevardrestaurant.com
New to Readers’ Choice but a seasoned favorite in the hearts (and stomachs) of many San Franciscans, Boulevard prides itself in proffering refined American fare from renowned chef/owner Nancy Oakes. Located in a prime location on the Embarcadero, the restaurant boasts lovely bay views toward the Bay Bridge, which just adds, yes, the proverbial icing on the cake on one of the most creative, delicious and memorable dining experiences you can have in the Bay Area.
EAST BAY
Italian Colors
OAKLAND
(510) 482-8094 • italiancolorsrestaurant.com
Traditional Italian fare served up in Montclair Village includes duck breast, octopus and Niman ranch meatballs with salsa rossa. California wines and selected Italian varietals accompany the menu, which changes with the seasons and daily specials; gluten-free pasta is also available for those with sensitivities.
SOUTH BAY/PENINSULA
Evvia Estiatorio
PALO ALTO
(650) 326-0983 • evvia.net
Evvia Estiatorio in downtown Palo Alto features Greek cuisine in a rustic setting, with copper cookware, a large wood table and a rustic stone fireplace. Favorites include moussaka, artichoke souvlaki (with eggplant and yogurt) and mesquite-grilled lamb chops.
NORTH BAY
Insalata’s
SAN ANSELMO
(415) 457-7700 • insalatas.com
Mediterranean-style food that is anything but typical includes the likes of eggplant fries with cilantro mint chutney, Syrian fattoush salad and grilled Maine diver scallops with Israeli couscous. In addition to newly arriving among J.’s Readers’ Choice awards, it also holds several other awards including the Michelin’s Bib Gourmand Award for 2019 (a designation that highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals, which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less).