Located in an unassuming and charming area, evoking images of parks in French villages, South Park Café also seems like a slice of small-town France. For over twenty years this diminutive café, with a kitchen that takes Gallic cooking seriously, has evolved into being one of the most sought after places in San Francisco. With walls painted in light yellow shades, soft lighting and a zinc-topped bar, the Parisian feel is overwhelming.

The tiny menu may feature starters such as baked goats' cheese with frisée, thyme and shallots; Petrale sole pâté topped with a Gulf white shrimp and capers, and baked gypsy pepper stuffed with salt cod brandade. A main course of lapin à la moutarde, rabbit stewed in mustard sauce with prunes; roast duck breast with porcini mushroom sauce, lentils and red cabbage, and homemade boudin aux pommes, blood sausage with sautéed apples, all demonstrate some robust cooking at large.