Best Restaurants for Local Ingredients in North Beach

Come back to the re-opened Tavern on Washington Square! We had a wonderful meal at the chef's counter. We ordered the tuna crudo, a large portion with citrus & slices of avocado in a zingy vinaigrette. We also started with the signature kale salad - pleasantly parmesan-forward with crispy crouton crumbles on top. The waitress suggested the shrimp scampi pasta, which amazed us. It did not have a typical tomato-garlic sauce. Instead, the perfectly cooked shrimp were sauteed with garlic and thinly sliced fresh peppers with an undercurrent of peppery heat. We shared the King salmon main, which was served on a bed of fresh spinach and watermelon radishes in a vinaigrette, making it a sizeable but light presentation. The portions were on the medium+ side and were very sharable for at least two people. All the food was excellent. The wines by the glass and the cocktail we had were also great. They are still looking to get fully staffed, but we felt well taken care of. The team there is very professional and attentive to their customers. We will be back!

Love the prix fixe menu, the little gem salad was wonderful, the optional truffle risotto was very good though the mignonette was a bit strong. The bistro steak was well seasoned and enjoyable. The deconstructed carrot cake was absolutely fantastic with a whipped fromage blanc, crispy parsnips and candied walnuts. Would love to have it again. Overall great experience. Be warned it can get really hot inside because of the small space and many tables

Happened to arrive towards end of happy hour. Great deals, delicious food and cocktails. Really cute spot.

Absolutely amazing food. Great staff, and that grilled octopus appetizer had me as “hello”. We will definitely be back.

Barbara is THE spot. A must go for groups, it’s a vibe. Get some food, get some drinks. Enjoy it.