THE CASTRO. This hip, stylish restaurant boasts an American menu, colored with Asian and Mediterranean influences. Dinner's savory dishes and wonderful flavor are repeated at 2223's Sunday brunch. Try grilled salmon or tomato napolean salad for a hint of the goodness, and continue with lemon-buttermilk pancakes, eggs with home fries and brioche, southern-fried chicken salad, or a savory bread pudding crafted with goat cheese, roasted mushrooms, and prosciutto.

HAYES VALLEY. Absinthe recalls the days of Dorothy Parker and her circle of witty, sardonic critics. Along with dicing celebrities, they took great pleasure in good food and drink. Plenty of both can be found here, and weekend brunch is especially delightful. Champagne and wines balance the cuisine, which includes cold seafood platters, imported French cheeses, and coq au vin. A tasty caesar salad and a risotto with fava beans, basil, and parmesan are also great options. To sum up ­ absolutely faultless!

HAYES VALLEY. Remember the Alamo...for exceptional seafood that is! This popular restaurant, owned by the same man as the beloved Baker Street Bistro, is applauded regularly for fantastic food and reasonable prices. Salmon and crab cakes alone keep the place at the top of any food list, and fish can be sauteed, grilled, or blackened and then topped with any number of lush sauces. Everything is fresh too, from homemade breads to mussels and classic Continental desserts. A French tendency colors the menu, adding a touch of earthy sophistication.

COW HOLLOW. Don't be taken aback if the lively owner of this cozy brunch spot hails you from the street, inviting you into the comfortable neighborhood bistro. Expertly prepared food is a mainstay, and pastries (like raspberry and apple turnovers) almost always sell out. Still, you can make the most of omelets, baguette sandwiches, eggs Benedict, goat cheese salad, pasta, and desserts. Prices are surprisingly affordable, which is always a nice perk.

NOB HILL. The Big 4 takes its name from four, well-known, 19th-century railroad tycoons, and the restaurant's decor is adorned with memorabilia from the era. Pan-seared Dungeness crab cakes, brioche French toast, steak and eggs, and Cobb salad are among the champagne brunch offerings that you'll find. Soups, fresh fruit, juices, and a variety of other dishes round out the tantalizing New American fare.