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Piccino
Piccino
Chloe F./Yelp

Where to Go on a Date in the Dogpatch and Potrero Hill

The best date spots in the neighborhood

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Piccino
| Chloe F./Yelp

Nailing the perfect venue is an absolutely essential component to the success of a date. But here's the thing: What makes a great first date spot is definitely not the same as what makes a place the best to celebrate a special occasion or even a second date — so deciding where to take a plus-one doesn't always get the same answer. Every situation has different needs — neighborhood, vibes, price point — and it can be tricky to find the right bar or restaurant if you've never been there. So next time you're trying to pick a fitting location, just consult this guide. We've got you covered if it's Potrero Hill or the Dogpatch you're cornering.

In need of the best date spots in other neighborhoods? Check out this ultimate guide to dating in San Francisco.

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First date, drinks: Third Rail

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A bar with a railway theme is a surprisingly good spot for a first date, where craft cocktails and mid-century vibes might help things pick up steam. The only food here is a variety of jerky (sold by the ounce), so either eat ahead of time or be prepared to get the dried meat sweats with a total stranger.

First date, coffee: Provender

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This super-small, friendly coffeeshop will get your hearts racing with Andytown espresso drinks, and light snacks, if that's what you're after. Grab your drinks and take a stroll through the neighborhood overlooking San Francisco.

Second date, moderate: Smokestack

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Barbecue, beers, and whiskies are all on the menu here. It's a great opportunity to get over silly insecurities, while you've both got barbecue all over your hands (and probably all over your second best shirt).

Second date, expensive: Piccino Cafe

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This adorable Italian-influenced restaurant is a lively spot for a second date, with a menu of pizzas and pastas. Sit on the patio as the sun sets with a bottle of rosé for maximum enjoyment.

Where to lock it down: Chez Maman East

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It's not the most expensive restaurant in the neighborhood, but it's romantic and homey in that French bistro way. Share escargot and beef tartare, and wash it all down with Champagne as you plan a trip to Paris together.

LTR, moderate: Mac Daddy

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What's that, you say? You're a grown ass (wo)man and you don't eat macaroni and cheese for dinner anymore? Well, take a trip back to a more youthful, single state-of-mind with your partner in crime, and dig in to a bowl of mac bejeweled with short ribs with a bottle of wine.

LTR, expensive: Serpentine

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Like your relationship, Serpentine is steady and in it for the long haul, offering up simple but well-executed dishes like oven-roasted chicken. It's not an adventure, but it's a welcoming place to catch up with your significant other over a cocktail and one of SF's best burgers.

Breakup spot: The Ramp

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Known for its bloody marys, The Ramp is a good place to bring a scorned lover in broad daylight. Have your "serious talk" by the water, where you can leave your ex gazing into the Bay, or at least have a getaway plan by boat locked down.

First date, drinks: Third Rail

A bar with a railway theme is a surprisingly good spot for a first date, where craft cocktails and mid-century vibes might help things pick up steam. The only food here is a variety of jerky (sold by the ounce), so either eat ahead of time or be prepared to get the dried meat sweats with a total stranger.

First date, coffee: Provender

This super-small, friendly coffeeshop will get your hearts racing with Andytown espresso drinks, and light snacks, if that's what you're after. Grab your drinks and take a stroll through the neighborhood overlooking San Francisco.

Second date, moderate: Smokestack

Barbecue, beers, and whiskies are all on the menu here. It's a great opportunity to get over silly insecurities, while you've both got barbecue all over your hands (and probably all over your second best shirt).

Second date, expensive: Piccino Cafe

This adorable Italian-influenced restaurant is a lively spot for a second date, with a menu of pizzas and pastas. Sit on the patio as the sun sets with a bottle of rosé for maximum enjoyment.

Where to lock it down: Chez Maman East

It's not the most expensive restaurant in the neighborhood, but it's romantic and homey in that French bistro way. Share escargot and beef tartare, and wash it all down with Champagne as you plan a trip to Paris together.

LTR, moderate: Mac Daddy

What's that, you say? You're a grown ass (wo)man and you don't eat macaroni and cheese for dinner anymore? Well, take a trip back to a more youthful, single state-of-mind with your partner in crime, and dig in to a bowl of mac bejeweled with short ribs with a bottle of wine.

LTR, expensive: Serpentine

Like your relationship, Serpentine is steady and in it for the long haul, offering up simple but well-executed dishes like oven-roasted chicken. It's not an adventure, but it's a welcoming place to catch up with your significant other over a cocktail and one of SF's best burgers.

Breakup spot: The Ramp

Known for its bloody marys, The Ramp is a good place to bring a scorned lover in broad daylight. Have your "serious talk" by the water, where you can leave your ex gazing into the Bay, or at least have a getaway plan by boat locked down.

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