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The Ultimate Date Spots in Laurel, Pacific, and Presidio Heights

The best date spots in the neighborhood

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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 Laurel Heights, Pacific Heights, or Presidio Heights 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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Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

First date, drinks: Fat Angel

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With a friendly neighborhood vibe and an extensive wine and beer list, Fat Angel will let you show off your wine or beer knowledge without adding to the first-date pressure. And, assuming things are going nicely, a nice menu of charcuterie and small plates will keep the two of you at the table long enough to split another bottle.

First date, coffee: Jane

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The bustling vibe and clean, modern decor make Jane an inviting place for getting to know each other over a pastry or two. Grab one of the banquette tables near the front, or stake out an intimate spot in the loungy mezzanine and talk about how ridiculous it is that toast is still a thing.

Second date, moderate: Academy Bar & Kitchen

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If date two feels like it should be more low key than spendy, this rustic but unpretentious neighborhood spot will have you covered in the pizza and beer department, without skipping straight to Netflix & chill mode. Chef Nick Pallone moved down the street from his former post at Florio, and his emphasis on local ingredients, housemade charcuterie, and Neapolitan pies hits all the right notes without breaking the bank. A well-rounded lineup of craft beers and a modest, but nicely affordable wine list certainly doesn't hurt, either.

Second date, expensive: The Progress

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Despite the hype around its sister restaurant State Bird Provisions, it can be surprisingly easy to snag a spot at the bar at The Progress. Go on the early side, but take your time and let the staff guide you through a menu that chef Stuart Brioza and co. call "the greatest dinner party ever."

Where to lock it down: Nico

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A hidden gem in Laurel Heights, Nico's inventive, five-course prix fixe menu changes nightly but always feels like a special occasion. Intimate and familiar, yet always fresh — the perfect spot to show you're serious about somebody, without adding the unnecessary gravitas of a big destination dinner.

LTR, moderate: Pizzeria Delfina

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Pizza makes for an unimpeachable date night standby, and Delfina makes inarguably solid Neapolitan-style pies. The vibe is nice enough to feel like a night out, but just neighborhood-y enough to feel comfortable. Get an extra salsiccia pie for bedtime snacking later.

LTR, expensive: SPQR

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So, you've been together a while. It's time to go all-out on a high-end, white tablecloth Italian dinner and spare no expense on the wine. Perfect for anniversary celebrations or question-popping.

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Breakup spot: Swank

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The mid-century-inspired lobby bar at the Laurel Inn has a low-key vibe that will give you the Don Draper-sized ego you need to break the harsh news. Be forewarned though: The martinis here are voluminous and would look very dramatic being thrown in someone's face.

First date, drinks: Fat Angel

With a friendly neighborhood vibe and an extensive wine and beer list, Fat Angel will let you show off your wine or beer knowledge without adding to the first-date pressure. And, assuming things are going nicely, a nice menu of charcuterie and small plates will keep the two of you at the table long enough to split another bottle.

First date, coffee: Jane

The bustling vibe and clean, modern decor make Jane an inviting place for getting to know each other over a pastry or two. Grab one of the banquette tables near the front, or stake out an intimate spot in the loungy mezzanine and talk about how ridiculous it is that toast is still a thing.

Second date, moderate: Academy Bar & Kitchen

If date two feels like it should be more low key than spendy, this rustic but unpretentious neighborhood spot will have you covered in the pizza and beer department, without skipping straight to Netflix & chill mode. Chef Nick Pallone moved down the street from his former post at Florio, and his emphasis on local ingredients, housemade charcuterie, and Neapolitan pies hits all the right notes without breaking the bank. A well-rounded lineup of craft beers and a modest, but nicely affordable wine list certainly doesn't hurt, either.

Second date, expensive: The Progress

Despite the hype around its sister restaurant State Bird Provisions, it can be surprisingly easy to snag a spot at the bar at The Progress. Go on the early side, but take your time and let the staff guide you through a menu that chef Stuart Brioza and co. call "the greatest dinner party ever."

Where to lock it down: Nico

A hidden gem in Laurel Heights, Nico's inventive, five-course prix fixe menu changes nightly but always feels like a special occasion. Intimate and familiar, yet always fresh — the perfect spot to show you're serious about somebody, without adding the unnecessary gravitas of a big destination dinner.

LTR, moderate: Pizzeria Delfina

Pizza makes for an unimpeachable date night standby, and Delfina makes inarguably solid Neapolitan-style pies. The vibe is nice enough to feel like a night out, but just neighborhood-y enough to feel comfortable. Get an extra salsiccia pie for bedtime snacking later.

LTR, expensive: SPQR

So, you've been together a while. It's time to go all-out on a high-end, white tablecloth Italian dinner and spare no expense on the wine. Perfect for anniversary celebrations or question-popping.

SPQR

Breakup spot: Swank

The mid-century-inspired lobby bar at the Laurel Inn has a low-key vibe that will give you the Don Draper-sized ego you need to break the harsh news. Be forewarned though: The martinis here are voluminous and would look very dramatic being thrown in someone's face.

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