Uva Enoteca

Description:

• The Haight has seen a recent resurgence in its dining scene, which can largely be attributed to the arrival of true gems like Uva Enoteca. Behind this 2008 addition is a two-man team: Boris Nemchenok, a Mario Batali pizzeria vet who doubles as the wine director and general manager and can often be caught seating and serving guests as well, and Executive Chef Ben Hetzel, who most recently worked in the prestigious Dining Room at the Ritz-Carlton. The narrow wine bar with its exposed brick and intimate setting could easily be found in New York's West Village and is a breath of fresh air among Haight Street's other shoddy offerings. Start with a speck and apple purée bruschette and meat-and-cheese assortment; if you're unsure of which of the local varieties to order, ask Boris, and he'll bring you out a delectable pairing. If you still have stomach space to spare, follow that with a panini or piadine, like my favorite the pine-nut butter, raisins, bitter greens, and balsamic selection, and pasta or pizza. The wine selection changes weekly with 80 or so types -- all Italian, all the time -- always on tap, which you can order by the bottle, 20 ounces, 6 ounces, or 8 ounces. The gelato, made special for the restaurant by a local company, is a can't-miss, with flavors like avocado, honey granola, bergamot, and kiwi (alongside more normal types like chocolate and vanilla). One thing's for sure: You'll want to make repeat visits to Uva Enoteca to be able to taste everything on the menu and feel as if you've done it justice.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Highly Recommended 2010