San Francisco has long been a taste mecca for foodies and pizza-enthusiasts alike and despite the recession, the restaurant industry here shows no signs of slowing down. Here are a few of our favorite new places to grub around the city.

La Mar Cebicheria Peruana
Pier 1.5 Embarcadero
San Francisco CA 94111
415-397-8880

La Mar Cebicheria Peruana, located at Pier 1½ along San Francisco’s scenic Embarcadero, was introduced last fall by Chef Gastón Acurio with his sensational Peruvian cuisine. Not only will patrons be surprised by the diversity of the menu, but they will also be amazed with the gorgeous view along La Mar’s water-front patio.

The menu is organized by cebiches, tiraditos (Peruvian-style sashimis), causas (traditional Peruvian potato dishes), para compartir (dishes to share), arroces (regional rice dishes) and classic Peruvian main dishes and stews. La Mar attracts all walks of diners, from cash-spending tourists to curious locals. This refined space is accompanied with a dining room, patio, bar and lounge area. Whether you are coming for drinks or a light meal, La Mar will entice those who attend to come time and time again.

Midi
185 Sutter Street
San Francisco, CA 94104
415-835-6400

Midi, located at the crossroads of San Francisco’s shopping and financial districts, has a playful and modern vibe that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Not only is the brasserie-style menu delicious, Midi uses sustainable methods by purchasing locally grown products.

Separated on a two-level space, Midi creates a trendy and classy atmosphere that brings in both power suits and bargoer’s alike. The first level holds a full stocked bar, open kitchen and casual dining area. The second level dining room offers a comfortable and serene setting that overlooks lively Sutter Street. Patrons can also reserve private dining space for various social events. Midi is the perfect mix of Financial District entrepreneurship and Union Square refinement.

Taverna Aventine
582 Washington Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
415-981-1500

Situated in a 150-year old building, Taverna Aventine is one of the trendiest new restaurants in San Francisco. Located in Jackson Square, Aventine features a two-level space with a bar on each floor and the menu follows a seasonal Californian-Italian menu. Decorated in brick walls, tin ceilings, and covered with dark wood, Aventine is worthy of the Barbary Coast heritage.

Aventine offers a relaxed lunch scene during the day and then transforms into a lively nightclub at night. Aventine also offers a private liquor locker downstairs where select members may secure their preeminent alcohol and cigars.

Zaré at Fly Trap
606 Folsom St.
San Francisco, CA 94107
415-243-0580

Joining the modern and the classic, Hoss Zaré brings vivacious Mediterranean flavors to the historic space that once housed San Francisco restaurant, The Fly Trap. Located in the SOMA district, Zaré at Fly Trap takes the Barbary Coast appeal of a classic San Francisco restaurant and introduces it into the modern dining age. Following a California-Mediteranean bistro menu, Zaré at Fly Trap is full of signature dishes, delicious cocktails and an exclusive wine list.

Zaré at Fly Trap is covered with botanical prints on the walls and is lined with brass strips. With its Meatball Mondays, Zaré has created a historic night that few miss. One of the best deals in the area is Zarés “Ten after Ten”. Groups of ten or more who dine after ten p.m. will receive fifty percent off their meals. Along with these great deals, Zaré at Fly Trap also offers live music on several nights a week, so it is definitely a must-see for tourists and San Franciscan’s alike.

Nopalito

Nopalito, the casual Mexican offshoot of Nopa, opened early this year and has been packed ever since. Nopalito’s dishes are fresh, and while flavored with the spice and citrus of Mexican cuisine, possess a very Californian style. With its use local, organic and sustainable ingredients, Nopalito’s is a necessity for those who enjoy good food and enjoy helping the environment.

With both indoor and outdoor seating, the restaurant’s atmosphere is modern, comfortable and inviting. This small neighborhood joint, with its friendly service and unforgettable food, is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.