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"Lindsay and Michael Tusk’s wine bar made a huge impression on San Francisco when it opened in 2019, quickly landing rave reviews; after a four-year, pandemic-induced closure, its 2024 return has barely missed a beat, easily recapturing old fans and making new ones. At Verjus, the signature Omelet Boursin arrives glossy with a coating of butter, topped with verdant green chives and Boursin cheese warmed through. Those who like the unctuous flavors of pate will likely enjoy the pate en croute, a showy slice with a terrazzo-like interior and browned pastry exterior, accompanied by whole seed mustard and gherkins. If your group is steering toward lighter fare, Le Grand Aioli brings nicely cooked salmon with seasonal vegetables like French breakfast radishes alongside a goblet of whipped aioli—guaranteed to keep your group in place and snacking between sips of wine. Yes, it’s primarily a wine bar, but the reopening added a worthwhile cocktail component: a menu from Thad Vogler of Bar Agricole that plays well with the food and keeps pace with the wine selections. Insider tip: lunch is served on Saturdays only and is a worthy time to stop in, with some dishes exclusively available during lunch in addition to the full dinner menu." - Dianne de Guzman