The Inside Scoop by our Local Expert
San Francisco's Civic Center is made up of the area around the beautiful, domed City Hall. Across the street from City Hall is the War Memorial Opera House where the Opera and Ballet perform. Right next door is the Davies Symphony Hall, where the San Francisco Symphony is lead by Musical Director Michael Tilson Thomas. Helgi Tomasson is the Artistic Director of the San Francisco Ballet. All three performance companies are world class. There are a number of restaurants in the area that are popular with neighborhood people as well as theatergoers. Ananda Fuara is the area's well-known vegetarian restaurant. Jardiniere on Grove Street is the high-end eatery owned by Traci des Jardins, who is considered one of the best chefs in the country. Hayes Street Grill, a few blocks away, offers excellent seafood. There is a Civic Center BART station, making the area easy to reach from the East Bay and the areas south of the City.