Map of Marina District

San Francisco and surrounding area, locate the restaurant called Castagna

One glimpse at Castagna's (chestnut in Niçois) bright red awning and tables arranged out front where patrons dine with their little dogs, and you know she's French. In keeping with the bistro aesthetic, this gem's décor is delicately adorned with wood banquettes, tile floors, and red-painted walls. The welcoming co-owners are brothers from Nice; expectedly, their menu reflects both French and Italian influences. Dishes like a salade Niçoise are simple, fresh, and classic; while the croque monsieur, slathered with béchamel, grated Gruyère, and served with skinny frites and garlic aïoli is probably the most divine version in town. End this French feast on Chestnut Street with a light, lacy crème de marron crêpe, fittingly filled with chestnut paste.