Gilt Club   

Slips of light sneak through the edges of the gold drapes covering the windows of this chic restaurant and bar. Vibrant red and gold walls surround high-backed booths and banquettes, while two modern chandeliers overhead add to the space's sleek, sexy effect. An intimate, long curvy bar off to one side invites sipping and gazing. In the kitchen, chef Paul Irving, a 20-year alumni of Insalata's in Marin County, pours passion into his work, taking quality seasonal ingredients and turning out rich, earthy dishes like the grilled pork medallions with peach-cherry salsa and gourmet potato salad, or pan-roasted halibut enveloped in chanterelle mushrooms and applewood smoked bacon. Signature cocktails shaken tableside make this an ideal place for an impressive first date or a 10-year anniversary celebration.