Aqua   

DH and I went here for an early New Year's Eve dinner. We had a fine table and a superb meal. The decorations were fun, but not overdone. We spent more here for the two of us than we have ever spent on any restaurant meal (including The French Laundry), but it was a wonderful splurge, well worth the price!

I took my girlfriend here for her 25th birthday and let me tell you, it was not what I was expecting. The ambiance was bad, loud, and cramped. The chef's precourse was fairly good as the tuna croquette was tasty. We each had wonderful appetizers--my grilled scallops were excellent. Unfortunately then came the main course. We both had the lobster and let me tell you I almost puked (not joking). The cilantro sauce was fine, but the lobster itself smelled rotten and pungent. It tasted bitter and sour. I know what lobster is supposed to taste like and whatever that was, it wasn't good. I could barely eat the rest of my meal although the dessert cleared my palette well. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE. If you want something better try Farallon or Scoma's.

Went to Aqua last night with 4 friends. If I pay over $100 for food (which was delicious) I would like to be able to hear the people at my table and not have to ask for more Water, Coffee, etc. We found the place, beautiful, food excellent BUT would not go back because of the noise level and lack of expected service. The evening was not relaxed because of the noise and although the food was good we couldn't hear the waiters when they explained what we were eating. The somelier was ok but didn't really go out of his way to help us and we ended up ordering what WE wanted - found his recommendations lacking. So overall for the price I'd much rather go to the Fifth Floor, Masa's or another of the top restaurants in S.F.

Entirely over rated! The prices are way out of line for what you get (with drinks, I spent $200 for two). I don't really mind spending a lot if the food is good, but wow, what a disapointment! I ordered the seasonal tasting, which is a sampling of many of the dishes they serve on the menu. This selection gives a really good idea of the food here. The servings are tiny, so don't go if you're really hungry. You get the impression the chef is trying too hard. Many of the dishes have a confusing blend of different flavors that don't go well together. At least no one can complain about the service. This is about as good as it gets. The waiters are very friendly and go out of their way to please.