Zagat’s 2010 San Francisco Bay Area Restaurants Guide goes on sale today, with diners once again choosing Restaurant Gary Danko as the region’s most popular restaurant (and the one with the best food), and welcoming Bottega as the best newcomer. Newly reopened Sierra Mar got the best decor nod, but it may have had an unfair natural advantage seeing as it’s perched on a cliff in Big Sur.
To nobody’s surprise, those surveyed said they’re being more careful with their money, with 52 percent eating out less often, and 42 percent going to less expensive places. On the bright side, the toilet-based economy has led to a heap of bargains — of which 62 percent of diners are taking advantage — and better service, with 40 percent of diners reporting they feel their business is more appreciated, and 36 percent saying it’s easier to get reservations these days. “The economic downturn has definitely affected San Francisco diners. Quite simply, they are being more careful with their money,” Tim Zagat said in a statement. “The good news is that local restaurants have been going to great lengths to hang on to their clientele.” If you want to check out the full spread of statistics, it’s here, and if you want to buy the book you can do so here.
