Scala's Bistro in San Francisco is as memorable as a round on one of the city's great golf courses

There were many highlights of my recent visit to San Francisco, golf and otherwise.

One off-course adventure that was particularly memorable took place at Scala’s Bistro, on Powell Street just a block from Union Square, and adjacent to the historic Sir Francis Drake Hotel. Mrs. Vagabond and I dined on just-off-the-boat seafood, delicate risotto, fresh-from-the-garden salad, and all manner of grain and grape. Despite the late hour on a Sunday evening subsequent to an after-dark Alcatraz Tour, this well appointed, yet intimate eatery was lively, with good-looking patrons and handsome decor. Scala’s features high ceilings, richly colored floor tiles, original murals, rich tobacco tones, gilt mirrors, white linen tablecloths and a semi-open kitchen which feels all the world like a Parisian bistro.

There are as many great Bay Area restaurants as there are blades of grass on the first tee at the nearby Olympic Club, but Scala’s can hold a candle to most any of them. To fuel up prior, or to celebrate after the opportunity to play some of San Francisco’s finest tracks such as Olympic, San Franciso Golf Club, Cal Club or Harding Park G.C., make sure to put Scala’s on your dining agenda. See www.scalasbistro.com for more info.