paul K offers ideal pre-theatre dining. Food was good, service attentive, location just 3 blocks away from the SF Opera House (so that you can park in the theatre lot and walk to/from the restaurant in heels), and I was able to make a reservation within the week for a Friday night.
The Mediterranean restaurant has only been open for the past year or so, but seems to have attracted a lot of attention, by the look of its full-house each weekend. I suppose it isn't too difficult to pack the place, as it only holds about 20 tables. Unfortunately, the lack of space makes one feel somewhat like a sardine, which may make New York diners feel at home. . .
I enjoy trying lots of different items on the menu, which is why dim sum works so well for me, and all of the Med. appetizers looked so good that I shared a sampler plate with my companion. It included very tasty ground lamb skewers, humus, babaganoush (sp?), ribs of lamb (super tender and delicious but also really fatty), pita bread slices, marinated baby artichoke hearts (not overly vinegary, thank goodness) and other goodies.
Since both of us hate feeling too full while sitting watching a show for 3 hours, my dinner-mate ordered a well seasoned chicken breast entree while I opted for a fresh salmon & pasta dish. Light but still tasty, I even had room for dessert - a simple creme brulee. paul K makes homemade sorbets, which my friend certainly enjoyed (flavors were red wine, passion fruit, and berry); I noticed just about every other table ordering at least one of the sorbet desserts. I think I'll try one of those next time. . .
www.paulkrestaurant.com