Robert Hill and chef Julia McClaskey, who created quite a buzz at Dine, have joined up again in their own venture in a space that's housed at least four other restaurants. They've obviously lifted the curse with the stellar American food and the whimsical interior that looks kind of like a nautical African safari. There's weathered white-washed siding, a seahorse lamp on the bar, bold striped awning fabric on the chairs, animal prints and stuffed animal heads in the bathroom. The open kitchen and bustling bar at the entrance add to the glamour.
Cuisine: American Specialities: Seared chicken livers with organic greens; pot roast; hazelnut-crusted sea bass; chipotle-glazed braised short ribs. Seats: 97 Prices: $17-$25 Parking: Valet $7 Vitals: 2101 Sutter St. (at Steiner), San Francisco; (415) 441-2101. Dinner Monday-Saturday. Full bar. Reservations and credit cards accepted.
