A popular nationwide chain, this outpost serves an array of tasty steaks to the masses, accompanied by masculine steakhouse ambience--dark wood paneling, soft lighting, wine cabinets, and various artwork. Don’t come looking for a fashionable scene, but come for generous portions of corn-fed beef in all its incarnations: rib eye, T-bone, filet, and so on. Artery-clogging side dishes also appear on the menu, such as creamed spinach and potatoes au gratin. The busy strip of Van Ness defies the term neighborhood, though it hovers between Nob Hill and Pacific Heights. Ruth's Chris is an especially good choice for groups and business dinners.

Ruth's Chris Steak House Information:

• Steak menu. Dinner. Closed Thanksgiving, Dec 25. Bar. Children's menu. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking. Credit cards accepted.