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Our experience at Isa this weekend couldn't have been better. Coming from NYC prices, as well, it turns out to be perfectly reasonable. We started with the special pasta, a riff on the risotto's themes, swimming in black truffle, butter, and a small cluster of chopped tomatoes. The tomatoes provided a unique sweet background to the earthiness of the truffle; truely inspired. The seared scallops had a similar balance of earthiness and sweetness, with heady carciofini countering the sugary shellfish. These were the most perfectly cooked scallops we've had in a long time. The signature bass in potatoes may be a take-off of Daniel's original, but the buttery caper sauce gives it a different, Provencal kick. The lamb was simple, but perfectly done. Our meal, with three courses each plus wine, came to around $70 each. It's the best we've had in San Fran, to date.

Service is attentive and friendly without being intrusive. The value is about what one would expect to pay for the quality, variety and creativity of a restaurant of this caliber. The atmosphere is informal and can be a bit loud, but not so loud as to detract from the enjoyment of the meal itself. (The only negative are the chairs which can, after savoring a wonderful meal, become a bit uncomfortable.) But the food! The food is wonderful, creatively prepared, and a treat for the palate. Sharing is the watchword here. Many of the dishes are presented as appitizers (small plates) but even the entrees are prepared in a manner to facilitate sharing and diners are encouraged to do so. It makes for a wonderful, and truly shared, dining experience. Note: The desert menu is no less creative and enticing than the dinner menu and like the other dishes, can be shared, though I would not have shared my flourless chocolate torte with anyone.