Passion for Latin American cuisine literally oozes out of Destino. It's known for its alfajores, or cookies filled dulce de leche. They're so good that they're sold in tins only at the restaurant and the uber-high-end department store Gump's. The restaurant even periodically organizes sell-out culinary tours to South America.

But the ambience and the day-in-day-out food are what keep people coming back to Destino. Most of the menu is made up of tapas, but a few large plates are also offered. I recommend going with the tapas. I love the empanadas and the arepas de queso (cornmeal biscuits filled with cheese and topped with grilled corn).

Cuisine:	Nuevo Latino / Small Plates
Price:	Tapas are $5-15. Larger plates are $15-20. A 3-course prix fixe menu is also available for $32.
Dress:	Chic casual and up. Sevens and Diesels are OK, faded 501s and shorts aren’t.
Noise:	Destino is always lively and tables are close together, so you'll have to raise your voice.
Reservations:	Recommended. (OpenTable)
Payment:	Cash and credit cards.
Parking:	Parking in this area can be difficult. Allow an extra 10-15 minutes to find it. Cruise Market, which generally has higher turnover.
Date place?	Yes. Lit with candles along the burnt orange walls, the restaurant is cosy, lively, and love-y.
Homepage:	www.destinosf.com