Sitting at a communal table is a great way to gather friends, break bread and meet some locals this holiday season. Who knows, being in a festive mood might make you share some food.

While many visitors associate San Francisco with mostly Chinese and Italian restaurants (and seafood!), we also have a vibrant Southeast Asian restaurant scene.

Meet Marcia Gagliardi, the Tablehopper, local food writer, bohemian and resident of San Francisco for more than 20 years. Follow along on her journey through her favorite classic San Francisco restaurants.

Sometimes you show up in San Francisco on the fly, with no reservations anywhere. Learn some tips and find out the best restaurants to dine in without a reservation in advance.

Here are some places around town where you can find your fellow non-natives and get a taste of home.