In SF's dizzyingly expensive dining landscape, this hot spot offering a three-course menu for under $40, is an incredible steal—provided you’re willing to sacrifice freedom of choice. The two options for each course spin with the season: your repast may feature a creamy heirloom tomato soup with thyme oil, followed by fork-tender short ribs atop luscious parmesan polenta and spigarello—with a final touch of frozen chocolate parfait garnished with crushed cashews.For those with appetite to spare, an additional pasta course (like ziti al forno with dry-aged beef ragù and gremolata topping) can be added for a small supplement. Throw in a lively atmosphere and friendly service to this already alluring deal, and the value proposition is nearly irresistible.