Known as La Fée Verte—the Green Fairy—the exotic elixir Absinthe is definitely having a renaissance of sorts. Of course, when our trusted sources recommended we come to a perfect little brasserie in Hayes Valley with such a name, we couldn’t resist. The oysters, the spicy fried chick peas, the escargots, not to mention the smoky-tangy-lemony-piquant mix of cheeses from Spain, France, and Belgium kept us nibbling till the bitter end. And the drinks? Just check out our friend bartender Carlos’ handy work with a flaming cocktail called the Blue Blazer. And yes, we PARISIENNES drank the whole thing—and loved it. 398 Hayes Street; www.absinthe.com