We've been to Violet's several times, and honestly, we can't say enough about how amazing every…read moreexperience has been. From the moment you walk in, owners Jessica and Lisa make you feel completely at home -- almost like you're sitting in their own living room. Their warmth, hospitality, and attention to every detail make each visit truly special. And the food? Exceptional. The atmosphere is beautiful, the hospitality is next level, and every dish feels thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor. One of our favorite things to do is let Jessica and Lisa choose our wine pairings. They never get it wrong! Violet's is more than just a restaurant -- it's an experience, and one we look forward to every time. We cannot recommend it enough. If we could give them 10 stars, we absolutely would!

I recently enjoyed a very nice meal at Violet's. Our dinner consisted of arancini, lasagna…read more(eggplant/vegetarian) and tuxedo tuna. Everything was great! Great service, a pleasant environment, and a nice cocktail and wine list were the icing on the cake! I'll be back!

The food here is very good. The ceviche is flavorful and has hints of sweet passion fruit to go…read morewith the very high quality fish. The salsas that they serve with the fish are quite good: I actually thought the mild one was surprisingly good and had a tangy flavor reminiscent of tamarind. We also had the salbut which was kind of like sopes and really tasty: the masa was rich and the nopales was flavorful. For mains, I got the mole. I thought it was quite good and had a very deep and rich flavor. However, I'd say it was also consistent with most moles that I've gotten in SF and I have a slight preference for the mole at Donaji. One thing we didn't do was sample the Mexican wines, which sounded quite exciting. So I'll have to come back to remedy that sometime soon.

The food is absolutely outstanding here and very unique:…read more Pipián con pato - cannot be missed Chef spicy salsa - fabulous, especially the chocolate sauce Ceviche crudo península with salsa negra - amazing Pollo con mole - very very good Sikil Pak - wouldn't get again The molcajete also looked great. The ambiance is great - main room totally works for a date, the back room is a bit off with the TV, but very nice. The staff are fantastic and very helpful when ordering. I also love the Mexican wine samplers. Will be coming back for sure.

It is a nice restaurant it has an outdoor patio with some lamps the food is delicious Service…read moresometimes is good sometimes not but the food is worth it

Magic Flute has earned a permanent spot in my brunch rotation. It's warm, unpretentious, and…read morefinding a last-minute table is rarely a problem. A small miracle in this city. The Classic French Toast is my go-to. Served on brioche as it should be, light enough that you leave satisfied without feeling like you overdid it. Yes, French toast at an Italian restaurant. It just happens to work. The mimosas are a nice touch. If you can snag a seat on the patio, do it. It's lovely and surprisingly peaceful for a city brunch spot. If you want something more substantial, the menu goes in some unexpected directions. The Chorizo Chilaquiles being the prime example. My friend, who happens to be Mexican, ordered it and gave it his seal of approval. I'll take that as the highest possible endorsement. I also tried the Prosciutto Cotto Benedict, which turned out to be an education. Prosciutto cotto is cooked ham, not the dry-cured kind most people picture when they see "prosciutto" on a menu. Worth knowing before you order. Looking closely at the menu, you'll wonder what type of restaurant you're actually eating at. Italian, French, Mexican, American. It's somehow all of it, and nobody seems to mind. Great food and a beautiful setting that won't put a hole in your wallet, unless you decide to add the Quintessa at $550 a bottle. For those looking to impress without a reservation, keep Magic Flute on your radar.

They forgot my reservation but I wasn't mad and I am still not mad…read more Let me explain. The Richmond has been on my list for a few years and I found myself having no plans on my birthday. No stranger to dining alone, I called and made reservations about a month in advance. Sometimes as a solo woman getting a nice hotel room or nice table at a restaurant can have it's challenges. When my Uber dropped me off for my 8pm reservation, I was left standing in the doorway for a few minutes. The restaurant is a small, intimate store front with various curtains dividing up the space. Both romantic and private. I could hear soft sounds of diners, kitchen activity, unobtrusive music in the background all covered in soft lighting. Then one of the owners spotted me standing there. He looked surprised and as we chatted; he immediately said he forgot about my reservation. That he thought he remembered talking to me. Though I had made my reservations ahead of time, caught a Uber for the occasion and took out my nice purse fir the night; I wasn't mad. John immediately sprung into action that I can only describe as the antics of your favorite, quirky, warm (albeit a bit absent minded) uncle. He got me seated and started doing what I think he does best. Making you comfortable, puttering in and out of the curtains dropping off water, fresh bread and chattering along the way. I ordered the 5 course tasting menu and the wine selection as well. He started me with some sparkling wine that wasn't included but was the first of delicious extras he threw into the experience. I asked him about the menu on the table because it seemed a bit different then what was coming out and he explained they were just changing up the menu with the seasons. Again, I was not angry. Somehow I was charmed. All the food was delicious and very flavorful. Some of the highlights include the "Hamburger Helper"..The meat sauce was very rich but not overbearing. The pasta was cooked perfect. Every bite perfect. The cod was also cooked perfect Flakey but moist and tender. All during the meal, I was treated to stories about the various wines, descriptions of the food, watching John escort people out the door, hugging his regulars and even adding a birthday candle to my dessert. I was the last patron. He came by to bring my check and told me I could stay as long as I wanted. That they would be there for a couple hours and were about to order a pizza. He even said I was welcome to stay and have pizza with them. I seriously thought about staying for pizza but by then was pretty full and rather tipsy. I politely declined, called my Uber and thanked him as he escorted me out the door. I now understand why they have been in business for over 20 years in SF. They found their sweet spot. They made high end food accessible. Not just the price point but also the comfort level. Definitely a San Francisco institution.

By the end of the meal, you will meet John, extraordinary chef, host, sommelier, and server. Each…read moredish he comes and explain what you are eating. Private booths with private curtains if you come early. We started our meal at 6 pm and we left at 10 pm. Longest meal I've ever eaten. Thank God I was with a good friend and we got caught up. This was a special meal on a special occasion. The experience was very personable. Plating was excellent. No need to figure out what to order. See the menu of the day. Chef changes so you may want to call in for the latest. You have to relinquish all control and go on a delightful culinary ride. Wine was excellent. You must trust the process and the food. Perfect execution. Not on menu. Welcome with a wonton and soup base to wake up your palate. Quesadellia with monogolian beef. Chicken with port wine mushroom sauce with three kinds of mushrooms, freshly made pasta. These are good portions. I challenge anyone who goes home hungry, only perfect satisfaction, "you've been served!" Mike drop! Local black cod, cooked perfectly, and flaky, which means freshly caught, not frozen fish. Seared duck breast, three thick slices. Taste the juicy duck. Everything had a thoughtful reduced sauce. French style. You actually taste your food, no need for condiments. Fine dining at a bargain $89. Chef John worked so hard for us diners. Don't come hurried. Relax and enjoy the slow ride. Hold hands. Catch up. Laugh. Don't forget to laugh. I read the reviews. People celebrate here. Celebrate life and eating. Back to the food. We got coffee ice cream with the best almond brittle pieces. Fluffy bread with three lovely butter (parsley/garlic, honey sea salt butter, and olive butter) you can ask for more buns (I call them pillows). Lastly,blueberry muffin top with lemon curd sauce and strawberries. I can drink that lemon curd and lick the plate. This was very memorable. Thank you Chef John and your niece. We had a wonderful time.

loved the ambiance here! intimate but still casual enough. the staff were professional and offered…read moreto walk us through the menu, specials, and wines. they also checked in often which was nice. I really enjoyed the pasta textures -- the orecchiette was al dente and had a good bite, while the fettuccine was silky smooth and light. the prices here are pretty reasonable too!

Five stars for a dinner that felt like a quick trip to Puglia right in the Haight…read more Uva Enoteca delivered hit after hit -- the Burrata e Prosciutto vanished instantly, the Funghi e Tartufo was rich and earthy perfection, and the Orecchiette della Mamma tasted like your Italian grandmother was quietly running the kitchen. Dessert sealed the deal: pistachio and cherry marmalade Puccia Dolce plus the Budino al Cioccolato. Conversation basically stopped after the first bites. Service from Kat was warm, relaxed, and perfectly timed. Cozy atmosphere and fantastic pasta.

Easily one of the best happy hours in town but their greatness extends far beyond happy hour. The…read morefull menu is wonderful any time of the day or night, and the pizza is dangerously good! The drinks are also delicious. I especially like their espresso martini but the margarita is also delightful. Beretta is a neighborhood gem and is suitable for any occasion.

Absolutely, completely, insufferably loud throughout the entire meal, even when wearing noise…read morecancelling earplugs and coming earlier in the evening. If you have any sensory issues, it's probably best to stay away, which is super unfortunate because the food was decent. That said, all the loudness and sounds echoing completely ruined the vibe and left me nauseated.

Ambiance - From the moment we walked beneath the awning and down the alley into the canopied…read morecourtyard and entered the restaurant, I was charmed by the warmth and intimacy of the space, how much the diners were enjoying their meals and how attentive the staff were to the details. We received the same attention throughout our dinner and I think we've found a new regular spot even though we are not living in the neighborhood. 5/5 Food - we both ordered the Caesar salad and the Tagliatelle Bolognese to try the menu. It might be difficult for me to order other dishes next time. The Caesars arrived perfectly dressed, crisp and enrobed with a balanced garlic and vinegar classic dressing, with sliced anchovies (optional) laid over all. So many restaurants seem to just relegate them to the dressing so I enjoyed both mine and my partner's. The Bolognese's depth of flavor comes from the sautéed pork and carrots and spices and the braise that brings the dish together for with the toothsome tagliatelle. I'm sure that similar attention is given to the pappardelle with duck (next time). 5/5 Wines - Sociale has assembled an extensive and eclectic assortment of wines from Italy and has a beautiful side dining room that appears well suited for wine dinners and tastings. That can be challenging if one only wants a glass - fortunately there are several wines offered and Jim made an excellent recommendation for Sangiovese to pair with the Bolognese. I also enjoyed a glass of Montepulciano d'Abruzzo because it is usually my go to with rustic Italian dishes. But I'm eager to try another recommendation next time too. 5/5 Finally - I would be remiss if I neglected to mention dessert. The Chocolate Oblivion Cake lived up to its name and my partner enjoyed the Profiteroles as well. The Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding was sold out for the evening but I look forward to trying that next time. 5/5

Wow i never heard of this place before, it was an after work event 2019 I joined and I am glad I…read morecame. Definitely a hidden, quiet local restaurant in neighborhood block with local stores, homes, and few eateries. Don't be scared and just go down the alley, nothing will jump out at you. It's like you are transported away to a quiet oasis away from big city. I was seated in the inside events room with a long table. There is outdoor seatings as well across from us. It was like being transported out of San Francisco to some alleyway in Europe which was cool. The food was great. I was here for a work event and we had a set menu. The chocolate oblivion cake was phenomenal perfect to satisfy any chocolate craving! Love it. Everything tasted great. As I write this it is 3/2026 and I still have a great memory of the atmosphere and the food are just exceptional quality. I been having hard time convincing people to come here with me to eat dinner here. Many people I tell the about never heard of this place. But is a hidden neighborhood gem that gets overlooked by more popular restaurants. At this rate I might as well go back to this place myself and have a romantic dinner for one . The salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese , seared scallops, complimentary bread and what ever items I had were great. I will need to go back for sure. Didn't I say love this place? Yummy in my tummy! Let me count the ways....

This was my first time here. We came on Thursday evening at around 6:30pm. I really loved the Bay…read moreArea themed wallpaper and the overall design of the restaurant. It does get loud once the restaurant gets filled. You can still carry a conversation, but you may need to speaker louder than usual. Our server, Jameson, was very polite and checked on us throughout our dinner. I loved the fact we could easily split the check by what each person ordered. We had ordered a glass of red wine, a glass of white wine, a cocktail, a draft beer, and a blackberry cooler (non-alcoholic). We each enjoyed our drinks. Then we ordered a Burrata Pie with their homemade sausage, 2 Chitarra Alla Cacio E Pepe pastas, a Squid Ink Reginette with Gulf Shrimp pasta, and the Ricotta Cavatelli with Sausage and Peppers pasta. It was a delicious meal with new friends. I would love to come back and try a pasta dish and maybe a cocktail. Definitely recommend coming here. I also suggest making reservations.

Came here after a day at the Cal Academy of Sciences, and…read moreit's just a short walk over, so there's no need to move the car! We started with the arancini: crispy outside, gooey mozzarella inside, and gone in about two minutes. We also got the Funghi Pizza which was earthy and garlicky. The California's Gold pizza with sungold tomatoes just okay for me, but both had that blistered, chewy crust I love. The kids got pasta and happily cleaned their plates. My husband is still talking about the tiramisu. Huge shoutout to KC, our server. He was so sweet and friendly, checked in at just the right times!! Cozy, dimly lit neighborhood vibe that's casual and kid-friendly but still feels special. Next time we're coming back to try the rooftop!