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ZipPicks Awards
Best Trendy American in the Mission District
Best Instagram Worthy Brunch in the Mission District
Master Critic Review
Foreign Cinema
7.9
A Mission District institution where American-California cooking shares the stage with nightly film projections in a covered courtyard—dinner becomes an event without trying too hard. The room runs loud during evening service (quieter at brunch), but the outdoor setting and 25-year track record make it a reliable anchor for dates and celebrations where atmosphere does real work.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck, Oysters, Pop Tart
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Classic American-California cuisine served in a covered courtyard where films project nightly onto a massive outdoor screen
Who should go: Couples seeking cinematic romance and brunch devotees
When to visit: Weekend brunch or evening dinner to catch the film projection
What to order: Start with oysters, share the duck as your main, save room for the pop tart or pot de creme
Insider tip: Request courtyard seating facing the movie screen for the full experience
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available, street parking in the area, or use Mission-Bartlett Garage at 3255 21st St (between Valencia and Mission)
Dress code: Casual dress—smart casual works well, elevated-casual vibe rather than formal
Noise level: Loud during dinner (avg 82 dB evenings), quieter at brunch (67 dB midday); outdoor courtyard tends to be quieter than indoor areas near music
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Vegetarian options available
Vegan options: Vegan options available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - this is one of San Francisco's most romantic dining destinations. The heated outdoor courtyard features twinkling string lights, flickering candles, and classic films projected on the wall at dusk (ambient visuals only, no audible dialogue). The indoor dining room offers fireplaces, chandeliers made from vintage headlights, and modern art. Noise level allows easy conversation. Request courtyard seating for the full cinematic experience - it's intimate and enchanting without being stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted but reservations are strongly recommended - even random Tuesday nights can be packed. Weekend dinners (especially Saturday) and Sunday brunch book up quickly; reserve at least 1-2 weeks ahead for prime times. Weekday early dinners (Monday-Thursday) are calmer and more likely to have availability. If you arrive without a reservation, staff may offer bar seating at the adjacent Laszlo bar or a short wait. Reservations open 60 days in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the restaurant genuinely welcomes families. They offer a dedicated 3-course kids menu (fruit/yogurt, main like scrambled eggs or french toast, and ice cream), plus high chairs, changing tables, and coloring books with crayons. Staff are attentive to families. Brunch is the most family-appropriate time as dinner service has more of a romantic ambiance. Request an early seating and mention children when booking so they can seat you in the most comfortable area.
Is it good for groups? Yes - standard reservations accommodate up to 10 guests. For 11+, contact them directly. Private dining options include: Amate Terrace (18 seated), Mezzanine (30 seated/40 standing), and Modernism West Gallery (60 seated/100 standing) with its own bar and projection system. Full restaurant buyouts available for up to 350 guests. Email their Private Events Director for larger group inquiries. Book private spaces well in advance, especially for weekends.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes - the signature heated and covered outdoor courtyard is the restaurant's main attraction. Features include powerful heaters, a clear cover protecting from weather, string lights, and a vintage 35mm film projection system showing movies at dusk. The courtyard atmosphere is intimate with well-spaced tables. Dog-friendly for outdoor seating. Book specifically for outdoor/courtyard seating when reserving - it fills up first, especially on weekends.
Best For
Better for: Date nights with cinematic ambiance, brunch with outdoor movie courtyard, special occasions wanting elevated-casual atmosphere
Skip if: You need quiet conversation during weekend dinner—noise levels peak in the evenings
Hours
Monday5pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday5pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday5pm - 9:30pm
Thursday5pm - 9:30pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sunday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm