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Aziza
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Aziza
8.6
Modern Moroccan from chef Mourad Lahlou with a seasonal menu that runs from basteeya to whole-fish and tagines. Street-side outdoor seating makes it workable for al fresco date nights without leaving the Richmond.
Must-Try Dishes:
Basteeya, Grilled Branzino, Lamb Tagine
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Mourad Lahlou’s refined Moroccan cooking in a neighborhood setting.
Who should go: Couples and Moroccan cuisine fans
When to visit: Prime-time evenings; reserve ahead for patio
What to order: Basteeya, lamb tagine, grilled branzino
Insider tip: Ask about limited-run seasonal mezze before ordering mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be competitive near dinner service, especially weekends. Aim for adjacent residential blocks off Geary.
Dress code: Smart casual; dressy tops or jackets fit the scene. Jeans are fine if styled neatly.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation-friendly even during peak hours, though outdoor tables pick up mild street noise.
Weekend wait: Reservations recommended; without one, expect a 45–60 minute wait for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though hours are limited and can vary seasonally.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple mezze, salads, and vegetable-forward mains.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options, mainly among starters; mains tend to feature dairy or meat.
Gluten-free options: Yes — staff can guide substitutions; many tagines and grilled proteins are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The warm lighting, attentive service, and Moroccan spices create a memorable and romantic atmosphere that feels upscale but not stiff.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but not likely during prime dinner hours. Early evening walk-ins sometimes land patio seats if you’re flexible on timing.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu and ambiance skew adult; best for older teens or well-behaved children familiar with global cuisine.
Best For
Better for: Romantic outdoor dining and refined Moroccan flavors unmatched elsewhere in the neighborhood.
Skip if: You’re seeking quick, casual Mediterranean plates or a noisy group dinner — the tone here is polished and relaxed.
Aziza
8.6
Chef Mourad Lahlou’s Cal-Moroccan icon delivers refined tagines, basteeya, and seasonal mezze in a polished room. Locals book it for special nights where technique and spice balance lead the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Basteeya (duck or chicken), Lamb Tagine, Seasonal Mezze Spread
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Pioneering Cal-Moroccan cuisine from chef Mourad Lahlou in a refined setting.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and Moroccan cuisine fans
When to visit: Prime dinner hours; reserve weekends well ahead
What to order: Basteeya, Lamb Tagine, Mezze of seasonal salads
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seasonal mezze or couscous variations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary and 22nd can be challenging after 6pm; no valet service offered, so plan extra time or use rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy—most guests opt for polished attire suitable for a date or celebration; dark jeans are fine with a jacket or nice top.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing energy during peak hours but still intimate enough for conversation across a small table.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins can expect 45–90 minute waits depending on party size.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch—dinner-only service with early seating recommended for same-day availability.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous mezze and tagines can be prepared vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable mezze and vegetable tagine options, though not the focus of the menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff are knowledgeable and can adjust several dishes, though cross-contact may occur with breads and pastries.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Aziza’s lighting, service polish, and refined flavors make it an ideal first-date spot for those seeking sophistication without stiffness.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally on weeknights if you arrive right at opening; otherwise, book at least a week ahead, especially for weekends or groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—menu and ambiance cater to adults; suitable for teens with adventurous palates but lacks children’s options or amenities.
Best For
Better for: Refined Moroccan-Californian cuisine with depth of spice and elegant plating—perfect for elevated dining and culinary storytelling.
Skip if: You’re looking for casual Moroccan comfort food or budget-friendly portions; in that case, try El Mansour instead.
Aziza
8.6
Modern Moroccan cooking with California produce—tagines, basteeya, and vibrant mezze—served in a refined room that suits special nights. Long a standard-bearer for Moroccan cuisine in SF, it balances tradition with contemporary technique.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken basteeya, Lamb shank tagine, Moroccan spreads with warm bread
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Polished Moroccan cuisine that helped put SF’s Moroccan scene on the map.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and Moroccan food enthusiasts
When to visit: Prime dinner hours; reserve ahead
What to order: Basteeya, Lamb Tagine, Mezze Spreads
Insider tip: Plan for a longer meal—courses and cocktails shine when unhurried.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary can be limited in the evenings; arrive early or use nearby residential side streets. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy; jackets or nice blouses fit the upscale ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation-friendly even during peak hours thanks to a well-designed dining room.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation; prime times book out weeks in advance.
Weekday lunch: Lunch not typically served; reservations recommended for dinner.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple mezze and tagine options cater to vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 adaptable dishes; confirm with staff when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Yes – staff can guide you to several naturally gluten-free Moroccan dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The romantic lighting, intimate seating, and refined service make it one of the best date-night destinations in the Richmond District.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are occasionally accommodated early on weeknights, but reservations are strongly advised, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; it’s best suited for adults or older teens due to the quiet, upscale environment and extended meal pacing.
Best For
Better for: Aziza excels at sophisticated Moroccan-inspired tasting menus and elegant ambiance—ideal for special occasions or culinary exploration.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for casual, quick Mediterranean fare or family-style dining; it’s a fine-dining experience built for leisure.