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El Mansour
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
El Mansour
8.2
Long-running Moroccan dinner house known for traditional bastilla, aromatic tagines, and warm hospitality. While the ornate interior sets the tone, its sidewalk seating offers a quieter al fresco alternative on Clement.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Bastilla, Lamb Shank Tagine, Couscous Royale
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 6.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Classic Moroccan recipes served with Richmond District longevity.
Who should go: Traditional tagine and bastilla enthusiasts
When to visit: Weeknights for easier patio seating
What to order: Chicken bastilla, lamb shank tagine, couscous royale
Insider tip: Order mint tea service to linger outdoors after the mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots along Clement and 32nd Ave can fill quickly after 6pm, so plan 10–15 extra minutes or use nearby metered cross streets.
Dress code: Smart casual; neat jeans or dress pants work fine, but many guests dress up a bit for dinner given the ornate setting.
Noise level: Moderate – the interior can buzz with music and chatter, but the outdoor tables are quieter and ideal for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; dinner-only service typically seats promptly before 7pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several tagines and couscous dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of mezze and vegetable tagines qualify; best to confirm when ordering.
Gluten-free options: Yes – many dishes can be made gluten-free on request; bastilla and bread service contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the Moroccan décor, mint tea service, and intimate outdoor setup create a romantic, conversation-friendly setting without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights or early weekends, but reservations are strongly advised for patio seating or parties over two.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult-oriented; older kids comfortable with longer meals and aromatic cuisine will enjoy it, but there’s no kids’ menu or quick service.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Moroccan fine dining with attentive service and ritual touches like handwashing and tea ceremonies – rare in the Richmond District.
Skip if: You’re after quick casual Mediterranean, simple portions, or a modern minimalist vibe – it’s more of a slow, ceremonial dinner experience.
El Mansour
8.0
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Instagram Worthy Wonders
A long-running Moroccan banquet house known for bastilla, couscous royale, and ornate, transportive décor. Entertainment nights and family-style service make it a go-to for celebratory dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bastilla, Couscous Royale, Lamb Tagine
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Decades-old Moroccan feast experience with ornate décor and show nights.
Who should go: Celebrations and first-timers seeking a banquet
When to visit: Evenings on entertainment nights; book ahead
What to order: Bastilla, Lamb Tagine, Couscous Royale
Insider tip: Time your reservation with show times for full pacing and service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available along Clement and nearby residential blocks, but it fills quickly after 6pm; allow extra time. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Smart casual with a touch of polish — button-downs, dresses, or nice jeans are ideal for the ornate setting.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during entertainment nights — conversations are possible but expect background music and applause.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations highly recommended for show nights.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; dinner only service typically begins after 5pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tagines, salads, and couscous dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of mezze and vegetable tagines can be modified upon request.
Gluten-free options: Partial — many dishes are naturally gluten-free, but couscous and bastilla are not; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the candlelit décor, rich aromas, and entertainment create an immersive atmosphere ideal for a memorable first date, though it leans more festive than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins may be possible early on weekdays, but reservations are strongly advised for weekends or entertainment nights to ensure seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older children or teens who can enjoy a longer, multi-course meal and cultural show. Not ideal for toddlers due to pacing and volume.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for immersive Moroccan dining with entertainment and atmosphere — few SF spots match its theatrical, communal feel.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking a quiet or minimalist dining experience; the multi-course format and entertainment make it a full-evening commitment.
El Mansour
7.9
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Instagram Worthy Wonders
A longtime Moroccan fixture offering multi-course dinners with classic bastilla, couscous, and tagines in an ornate, transportive setting. Entertainment nights add to the celebratory feel without overshadowing the food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken bastilla, Couscous royale, Lamb tagine
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Classic Moroccan banquet-style experience with ornate décor and entertainment.
Who should go: Celebrations and adventurous first-timers
When to visit: Evenings on show nights for full experience
What to order: Bastilla, Couscous Royale, Lamb Tagine
Insider tip: Check belly-dance show times; prix-fixe pacing pairs well with them.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Clement Street and surrounding avenues; it can be tight on weekends, so arrive early or use rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual with a touch of flair fits the vibe—think nice jeans or slacks and a dressy top; avoid overly casual wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during entertainment nights; conversations are easy before the show but can require raised voices during performances.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially on show nights.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; dinner only service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several tagines and couscous dishes are vegetarian-friendly, and mezze platters offer good variety.
Vegan options: Limited – a few salads and vegetable tagines can be adapted; check with the server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Moderate – many tagines are naturally gluten-free, but couscous is not; rice substitutions available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want something atmospheric and memorable. The ornate décor and Moroccan music create an immersive setting that feels special and out of the ordinary.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays or early evenings, but reservations are highly recommended for weekends and show nights due to limited seating and the prix-fixe format.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults or older kids who can appreciate a longer, multi-course meal. There are no specific children’s menus or play accommodations.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Moroccan dining with entertainment in an ornate, immersive setting—ideal for celebrations or out-of-the-ordinary date nights.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet, minimalist dinner or prefer modern Mediterranean flavors over traditional Moroccan banquet-style dining.