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Benu
Master Critic Review
Benu
9.2
Corey Lee’s three-Michelin-star destination serves an Asian-influenced tasting menu with pristine seafood and meticulous technique. Locals book it for milestone dinners where precision, pacing, and service are part of the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster coral xiao long bao, Baby abalone with fermented flavors, Thousand-year quail egg
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Three-star tasting menu with seafood-forward, Asian-influenced precision.
Who should go: Serious diners and special-occasion seekers
When to visit: Reserve 2–3 weeks ahead; arrive on time
What to order: Tasting menu; beverage pairing; supplement caviar
Insider tip: Request seats near the kitchen pass to watch plating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited metered street parking nearby. Best option is Fifth & Mission garage, a 7–10 minute walk.
Dress code: Formal to smart elegant. Men typically wear jackets; women lean cocktail or upscale evening wear.
Noise level: Low – conversations are private, designed for an intimate and contemplative dining pace.
Weekend wait: Reservations required; book 2–3 weeks out. Walk-ins not accommodated.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service – dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Advance request required; customized tasting menu can be prepared.
Vegan options: Not recommended; limited ability to adapt full tasting menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – staff can adapt menu with notice; substitutions handled with precision.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want to impress with luxury. The multi-course format and quiet setting favor established connections more than casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No – Benu operates on advance reservations only, with no bar or lounge for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for children. The format is multi-course with long pacing; recommended for ages 12+ who can engage in fine dining.
Best For
Better for: Milestone dinners, Michelin-level seafood tasting, and precise service unmatched in SF.
Skip if: You want casual dining, à la carte ordering, or flexible last-minute plans.