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Per Diem
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Per Diem
8.0
FiDi mainstay since 2011 where the PD/FiDi Burger anchors a seasonal California menu; grass-fed patty, caramelized onions, and cheddar keep it squarely in power-lunch territory. Lines move briskly and the bar turns out reliable cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
PD / FiDi Burger (grass-fed, cheddar, aioli, onions), Gnocchi Ragu, Firecracker Potatoes
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Grass-fed FiDi Burger executed with steakhouse care on a lunch clock.
Who should go: Power-lunch burger seekers
When to visit: Arrive before 12:05pm to beat the rush
What to order: PD/FiDi Burger, fries, seasonal cocktail
Insider tip: Order at the bar for the fastest burger turn and easy seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Sutter and nearby alleys is limited and metered; the 555 California garage and Crocker Galleria garage are the closest paid options.
Dress code: Smart casual—office attire fits right in, and sport coats or polished jeans are common for lunch and happy hour.
Noise level: Moderate—lively at lunch and early evening, but conversations are manageable except at the bar during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Closed on weekends—weekday lunch and early dinner only.
Weekday lunch: Arrive before noon or after 1:30pm to avoid a 10–15 minute wait for a table; bar seating usually available immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—seasonal salads and veggie-forward entrées rotate with the menu.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options can be modified, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—buns can be swapped for lettuce wraps and several mains are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual weekday date—it’s stylish but not overly formal, and the bar’s lighting and craft cocktails add warmth without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins are common at lunch, though booking ahead helps for larger groups or prime dinner hours before theater events.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—more suited for adults and business diners, with no kids’ menu or high chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Business lunches and after-work cocktails where quality food meets downtown convenience.
Skip if: You’re seeking a late-night burger or family outing—hours and vibe cater squarely to the professional crowd.
Per Diem
8.3
Since 2011, Per Diem delivers California-American plates and a strong cocktail program in a polished FiDi room. It’s a go-to for client lunches and after-work dinners with seasonal pastas and a standout house burger.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wild mushroom bucatini, Per Diem burger, Short rib
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Seasonal California cooking with a serious bar program in FiDi.
Who should go: Client lunches and after-work diners
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8pm or midday for easier seating
What to order: Mushroom bucatini; house burger; short rib
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for fastest service and strongest cocktails.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Sutter & Sansome; nearby garages at 343 Sansome or 450 Sutter are the best bet after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual – business attire common at lunch, elevated casual fine at dinner.
Noise level: Moderate – lively bar energy but conversation-friendly in the dining room.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait if you arrive before 12pm; reservations recommended for larger groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetable-forward small plates and pasta options.
Vegan options: Limited – a few adaptable dishes with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes – most mains can be prepared gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – dim lighting, polished service, and a strong cocktail list make it great for a comfortable yet sophisticated first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often possible at the bar or early in the evening, but reservations are smart for dinner or larger groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children – geared more toward adults and professionals; teens would be fine during lunch.
Best For
Better for: Better for business lunches and after-work cocktails than casual weeknight dinners.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking large portions, all-day dining, or a quiet suburban vibe – it’s distinctly downtown FiDi energy.
Per Diem
8.1
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Since 2011, this Californian-New American spot has been a go-to for refined FiDi lunches and low-key dinner dates, with seasonal menus and a strong cocktail program. Expect polished service, a mezzanine-lined room, and crowd-pleasing plates built around Northern California produce.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wild mushroom pasta, Pan-seared salmon, Flank steak
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Seasonal NorCal cooking with a reliable FiDi reservation scene.
Who should go: Team lunches and casual date nights
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1 or 5:30–7
What to order: Mushroom pasta, salmon, flank steak
Insider tip: Slide in for the weekday 3–5pm happy hour downstairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in FiDi is limited; best bet is nearby garages like One Sansome or 555 California. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; business attire common at lunch, but jeans and nice tops are fine for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate; buzzy during lunch rush and happy hour, quieter at early dinner.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes without a reservation; bar seating often available.
Weekday lunch: Reservations recommended 12–1pm; outside peak, usually seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — pastas, salads, and seasonal vegetable mains rotate regularly.
Vegan options: Limited — can adapt some salads and sides; ask server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several mains and salads; pasta can be swapped for gluten-free on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the mezzanine and evening lighting create a relaxed, intimate vibe without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? At lunch, reservations are safest; at dinner or happy hour you can often find bar seating or a table outside peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — it’s designed for business and adult gatherings; older kids are fine but no children’s menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Reliable FiDi dining with polished service and a comfortable room, especially for business lunches and after-work cocktails.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge culinary innovation or a lively late-night scene — choose elsewhere for trendier dining energy.