Wondering where to have your reception after your San Francisco City Hall wedding ceremony? In this article, I’ll guide you through my favorite restaurants in San Francisco that are perfect for hosting a wedding day meal of any size.

The 36 awesome restaurants on my list all serve excellent food and will take great care of you. They all love and welcome all City Hall wedding groups. Many of them offer private dining which is available for various-sized groups.

If you’re still looking for a wedding photographer who will capture your San Francisco City Hall ceremony plus your special meal afterward, reach out to me and my team of associates at the button below, I can’t wait to hear your plans and guide you through the planning process!

For more resources that may be also be helpful for mapping out your SF City Hall wedding day as a whole, check out my articles below:

Be sure to check out all the restaurants on the map below, so you can see at a glance what makes the most sense!

Wayfare Tavern 

One of the most well-known and affordable spots for all-size groups (especially larger ones) for SF City Hall weddings. Andrea and the amazing team will take good care of you! The Wayfare Tavern comes highly recommended and we’ve shot there numerous times, definitely more than any other San Francisco restaurant.

The restaurant recently moved to a new location on 201 Pine Street. I have a full guide to having a wedding reception at the Wayfare Tavern, linked below that will be updated for the next space in October 2025:

Web: https://www.wayfaretavern.com/

View on map: Wayfare Tavern, 201 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94111

Type of cuisine: American

Group reservations maximum: 60 seated, 80 standing

Private dining? Yes – three unique rooms 

What does Wayfare Tavern offer?

• British pub-style setting with an old-meets-new world flavor
• Features American dishes inspired by the San Francisco restaurant scene of the early 1900’s
• Finely curated wine list, local artisan beers and a Victorian-era inspired cocktails list with a modern twist.
• Located in the heart of the Financial District

Foreign Cinema

Web: https://foreigncinema.com/

View on map: Foreign Cinema, 2534 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Type of cuisine: Californian-Mediterranean

Group reservations maximum: 170 seated, 350 standing

Private dining? Yes, seats up to 60 or 100 standing.

What does Foreign Cinema offer?

• Foreign Cinema has earned a place on this list because of its incredible, versatile private dining.
• A San Francisco Chronicle “Top 100 Restaurant” for 18 consecutive years and winner of many other awards for culinary innovation.
• Chefs Gayle Pirie and John Clark’s collective visions weave food, wine, cocktails, film, and art gallery into one harmonious ambiance. A must for film-lovers.
• They personalize the menu for each wedding, matching sustainable, seasonal and market availability with guests’ special preferences.

Check out my dedicated guide to weddings at Foreign Cinema linked below:

Zazie

Web: https://www.zaziesf.com/

View on map: Zazie, 941 Cole St, San Francisco, CA 94117

Type of cuisine: French; Californian

Group reservations maximum: 80 seated (max 40 in patio, 40 in dining room)

Private dining? Yes, or for small groups the back patio is semi-private

What does Zazie offer?

• Zazie has been around for almost 30 years and is a Cole Valley favorite. They are a Legacy Business of SF with over 5,000 reviews on Yelp!
• Located in a historic schoolhouse with brick walls and soaring ceilings in a quiet neighborhood near public transit.
• Specializes in modern Californian fare with a French twist – think pancakes, benedicts, salads and entrees.
• The romantic, heated back patio is excellent for groups of up to 22. For groups up to 40, a patio buyout is required.
• Family style, white tablecloths, linen napkins and ​personalized menus make for an elegant but relaxed event.

Del Popolo

Web: https://www.delpopolosf.com/ 

View on map: Del Popolo, 855 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Type of cuisine: Pizza; New American 

Group reservations maximum: 40 seated outdoors, 60 seated indoors. Full buyout for 100 (spaces are separated)

Private dining? Yes 

What does Del Popolo offer? 

• Neapolitan-style pizzas, New American small bites, beer & wine in intimate, rustic-chic digs.
• The Garden area at the back is where it’s at! It’s super private and secluded with an intimate, relaxed charm to it. The diffused natural light is great for photos!
• Enjoy tantalizing amuse-bouches, incredible wood-fired pizza and a great wine selection. 
• Since 2012, the Lower Nob Hill favorite has been known for the best Neapolitan pie outside Italy.

Hazie’s

Web: https://www.haziessf.com/

View on map: Hazie’s, 501 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Type of cuisine: Upscale Californian

Group reservations maximum: 100+ seated

Private dining? Yes

What does Hazie’s offer? 

• Casual yet stylish American fare in the heart of Hayes Valley, steps away from boutique shops and cultural landmarks.
• Menu highlights include wood-fired pizzas, smashburgers, fried chicken, and a solid craft cocktail program.
• Airy interiors with a central bar, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a lively indoor-outdoor flow set the celebratory mood.
• Prime Hayes Street location makes it easy for guests to explore the neighborhood’s cafés, bars, and boutiques before or after the celebration.

Waterbar 

Web: https://www.waterbarsf.com/ 

View on map: Waterbar Restaurant, 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105

Type of cuisine: Seafood 

Group reservations maximum: 60 seated 

Private dining? Yes

What does Waterbar offer? 

• Regarded as San Francisco’s foremost seafood restaurant, Waterbar has a prime location on the waterfront of the Embarcadero, just south of Cupid’s Span in the Rincon Park area. It features panoramic views of the bay, Bay Bridge, Treasure Island, and the San Francisco skyline.
• The entire second floor of the Waterbar is given over to private dining. Rooms include the Bridge Tower Room which is nestled directly under the Bay Bridge and features wall-to-wall windows, with a private terrace.
• The private dining menu features a large selection of hors d’oeuvres, Oysters Adrift showcasing decadent raw bars and classic fish dishes as well as sustainably raised meat and poultry. 
• The Looking Glass Room is smaller, seating up to 24 people seated. This room also features a private terrace with views of the Bay.

Palio 

Web: https://www.paliosf.com/

View on map: Palio, 640 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111

Type of cuisine: Italian Modern

Group reservations maximum: 100 seated

Private dining? Yes (private & semi-private)

What does Palio offer?

• This Financial District family-run institution has been in business for 30 years and was extensively remodeled in 2018.
• Offers a spacious lounge area, perfect for relaxed dining or nibbles.
• Elegant, with a contemporary and clean, black-and-white aesthetic.
• Wine Spectator award-winning wine list, recently voted Best Overall Restaurant in San Francisco.

Clift Royal Sonesta

Web: https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ca/san-francisco/clift-royal-sonesta-hotel#hoteldetails_dining

View on map: Clift Royal Sonesta, 495 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Type of cuisine: Contemporary American

Group reservations maximum: 100+ seated

Private dining? Yes

What does Clift Royal Sonesta offer?

• Historic San Francisco hotel blending old-world glamour with modern luxury, just minutes from City Hall.
• The Spanish Suite (shown above) is the standout choice: a private event space with panoramic city views via your own private balcony, an adjoining cocktail lounge, and a built-in dance floor.
• Elegant interiors balance vintage charm with contemporary finishes, offering a sophisticated yet warm backdrop for wedding celebrations.
• Events manager is flexible and often open to working with weekday or lunchtime bookings, making premium spaces more accessible for smaller gatherings. I’m happy to connect you directly to my contact by email.

The Progress

Web: https://theprogress-sf.com/ 

View on map: The Progress, 1525 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115

Type of cuisine: Californian

Group reservations maximum: 72 (full buyout)

Private dining? Yes (private and semi-private)

What does The Progress offer? 

• Located in the historic Fillmore District, The Progress blends modern style with the building’s storied character.
• Private event spaces include The Balcony for intimate groups, The Mezzanine with a view of the dining room, and The Workshop for larger gatherings, plus the option of a full restaurant buyout.
  Menus are served family-style, with seasonal dishes designed for sharing, showcasing inventive Californian cuisine.
• Works well for medium-sized gatherings seeking something lively, upscale, and distinctly San Francisco.

State Bird Provisions

Web: https://www.statebirdsf.com/ 

View on map: State Bird Provisions, 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115

Type of cuisine: American 

Group reservations maximum: 60 seated / 75 standing 

Private dining? Yes (private and semi-private)

What does State Bird Provisions offer? 

• Located right next door to The Progress, State Bird Provisions is its sister restaurant, known for inventive, Michelin-starred cuisine served dim sum–style.
• The intimate space has a modern, playful feel, making it better suited for smaller groups of up to 60 (for a full buyout) who want a unique, culinary-driven, upscale reception.
• Menus highlight local, seasonal ingredients with an ever-changing selection of creative small plates that keep the dining experience dynamic.
• The focus is on the food and the moody, industrial-chic yet colorful atmosphere — ideal for couples who want a one-of-a-kind dining experience rather than a traditional reception setup.

Original Joe’s

Web: https://www.originaljoes.com/

View on map: Original Joe’s, 601 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133

Type of cuisine: Italian American

Group reservations maximum: 60

Private dining? Yes (private and semi-private)

What does Original Joe’s offer?

• Classic San Francisco Italian-American institution with a rich 80+ year history and a lively, neighborhood feel in North Beach.
• Menu highlights include housemade pastas, hearty steaks, and signature Joe’s specialties like Chicken Parmigiana and Eggplant Parm.
• Vintage-inspired interiors with red leather banquettes, dark wood, and a bustling open kitchen bring an old-school charm to celebratory meals.
• Three unique private / semi-private spaces — the Parkside, Salesian, and Tony Bennett Rooms — accommodate everything from intimate dinners to grand receptions, with options for plated, cocktail, or reception-style service.

Sens

Web: https://www.sens-sf.com/

View on map: Sens, 4 Embarcadero Ctr Level, San Francisco, CA 94111

Type of cuisine: Mediterranean

Group reservations maximum: 500

Private dining? Yes (private and semi-private)

What does Sens offer?

• Mediterranean-forward menu from Chef Vernon Morales, mixing Southern-Med flavors with local, seasonal ingredients; desserts by pastry chef Lorena Morales complement the menu.
• The Biada Lounge is the standout event space we’ve photographed in – a roomy, relaxed, lounge-style setup with lovely natural light with light-colored flooring (ideal for airy photos).
• Rich interior textures — stonework, exposed beams, a Spanish zinc bar, tiled wood-fired oven and an open kitchen, paired with sweeping views of the Ferry Building, Justin Herman Plaza and the Bay Bridge.
• Multiple semi-private and private options (Biada Lounge, La Marsa, Jardin and other outdoor spaces) plus full-restaurant buyouts and unique ways to combine spaces

Greens

Web: https://www.greensrestaurant.com/

View on map: Greens, Building A, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123

Type of cuisine: Vegetarian

Group reservations maximum: 110 seated

Private dining? Yes

What does Greens offer? 

• Light-filled vegetarian restaurant on the waterfront, offering serene views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands.
• Farm-driven, seasonal menus that have defined San Francisco’s vegetarian dining for over 45 years, with options to accommodate dietary restrictions or fully vegan options.
• Private spaces include the Bay Room (50 seated / 75 reception), Main Dining Room (110 seated), and Outdoor Pavilion (60 seated) – all with tailored event packages.
• Signature Tassajara Menu provides a three-course, family-style experience, with upgrades available for appetizers, buffets, or lighter reception-style service.

Fog Harbor Fish House

Web: https://fogharbor.com/private-events/ 

View on map: Fog Harbor Fish House, Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133

Type of cuisine: Seafood

Group reservations maximum: 60 seated, 80 standing 

Private dining? Yes

What does Fog Harbor Fish House offer? 

• Fresh, sustainable seafood served in a lively waterfront setting with sweeping views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Specialties include signature clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and an array of award-winning seafood dishes.
• Floor-to-ceiling windows and nautical-inspired interiors create a bright, celebratory atmosphere that feels quintessentially San Francisco, right on Pier 39 (perfect for showing off San Francisco to out-of-town guests – sea lion spotting, anyone?)
• Private and semi-private dining spaces are available for larger gatherings, with smaller groups accommodated too with corresponding food & beverage minimums. Custom quotes can be created, so inquire directly for more details. 

McCormick & Kuleto

Web: https://www.mccormickandschmicks.com/location/mccormick-kuletos-san-francisco-ca/ 

View on map: McCormick & Kuleto’s Seafood & Steaks, 900 North Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Type of cuisine: Seafood & steak 

Group reservations maximum: 120

Private dining? Yes

What does McCormick & Kuleto’s offer? 

• Situated in historic Ghirardelli Square on the waterfront — instantly San Francisco: great bay views (Alcatraz, piers, skyline) that double as memorable photo backdrops and arrival moments.
• Classic seafood-and-steak menu (fresh local fish, Dungeness, prime steaks) with a full wine list and cocktails — easy to stage as a multi-course seated dinner or lively reception.
• Multiple private/semi-private rooms with distinct character: Dolphin, Alcatraz, Bayview and Captain’s rooms. Capacities vary by layout (Dolphin ≈ 50 seated; Captain’s/Bayview ≈ up to 100 seated; some rooms take ~120 reception-style).
• Traditional, nautical-leaning interiors (mahogany, brass, large windows) give both intimate and panoramic spaces; events team manages logistics and can advise on photographer-friendly sightlines and natural-light windows for portraits.

Arcana

Web: https://www.arcanasf.com/ 

View on map: Arcana, 2512 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Type of cuisine: Californian  

Group reservations maximum: 80 seated / 125 standing 

Private dining? Yes

What does Arcana offer? 

• Located in the heart of the Mission District, Arcana is a lush, greenhouse-style venue with 20-foot ceilings, skylights, and abundant greenery that creates a light-filled yet cozy atmosphere.
• Originally a 1920s structure, the space underwent a full remodel in 2021, blending historic wood joists with modern sculptural steel and custom lighting.
• Private event configurations range from the Ground Floor + Porch & Parklet to the Mezzanine, Balcony, or a full venue buyout, allowing flexibility for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
• Amenities include a full sound system, projectors, bar and staffing options, with four-hour event blocks available day or night.

R&G Lounge

Web: https://www.rnglounge.com/ 

View on map: R & G Lounge, 631 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Type of cuisine: Cantonese

Group reservations maximum: 110

Private dining? Yes

What does R&G Lounge offer? 

• Since 1985, this Chinatown staple has offered a market-driven menu with intense, authentic flavors and excellent Chinese cuisine, beautifully prepared
• Sit at round tables, which are a traditional part of Chinese culture and allow for family-style sharing
• Choice of 4 different private dining areas that can be combined for larger groups, with the smallest private dining experience for 15 guests.
• Specialist dishes include Salt & Pepper Live Crab and R&G Special Beef 

The Cavalier

Web: https://www.thecavaliersf.com/

View on map: The Cavalier, 360 Jessie St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (inside Hotel Zetta)

Type of cuisine: Upscale British

Group reservations maximum: seated – 140, reception style – 300

Private dining? Yes 

What does The Cavalier offer?

• The Cavalier is a London-inspired brasserie, located adjacent to Hotel Zetta in San Francisco’s SoMA neighborhood. 
• There are different areas available for rental such as the Blue Room, the Rail Car, and Marianne’s bar. 
• Rentals are available for private events 7 days a week through all service windows.

The Patio

Web: https://www.patiosf.com/

View on map: Patio, 3232 Scott St, San Francisco, CA 94123

Type of cuisine: American 

Group reservations maximum: 50+

Private dining? Yes

What does The Patio offer? 

• It’s called ‘the best patio in SF’ for a reason! This place has a lot of character, it’s cute, quaint and down-to-earth.
• Modern, minimalist wine bar with a rotating menu of prix fixe food pairings & a la carte items
• The Patio is located in the Marina District 
• It has a cozy ambiance with inviting string lights above the patio itself and a warm outdoor firepit for chilly evenings. There’s an indoor area also available as part of patio rentals.

San Francisco Proper Hotel

Web: https://www.properhotel.com/hotels/san-francisco/

View on map: San Francisco Proper, 45 McAllister St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Type of cuisine: American Modern

Group reservations maximum: 100+

Private dining? Yes

What does San Francisco Proper offer?

• Officially San Francisco’s hippest hotel
• Proper hosts a variety of bars and restaurants under one roof… or on the rooftop!
• Housed in a landmarked flatiron-style building in San Francisco’s vibrant Mid-Market district
• Luxurious surroundings, high-end setting and exquisite attention to detail

Kokkari Estiatorio

Web: https://kokkari.com/

View on map: Kokkari Estiatorio, 200 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94111

Type of cuisine: Greek 

Group reservations maximum: 30 

Private dining? Yes

What does Kokkari Estiatorio offer? 

• This warm and inviting all-indoor space prepares the finest Hellenic cuisine –  Aegean cuisine in the style of innovative and modern California faire
• There are three different areas for private / semi-private dining: the Chef’s Table, the Oenos Room and the Hania Room.
• At Kokkari, you’ll experience the old-world charm of a rustic Mediterranean country inn with an inviting fireplace, extensive woodwork, hand-made pottery and fresh picked flowers.
• For parties of 12 or more, there’s a prix fix menu. There’s also French Style family service available

Stable Cafe

Web: http://www.stablecafe.com/

View on map: Stable Cafe, 2128 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Type of cuisine: Californian / Latin American

Group reservations maximum: 100

Private dining? Yes but only after 4pm when the cafe closes

See our full dedicated blog post on this venue:

What does Stable Cafe offer?

• Stable Cafe is a unique space built in an old 1800’s carriage house in the Mission District offering friendly dining in an outdoor back patio.
• It has a relaxed and low-key vibe, with romantic string lights, patio seating and unique floral and fauna design creations courtesy of their resident floral designer.
• Best known for its breakfasts and brunches! This place is known in the neighborhood as a go-to brunch spot and offers brunch on weekdays too.
• Open Monday-Friday 7:30-4pm and Saturday-Sunday 9-4pm. No reservations are possible during regular opening hours, but if your group is small, casual and you don’t mind a short wait, it’ll be worth it!

Harborview

Web: https://www.harborviewsf.com/ 

View on map: Harborview Restaurant & Bar, 4 Embarcadero Center, Street Level, San Francisco, CA 94111

Type of cuisine: Cantonese 

Group reservations maximum: 200+ seated 

Private dining? Yes

What does Harborview offer? 

• Their extensive menu is dedicated to fresh seafood, dim sum and dinner with banquet tastings. They offer signature cocktails and local draught beer 
• There’s a happy medium between traditional Chinese dishes and new chef-innovated creations.
• The setting is sophisticated yet unpretentious with a stunning view of San Francisco Bay and the Ferry Building
• Many different private dining areas both indoors and outdoors, ranging from 20 guests to over 200.

Spruce

Web: https://www.sprucesf.com/ 

View on map: Spruce, 3640 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94118

Type of cuisine: California Modern

Group reservations maximum: 40+

Private dining? Yes, different options 

What does Spruce offer?

• Tucked along tree-lined Sacramento Street in the historic Presidio Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Spruce offers a warm and elegant dining experience. 
• There are several private dining options, from a casual luncheon to an elegant cocktail reception to a formal, sit-down dinner
• The wine list is extensive, boasting over 3,500 wines from around the world 
• Spruce holds a highly coveted Michelin star, and has received many prized accolades for its cuisine since its opening in 2007

Poesia

Web: https://www.poesiasf.com/ 

View on map: Poesia, 4072 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Type of cuisine: Italian

Group reservations maximum: 70 outdoors; 45 indoors

Private dining? Yes

What does Poesia offer? 

• Poesia is high quality, authentic Italian restaurant located in the heart of the Castro in San Francisco
• The restaurant is right off a hidden staircase on 18th Street and has been described as a magical, Calabrian dining experience
• This warm and welcoming restaurant boasts a charming patio area that photographs beautifully 
• At Poesia you’ll find homemade pasta, focaccia & Calabrian fare paired with wall projections of classic Italian films.

Absinthe Private Dining

Web: https://www.absinthe.com/ 

View on map: Absinthe Private Dining, 388 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Type of cuisine: French 

Group reservations maximum: 42 seated, 60 standing

Private dining? Yes

What does Absinthe Private Dining offer? 

• A South of France Brasserie atmosphere in an elegant dining room and bar, with Belle Epoque cafe defined in the front of the house by French rattan café chairs, copper top tables, mosaic checkerboard tile floor, pressed tin ceiling, period art and original Absinthe posters.
• Located in San Francisco’s charming Hayes Valley neighborhood, close to City Hall.
• Founded in 1998, it’s among the city’s longest-running dining institutions, serving a creative menu of French brasserie fare, along with classic cocktails. 
• Absinthe Private Dining, located adjacent to Absinthe Brasserie & Bar, functions as a completely private dining room, with its own entrance, coat closet, restroom, and bar. 

25 Lusk 

Web: http://www.25lusk.com/

View on map: 25 Lusk, 25 Lusk St, San Francisco, CA 94107

Type of cuisine: American / Californian Modern

Group reservations maximum: 600

Private dining? Many private dining options available depending on the size of the group.

What does 25 Lusk offer?

• The rooftop of Lusk is where it’s at! This spot is open from morning through evening everyday and is dreamy! It is suitable for smaller groups only, perfect for City Hall couples!
• Chef Matthew Dolan has created a culinary program which embraces contemporary California cuisine with influences from around the world.
• Features a modern aesthetic through a historic brick and timber warehouse originally built in 1917 as a meatpacking and smokehouse facility.
• Less than 2 miles from City Hall in the Soma / Mission Bay neighborhood

Starbelly

Web: https://starbellysf.com/

View on map: Starbelly, 3583 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Type of cuisine: Californian Comfort Food

Group reservations maximum: 110 

Private dining? Yes, heated back patio is great for around 40 people 

What does Starbelly offer?

• Starbelly is a casual and friendly neighborhood restaurant in San Francisco’s lively Castro District.
• They have a dining room heated patio, and sidewalk seating; walk-ins welcome
• Hearty meals for brunch 7 days a week, lunch and dinner – served late, and perfect any time of the day.
• F Line transport accommodation from SF City Hall
• Well-known as a destination for seasonal craft cocktails utilizing seasonal fruit plus a unique collection of wine and craft beer.

La Mar Cebicheria Peruana

Web: La Mar

View on map: La Mar Cebicheria Peruana, PIER 1 1/2 The Embarcadero N, San Francisco, CA 94105

Type of cuisine: Peruvian 

Group reservations maximum: 230 seated 

Private dining? Yes

What does La Mar Cebicheria Peruana offer? 

• Many beautiful private and semi-private rather affordable areas, including the lovely patio with views of San Francisco Bay and Treasure Island, which seats 100 guests. You can choose to rent just half the patio, like one of our recent couples did (photo above and left).
• Celeb chef Gastón Acurio serves Peruvian seafood in a large, partially outdoor space on the pier. Peruvian cuisine is heavily influenced by the variety of ethnic backgrounds found throughout Peru so expert a diverse selection of delicious Peruvian-inspired food.
• The two classy teal and blue-colored bar areas and high-ceilinged dining room make you feel like you’re somewhere on Miami Beach.
• Casual elegance is the name of the game, with the waterfront adding a peaceful ambiance to the light, airy and modern space. 

Park Chalet

Web: https://www.parkchalet.com/ 

View on map: Park Chalet, 1000 Great Hwy, San Francisco, CA 94121

Type of cuisine: American

Group reservations maximum: 100 seated indoors / 200 seated outdoors

Private dining? Yes, private & semi-private

What does Park Chalet offer? 

• Further out from City Hall, located right at Ocean Beach on the Great Highway, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sun-drenched lawn — one of the few spots in San Francisco where your reception can literally overlook the Pacific.
• Known for its relaxed California-coastal vibe: wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, hearty mains, and their own house-brewed beers from sister-brewery Beach Chalet upstairs.
• Versatile event flow: start with cocktails in the glass-enclosed garden pavilion, then move into the main dining area or out onto the lawn (both covered and open-air options available).
• Distinctly casual-elegant atmosphere — less formal, more breezy, beachside San Francisco — making it a natural fit for couples who want laid-back style but still a polished, memorable setting.

E&O Lounge

Web: https://eandokitchen.com/

View on map: E&O Kitchen and Bar, 314 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Type of cuisine: Modern Asian

Group reservations maximum: 250 seated 

Private dining? Yes

What does E&O offer? 

• E&O Kitchen and Bar is a modern Asian restaurant and lounge in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square, steps away from the Financial District.
• There are many different areas that can be combined, totalling over 9,000 square feet of event space. 
• Private rental options include the intimate Pearl Room for 10-14 seated guests, with a range of spaces up to an entire restaurant buyout for 250 guests.
• The spaces boast the unique combination of stunning décor, authentic atmosphere and innovative flavors with Chef Sharon Nahm taking you on an exotic “cook’s tour” of modern Asia influenced by spice markets.

Octavia

Web: https://www.octavia-sf.com/

View on map: Octavia, 1701 Octavia St, San Francisco, CA 94109

Type of cuisine: California Modern

Group reservations maximum: 46 seated or 60 standing

Private dining? Yes

What does Octavia offer? 

• Octavia is the second restaurant from acclaimed chef Melissa Perello. Showcasing seasonal ingredients from the region’s best farms, Octavia’s menu is a celebration of local agriculture in a comfortable, neighborhood setting.
• They’re big on seasonal cuisine, and craft custom seasonal menus for each buyout event 
• Octavia has an incredibly inventive menu, with and is very contemporary and hip in its vision and aesthetic 
• Elegant, refined, hipster, minimalist and highly awarded

Birdsong

Web: https://www.birdsongsf.com/ 

View on map: Birdsong, 1085 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Type of cuisine: Upscale American 

Group reservations maximum: 35 seated (full buyout)

Private dining? Yes

What does Birdsong offer? 

• Just minutes from City Hall, Birdsong offers one of the city’s most elevated fine-dining experiences in a dark, moody, subterranean setting — think intimate, gastronomic theater rather than casual dinner.
• Private dining options include the Starling Room (5–10 guests) and the Merlin Room (10–20 seated, or up to 30 standing), both designed for truly intimate gatherings.
• Guests choose between two tasting menus: the multi-course ‘Journey Menu’ or a 6-course option, both showcasing heritage-inspired cuisine, Bay Area producers, and whole-ingredient preparations.
• This is a restaurant for the truly upscale reception — highly refined, meticulously curated, and best suited for couples who want to treat their guests to a rarefied culinary experience.

Penny Roma

Web: https://pennyroma.com/ 

View on map: Penny Roma, 3000 20th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Type of cuisine: Italian

Group reservations maximum: 32 seated / 45 standing; 60 seated / 80 standing (full buyout) 

Private dining? Yes

What does Penny Roma offer? 

• A stylish Mission District pasta spot with warm lighting, exposed brick, and a lively neighborhood buzz. It feels like a chic dinner party rather than a traditional wedding.
• Best for a larger guest count of up to 60 guests for a full buyout which includes an airy courtyard; or the light-filled stand-alone private dining room, The Upstairs, is great for smaller groups of up to 32 guests for lunch or dinner 7 days a week. 
• Menus feature handmade pastas, seasonal Italian dishes, craft cocktails, and a curated wine list make this a foodie couple’s dream.
• Space is limited without a lot of excess room for dancing or large décor installs. The cozy layout keeps the focus on food, wine, and conversation, creating an intimate dinner-party vibe

EPIC Steak

Web: https://www.epicsteak.com/ 

View on map: EPIC Steak, 369 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105

Type of cuisine: Steak 

Group reservations maximum: 60 seated 

Private dining? Yes

What does EPIC Steak offer? 

• Since 2008, EPIC Steak has specialized in casual elegance with bayside views and delicious cuisine, thoughtfully prepared. 
• The restaurant offers rich decor and expansive windows which frame the Bay Bridge.
• They are committed to environmentally responsible produce, meat and seafood, utilizing only pasture-raised cattle with no hormones or antibiotics, organic local produce and sustainable seafood, 
• The Bay Room is located upstairs and suits groups from 15 – 60 seated. It has a dedicated kitchen and chef.

Zuni 

Web: http://zunicafe.com/

View on map: Zuni Cafe, 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Type of cuisine: French-Italian

Group reservations maximum: 20 

Private dining? No 

What does Zuni offer?

• This San Francisco institution has been in business for over 40 years and prides itself on being rustic and cosmopolitan, audacious and familiar, intimate and convivial.
• A walk-in restaurant, or reserve a table up to 1 month in advance
• A casual, bustling cafe vibe with lots of white walls and exposed brickwork
• Award-winning food and great location within a short walk of San Francisco City Hall

Thank you for reading my guide to some of my favorite restaurants for a reception after your San Francisco City Hall wedding! I hope this was helpful and has given you some restaurant reception ideas.

Looking for more San Francisco wedding venues? Check out my guide to the 30 best San Francisco wedding venues linked below!

Zoe Larkin

I’m Zoe, a wedding photographer based in San Francisco! My style is candid, capturing authentic moments for my couples all over the Bay Area and Northern California. Creating content is my passion! Follow along on the blog, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube!

Zoe Larkin Photography