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 23 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:
Table of Contents
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.
As it’s so popular, I have a dedicated article with in-depth information about having a wedding reception at the Wayfare Tavern, linked below:
Web: https://www.wayfaretavern.com/
View on map: Wayfare Tavern, 558 Sacramento 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
Zazie
View on map: Zazie, 941 Cole St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Type of cuisine: French; Californian
Group reservations maximum: 20
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.
Palio
View on map: Palio, 640 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Type of cuisine: Italian Modern
Group reservations maximum: 100
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
Foreign Cinema
Web: Not linked here as it’s not a secure website, but you can Google it
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.
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
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 the blog and Insta!