Holiday Dinner Spots in San Francisco

San Francisco during the New Year’s season is a city of energy and celebration. With stunning views of the waterfront, iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, the city attracts visitors from all over the world looking to ring in the new year. The city hosts various events, including fireworks over the bay, parties, and festive gatherings.
After a day of celebrating, there’s no better way to end the evening than by visiting one of the city’s best restaurants. Here are some of the restaurants worth visiting during the New Year’s holidays in San Francisco.

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Foreign Cinema is a restaurant in the Mission District where you can enjoy both food and classic films on a big screen. The menu features dishes made with local ingredients. Popular options include fried oysters with lemon-garlic sauce, fish tacos with avocado and chipotle sauce, as well as steak with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. For dessert, try the classic cheesecake with an orange sauce or chocolate mousse.

This New Year’s Eve, Foreign Cinema is hosting a special celebration on December 31st, where guests can bid farewell to 2024 in style. The restaurant will feature a tropical-themed four-course menu priced at $165 per adult and $45 per child, which includes a variety of delectable options such as filet mignon, sea scallops, and Dungeness crab. Vegetarian and vegan choices will also be available to cater to all dietary preferences.

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Alexander’s Steakhouse is a top choice for steak lovers, located in the SoMa district. The menu includes Wagyu beef steaks and fresh seafood options. One of the standout dishes is the steak with marinated truffle and foie gras, accompanied by roasted salmon with lemon sauce. Sides include mashed potatoes with truffle butter and roasted broccoli.

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Restaurant Anzu, located in the Hotel Nikko, combines Japanese and Californian flavors. The menu includes sushi, rolls, and dishes made with fish and seafood. Highlights include teriyaki salmon and rolls with tuna, avocado, and wasabi sauce. For vegetarians, there are dishes such as tofu with vegetables and rice. For dessert try traditional Japanese mochi with fillings like mango or chocolate.

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Birdsong, in San Francisco’s SoMa district, focuses on Pacific Northwest flavors using fire-driven cooking techniques like smoking, dry aging, and fermentation. The menu includes dishes such as dry-aged duck, smoked trout, and ember-roasted vegetables, along with bread served with house-cultured butter.

The dining space features an open kitchen and minimalist design with natural wood tones. Birdsong offers a wine list and non-alcoholic pairings to complement the food. Reservations are recommended.

Boulevard is a great option for New Year’s celebrations in San Francisco. Located in the Embarcadero, it offers views of the Bay Bridge and a menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced dishes like wood-grilled filet mignon, seared scallops, and roasted duck breast. The restaurant’s central location makes it convenient for enjoying nearby waterfront events or staying for a meal paired with their wine and cocktail list. Reservations are recommended during the holidays.

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Novela, located in San Francisco’s SoMa district, is a cocktail bar known for its literary-inspired theme and creative drinks. The menu features a wide selection of craft cocktails, many named after iconic literary characters, alongside a curated list of wine, beer, and spirits. Guests can also enjoy shared punch bowls, ideal for groups. Novela is popular for after-work gatherings, casual nights out, and private events.

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Fog Harbor Fish House, located at Pier 39, is a great choice for enjoying fresh seafood. The menu features seasonal favorites like clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and grilled salmon, alongside oysters and other sustainable seafood options.

During the New Year’s season, the relaxed setting and scenic views make it perfect for a holiday meal or a pre-celebration dinner before enjoying the city’s festivities. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot during the busy holiday period.

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Rye, located at 688 Geary St in San Francisco, is a cocktail bar offering a range of classic and creative drinks. The menu focuses on high-quality spirits, with popular choices including rye whiskey cocktails and seasonal drinks made with fresh ingredients. Small plates such as charcuterie and cheese are available to complement the drinks.

The bar's modern design creates a great setting for enjoying drinks with friends or before heading out to other nearby locations. Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

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Located in the heart of San Francisco, Zuni Café is a long-standing institution known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Their signature dish is the famous brick oven-roasted chicken, served with a delicious green garlic salad. Other popular menu items include fresh oysters, Roman-style pizza, and roasted vegetables. Don’t miss their desserts like the panna cotta with citrus or the chocolate cake with caramel sauce. Zuni Café offers a cozy spot for a memorable New Year’s meal.

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La Taqueria is one of the best spots for authentic Mexican food in the city. Located in the Mission District, this small, family-owned restaurant has gained a loyal following over the years. It’s famous for its burritos, particularly the carnitas burrito, which is packed with slow-cooked pork, fresh salsa, and guacamole, all wrapped in a warm, handmade tortilla. The restaurant also serves tacos, quesadillas, and tamales, all made with high-quality ingredients.

It has earned numerous accolades, including being named one of the top places for burritos in the U.S. by various food critics. Despite its small size, the restaurant attracts long lines, especially during lunch hours, but the wait is always worth it.
Notably, La Taqueria does not serve rice in its burritos, which sets it apart from many other places that load up burritos with rice for additional weight. This allows the flavors of the fillings, like marinated meats, salsas, and cheese, to stand out more. La Taqueria offers a no-nonsense, flavorful experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.

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