Benu
$$$$ • New American, Asian Fusion, Wine Bars
Hours:
22 Hawthorne St, San Francisco
(415) 685-4860
About Benu
Customers' Favorites
Benu Reviews
Ratings
Menu
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5:30 - 7:30PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30 - 7:30PM |
| Thursday | 5:30 - 7:30PM |
| Friday | 5:30 - 8:30PM |
| Saturday | 5:30 - 8:30PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Benu offers world-class Asian fusion cuisine that is creative and delicious, living up to its 3-star reputation. The food was off the charts, with each dish providing a refined and thoughtful dining experience focused on deep, savory flavors and precise execution. The dishes were plated with exquisite attention to detail, showcasing an interesting play on textures. Standouts included the perfectly cooked quail with a sweet soy glaze, the ultra-savory oyster and seaweed soup, and the flavorful Iberico pork with balanced truffle and parsley notes. The abalone had surprising depth, and the frog leg offered a deliciously crispy, mala-spiced bite. The minimalistic decor is unexpected for fine dining, with neutral tones creating a calming atmosphere. The space felt serene and quiet, designed to focus attention on the food. The customer care brought warmth to the experience, and the staff provided a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Service was professional, warm, and highly knowledgeable, with the staff guiding each course with precision and calm. The pacing of the meal can be a bit rushed, but the experience remains polished and nuanced, making Benu worth the price of admission for a memorable dining experience. Perfect for special occasions, the excellent customer care and outstanding food make it a must-visit restaurant. Desserts leaned bright and refreshing, featuring a memorable yuzu sorbet and chestnut tart, plus subtle floral and boozy notes to finish. The vegetarian substitutions could have been a little more inspired, but were still tasty. Overall, Benu impresses with its delightful service and quality dishes, making it a wonderful way to spend an evening.