Best Historic Restaurants in Financial District / Embarcadero

We have dined at Perbacco pretty much since it opened way back when. Always enjoyed their food and service. They are by no means a Michelin 3 star restaurant, but their menu is always well thought out and their dishes are consistently well prepared. We picked back up our visits to Perbacco after a long COVID pandemic induced hiatus and are very glad it is still there to serve us a “modrrn” version of Italian food we really like. Service is always professional and depending on the server, very warm and welcoming. We always feel relaxed and at home there.

Although it was Thanksgiving we decided to order from the menu, and we have no regrets! Our wonderful waitress recommended I have the lamb chops (stating they were the best thing on the menu)…and they were superb! My husband had the surf and turf, but honestly we would order just the steak next time! We started our meal with the prawn cocktail (fabulous) and the lobster ravioli (too salty for our taste). Greetings from Mexico!

Back at Empress by Boon which is on our regular rotation when in San Francisco. The food was exquisite as always and every course a real delight. We ordered the optional duck dish which was so good we ordered another instead of dessert. From the greeting at the door by Sean and Jim to the professional service provided by Natalie, Jorge and the young Colombian gent, it was a wonderful time. Throw in the beautiful view of the city and Coit Tower and it is an evening to remember. My wife is from Penang, Malaysia one of the food capitals of SE Asia and enjoyed it as much as I did. Chef Boon (also from Northern Malaysia) came out and we had a very nice chat. What a great evening. Cannot wait to be back.

Amazing filet and wonderful service. We made a last minute decision and were so happy with our choice l

Small authentic Italian spot hidden in Belden Lane. We felt like guests at an extended Italian family party. Appetizers and pasta courses before entrees served family style were delicious and a big hit with our large party (8). Entrees from Short ribs to salmon were universally loved. Finishing off with the namesake Tiramisu for dessert was sublime.