Indoor Dining Room - Foreign Cinema, San Francisco, CA

Foreign Cinema

4.7

8320 Reviews

$31 to $50

Californian

Top Tags:

Foreign Cinema is a one of a kind, nationally acclaimed restaurant combining independent films with California-Mediterranean cooking. Enjoy an airy yet chic setting, complete with indoor dining room with a fireplace, outdoor courtyard with 35mm film screening starting at dusk, mezzanine, gallery curated by Modernism & full bar in the main dining room. There is also a great cocktail bar next door, Laszlo, as you enter from Mission Street.

We are currently booking for Outdoor Patio & Indoor/Standard seating 60 days in advance. A ‘standard seating’ reservation is indoor dining. Reservations for 9+ may be booked through private dining department - contact janine@foreigncinema.com for more information.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 5, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 90 times today

Experiences are available.

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Californian, Mediterranean
Hours of operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Mon 5:00 pm–9:30 pm Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(415) 648-7600 ext. 0
Website
http://www.foreigncinema.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Gayle Pirie & John Clark
Private party facilities
Venture into the distinctive experience of dining at Foreign Cinema. The dramatic candle lit entry welcomes you to a repast that you won’t soon forget. Foreign Cinema brings together the serendipitous relationship between food and film, dining and entertainment. Have your next event with us!
Private party contact
Janine Jacobson: (415) 648-7600 ext. 124

Location
2534 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94110
Neighborhood
Mission District
Cross street
21st St.
Parking details
We recommend parking at the Bartlett Garage located on 21st St between Valencia and Mission.
Public transit
MUNI: 14 Mission bus; BART: 16th & 24th/Mission station
Entertainment
We show a film starting at dusk only in the outdoor patio dining room. This is to provide a lovely ambiance, dialogue is not audible. While we take into consideration all requests for courtyard seating none are guaranteed.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

Experiences

Tropical New Year's Eve Dinner 2023/2024
$165.00 per person
Dec 31, 2023 only
For New Year's Eve we are offering a celebratory 4 course menu for $165 per adult & children for $45 each (price does not include drinks, tax, or gratuity). There will be choices in each course, including vegetarian options. This is the only menu available, there will not be an a la carte option. We have a 48hr cancellation policy for New Years Eve Dinner, it is $50 per person if cancelled after 5pm on Wednesday 12/29.

Popular dishes

What 8,320 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.6Service
4.8Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

San Francisco Bay Area
Most Booked
San Francisco
Best Ambiance
San Francisco
Californian
San Francisco
Most Booked

8,320 Reviews

K
Kristiina
San Francisco
42 reviews
vip
5.0
42 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Foreign Cinema is always unbelievably good! Great food, wonderful staff and awesome atmosphere! I go here monthly and that will continue! You guys are incredible!
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LP
LauraP
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 2 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Still great after all of these years- great for brunch!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Amazing food and great ambience!! Really loved the strawberry pop tart the best I have ever had.
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CM
CeciliaM
San Francisco
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
One of the best brunch spots in SF. Wonderful courtyard, great food and lovely service.
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SW
SaraW
San Francisco
3 reviews
vip
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
overall5food5service4ambience5
Delicious food, tasty drinks, beautiful ambiance. I can't wait to go back.
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BC
BrianC
San Francisco
20 reviews
vip
5.0
20 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
I've been going to Foreign Cinema since the 90s. And I've written several reviews. It's always pretty much fabulous fun for all when I go. Sometimes the food isn't as memorable as the last. This time, however, I LOVED all of it. Everything was cooked to perfection. And the meal was simple, generous, creative and refined. The cocktails were also excellent. I had just returned from Eugene and Bend where I tried to have a good cocktail. These were by far superior. The Colleen (a tequila cocktail) keeps getting reinvented here, and I LOVE that as well. I also had a glass of rioja that was pretty stellar for a very reasonable price. I also love that I didn't feel like I was being gouged, the price of everything was reasonable for San Francisco. I think this is uber important, and earns my respect and thanks.
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N
Ning
San Francisco
19 reviews
vip
5.0
19 reviews
Dined on November 27, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We love Foreign Cinema....one of our all-time favorite SF restaurants and have been going for many many years. Last night's dinner was outstanding!! The Colleen cocktail is the best (Thank you, Colleen!). We had the pulled mozzarella with the squash...my goodness, it was delicious. My husband had the swordfish and I had the duck and both dishes were excellent. It was a date night for us....and Foreign Cinema always provides the best experience! (fireworks!) Thank you for all you do!
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HD
HughD
Los Angeles
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 27, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
A truly wonderful, eclectic restaurant with an ambiance that enchants.
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i
idhfood
San Francisco
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on November 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great service and great food! Always on point. 10/10 no notes.
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A
Andi
San Francisco
45 reviews
vip
5.0
45 reviews
Dined on November 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had brunch today. I ordered the crab frittata. It was fantastic. So flavorful and delicate. My husband had the roasted chicken. Wow! Excellent. Great service and overall a great experience.
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F
Foodista
San Francisco
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on November 26, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We sat outside in the courtyard under the heaters. Our waitress was sweet as can be and checked on us throughout the meal. Our cocktails and dishes were absolutely delicious. The whole experience felt warm and festive. We had a great meal together me and talked about coming back soon.
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JS
JosephS
Sacramento
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on November 26, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
We had a marvelous evening dining al fresco at Foreign Cinema. The setting and food were excellent. Cocktails and fresh oysters, then slightly charred and spiced calamari were followed by the swordfish and pork chop entrees. While the portions were on the smaller size the flavors and presentation were outstanding. Our server, Hunter, was attentive but understated, conscientious yet relaxed, making for a superb dining experience! Thank you Foreign Cinema!
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l
lovemaui
San Francisco
2 reviews
vip
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We were there this past Saturday for brunch and celebrated 2 birthdays in our party of 5. It was the first time to dine there for all of us. We sat inside and really enjoyed the ambiance, decor, and high ceiling. Our waiter was so sweet, attentive, and calm and it was the best service we have had in such a long time. Our food and the presentation was amazing! Everything we ordered, we enjoyed every bite. We also ordered the pop tart before our meal and it was delicious! While we were there eating, we were already talking about coming back one day soon for dinner. We were so full after our meal that we didn't order any dessert but the list of desserts looked amazing and we wished we had room to try them. Since we were there to celebrate birthdays, they brought us 2 grapefruit flavored slushies which were so good and refreshing! We were not expecting that special birthday treat, so we were surprised and very appreciative. We cannot wait to come back to dine there.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
New York Area
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 25, 2023
overall4food4service3ambience5
We really liked the place and ambience. Overall this place has great potential. The food was good but we were not overwhelmed with the service. We had to wait upon arrival and it seemed to have created difficult issue for the staff to accommodate us with our baby - especially that we wanted to keep the stroller somewhere nearby. Ultimately all went fine but it left somewhat disappointing taste..
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AM
AnnM
San Francisco
23 reviews
vip
5.0
23 reviews
Dined on November 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is our family's favorite restaurant, and we go here for special occasions. We started with beef tartar, oysters, calamari, and autumn squash soup. All appetizers were fantastic. I had the pork chop with a lavender sauce which was incredible. For dessert, we had the pumpkin flan and the birthday cake. We were celebrating my 60th birthday and our experience at Foreign Cinema was the best! A perfect evening, thank you!
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 23, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Absolutely AMAZING!! Highly recommend and will go again!! Loved every second, couldn’t take my eyes off the stage!! So talented and loved the storyline and history behind the show and theatre!! Everyone should go!!! Thank you for sharing your talents with us!! You can tell there is so much heart and soul put into this show!
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JM
JeremyM
San Francisco
5 reviews
vip
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 22, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Been going here for the last 15 years and it never disappoints. Cuisine A+. Elegant without being stuffy. Excellent bar - they know what their doing. FC has become an SF institution, but they keep the bar high. One of my top 5 in the city.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
Charlotte
3 reviews
vip
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 22, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience5
I love this restaurant and it’s definitely a classic place to visit if you’re looking for a great date spot or some nice solo dining. The energy is extremely cozy and the cocktails or so tasty definitely get oysters to start and everything is so seasonal. It’s so tasty.
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LS
LeenaS
San Francisco
15 reviews
vip
5.0
15 reviews
Dined on November 21, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Absolutely amazing food and wine! Love the setting. Just as wonderful as I remembered it to be!
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YB
YolandaB
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
There were three generations of family members at our table and plenty of choices for drinks and dishes to please everyone.
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CC
CarrieC
San Francisco
7 reviews
vip
3.0
7 reviews
Dined on November 20, 2023
overall3food2service2ambience5
Beautiful ambience as always. Food portions were ridiculously small and our server was irritated we had a glass of wine instead of a bottle. They rushed us through the meal. Things changed after the pandemic I guess. So many staff on duty that night standing idle. Why the rush?
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EL
EliseL
San Francisco
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 19, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
Outside Venue was lovely and the heat lamps kept us warm. Inside noise level was high so I was glad we chose the patio. Server was very patient, as we took a while to decide what to eat. Food was yummy. Will most definitely return.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience4
Great food and service for my birthday brunch. Giving me a birthday card was a nice touch.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
3 reviews
4.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 19, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience3
Ambiance could be improved. The lamps look very office like.
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K
Kristiina
San Francisco
42 reviews
vip
5.0
42 reviews
Dined on November 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
As always a fabulous monthly brunch at Foreign Cinema..Great food, friendly staff and beautiful atmosphere...Always return and always happy
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on November 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Foreign Cinema is always delicious. The food, the ambiance. Had the pork chop and it did not disappoint. 10/10. I love coming here for a nice dinner.
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h
hungrygal415
San Francisco
23 reviews
vip
3.0
23 reviews
Dined on November 13, 2023
overall3food3service1ambience3
I haven’t been here in about a decade and decided to give it another try. Honestly, with all of the good restaurants in San Francisco it’s hard to settle for mediocre food and mediocre service. I doubt I will go back here again in the next decade. I would rather spend my money at Firefly, Frances, Delfina, or any of the other up-and-coming restaurants that are more inventive and friendlier to their customers. Our server was nice, but we had many other service errors, and generally just a sense of not feeling welcomed. Seems like it would be a good place for a party crowd and big groups, but it’s not the place to go if you’re looking for great food or great service.
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SF
SFfoodlover
San Francisco
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Service exceptional , food amazing , love this place , new fave brunch spot
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CE
CindyE
Seattle
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
They kindly changed our seating to outdoors to accommodate a need for less noise. They also accommodated our vegan companion with an off-menu salad, although the higher price seemed excessive.
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FG
FranckG
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on November 11, 2023
overall1food1service3ambience3
Very expensive for what you getting. one dish out of five was good, the best average or below. No seasoning. Goat's cheese starter is just warm cheese, with more than hard toast (not toasted to order) apple and some salad. The sashimi was very good. The five spices duck was average. The poached scallops / Halibut a disaster, over cooked Halibut, bland scallops & sauce, few veg and potato. no seasoning, just flat. Had the risotto, same again, no seasoning. Porridge taste better. Nice waiter which cancel the scallops & risotto from the bill. Was looking forward to have a good meal, but not on this occasion
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NL
NLORD
San Francisco
9 reviews
vip
4.0
9 reviews
Dined on November 11, 2023
overall4food4service2ambience5
Wait staff was extremely rude and never made eye contact with our table lol
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OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience5
We were there for the Jeremiah Tower dinner and it was truly delightful. It was nostalgic of an earlier time in the city…so classic, old school California cuisine…a much simpler, rosier time. It was also a reminder of how cool Foreign Cinema is and how steadfast it remains amidst the ever changing cultural landscape of our fair city. We all vowed to return again soon.
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H
Hari
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall4food4service2ambience4
Food was top-notch, but definitely pricey! Service left a lot to be desired. Ambience was nice, but not sure if we'll end up going here for a date night again.
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KC
KristinCaroline
San Francisco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Lovely! It was a joy to be there, indulge in Jeremiah Tower’s legendary creations with such a lively crowd.
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w
willow71
San Francisco
8 reviews
vip
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Fabulous as always ! Can’t go wrong here. Best brunch in the city and most romantic restaurant at night. Got married here. Trust me !
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PM
PhilM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall5food5service4ambience5
Went for special dinner recreating the legendary Stars restaurant, with Chef Jeremiah Tower. The food was mostly special dishes, not the usual menu, but it was all incredible and delicious. Service was a bit slow at times but it was a very busy night. And the atmosphere was, as always, just right. Highly recommend.
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AC
AlyssaC
Central Coast
28 reviews
vip
5.0
28 reviews
Dined on November 10, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The special night with Jeremiah Tower was amazing. Great food and I hope it happens again.
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OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Always a fantastic dinner, incredible service, and ambiance.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Los Angeles
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 6, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
Ambience: Beautiful setting with outdoor, indoor and private dining areas. Price: Steep for small portions but overall excellent quality of food & drinks. Definitely more for a special occasion.
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ND
NicD
New York Area
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 6, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Best meal I’ve had all year. Every dish is delicious. Environment is unique and lovely. Can’t wait to go back.
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Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing
- Surfaces sanitized between seatings
- Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
- Common areas deep-cleaned daily
- Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers

Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Foreign Cinema is rated 4.7 stars by 8320 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Dec 5, 2023

7:00 PM

Booked 90 times today

Experiences are available.

2534 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94110

Additional information

Cross street
21st St.
Neighborhood
Mission District
Hours of operation
Brunch Sat, Sun 10:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Mon 5:00 pm–9:30 pm Tue–Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Californian, Mediterranean
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
We recommend parking at the Bartlett Garage located on 21st St between Valencia and Mission.
Public transit
MUNI: 14 Mission bus; BART: 16th & 24th/Mission station
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Gayle Pirie & John Clark
Entertainment
We show a film starting at dusk only in the outdoor patio dining room. This is to provide a lovely ambiance, dialogue is not audible. While we take into consideration all requests for courtyard seating none are guaranteed.
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Entertainment, Full Bar, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.foreigncinema.com/
Phone number
(415) 648-7600 ext. 0
Private party facilities
Venture into the distinctive experience of dining at Foreign Cinema. The dramatic candle lit entry welcomes you to a repast that you won’t soon forget. Foreign Cinema brings together the serendipitous relationship between food and film, dining and entertainment. Have your next event with us!
Private party contact
Janine Jacobson: (415) 648-7600 ext. 124

Foreign Cinema

Make a reservation

Private dining

Additional information

Featured in

Discover the Top Women-Led Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada

San Francisco’s Most Iconic Restaurants

Experiences

Tropical New Year's Eve Dinner 2023/2024

Popular dishes

Pork Chop

LAS Chicken

6 Laszlo Oysters

Menu

What 8,320 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing

Screening

FAQs

How is Foreign Cinema restaurant rated?

Is Foreign Cinema currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Additional information

Featured in

Discover the Top Women-Led Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada

San Francisco’s Most Iconic Restaurants