At Farallon, Chef Mark Franz serves coastal cuisine with French influence. The menu changes daily depending on what's fresh. Expect exciting combinations and show-stopping execution.
"Every dish we had was a flavor explosion! We loved everything we ate! BUT it is VERY noisy from the moment we stepped into the dining area until we paid our check. There needs to be something to absorb the noise levels. Too often we could not hear each other talking and it was just the two of us sitting across from each other. We will definitely go back once they address the noise problem."
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 2 for Farallon
Overall rating
(Good)3/5
happy hour menu looks better
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Food
(Good)3/5
Service
(Very Good)4/5
Ambiance
(Very Good)4/5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service is great. Food is average for the price. I will come back to try the happy hour."
Dined on 6/16/2013
2013
Special Features: romantic
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"After a girl's day shopping for a "mother-of-the-bride" dress, we were the first seated at 5:30 ! Ann was our server and EVERYTHING was perfect; cocktails,wine, food and service. It has been a family tradition for the last several years to drive the 2 1/2 hours to celebrate my birthday at Farallon and I am looking forward to many more."
Dined on 6/13/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"Dinner was a celebration for a number of reasons - a high school graduation, a sister's visit from Boston, a get together of cousins and a chance to introduce people close to me to a favorite restaurant. The dining experience was memorable for everyone present - from the ambiance, cuisine to the service the Farrallons provided us with a wonderful dining experience. We did not feel rushed during - as we sat and enjoyed our almost 2 hour experience.
The only [semi] low point - I could not have my family dine in the "pool" area - where I've dined every time before."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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"We bought a travelzoo coupon for $85 which should have been for $150 value. The restaurant ripped us off - ruined our anniversary evening 1. we were charged 18% as "service charge" 2. we were charged tax on the value of the coupon $150 which I am sure management pocketed the difference between $85 and the value of the coupon $150. 3. we were charged the San Francisco health insurance contribution based on entire value of our coupon. 4. our waiter read our cell phone message from our phone which was just lying on the table 5. our bill was twice the value of the coupon $95 plus $85 coupon. This was the sleaziest experience in what should have been an elegant evening on our anniversary."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2011
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"Conveniently located near the hotels in Union Square, Farallon is always consistent for excellent food (especially fish), outstanding service, and beautiful surroundings. Newcomers who dine with me are always impressed."
Dined on 6/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"A group of 4 of us dined, It was our 1st time at Farallon and we had a wonderful dinner. It was split evenly between steaks and fish and everyone was very happy and sharing bites. Highly recommend!"
Dined on 6/09/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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"If you like your restaurants to make a visual statement, drop anchor at Farallon. This downtown seafood eatery is no fish shack. As you walk in glass jellyfish dangle from the ceiling as if you are under the sea. Make your way past the raw bar and drink bar and the back room opens up into a spacious dining room with high vaulted ceilings. It's all quite dramatic and fun. Prices are hefty, but since I was a guest, who cared? Cracked crab appetizer was delicious although a little small to split. I had the halibut and my friend the salmon. Both were very good. The sommelier suggested a gruner veltliner that paired beautifully with both dishes. Service was excellent. This is a special occasion restaurant, but I'd happily return."
Dined on 6/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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"The food was excellent. Service was good at best. We waited a long time to place our order. We had leftovers and asked that they be boxed up to go. We never saw them again. I asked for coffee which never came. The waiter remembered it when I asked for the check. By that time dessert was long gone and we were done. I would have asked again for it if I had seen the waiter. So...the food was delightful. The service less so. Given that the service charge for this dinner for 5 was over $100 I expected much better."
Dined on 6/10/2013
2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Having dined at the Farallon in the past I had expected my experience to be of the same high quality. It was not. While the facility is as beautiful as before the food has dropped in quality. In general, it was an overpriced evening which was not fulfilling for me or my guests."
Dined on 6/08/2013
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"We had an awesome late night dinner which was so relaxing with outstanding service and food. We had an upstairs table where it was quiet so that conversations were comfortable and not strained. The food was nicely prepared and delivered at a comfortable pace. Farallon is a great dining experience."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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"In spite of its magnificent custom glass art, Farallon's atmosphere is theme-y. Looks like the set of a Little Mermaid production. The appetizers were sublime - an Ono tartar and a warm crab - off to an excellent start. The fish mains were so-so, including an overcooked cod that in retrospect, we should have sent back. The desserts of panacotta and blueberry pie were tasty but not special. The service was quite good. For the price, I just cannot recommend."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"This is a great place for special occasions. I have always taken clients here for business dinners but it was fantastic for a quiet dinner for 2. And the food as always was impeccable!! Farallon has a great atmosphere and its close to hotels and Union Square so easily accessible. A must for anyone wanting serious quality food and even a romantic evening. And if you like wine these guys know best. Brilliant service. Well done to the Farallon team again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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"The decor in Farallon is amazing - I felt like I was in The Little Mermaid the whole time I was there. It would be worth checking out for the decorations alone, but the food is also incredible. I had a full 4 course dinner and ate up every bit. I highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the Union Square area.
The only downside is that I got a bit of a snooty vibe from the waiter. Maybe it was just me, but he felt a little judgy. It was still an awesome experience, though."
Dined on 6/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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"Been there several times years ago - it has not stood the test of time. Party of four on a Wednesday night and not in the main dining room - again?!? Three of us ordered the same dish and you would have thought they were completely three different dishes - portions, plating - its was embarrassing. Fourth dish had zero flavor. Too bad - still a pretty spot, even if we had to sneak a peak at the main attraction. Banished to the balcony every time and now with poor food."
Dined on 6/05/2013
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"Probably the best dining experience I have ever had. Coming from Europe we get plenty of upper class restaurants, but what I really liked about Farallon is it's down to earth atmosphere, you don't need to be all stiff and everyone seems to have a great time, laughing, chatting, etc, although some people might find it interestingly a little bit noisy for a fine dining restaurant.
Food was amazing, had a 3 course meal, seafood was super fresh and nicely cooked, and accompanied by delicious wine (they have a huge wine list too). Service was great, very attentive. And also the interior has a tasteful decor, very pretty!"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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"AH-mazing!!! Immersive decor, delectable food, and top-notch service. I let the restaurant know ahead of time that it was my boyfriend's 50th birthday and they did not miss a step! A hand-written birthday note at the table and a special dessert were perfect. What an experience. Not just a meal. An occasion we will remember forever. Highly recommend for special occasions!"
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"It was our first time here. We were not seated in the main diningroom and asked to be moved. They immediately honored our request. Service, food and wine list were all Exceptional. Would definately go back."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"I loved the experience of this big, beautiful restaurant with its imaginative decor based on an undersea theme, great food and great service. I felt transoported to another era when elegance ruled. Seafood dishes were exquisitely prepared and served by a knowledgable, welcoming and efficient waiter. We started our dinner in the Jellyfish Lounge and Oyster Bar at the front of the restaurant --another way to experience the place, including some great happy hour prices on fine food and wine. I think this is the perfect San Francisco restaurant for a special occasion, special romantic night out, or sharing something wondrous with out of town guests."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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"It happened to be our 25 th wedding anniversary an it could not have been nicer The service was great the food was amazing and when the dessert came it was decorated to say happy anniversary They made us feel special and was one of our greatest experiences"
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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"Once in a while it's great to eat somewhere where the food and the place are a complete experience. Farallon did a wonderful job transporting our group 1000 leagues under the sea with an attentive and friendly crew to take us on our journey.
The selection of Oysters was amazing (we ended up ordering extra rounds). Mains were all great - the cast iron cooked sea bass had a seared crust which topped the super moist and flaky fish below. Others had the steak which was also cooked to perfection.
If you like Single Malt Whisky then this is the place. They have a book devoted to the stuff. I took the waiters advice and had probably the best dram i have ever had!"
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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"Husband and I and our two children aged 9 and 13 dined here during a weekend in San Fran. It is a wonderful space with tiled catacomb like ceilings and interesting lighting which gives an overall feeling of being "underwater". The waiter was intense, but very knowledgeable and helpful with the menu. There is no menu allowance for children, but the food is so good our children loved it. The restaurant was good enough to allow them to share their entree and separately plated it . They have an oyster bar at the front of the restaurant and I would definitely return to try just that, as the oysters were wonderful. Food was superb, we had a great night."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
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"Well conceived and executed food, cocktails and wine list. Server, Layla was excellent. Very well informed and provided excellent service. Do not forget dessert."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Nice restaurant, expensive but worth it. The service is very good, they have a large selection of whiskeys and wines. No kids menu. Perfect for a special occasion."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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"An amazing space with cool jellyfish lights dangling from the ceiling. The freshest , highest quality seafood prepared with the best ingredients. If you love oysters , prawns and lobster arrive early and grab a seat at their raw bar. Wonderfully fresh Drake's Bay Oysters, poached prawns and lobsters served chilled with some great sauces. From there take a seat at your table and prepare to enjoy the seasons freshest seafood artfully prepared, Branzino, Halibut, Day Boat Diver Scallops and more. You can't go wrong with any of these entrees."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"We had a good, not great dinner, diminished in part by the lack of reasonably priced wines. The least expensive white was $16/glass, or $58/bottle. For people who don't consider themselves wine connoisseurs and are comfortable with their deficiency, this is somewhat irritating. The food itself was fine, but none of the 4 of us thought is was especially memorable."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: romantic
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"Our 1st visit played up to expectations of both exotic vibrant decor & amazing seafood! They honored our request for quiet table & had a Happy Anniversary card waiting for us on the table...completed by our dessert plate being drizzled with Happy Anniversary in chocolate!! Just delightful--a little pricey but...hey...special occasion. Told my daughter she & her hubby would enjoy it for a drink & appetizer night out!"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, special occasion
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"I have been a few times and have always had a great time. The sommelier has been super helpful in selecting specific tastes for the table each time. The food is always amazing and I always look forward to trying their varying menu."
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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"The wonderful Union Square location for out-of-town guests staying downtown, made it easy for our friends to walk from their hotel to the Farallons to meet us. Each of us ordered a different seafood appetizer: oysters, lobster salad, crab legs, shrimp. All dishes were delicious, fresh and beautifully presented as were our entrées: halibut, bisque, pasta, white bass. Yummy desserts and rich coffee completed our leisurely, intimate, and warm experience. The curvaceous oceanic decor and refined seafood selections felt overall like a night out aboard Captain Nemo's submarine Nautilus--with all the seamless service and refined, quiet attention to details of our needs that one might expect at a captain's table. Fun, relaxed, wealthy, healthy."
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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"First, go for the ambiance. The interior is like no other. Then, stay for the food. Good food, obviously prepared with care. Tasty and interesting, just like we like it."
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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"The food was uniformly very good. Our waiter was humorless and a bit haughty. He actually said "For a full bodied chardonnay, our entry level wine would be the $110 wine.""
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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"our return visit after a year was rewarded with good standards of food and wine served by an attentive waiter with better than simple advice. even our comment about the mildly inadequate taste of one appetiser was taken on board. There is a bustle in the place that clearly caters for the potential of several services to the one table on any evening but we were not hurried in our meal. When we return to SF we will go again."
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, special occasion
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"Our server was friendly and made a great wine recommendation, however it's the little things that count - no rusty stuff should be left on the salad leaves before arriving on the table. On top of that for the money, the beef salad was tasteless and way way over priced. The pasta with mushrooms was terrific. Staff should be at the door to retrieve coats when you leave - yes it was near the end of the evening, but there were still plenty more customers in the restaurant, and as we were digging around for coats, there were at least 4 staff chatting at the bar.......just my opinion......lots of other choices out there so we won't be back."
Dined on 5/19/2013
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"went for a special occasion and they gave us a nice table in the back. Food was delicious, service great, sommelier's recommendation is a new favorite now. I've only been in the bar or banquet room before which was fun so very pleased dinner didn't disappoint. Only downside was noise level seemed a bit loud especially since the acousitcs made normal conversation understandable from across the room. No idea why I've always forgot about this place when in the area since they have a nice bar area."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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"Wonderful ambiance and servers who are efficient without rushing you even at 7pm on a Friday night. The Dungeness crab on fried green tomato was every tasty but a little over salted. However the Branzini was ambrosia, with snap peas, trumpet mushroom, cabbage in an amazing mushroom consumme. Each ingredient alone tasted correct, but dull. Combined together as a single bite on a fork it was an amazing synergy of flavor without any component losing identity. My date raved about her bass. I love when a good cook does this with a dish. My dinner date had never eaten oysters and we started with some. Unfortunately these oysters merely hinted at what oysters can really be, but were not what they could be. I wish they had been so."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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"Our server was amazing! His descriptions of at least six of the entrees, subtle differences in fish flavor, texture, etc. were entertaining and accurate."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic
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"We went to Farallon for our anniversary. The decor is lovely and helps make it feel like a special occasion. We were seated near the open kitchen where the servers gather and take their orders. My wife likes seeing the action, I found it a distraction. I had the tasting menu. The first two items were a bit disappointing; Sashimi and some other item I don't even remember. The third (asparagus with a prosciutto-like ham and crab) was very nice, the main (steak with a mushroom and potato side) was fantastic- perfectly prepared, incredibly tender. 5 stars for the last two items on the tasting, 3-4 stars for the first two items, hence 4 overall. My wife had the sea bass and loved it. Service was excellent; attentive, not intrusive."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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"Excellent seafood. Friendly service and wonderful atmosphere. Creative desserts. Perfect for a special occasion."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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