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Zuni Cafe Reviews List

Zuni Cafe

This James Beard Award winning restaurant with a clientele as diverse as San Francisco opened in 1979. A vibrant Parisian-style standing-only copper bar greets you as you enter on Rose Alley. Zuni's menu changes daily with dishes inspired by traditional Italian and French recipes. Nearly all of the produce, meat, and fish served at Zuni is farmed and harvested in a sustainable manner. Even without a reservation, bar tables are available on a first come, first served basis and the full menu is available. The bar also serves traditional cocktails made with top-shelf ingredients; refreshments at its best in an environment of effortless hospitality. Whether you dine early or prefer to dine after theater, Zuni is a welcoming haven. -Judy Rodgers, chef/co-owner -Gilbert Pilgram, co-owner
See more Zuni Cafe details
584 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(584 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 584 reviews
5 stars
(265)
4 stars
(226)
3 stars
(56)
2 stars
(27)
1 star
(10)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(421)
  • neighborhood gem(245)
  • special occasion(231)
  • hot spot(160)
  • notable wine list(135)
  • vibrant bar scene(134)
Zuni Cafe Reviews List
Review 1 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Good food can't trump bad service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've been going to Zuni for at least 15 years and have always loved the food. The roast chicken is really one of the great dishes of San Francisco, as is the Caesar salad. But after rude and hostile service from our server, and a dismissive attitude from the manager, I don't ever see returning. It's unfortunate -- I'll miss the chicken."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 2 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Have gone to Zuni Café on and off for years and it never changes. The food is wonderful. The Café looks like it did when it opened but that is the charm of the place."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Tried and True Food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The service was a bit rough on the part of our wait person-she confused our order, took away a glass of wine before one of us was finished, didn't ask a late arriving guest if the wanted a drink (the guest had to run after her to order). The food was delicious as usual, especially the roast chicken which continues to wow."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2004
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Review 4 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Snobbish service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We have eaten at Zuni's many times, and enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the absolutely delicious food. This time, however, the service, left a great deal to be desired. We had a 6PM reservation (as we were going to the symphony for my husband's birthday). We arrived around 5:45 and had a glass of wine in the cafe -- at 6 I noticed they were seating restaurant patrons who arrived after we did. The waitress said she would check -- and she said our res. was not until 6:45! Finally, I went up to the hostess, and she acted like she was doing us a big favor to seat us (it was now 6:15). The waiter was very sullen. He didn't even smile when he brought my husband's birthday dessert with a lit candle."
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 5 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Our waiter was extraordinarily well-informed about the fabulous food and wine and was a pleasure to talk with. He provided excellent advice and knew every ingredient of the amazing soup we had. He even gave us fairly detailed advice on how we might try to replicate it at home. The Zuni house Chardonnay was excellent and paired well with restaurant's famously tasty chicken. We had a wonderful evening and recommend the Zuni as the number one restaurant in San Francisco."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 6 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always great...

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Zuni never disappoints.....consistently great food and great service."
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistently amazing food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I've eaten at Zuni since it opened and never had a bad meal - not even close. From the freshest oysters to standbys (Caesar , burger, chicken and piazzas) to daily specials everything is fresh, light and wonderful. The food is Californian with a southern France/northern Italy influences. The service is superb without being cloying and outdoor light and windows are reminiscent of Paris. Great, creative wine list too. Enjoy!"
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2012
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Review 8 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love Zuni!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"There's a reason this SF institution has been around for such a long time. One of our favorite places for an elegant lunch or dinner. Always a great selection on the raw bar, and along with one of their burger's that's MY idea of surf and turf."
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 9 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The must have chicken dish

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Always consistent. The best chicken and Caesar salad!"
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointed

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went for moms bday dinner while in san fran on way down coast... disappointed. Did much research on places before our arrival and the menu and history of this place really sold us. The reviews were good and we decided to go for it. Although special in atmosphere, that could not make up for the food. Sounded good, the dishes seemed uninspired and a bit boring. Had salmon w Manila clams starter. Clams good: happy w them. Fish cooked fine, and tasted fine, but $30, fine didnt really cut it for me. Few vegetables it came with didn't taste like much and I could have left hungry save for bread. Mom had squab, which the diner next to us said he couldnt see on the plate!! She only got about 5 bites of meat. For 31$, this was not acceptable."
Dined on 6/08/2013
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Review 11 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

2 vegans and 2 omnivores walk into:

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We needed to choose a lunch spot where two vegans and two omnivores could enjoy an afternoon lunch and catch up on life's rich pageantry. Zuni was the perfect spot. The server was totally amenable to requesting the kitchen put together vegan salads and entree plates for us. The Bandol Rose was perfect to go with the delicious vegetables cooked numerous ways and the juicy delectable burgers our fiends enjoyed. Apricot sorbet with roasted cherries made the perfect vegan dessert. The convivial atmosphere is one of Zuni's greatest assets. Looking forward to visiting againsoon!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 12 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Zuni Review

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Had dinner on a Friday night and was seated in a small room with a window and lots of light. It was perfect for the 4 of us. We all enjoyed our meal except our friend who had the pasta. She said it was a bit bland. We had the chicken and it was very good. Other friend had the steak which was good,but a small portion. In fact some of the apps we had were on the small side for the price. That was the biggest complaint from all of us. Certainly the chicken for 2 was plentiful. The waitress was very good indeed."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 13 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Bartender was accommodating and creative. Oysters were fresh and delicious. The bread was addicting. Good service, lovely spot for lunch."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 14 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Stellar!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Amazing food and service, as always."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 15 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Nicole and Guillermo were amazing!
They were both friendly and attentive. My wife and I spilt 3 courses and the food was delicious and affordable. The chicken was better than advertised."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list
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Review 16 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Go for the chicken!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"If you have never been there then...GO FOR THE CHICKEN! That is what was recommended to me when I went and I did not regret it. It was full of flavor, juicy, and was enough for the 3 of us. We even had some leftover to take home! (BTW - EVERY table I passed on my way in and out had the chicken on their table!) One thing to note, order the chicken as soon as you sit down because it will take about 40 min. In the meantime, enjoy the shoestring fries and a salad. mmmmmmm....
The place is a little loud but we were seated on the second floor towards the back of the restaurant which was perfect. I would definitely go back for another casual dinner with friends!"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 17 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Incredible Oysters

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food and service place this restaurant among the 100 best in San Francisco, but the variety and quality of
oysters make it special.
"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 18 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A Place For Good Food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I went to Zuni for a late lunch and ate a great hamburger. Be sure to order the shoestring fries!"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for lunch
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Review 19 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We are always happy when we can land a weekend reservation for Zuni. The food is consistently good. If there are four us, the chicken for two is a must. Prep can't be beat! Thanks."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 20 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Overrated

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was the worst service in SF and the food was good but not worth the price. We ordered the duck and I wish I had ordered their signature dish because that is what everyone recommended. I requested a nice romantic table- we were shoved in a corner and largely ignored by our server. The wine list is grotesquely overpriced! The server seemed aggravated because he had to wait tables. I will not return nor recommend."
Dined on 5/19/2013
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Review 21 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Roast chicken is a must try

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Now I understand why Zuni Cafe's roast chicken is beloved -- succulent and tasty with the accompanying bread salad. Loved the shoestring potatoes, Caesar salad, and gateau victoire as well. One can't seem to go wrong with whatever they order on the menu. Restaurant has a lot of natural light, lovely on a nice sunny day."
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 22 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Pure Heaven

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"On average, I go here twice a month and still can't get enough. The Zuni chicken is hands down the best chicken I've ever had!"
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 23 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Disappointing

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I had waited years to go to Zuni cafe. However I left disappointed. The appetizers ( we tried 4 of them) were all very good. The gnocchi in particular was outstanding. The main courses however were average to bad. The pork job was the best of them but not much better than an average bistro. The tuna was terrible. For one thing it was overcooked. Even thought the menu lists it as seared this was cooked through. Plating was below par , kind of what you would expect at the upscale diner or corner bistro in NYC. I tried really hard to like it but came away feeling I could not recommend it based on how hard it was to get in and the expense. Desserts were not outstanding in any way, despite our waiter telling us how great the ice cream was."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: kid-friendly
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Review 24 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The Chicken!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"That chicken was so frickin' delicious. It has ruined the memory of all roast chickens that I've previously had and thought were delicious. The service from our waitress, Jessica, was stellar. We will be back!"
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 25 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We enjoyed our food and wine at Zuni's. The server and hostess did a good job. We had the chicken with the bread salad for two and enjoyed. It was plenty for two. Next time would like to try something differenc"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 26 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointing and Underwhelming

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 2/03/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"All the dishes we sampled were underwhelming, under seasoned across the board, and lacking pop. It seemed as if no in the kitchen tasted a single dish we were served. The portions are exceedingly small, so when the flavor isn't there, the perceived value drops dramatically. To further the sense of over paying, the china, silver, and glass ware is all old and worn, even chipped. If I'm paying steep San Francisco prices, I'd feel a better sense of value if my wine wasn't served in a heavy duty Libby glass. The service we received was indifferent, and less than spot-on (missing silver for two courses, water not re-filled in a timely manner). All in all, Zuni seems way past it's prime, and in dire need of an injection of vitality."
Dined on 2/03/2013
-1point
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Review 27 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Did not disappoint!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was our second trip there, while in SF for a conference. The Roast chicken is devine & well worth the wait, but order it immediately! Even tho' we did, it took over an hour to be served the chicken. Being resourceful, we filled the time with cocktails, wine and fabulous Oysters...mmmm. The bread served is excellent-one can taste the actual whole grains that are in the flour used to bake the bread. Complete the Chicken meal with the shoe string potatoes and you will not be disappointed.
The chicken meal is sufficient for three people, if having appetizers.
Once again, our only regret is that this restaurant is not in the Boston area.
Word of advice, if cab needed for transport home-have them call one-difficult to flag down in area....
"
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 28 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Too played up

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Yes, I know, Zuni is the happening place these days. I took me around a month to get a reservation on a Friday night. All that lead up and it was just so-so. My steak was very good but there was very little of it and the accompanying veggies. My husband had the pork and he thought he could get the same at a taqueria around the corner. We also had pretty lackluster polenta and ceasar salad. The service was very good. My glass of wine was very nice. I guess if you like your food on the bland expensive side this is a good place for you."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
-1point
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Review 29 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent chicken and Caesar salad. It was our first time there and would go again but I'd ask to be seated downstairs where it's cooler."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 30 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Good food,Nice Staff,Bad experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Even though I asked for permission to take photos for upcoming culinary blog and our waiter gently approved, the restraunt manager - very disrespectfully - told me to not to take any more pictures. I was very disappointed."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
-1point
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Review 31 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Still Great!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Zuni Cafe is a San Francisco landmark restaurant. Yet, even after more than 20 years, the food is still inventive and creative. Fantastic place to dine!"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 32 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic dish!

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/22/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The chicken for two (to share) is a must! The most amazing dish! So yummy!"
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Chicken with bread salad is a must. Oysters were also delicious!"
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 34 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great food, fair service.

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was great!! Service could have been better. Needed to keep asking for water and the waiter was pleasant but very dry and not engaging."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 35 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Over rated

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We got the roast chicken which was very good, but not outstanding especially considering the $50 price and 1 hour wait. The service was friendly and competent, but the waiter didn't seem to be familiar with the wine list. As is the case with many SF eateries, there is a 4% "mandated" service charge to pay for health benefits."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
-1point
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Review 36 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Don't buy the hype

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overrated! Tagliatelle with morels sounded enticing but was simply buttered egg noodles with some morels and peas strewn about on top. No complexity or nuance. Nothing here that's not available at many places in the city. Pleasant atmosphere but the food doesn't particularly shine. Great coffee though."
Dined on 5/19/2013
-1point
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Review 37 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Superlatives fail me.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent food, very professional service. The bartender made a pisco sour starting with an egg white, not a mix. My wife called the tuna the best fish she'd ever had."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 38 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best in SF

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Been my fav restaurant in sf for years. Was disappointed that on my last visit, food was not well timed at all; our entree came out cold; didn't say anything to the server as he was clearly overwhelmed by a large party that came in during our meal. This was really , noticeable because the 30+ experiences ve had at zuni are never anything short of impeccable. Hopefully just a one-off and not a sign of anything declining."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 39 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Roast chicken lives up to the hype!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The chicken was enough to feed my husband and I twice (we had the leftovers for dinner two nights later). The appetizers were tasty (rabbit w/black beans and fava beans a la plancha) as was the Caesar salad. Flourless chocolate cake was truly one of the "airiest" we've ever had and the strawberry sorbet was also delicious, not too sweet, perfectly tart. Our server Jessica was quite good and she was supported by an attentive busboy staff. Only downsides are: this place can be quite loud (try to sit upstairs) and the bathroom situation is inadequate (1 toilet for guys, 1 for girls) given the size of the restaurant and the number of patrons at the bar."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 40 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The service was not good. The hostess walked us up the stairs, but the table was not ready, so we went back downstairs and waited a few minutes. Once at the table, we waited at least 10 minutes to be greeted. Our bread was silently dropped, without bread plates, before we were greeted. We ordered a salad and the french fries to start, but we were only brought the salad to start.
The salad was not good. It was overdressed greens with TWO greasy garlic croutons. The french fries were fine once we received them.
The margherita pizza crust was soggy. The ricotta was shaved thinly and sparsely, and was overpowered by the not very good tomato sauce.
The burger was only okay. It was cooked as we requested, but not seasoned very well."
Dined on 5/18/2013
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Review 41 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great as ever!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Moved out of the city after 32 years of great Zuni meals. Two years later it is as good as ever -
Gnochi - the best anywhere hands down.
Ceasar and shoestring potatoes - better than life itself.
Espresso granita - a little smaller and less attractive but the same great flavor.
Zuni rocks!!!!!!!!!!!!
"
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 42 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best chicken ever!!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"So worth the hour wait to prepare it!
Everything was so delicious from salad to
That roast chicken to great dessert. Our server
Was a true professional!
"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 43 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food before a Performance.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My friend and I ate here for lunch before seeing a matinee ballet at the Opera house. I had been here before many years ago and I was not disappointed. The food and service were wonderful,"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 44 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

An Off Day in the Kitchen?

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Let me start by saying that we love Zuni and Mother's Day may not be the best day to review a restaurant, but this time the pizza arrived with a soggy crust and seemed, overall, rather bland. The oysters, in contrast, were fresh and flavorful as always and the other dishes were just fine. Desserts were superb! This one glitch will in no way deter us from going back as often as possible.
As always the service was superb and when we arrived our table was waiting as were the flowers we had ordered.
Thanks to the staff!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, special occasion
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Review 45 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Another great time at Zuni

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Zuni has been one of my favorite places for years, and I try to get there whenever I am in San Francisco. It's my place for oysters and the signature chicken with bread salad is well worth the wait. Enjoy a couple of the aperol cocktails and conversation with your date over appetizers while it roasts. Our dinner last Sunday was made even more outstanding by the incredibly warm and smart service from Kristen, our charming server. Thank you, Kristen!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 46 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always Fabulous!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went to Zuni for my birthday and, as usual was impressed. We got there for lunch and were seated by a window upstairs where it was quiet and we could have a conversation. The service was excellent. We had fairly normal lunch of Cesar Salad, Burger and Fries but, the quality of those items was superb. Zuni is always a place you can count on for a wonderful meal. It's also quintessential San Francisco!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 47 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always great!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"As usual, Zuni was great. Had soup and their fantastic Caesar salad for lunch with a friend. Fantastic!"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 48 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointing experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My duck and his lamb lacked flavor. For $30 per plate, we expected much better food. We won't go again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
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Review 49 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The best roast chicken in the world

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The best roast chicken in the world"
Dined on 4/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 50 for Zuni Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great chicken

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The chicken under a brick is worth the wait.The bread salad that comes with it was delicious. Great service."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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