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Zuni Cafe

Zuni Cafe, 1658 Market Street, San Francisco

4.6
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.6 out of 5 (638 Ratings)
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0.2 miles The Independent San Francisco
About Zuni Cafe
The Spotlight on Zuni Cafe

Chic, iconic dining in the heart of Market Street

Located on bustling Market Street in San Francisco, Zuni Café is a beloved local institution offering Modern European cuisine in a stylish yet relaxed setting. Just a short walk from several major music venues, this casually elegant spot is known for its historic charm, airy ambiance, and signature wood-fired dishes. The restaurant’s glass façade, loft-style ceiling, and open kitchen create a warm, energetic vibe that’s both upscale and welcoming.

Why Concert-goers love it

Zuni Café is just minutes from some of San Francisco’s most iconic music venues, making it a go-to for pre-show dining. With its quick and attentive service, you can enjoy a quality meal without worrying about missing the opening act. The vibrant yet not-too-noisy atmosphere makes it easy to get into concert mode without feeling rushed. And with a menu that balances bold flavors and lighter fare, it’s ideal whether you’re fueling up or winding down.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends—the shareable plates and patio seating are perfect for a pre-show meetup.
  • Solo travelers—grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a signature cocktail with your meal.
  • Couples—romantic lighting and refined dishes make this a great date night stop.
  • Fans wanting a lively pre-show space—Zuni’s atmosphere strikes the right balance of buzz and comfort.
  • Budget-conscious music fans—while not the cheapest, the quality and consistency offer great value.

What People Say

Diners rave about the legendary roasted chicken for two, the fresh oysters, and the house-made Caesar salad. Many mention the charming, urban feel of the space and the consistently great service. The cocktail and wine selections also get high marks. Regulars love that it’s both a special-occasion spot and a reliable pre-show dinner destination.

Areas for Improvement

Some guests mention that it can get a bit crowded during peak hours, particularly before big events. Reservations are highly recommended. A few also note that prices are on the higher side, though most agree the quality justifies the spend.

The Bottom Line

With its prime location, elevated yet approachable menu, and polished ambiance, Zuni Café is a top pick for concert-goers looking to dine in style before the show.

Average Price
$31 to $50
Cuisine
Modern European
Dress Code
Casual Dress
Opening Hours
Lunch
Fri-Sun 11:00 am-4:00 pm
Dinner
Tue-Sun 5:00 pm-9:30 pm

Zuni Cafe Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Zuni Cafe is #127 of 5750 things to do in San Francisco

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: austinbennettwriter, San Francisco, California
Fri 14 Mar, 2025
l How does one describe ZUNI CAFE? Iconic. An institution. Classic. Teddy is the best of the best. Here's how I do it. Wine/champagne with oysters. Split the Caesar salad because it's humongous and...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Travel0116
Mon 24 Feb, 2025
l We really enjoyed our meal here. Everything tasted great and was clearly prepared with a lot of care. The tuna dinner, salmon dinner, and shoestring potatoes were the standout dishes. It’s a lively...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Doompere, Buffalo
Sun 16 Feb, 2025
l Do yourself an enormous favor. Take someone you love with you to Zuni Cafe and leave time to order the whole roasted chicken for two which takes about an hour to prepare. You can fill up the wait...

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Zuni Cafe 1658 Market Street, San Francisco