Highlights
- Great dessert
- Live music
- Great wine list
oChef » Mastro’s Steakhouse – San Francisco
Mastro's Steakhouse - San Francisco
399 Geary St, 94108 San Francisco
7
von 10
von 10
Photo from Mastro’s Steakhouse
Mastro's Steakhouse at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🥂 Fine Dining Restaurant
€€€€€
Price per Person 91 – 100 €
mentioned by 140 of the guests
#363 von 500 Lokalen in San Francisco
#4 Fine Dining Restaurant von 5 in San Francisco
Good
7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
1029
Reviews
65.3%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- delicious steaks
- live music
- attentive service
Frequently criticized
- high prices
- slow service
- inconsistent quality
The restaurant Mastro’s Steakhouse, a Fine Dining Restaurant in San Francisco’s Union Square, invites you to an unforgettable experience. You’ll discover an upscale and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a special evening.
With its captivating live music, you can enjoy a vibrant yet intimate setting. This spot is renowned for its exceptional service and exquisite menu, making it a top choice for your next celebration.
Overview: Introducting Mastro's Steakhouse
Mastro’s Steakhouse generally delivers a memorable dining experience, often praised for its well-prepared dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Guests frequently highlight the quality of their steak and the engaging live music that sets a special mood for the evening.
However, some diners find that the overall value doesn’t always align with the high expectations set by the establishment. While the ambience is often celebrated, occasional inconsistencies in service can sometimes temper the overall experience.
Good
7 von 10
1029
Reviews
65.3%
Satisfaction
303
negative
54
neutral
672
positive
Overall, Mastro’s Steakhouse earns a solid 7 out of 10, indicating a generally good dining experience. This is supported by a significant number of customer opinions, with 672 positive remarks against 303 negative ones, out of 1029 total.
However, Customer Satisfaction sits at 65.3%, which suggests a mixed bag for some, despite the higher overall score. This divergence points to a place that excels in many areas but has specific points of contention.
Looking closer, Food stands out with a strong score (7.4), often praised for its quality, especially the steaks and butter cake. The Ambience also rates well (7.1), with many appreciating the atmosphere and live music.
Service is rated as good (6.9), though some experiences suggest it can be inconsistent. The primary area for improvement is Value (3.2), which customers frequently find to be a significant drawback.
What people like
- Delicious steaks
- Engaging live music
- Attentive service
What people don't like
- High prices
- Slow service
- Inconsistent dish quality
Mastro’s Steakhouse, with a Recommendation Score of 7.1, is a place that aims for a grand experience. If you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere and well-prepared steak, and are prepared for a significant bill, it can certainly deliver a memorable evening.
However, be mindful that while the food and ambiance generally impress, the value proposition can be a sticking point for some. It’s a destination for those prioritizing the overall occasion over strict cost-effectiveness, but be aware of potential service variations.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Mastro's Steakhouse
Food (7.4 von 10)
mentioned by 93% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, earning a 7.4 score and leaving 71.1% of customers satisfied. Based on 359 positive remarks out of 505 total, many rave about the perfectly cooked steaks, delicious lobster mashed potatoes, and the exceptional butter cake. Guests often praise the generous portions and the overall quality of dishes like the Filet mignon.
However, 112 negative opinions point to some inconsistencies. Some found dishes like the baked potato underdone or the lobster mashed potatoes to have a soupy consistency. There were also concerns about blandness, chewy textures, and food arriving cold, suggesting that not every dish consistently meets expectations.
Food
505
Reviews
71%
Satisfcation
112
negative
34
neutral
359
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Perfectly cooked steaks
- Delicious butter cake
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Inconsistent cooking
- Lack of flavor
- Cold dishes
Often praised
- foodMy experience at the restaurant was largely positive, with service that was definitely a 100%. The food was great, and the ambience was nice with friendly staff. However, we unfortunately got sick afterwards.
- steakLady had the steak, she is the one that dragged me here, she cherishes the place
- steaksI love the food and always make it a point to return on every visit. The steaks are delicious, and the service is top-notch. They have always managed to fit me in, even without a reservation.
- drinksI stopped in for drinks and appetizers a few weeks ago and had a wonderful time. The calamari and tartare were both excellent, and the drinks were perfectly crafted. Our server Terra provided fantastic service - she was attentive and knowledgeable throughout our visit.
- butter cakemaybe the most delicious cake I've ever had - the butter cake
- lobster mashed potatoesthe lobster mashed potatoes and brussel sprouts - out of this world!
- sidesI had the 28oz Dry Aged Bone In Rib eye, which was one of the best steaks I've ever had. The sides were fantastic too. The Food received a perfect score of 5, and the Service and Atmosphere were also highly rated at 5 and 4 respectively.
- cocktailsThe cocktails tasted great and weren't overpowering
- portionslarge portions easily for 2
- SteakLiterally 10/10. Steak was perfect, dessert was probably the best I’ve ever had. This place knows what they’re doing.
Frequently criticized
- foodFor the price, the service was absurdly lacking. The taste was also far below other steakhouses. If I were to explain why I don't recommend traveling to San Francisco, this restaurant would be the number one reason.
- steakordered a steak medium rare and got it well done
- appetizerUnfortunately, the service was very poor, leading me to believe the 'B team' was working due to the holiday. We received an appetizer we didn't order, and since our server was absent for a long time, we ended up eating it. Our wine order, taken at the same time as the appetizer, also saw significant delays; I didn't receive my glass until our entrees arrived, nearly an hour into the meal.
- butter cakeWe will try somewhere else next year. The worst part was the butter cake we love, was terrible and dry 😞.
- crab cakescrab cakes didn’t taste like real crab. They were dry and disgusting
- creamed spinachspinach was lukewarm
- filetfilet medium and it came to my table completely grey
- lobster cocktailhad to tear the claws open and get lobster all over my hands
- lobster mashed potatoeslobster mashed potatoes which I had high expectations for, was not edible
- saladThe salad was so tasteless I was surprised
If youre heading out, expect some truly delicious highlights, especially with their steaks and signature butter cake. While many find the food exceptional, be aware that some dishes might be inconsistent in cooking or flavor. Its generally worth a try, but keep an open mind about every item on the menu.
Service (6.9 von 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
Service here generally leans positive, scoring a 6.9 (good), with 64.7% customer satisfaction, which is a mixed result. Out of 323 opinions, 209 were positive, praising outstanding service, attentive service, and welcoming staff. Many guests felt they received VIP treatment and appreciated personalized menus and staff going above and beyond to make their dining experience special.
However, 107 negative comments point to some significant issues. Concerns include service timing being off, long waiting times, and rude interactions, especially regarding dress code policy enforcement. These inconsistencies suggest that while many enjoy excellent care, others face frustrating delays or unwelcoming moments.
Service
323
Reviews
64%
Satisfcation
107
negative
7
neutral
209
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Outstanding, attentive service
- Welcoming, personalized experience
- Knowledgeable, professional staff
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service timing
- Long waiting times
- Rude dress code checks
Often praised
- serviceHis expertise with wine pairings was impressive, but what stood out most was watching him connect genuinely with guests throughout the evening – educational, entertaining, and creating memorable experiences for everyone. The combination of world-class cuisine, elegant ambiance, and exceptional service from both Joe and Brian made this a night we'll always remember. You can tell this entire team is passionate about what they do, and it shows in every detail.
- serverJoe and Tanya (I could be wrong in the spelling of their names) were experts in their line of work. When I am one of 10 people dining, it feels especially great when the server takes the time to talk to you personally about how your evening is going, rather than sticking to the head of the table for the bulk of the conversation. I felt welcomed and was served powerfully, and the best part is, it felt like just any other night for Mastro's!
- staffThey knew what a special occasion that evening was for us and they really pulled out all the stops. Every staff member we encountered was professional, friendly, and genuinely passionate about making the evening memorable. Our food was cooked to perfection!
- waiterI made a reservation online, and upon arrival, our menu was personalized with "Happy Birthday" and my name, which made me feel incredibly special. Our waiter was very attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable meal. I ordered the ribeye medium well, and it was cooked to perfection.
- ServiceService was great. Good humor, very friendly and efficient service.
- dining experienceWe all left completely satisfied and are dreaming about our next visit. Thank you, Mastro's staff, for consistently making our dining experience immeasurable. Each visit always tops the last one.
- managerThe manager Bryan came to our table and you can tell he take pride in the restaurant
- recommendationsDavid was attentive, thoughtful, and perfectly timed with every detail. From spot-on recommendations to a special birthday dessert, he definitely turned a great night into an extraordinary one. The service was really exceptional.
- great serviceappreciate the great service every time
- server DawnOur server Dawn was so attentive
Frequently criticized
- serviceIt was Christmas day, so some allowances have to be considered. Nonetheless, service was spotty and slow, as we were in a banquet room off the main dining area and felt a bit forgotten. It took 20 minutes to take a drink order, and one guest's main and side was incorrect.
- waiterDespite the restaurant being busy, the 30-minute wait for our food was excessive. When we inquired about our order, a waiter informed us that our table was not his responsibility, but rather that of our inattentive waitress. When the food finally arrived, it was cold, which was unpleasant.
- waiting timeUnfortunately, the experience turned sour. We waited over an hour for our food. When it arrived, my medium filet was cold and raw on the inside, and the creamed spinach was lukewarm.
- managerThey double-dipped on tips. They accepted both card and cash tips, and when I asked to cancel a card tip due to a mistake, they accused me of trying to scam them, and the manager was condescending. They took my phone number to pass on to staff but never called.
- serverOnce seated, the service was extremely poor. Our server was nonchalant, and we were largely ignored, having to flag someone down for assistance. We faced extensive wait times, with appetizers taking about an hour and main courses another hour.
- staffThe staff are disrespectable
- dress code policyIronically, the party ahead of us wore shorts, tennis shoes, and hoodies. When we addressed the dress code policy for the other group, we were told by the hostess that the other party were VIPs. It makes one wonder why have a dress code if it's not consistently enforced.
- waitI was recommended to try this restaurant, but unfortunately, the service and food fell short of my expectations, particularly given the high price of over $300. The waitress only provided us with bread and failed to return for our order, prompting us to ask another waitress after a 20-minute wait. Despite the restaurant being busy, the 30-minute wait for our food was excessive.
- waitressI was recommended to try this restaurant, but unfortunately, the service and food fell short of my expectations, particularly given the high price of over $300. The waitress only provided us with bread and failed to return for our order, prompting us to ask another waitress after a 20-minute wait. Despite the restaurant being busy, the 30-minute wait for our food was excessive.
- ID policythey did not take an ID unless it’s from the US
If youre considering dining here, be prepared for a potentially excellent service experience, especially for special occasions. However, theres a chance you might encounter some inconsistencies with timing or staff interactions. It's worth trying, but manage your expectations regarding wait times.
Ambience (7.1 von 10)
mentioned by 60% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark, scoring a solid 7.1 and boasting a 70.4% customer satisfaction rate. Many of the 100 positive comments praise the live music, rooftop, and elegant feeling, making it a special occasion environment. Guests often find the atmosphere beautiful and engaging, setting a great mood for their visit.
However, not everyone is thrilled. Out of 36 negative remarks, some found the noise level to be an issue, with loud music making conversation difficult. A few also felt the place was pretentious or had dated decor, suggesting the luxury vibe sometimes missed the mark for a thoughtful dining experience.
Ambience
142
Reviews
70%
Satisfcation
36
negative
6
neutral
100
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Live music
- Elegant atmosphere
- Great views
What people don't like
- High noise level
- Feels pretentious
- Dated decor
Often praised
- atmosphereWhen I am one of 10 people dining, it feels especially great when the server takes the time to talk to you personally about how your evening is going, rather than sticking to the head of the table for the bulk of the conversation. I felt welcomed and was served powerfully, and the best part is, it felt like just any other night for Mastro's!
- ambianceIt was a thoughtful and delicious touch that made the evening feel even more special. From start to finish, Mastro’s delivered on every level—fantastic food, impeccable service, and an ambiance perfect for a special occasion. It was the kind of meal that reminds you why a great steakhouse is always worth the splurge.
- live musicThe food was spectacular, with every dish beautifully presented and boasting incredible flavors. The live music and stunning restaurant design created the perfect atmosphere for a special night out. What truly made this evening exceptional was the outstanding hospitality we received.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambienceLove the ambience, not loud or trendy music gone Velveeta elsewhere
- dining experienceThe salads are generously sized and easily shareable. The wait staff was excellent, contributing to an overall awesome dining experience in downtown San Francisco. I am eager to return soon!
- live singerIf he was amazing the live singer was amazing
- musicthe music and the attentiveness. This experience made my weekend!
- placethis place was well managed.
- 5 star experienceIf your looking for a 5 star experience this is the place
Frequently criticized
- ambianceoverall ambiance feels engineered for Instagram
- atmospherecheapened the overall atmosphere.
- dining roomit is dark and too cool in the dining room
- live bandWe pressed when we arrived and a very good booth was found. Monday night had no live band, 😞 disappointed.
- noise levelthe noise level was so high that we could barely have a conversation
- attention to detailThere was no cleaning of crumbs, no amuse-bouche, and despite the restaurant being mostly empty, no general manager checked on the guests. It's a fancy place, but it lacked the finer details I anticipate for the cost, which I attribute to corporate ownership. Overall, a good experience, but the price was a significant drawback.
- banquet roomIt was Christmas day, so some allowances have to be considered. Nonetheless, service was spotty and slow, as we were in a banquet room off the main dining area and felt a bit forgotten. It took 20 minutes to take a drink order, and one guest's main and side was incorrect.
- coldit’s always cold in this restaurant
- corporate ownershiplost by corporate owners
- crumbsHowever, I expected more attention to detail for fine dining at this price point. There was no cleaning of crumbs, no amuse-bouche, and despite the restaurant being mostly empty, no general manager checked on the guests. It's a fancy place, but it lacked the finer details I anticipate for the cost, which I attribute to corporate ownership.
If you're looking for a lively, elegant spot with great live music for a special occasion, this place is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared for a potentially high noise level and perhaps a more performative luxury experience rather than a truly intimate one.
Value (3.2 von 10)
mentioned by 25% of the guests
While a few diners found the experience worth the premium price or even felt the price is too reasonable, these positive sentiments are quite rare. Out of 59 total opinions, only 4 were positive, suggesting that value isnt a strong suit here. However, the overwhelming feedback points to significant concerns about value, reflected in a poor score of 3.2 and customer satisfaction at a mere 6.8%.
A staggering 48 negative comments highlight issues like overpriced food, expensive bills, and unexpected mandatory tip or service charge' additions.
Value
59
Reviews
6%
Satisfcation
48
negative
7
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the money
- Price reasonable
What people don't like
- Food overpriced
- Mandatory tip
- Hidden charges
Often praised
- billshe would take care of the entire bill
- premium pricethe experience was worth the premium price.
- pricethe price is too reasonable
- worth the moneybut it was worth the money.
Frequently criticized
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. The food was way overpriced and did not meet expectations. Additionally, the service was slow, and they refused to split the bill between two couples.
- expensiveIt’s expensive compared to other steak houses
- price pointAt that price point the service and quality of the meal was unacceptable
- 40% tipI can't understand it at all. I ended up paying a ridiculous 40% tip 🤣. For the price, the service was absurdly lacking.
- ParkingParking was about $13
- Ribeyecharge $90 for a Ribeye, it should at least be cooked well
- San Francisco pricesBe ready to pay San Francisco prices
- breadyou have to pay for BREAD
- bread chargecharged us $6 for it
- expensive billdid not expect for the bill to come out that expensive
If youre prioritizing value for your dining dollar, this spot might disappoint. Many customers felt the high price and extra charges made the experience not worth it. Be prepared to spend a lot, as the general consensus is that its overpriced.
Wie sind die Preise pro Gast bei Mastro's Steakhouse?
On average, youll spend around 91 per person, based on what 140 guests reported. That puts this Fine Dining Restaurant squarely in the 91 – 100 € range. For a fine dining spot, thats comfortably mid-range.
However, looking at the full picture, a good chunk of diners actually spend 101 € or more, indicating that while the average is solid, there’s a strong lean towards premium experiences.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 140 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering it’s a Fine Dining Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers a solid experience at its average price point, with options for those looking to indulge a bit more.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Mastro's Steakhouse
Price per Person
- 101 € -
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Loud
8
Amazing Food and Service, Very Loud
My experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly positive, despite the significant noise level. The service was amazing, and the food was even more so. My wife and I believe we've found our favorite spot for steak whenever we visit San Francisco. I would recommend avoiding visits after 7 PM, as this is when the restaurant starts to fill up and the noise level consistently increases, making it hard to have a normal conversation.
- service10
- food10
- Steak10
- noise level3
Service Intent
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Colleagues
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
2
Disappointing Mastro's Experience
I suggested Mastro's to my colleagues for a celebratory travel meal, having raved about other locations. Unfortunately, the experience turned sour. We waited over an hour for our food. When it arrived, my medium filet was cold and raw on the inside, and the creamed spinach was lukewarm. I informed the kitchen staff about my undercooked filet, and it was returned broiled and impossible to chew. I've never been so disappointed in a meal before.
- medium filet2
- creamed spinach3
- waiting time2
Service Intent
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Great Food and Service Despite Busyness
My experience at the restaurant was very positive. I was greeted and sat promptly upon arrival. Our servers, Tania and Monique, were busy behind the bar but made a great effort to attend to my party. The food was great and the drinks were enjoyed!
- greeting9
- seating9
- servers8
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
1
Worst Dinner Experience Ever
My experience at this restaurant was the worst dinner experience I’ve ever had. I waited for over 1. 5 hours for my food. The crab cakes were dry and disgusting, and didn’t taste like real crab. The broccolini was served cold. To make matters worse, some of our other side dish orders were incorrect. When we attempted to speak with the manager as we were leaving, she ran away. While the server was extremely kind, everything else about the meal was horrible. It felt like a prank due to how bad it was. I am going to bed hungry because the food was inedible.
- server8
- waiting time1
- crab cakes1
- broccolini2
Price per Person
- 101 € -
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
7
Modern Atmosphere, Great Service, Slow Food
My experience at this restaurant was marked by a modern atmosphere and great service from our server Daunte. However, the food was a bit slow to arrive. Overall, it was a good experience, but it was extremely expensive.
- modern atmosphere8
- great service9
- food was a bit slow4
- extremely expensive3
Das erwartet dich bei Mastro's Steakhouse
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Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Catering
- Dessert
Service Options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Outdoor seating
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
Do you need a reservation to dine at Mastro's Steakhouse in San Francisco?
Yes, it is highly recommended to make dinner reservations when planning your visit to Mastro’s Steakhouse. While they do accept reservations, securing your table in advance ensures you can enjoy their fine dining experience without a wait, especially during peak hours.
What are the parking and accessibility options available at Mastro's Steakhouse in Union Square?
Mastro’s Steakhouse provides various parking options like paid lots, garages, and street parking, though finding a spot can be somewhat difficult. For your convenience, the restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible, featuring an accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restrooms.
How does Mastro's Steakhouse generally perform?
Mastro’s Steakhouse holds a Restaurant Score of 7, indicating a good overall experience. Its Food (7.4) and Ambience (7.1) are strong, while Service (6.9) is also good. However, Value (3.2) is a notable area for improvement.
What are the standout dishes or features at Mastro's Steakhouse?
Many guests praise the quality of the steak and the indulgent butter cake. The restaurant’s live music and sophisticated ambiance are also frequently highlighted as key attractions.
Is Mastro's Steakhouse considered good value for money?
Customer opinions on Value are mixed, with a score of 3.2. While some feel the experience justifies the premium price, many others find it expensive and believe the cost doesn’t always align with the overall experience, especially regarding extra charges like for bread.