Highlights
- Live music
- Great wine list
- Live performances
oChef » Arcana – San Francisco
Arcana - San Francisco
Photo from Arcana
Arcana at a glance
San Francisco Mission District
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 37 of the guests
#1099 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#81 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Good
7.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
582
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Plant ambiance
- Wine selection
- Friendly staff
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Inconsistent service
- Loud seating
The bar & pub Arcana in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District invites you to an unforgettable experience. You can immerse yourself in a casual yet trendy atmosphere where live music sets the perfect backdrop for your evening.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a great wine list, savor delicious food at the bar, or simply unwind with friends, this spot offers a dynamic setting. It’s a place where you can truly feel the pulse of the city.
Overview: Introducting Arcana
Arcana offers a truly distinctive experience, often praised for its stunning plants and inviting atmosphere, creating a unique backdrop for social gatherings. Guests frequently appreciate the knowledgeable staff and a thoughtful selection of natural wines that contribute to a pleasant visit.
However, some visitors have noted concerns regarding the overall value, finding certain items to be pricey. Additionally, issues like loud music and limited seating have occasionally impacted the comfort of the experience for some patrons.
Good
7.6
out of 10
582
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
103
negative
25
neutral
454
positive
Arcana generally earns a solid reputation, reflected in its Restaurant Score of 7.6 and a Customer Satisfaction of 78%. This indicates a largely positive experience for many, with a good balance of strengths.
These insights are drawn from a substantial 582 customer comments, with 454 positive remarks outweighing 103 negative ones. The Ambience (8.1) stands out as a particular highlight, often described as exceptional, followed closely by the Food (7.8), which includes a well-regarded wine selection.
Service (7) also performs well, though it sees a mix of opinions. The primary area for potential improvement appears to be Value (4.9), which some guests found less compelling.
What people like
- Stunning plant ambiance
- Excellent wine selection
- Knowledgeable, friendly staff
What people don't like
- Perceived high prices
- Inconsistent service experiences
- Loud, limited seating
Arcana presents a compelling option for those seeking a visually appealing setting and a good wine selection. With a Recommendation Score of 7.8, it’s generally a place worth considering, especially if a vibrant atmosphere is a priority for your outing.
However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in service and the pricing, which some guests found steep. If you prioritize a quiet, intimate setting or strict budget, you might want to explore other options, but for a lively experience, Arcana holds its own.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Arcana
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 74% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink experience, things are looking pretty good! With a solid score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at a strong 81.8%, its clear many guests are happy. Out of 170 comments, 139 were positive, often praising unique items like the MERMAID TEARS cocktail, mushroom skewers, and flatbreads, alongside an excellent wine selection.
However, not everyone was thrilled, with 20 negative comments noting some issues. Concerns included the overall food quality being poor, courses being paltry, and some finding the flatbread disappointing. A few also felt the wine selection was lacking or that the wines' themselves were not good.
Food
170
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
20
negative
11
neutral
139
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious food
- Unique wine selection
- Tasty small bites
What people don't like
- Poor food quality
- Limited menu
- Disappointing wine selection
Often praised
- wineThe vibe is amazing, enhanced by beautiful plants. It’s the best place to have a friendly chat while enjoying wine. Don’t forget to check the music bands schedule.
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great selection of wines and the delicious food. The comfortable indoor/outdoor setting provided a wonderful atmosphere.
- wine selectionThe atmosphere was enhanced by high ceilings and lots of plants, creating good vibes. I enjoyed the good wine selection and the variety of good bites to share. The flatbreads were particularly tasty and paired wonderfully with the wine.
- natural winesMy experience at this restaurant was centered around their awesome single pour wine list, featuring some of the best natural wines. However, the limited seating made it a stressful experience, especially when going with a small group.
- FoodFood:5
- drinksThe restaurant offers a private upstairs space that comfortably accommodates 30+ people, providing a setting that is both private and spacious. The food was really good, and the drinks were also amazing. Our clients were very impressed, giving us great feedback on the space and the quality of the food and drinks.
- winesThe wines here were so good
- drinkhave a drink
- flatbreadwe had the flatbread
- great winegreat wine surrounded by beautiful plants
Frequently criticized
- menuMenu is limited
- wineanother glass of wine
- bruschettaour bruschetta which took over 20 minutes to arrive
- charcuterie boardincorrectly charged for a charcuterie board
- chenin blancTheir chenin blanc was not to my liking. ... it was watery and tasted overly sweet.
- coursesthe courses are paltry
- dessertSuddenly, I saw the same person who took my order and asked her for a glass of water and a dessert. She rudely refused the food (not the water) and said I was disturbing the order and had to leave. I was thunderstruck; I was alone and hardly looking at anything but my plate (now empty) and my phone.
- flatbreadflat bread was not: tasted like premade bread
- foodthe food is poor
- food optionsfelt teased with 2 options
If you're looking for a place with a unique drink selection and tasty small bites, especially if you appreciate good wine and vegan/vegetarian options, this spot is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that some found the food quality inconsistent and the menu a bit limited.
Service (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 54% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits a good note, scoring a solid 7. While customer satisfaction is a bit mixed at 64.8%, many guests rave about the friendly service and attentive staff. With 68 positive remarks out of 105 total, terms like knowledgeable and professionalism of the staff frequently pop up, highlighting a dedicated team.
However, its not always smooth sailing. Some experiences point to areas needing improvement, with 34 negative comments mentioning unprofessional behavior, rude bar staff, and frustrating waiting time. A few guests also noted a lack of staff attention, ' suggesting inconsistency in service delivery.
Service
105
Reviews
64%
Satisfaction
34
negative
3
neutral
68
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Knowledgeable team
- Excellent professionalism
What people don't like
- Unprofessional staff
- Rude bar service
- Long waiting times
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at Arcana was exceptional, especially for our company's holiday party. As regulars, we can attest to their consistently amazing service and charming ambiance. The staff effortlessly catered to all our guests, ensuring everyone felt taken care of throughout the evening.
- staffFirst of all, they have an excellent selection of wines. The staff is knowledgeable and can guide you to the right glass to fit your palette. They even let you sample a smidge before you commit to a pour.
- ServiceService:5
- bartendersBartenders can confidently explain their wines
- AnnaI bought tons of plants here. Anna was so thoughtful and knowledgeable. The teas are great too!
- knowledgeableBartenders are sweet and knowledgeable
- ownerAll of the goods for sale are tastefully and artfully displayed and chosen. Naz is an amazing owner, and I recommend this place highly! I'm looking forward to the food and restaurant evolution of the space coming next!
- Arcana teamthe Arcana team -- Naz and Andy were amazing!!
- NazI actually got to meet Naz, the owners, and was so personable and caring
- Naz and AndyNaz and Andy were amazing!! They were very helpful and responsive
Frequently criticized
- servicethe service here is horrible
- staffSuddenly, I saw the same person who took my order and asked her for a glass of water and a dessert. She rudely refused the food (not the water) and said I was disturbing the order and had to leave. I was thunderstruck; I was alone and hardly looking at anything but my plate (now empty) and my phone.
- bouncerIn a moment of despair, I asked for my bill (I had paid upfront but wanted a record of my visit). The bouncer pushed me out the door. I asked him again not to touch me, turned towards him, and he pushed me hard on my shoulders outside the venue, making me lose my balance and fall on my back, hitting my back and losing my prescription glasses.
- ServiceService is severely lacking
- arrivalI went to this place because I saw nice posts about it. The place is beautiful, but to be honest, I was very confused when we arrived. There is a bar, but when we arrived, nobody talked to us, and there were few people.
- attitudeclaiming I had attitude without even telling me
- bar servicedisappointed in how my friend and I were treated at the bar
- bar staffRude bar staff kept announcing we’re closing
- bartenderUnfriendly & impolite bartender alert!
- escalatejust continuing to escalate when I tried to figure out
Overall, you can expect a generally good service experience, often marked by friendly and knowledgeable staff. However, be aware that some guests have encountered inconsistencies, including occasional unprofessional or inattentive moments. If you value a warm welcome, it's worth a try, but keep an open mind about potential hiccups.
Ambience (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot truly shines, earning a good score of 8.1 with a good customer satisfaction rate of 86.2%. Patrons consistently rave about the unique experience, often highlighting the live music, plant nursery vibe, and lush greenery that creates a fantastic vibe. With 238 positive remarks out of 276 total, it's clear many find the atmosphere memorable and welcoming.
However, not everyone finds it perfect. There are 32 negative comments, mainly concerning the music too loud, limited seating, and the overall noisy environment making conversations difficult. Some also noted issues with sound dampening, suggesting it can get a bit overwhelming for those seeking a quieter experience.
Ambience
276
Reviews
86%
Satisfaction
32
negative
6
neutral
238
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Lush plant decor
- Lively music venue
- Great, welcoming vibe
What people don't like
- Music too loud
- Limited seating
- Conversation difficult
Often praised
- atmosphereWe hosted a happy hour for 150 people at Arcana and can't recommend it highly enough! Arcana is absolutely stunning and very unique with tons of gorgeous plants. The food and wine was incredible, especially the natural wine that you can't find elsewhere in the city.
- live musicI had the pleasure of meeting Naz, one of the owners, who was incredibly personable and caring. The atmosphere was really fun, with a great mix of plants, tea, wine, food, and live music. I will definitely be coming back here frequently, and I highly recommend it to anyone living in the area.
- plantsMy experience at the restaurant was wonderful. The space is beautiful and covered in plants, creating a lovely atmosphere. The wine selection is solid, and the restaurant's focus on vegan/vegetarian food is a great touch.
- spaceThe plants are the main draw for me, creating a very nice space to grab a drink, a bite, or just hang out. I had tried to go a couple of times before, but they don't open until 5: 30 PM.
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's an amazing bar with a cool vibe, making it a great place to hang out with friends. I highly recommend trying their MERMAID TEARS cocktail.
- placeIt was an unexpected, serene, and transcendent experience. The atmosphere was truly remarkable and mystical, making it a place one would want to wonder in and admire the beauty of nature. It felt incredibly welcoming.
- ambianceWe particularly enjoyed the expertly paired specialty cocktails with small bites. The ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy and chic, surrounded by lush greenery. I highly recommend Arcana for its consistent charm and amazing service.
- vibesThe vibes are great, with lots of plants and greenery and high ceilings.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- musicthe place, the music and the ambiance make them look amazing
Frequently criticized
- musicmusic sometimes too loud
- seatingMore seating would be great as my group had to stand for a while
- atmosphereatmosphere to be painfully straight
- spacethe space is pretty but not really well-suited for many people
- Being insideBeing inside was stressful and frustrating
- ambianceService and ambiance was a bit pretentious
- bandshe admitted the band didn’t have time for the sound check & they’re loud!
- concrete wallsbare concrete walls allow harsh echoes
- conversationmake conversation difficult
- conversationsI found it to be a great spot with a great atmosphere. However, the music was consistently very loud, making it difficult to have conversations.
If youre looking for a lively, plant-filled spot with great music and a unique atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for a potentially loud and bustling environment, especially if youre hoping for an intimate, quiet chat or need guaranteed seating.
Value (4.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
Despite a rather low customer satisfaction of 29% and an average score of 4.9 for value, some guests find pockets of affordability. Many appreciate the affordable options and reasonable prices on certain items, especially during happy hour where you can snag a good discount on bottles or even a $20 wine flight. These positive experiences were highlighted in 9 out of 31 customer comments.
However, the overall perception of value is heavily weighed down by 17 negative remarks. Many found the experience to be quite pricey and even overrated, particularly noting the expensive wine by the glass. Be aware of potentially steep fees, including cover charges, catering cleanup, and various service fees, which can quickly add up and double your initial budget.
Value
31
Reviews
29%
Satisfaction
17
negative
5
neutral
9
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Happy hour deals
- Affordable options
What people don't like
- Very pricey overall
- Expensive wine
- Steep additional fees
Often praised
- happy hourhappened to be there during their happy hour
- $20 wine flightThey had a $20 wine flight option
- affordableit is affordable
- discountoffer a significant discount if you buy a bottle
- everythingA great convenience is that if you bring your own container, they will repot your purchase right there. Furthermore, everything is affordable. You've gotta check it out!
- happy hrHappy hr from 12-2 on weekends- 15% off bottles!
- pricesPrices are reasonable
- visitoverall it is worth a visit
Frequently criticized
- priceyThe ambiance and vibe were very nice, creating a pleasant atmosphere. However, I found it to be too pricey and overrated. For instance, paying $18 for a glass of wine felt excessive.
- wineWine is always pricey when you go out
- OverratedOverrated
- catering cleanup feeI had to ask multiple times to play my playlist, and when the lights went down and the photographer asked to turn them up, the staff seemed annoyed. The overall fees were also quite steep: $300 for a catering cleanup fee (for just 4 cheese boards I brought myself), plus multiple service fees on top. Be warned, if you're budgeting using Peerspace, the cost will likely double.
- costbeware the cost will double
- cover chargeafter I paid cover claiming I had attitude
- feesI had to ask multiple times to play my playlist, and when the lights went down and the photographer asked to turn them up, the staff seemed annoyed. The overall fees were also quite steep: $300 for a catering cleanup fee (for just 4 cheese boards I brought myself), plus multiple service fees on top. Be warned, if you're budgeting using Peerspace, the cost will likely double.
- glassesPricy glasses
- itemized receiptincorrectly charged for a charcuterie board and another glass of wine
- overratedThe ambiance and vibe were very nice, creating a pleasant atmosphere. However, I found it to be too pricey and overrated. For instance, paying $18 for a glass of wine felt excessive.
If youre looking for a deal, definitely aim for happy hour specials, as they offer some genuinely affordable options. Otherwise, be prepared for a potentially pricey experience, especially for wine or if youre hit with additional event fees. It's a mixed bag, so budget carefully and you might find some value.
How are the prices at Arcana?
You’re looking at roughly 36 per person – reported by 37 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Bar & Pub in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average sits here, the prices are quite spread out, showing options for both more budget-friendly visits (with many spending in the $11–$20 and $21–$30 ranges) and those looking to indulge a bit more.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 37 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
For a Bar & Pub in San Francisco, we think this pricing feels quite fair. It offers a good range of options, so you can choose how much you want to spend, making it accessible for different budgets.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Arcana
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Versatile Spot with Great Food
I absolutely love it here! The interior is gorgeous, super bright, and spacious. During the day, it's more laid-back, perfect for catching up with friends or working alone.
At night, it transforms into a vibe suitable for date nights or a club atmosphere. I appreciate the versatility of this place. The food was great; the trumpet mushrooms, labneh, and potatoes were all excellent.
I also love that they offer low ABV cocktails – the Earl Grey drink I had was yum! The bartenders are sweet and knowledgeable.
- interior10
- versatility9
- trumpet mushrooms9
Visit Type
- Business Meeting
Group Type
- Large Group
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Fantastic Client Event Venue
We hosted a client event at Arcana and had an amazing time! The restaurant offers a private upstairs space that comfortably accommodates 30+ people, providing a setting that is both private and spacious. The food was really good, and the drinks were also amazing.
Our clients were very impressed, giving us great feedback on the space and the quality of the food and drinks. Overall, Arcana is a great space to hold an event and a great space to hang out in general. It's also awesome that they feature live music in the evening.
- private space9
- food9
- drinks9
Visit Type
- Business Meeting
Group Type
- Colleagues
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Seamless Corporate Event Experience!
I recently hosted a corporate event here and it was a seamless experience from start to finish! The event management staff were always quick to respond, accommodated my group’s needs, and provided suggestions when I had numerous questions around ordering food & bev for my team. Everything we ordered was delicious, and the on-site staff supporting my team during the event were incredibly helpful and welcoming.
My team had a wonderful experience overall and we look forward to our next event at Arcana!
- event management staff10
- food & bev9
- Everything we ordered10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Arcana: A Vibrant Wine Lover's Paradise
Are you vivacious, hot, or perhaps a little gay? A lover of wine, plants, and finer things? Then Arcana is the place for you.
First of all, they have an excellent selection of wines. The staff is knowledgeable and can guide you to the right glass to fit your palette. They even let you sample a smidge before you commit to a pour.
Additionally, Lina has mystique and is hot. They also offer wine cocktails! I enjoyed an Earl Grey sake concoction so much that I drank a lot of them, leading to some consequences.
The security guy is also really nice and listens when I get drunk and start freestyling. The vibe can vary. There are always plants, which is lovely, but the daytime is super chill.
You can grab a light bite (get the corn flatbread) and enjoy the natural lighting from the skylight. At night, there’s a DJ on weekends, which naturally leads to dancing and potential shenanigans. You might see an ex, they might see you throwing that ass in a circle – who knows?
The atmosphere can be giving dancing or giving lounge, so check the DJ lineup before you come. But do come.
- excellent selection of wines10
- staff9
- wine cocktails9
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Vibey Atmosphere and Friendly Bartender
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The atmosphere was super cute and very vibey, filled with plants. I really enjoyed the live music, and the wine selection was great.
My bartender, Justina, was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making the service exceptional. The food was also rated highly.
- atmosphere9
- live music8
- wine selection8
What Arcana offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Offerings
- Dancing
- Food at bar
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Seating
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and entertainment can you expect at Arcana?
At Arcana, you’ll find a casual and trendy atmosphere perfect for a night out. You can enjoy live music and live performances, making it an engaging spot in the Mission District.
What dining and service options are available at Arcana in San Francisco?
Arcana offers comfortable seating with options for outdoor seating, allowing you to dine-in or enjoy the fresh air. You can also expect a great wine list, beer, cocktails, and food available at the bar.
How does Arcana generally perform according to customer feedback?
Arcana holds a Restaurant Score of 7.6 and a Customer Satisfaction of 78%. Its Ambience (8.1) and Food (7.8) are highly rated, with Service (7) also performing well, though Value (4.9) is an area for improvement.
What are the standout features of Arcana's atmosphere and offerings?
Customers frequently praise Arcana for its stunning plant-filled ambiance and unique vibe, often complemented by live music. The wine selection, particularly natural wines, and tasty flatbreads are also highly regarded.
What are some common concerns or drawbacks mentioned by visitors to Arcana?
Some visitors have reported inconsistent service experiences, describing staff as occasionally rude or unfriendly. Additionally, the value is sometimes questioned, with opinions noting pricey items and steep fees.