Highlights
- Great dessert
- Sports
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » International Smoke – San Francisco
International Smoke - San Francisco
Photo from International Smoke
International Smoke at a glance
San Francisco Transbay
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $81–$90
mentioned by 161 of the guests
#1520 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#187 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
7.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
1051
Reviews
65.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Attentive Service
- Flavorful Dishes
Frequently criticized
- Pricey Menu
- Variable Quality
The restaurant International Smoke in San Francisco’s vibrant Transbay neighborhood offers a unique dining experience where you can indulge in a great dessert. This upscale yet cozy spot is perfect for a memorable meal, whether you’re looking for a trendy dinner destination or a casual lunch.
You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a menu designed to delight your palate, complete with a great wine list and beer selection.
Overview: Introducting International Smoke
International Smoke offers a generally pleasant dining experience, often praised for its attentive service and an inviting ambiance that sets a sophisticated tone. Many guests appreciate the delicious food, with particular highlights on certain dishes and cocktails that leave a positive impression.
However, some diners have noted concerns regarding the overall value, finding the pricing to be on the higher side. While the food is often well-received, there are occasional remarks about inconsistent quality or portions, and some experiences with slow service have been mentioned.
Good
7.1
out of 10
1051
Reviews
65.7%
Satisfaction
261
negative
99
neutral
691
positive
International Smoke achieves a good overall Restaurant Score of 7.1, indicating a generally positive dining experience. This score is based on 1051 customer opinions, with 691 positive and 261 negative remarks.
However, the Customer Satisfaction stands at a mixed 65.7%, suggesting that while many guests are pleased, a notable portion have reservations. Looking closer at the specifics, Service shines with a strong (7.8), and the Ambience also performs well (7.4), creating a welcoming setting.
The Food receives a good (7.1), with many finding it quite enjoyable. The primary area for improvement appears to be Value, which registers an average (4.1), reflecting concerns about pricing and portion sizes.
What people like
- Excellent Service
- Delicious Food
- Inviting Ambiance
What people don't like
- High Prices
- Inconsistent Food
- High Noise Level
If you prioritize attentive service and a sophisticated ambiance for your dining experience, International Smoke could be a worthwhile visit. The Recommendation Score of 7.2 suggests it generally delivers on its promise, especially for those seeking well-prepared dishes and a lively atmosphere.
However, be prepared for a potentially higher bill, as value is a point of contention for some. While the food is often praised, occasional inconsistencies mean it might not always hit the mark.
Consider it for an occasion where the overall experience outweighs strict budget concerns.
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Verdict: Our expert take on International Smoke
Food (7.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 95% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7.1. Many guests rave about the amazing duck wings, must-try ribs, and the divine cornbread. With 399 positive remarks out of 612 total, there's a clear appreciation for the tasty dishes and cooked to perfection meals, offering a culinary experience that often delights.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 65.2%, with 139 negative comments pointing to some inconsistencies. Concerns include small portions, a lack of seasoning, and instances of dry/tough meat. Some found the food overpriced or noted a similar food taste across dishes, suggesting areas for improvement.
Food
612
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
139
negative
74
neutral
399
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Duck wings amazing
- Ribs are a must-try
- Divine cornbread
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Lack of seasoning
- Dry/tough meat
Often praised
- foodMy experience at the restaurant was amazing! Despite being extremely busy with two private events, Jose and Chino provided perfect service and delicious food. My brother, who can be a picky eater, found everything to be appetizing and appealing.
- ribsWe started with deviled eggs with applewood smoked bacon and cornbread, which were a delicious "yum. " Our party of four enjoyed a variety of main dishes: the Wagyu beef cheeseburger, hanger steak with eggs, ribs with baked beans and bbq chicken, and a side of tri-tip mac and cheese, which was "the bomb. " We are definitely going back.
- cornbreadthe cornbread continues to be a divine, life-changing experience
- cocktailsFrom the moment I sat down, his energy was magnetic—welcoming, professional, and genuinely passionate about his craft. I highly recommend grabbing a seat at the bar for world-class service and unforgettable cocktails. Cheers to Jorge and all the bartenders who truly raise the bar!
- FoodFood was simply delicious.
- salmonIt's a gorgeous restaurant with high ceilings and huge windows that make you feel like you are blanketed in by the city's skyscrapers! I got an assortment of dishes, ranging from their tender and flavorful chicken to the almost melting in my mouth salmon. Unfortunately, I was not impressed by the dessert.
- drinksI enjoyed all aspects of international smoke, from the appetizers to the drinks.
- appetizersI also love how the manager and what I believe were the bussers, walked by the tables to make sure each table was well taken care of, and they assisted in any way they could. We loved everything from the appetizers to dessert😊. I Highly Recommend International Smoke to everyone.
- duck wingsduck wings that were also cooked perfectly and delicious
- Brussels sproutsBrussels sprouts (texture/flavor) (8 of 10)
Frequently criticized
- foodI reserved a table for 5 people to celebrate my daughter’s birthday, but I was disappointed in the food. The cauliflower plate was too salty, the portions were small, and the price was overwhelming for the quality of food.
- ribsget better ribs at Texas Roadhouse. They were hard and full of fat.
- dessertThe steak was incredibly dry, and the noodles tasted like they were from a grocery store's frozen section. Even the appetizers were very simple, and the dessert was also disappointing. While I don't mind paying for good food, nothing from this meal was enjoyable.
- steaksteak that is priced at 70+ was the size of my palm dry and tough
- cornbreadcornbread, which I later learned had shellfish
- portionsThe QUALITY and portions for the price were laughable
- chickenThe chicken overall for me was a pass. Seasoning was fine, but overall didn’t have that much flavor
- flavorFood could use more flavor
- mac and cheesemac and cheese which didn’t have any seasoning
- qualitythink you’ll find better quality, flavor and serving size from longhorn
If you're seeking standout dishes like the duck wings, ribs, or cornbread, this spot could be a hit. Just be aware that some experiences mention smaller portions or inconsistent seasoning, so manage your expectations.
Service (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 84% of the guests
The service here generally hits the mark, boasting a good score of 7.8 and a solid 76.5% customer satisfaction. With 186 positive remarks out of 243, many guests raved about the attentive and friendly experienced waitstaff, often highlighting excellent waiters and accommodating team members. From special occasion acknowledgments to knowledgeable servers, the team frequently goes above and beyond to ensure a great experience.
However, not every visit is perfect, with 49 negative comments pointing to areas for improvement. Some diners experienced slow service and unorganized front-of-house operations, leading to frustrating waiting times for seating or food. Issues like inattentive waiter service, dirty plates, and empty glasses occasionally marred the dining experience.
Service
243
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
49
negative
8
neutral
186
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, friendly staff
- Accommodating special requests
- Knowledgeable waitstaff
What people don't like
- Service can be slow
- Long waiting times
- Inattentive staff sometimes
Often praised
- serviceFrom the moment I sat down, his energy was magnetic—welcoming, professional, and genuinely passionate about his craft. I highly recommend grabbing a seat at the bar for world-class service and unforgettable cocktails. Cheers to Jorge and all the bartenders who truly raise the bar!
- staffThere was an off-day a while ago where the wings were rushed and came out rubbery, but fortunately, it was an anomaly because the wings last night were back to being phenomenal. Kudos to the staff, led by Sarah, who always go above and beyond with their excellent service. Jorge, Eric, Enrique, and Chad, those guys at the bar are stellar.
- ServiceService is very attentive being a bit more upscale, staff were friendly and nice
- serverOnce we were finally at our table, we ordered from the seasonal special pre-set menu and drinks separately. The food was definitely really good, and our server was also very friendly. However, the overall experience was significantly impacted when we spotted a mouse in the restaurant during our dinner.
- waiterHe was very polite and helpful and was the best waiter
- customer serviceMy experience at this restaurant was incredibly intimate and marked by amazing customer service. I celebrated my wife's birthday here, and the staff was incredible, making the food even more amazing!
- bartenderthe bartender he made me an awesome cocktail
- experienceThank you Chino, you made our party of 14 a phenomenal experience. The wagyu-tomahawk was fire.
- server Joeyour server Joey was diligent, knowledgeable and effortlessly warm
- hospitalityOur server, Pete, was amazing, friendly, kind, knowledgeable, and simply the best. I appreciate his hospitality to the fullest! I also love how the manager and what I believe were the bussers, walked by the tables to make sure each table was well taken care of, and they assisted in any way they could.
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was surprisingly disappointing. The service was very slow, taking nearly 40 minutes for simple dishes, even though the restaurant was only half-empty. The vegetarian options were virtually non-existent; even the cornbread contained shellfish.
- waiterThe waiter went home during our service and no one came to check on us.
- reservationtook them a very long time to get us seated although we had a reservation
- waiting timeWe waited 1 hour although we had 2.45 reservation
- additional chairasked for another chair we were told
- attentionthe longer I was there the less attention I got
- birthday acknowledgmentnothing was done
- buffet lineeveryone had to wait in a long line (30 minutes) for self serving themselves from the buffet
- customer servicethe customer service
- dessert menurepeated attempts to actually get a dessert menu
Overall, the service at this spot is often a highlight, making special occasions memorable and ensuring a pleasant meal. While there are occasional hiccups with speed and attentiveness, the generally good service means it's definitely worth a try, especially if you value a friendly and accommodating team.
Ambience (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 55% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark, earning a 7.4 score, which is quite good! Many guests rave about the Atmosphere, elegance, and vibe and decor, creating a fantastic dining experience. With 93 positive opinions out of 133 total, it seems most find the setting appealing and inviting.
However, the customer satisfaction sits at 69.9%, indicating a mixed bag, and some aspects could use a little polish. A few folks mentioned it could be loud, feel like a tight squeeze, or suffer from dim lighting and cramped seating. These 33 negative opinions suggest there's room for improvement in certain areas.
Ambience
133
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
33
negative
7
neutral
93
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Elegant atmosphere
- Inviting decor
- Accessible space
What people don't like
- High noise level
- Cramped seating
- Dim lighting
Often praised
- atmospherethe atmosphere was also a perfect 5 out of 5
- AtmosphereMy experience at this gorgeous restaurant was fantastic. Our group of 12 was accommodated seamlessly, and we were able to explore a new menu.
- ambienceMy favorite dish was the Jamaican Style Braised Oxtail ($44), which had rich flavors, though it contained more bone than I would prefer. On the positive side, the service was very friendly, and the ambience was nice. However, it's hard to believe the retail price for this menu would have been $115 per person.
- experienceOne of the best experiences ever!!
- ambianceThe fragrant smoke infused the tender pork belly, resulting in a harmonious fusion of flavors that is simply irresistible. The ambiance at International Smoke is sophisticated and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for an enjoyable dining experience, making it a good place for both business dinners and fun gatherings with friends.
- vibeThe vibe? Sheer elegance meets cool sophistication.
- Noise levelNoise level:Quiet, easy to talk
- placethe place is very nice and spacious
- restaurantI was really excited to try this restaurant out and glad I did! It's a gorgeous restaurant with high ceilings and huge windows that make you feel like you are blanketed in by the city's skyscrapers! I got an assortment of dishes, ranging from their tender and flavorful chicken to the almost melting in my mouth salmon.
- AmbianceAmbiance: Upscale casual
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereThis is a nice I want to impress my colleagues for lunch type of vibe but not date night
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:2
- ambianceThe ambiance: dark and somewhat stark interior lacked the coziness
- noise levelThe noise level was high as well which made having a conversation a little hard
- parkingThe service was fine. Parking is horrible in the area, so it’s best to not drive.
- ThanksgivingThanksgiving was that of a crowded bar - zoo-sh
- ambiance settingit took away from the ambiance setting that I go for
- angry familiesEveryone was angry and waiting with families with hunger
- bar TVsthe bar there were 4 TVs all about 50" and they loom tiny
- fellow dinershard to hear your fellow diners
If you're looking for a place with a generally good atmosphere and elegant vibe, this restaurant is worth considering. Just be aware that some areas might get a bit loud or feel cramped, so it might not be ideal for a quiet, intimate conversation.
Value (4.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 30% of the guests
When it comes to value, there are some bright spots! Many guests found the price fixed menu and tasting menu to be a good way to try different things, with some even saying it was worth every penny. The happy hour deals and lunch options also received praise for being reasonable, as noted in 13 positive remarks.
However, the overall picture for value is quite challenging, with a score of just 4.1 and customer satisfaction at a low 20.6%. A significant 40 negative comments highlighted concerns about the main menu being expensive and overpriced, especially for sides. Many felt the service charge and billing practices were frustrating, leading to a feeling of it being a waste of money.
Value
63
Reviews
20%
Satisfaction
40
negative
10
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Good lunch value
- Happy hour deals
- Fixed menu options
What people don't like
- Too expensive overall
- Overpriced sides
- Confusing billing practices
Often praised
- $85plenty of food for $85.
- PricesPrices are reasonable
- PricingPricing is on par with most bbq joints from within the area.
- corkage feeMy experience at International Smoke was fantastic! My fiancé brought a bottle of wine from home, and the restaurant only charged a small corkage fee, which was a lovely touch. The food was absolutely delicious, and I especially recommend the duck frites.
- happy hourhappy hour which is a decent deal
- happy hour dealsThe bar was packed, so happy hour wasn't an option, but I was seated for dinner in the main restaurant. The happy hour deals looked great, as the main menu is quite expensive; be prepared to spend easily $100+ per person. The staff was extremely nice, accommodating, and created a very welcoming energy.
- lunchespecially at lunch it's got a good value
- priceThe price is also decent
- price fixed menuwe got the price fixed menu. it allowed us to try so many different things
- pricey ratesWhile the service was a bit slow due to the restaurant being quite busy, the food more than made up for this shortcoming. The quality of the food was well worth the pricey rates.
Frequently criticized
- pricethe price is more about being in the financial district
- pricesthe prices are pretty hefty too
- $330spent $330 just for mediocre food
- CostsCosts seem high...
- Difficult to find parkingDifficult to find parking
- Price per personPrice per person:$100+
- automatic gratuityautomatic gratuity included but it was not deserved
- billI walked out with a +$250 (with tip) bill
- billing practicesThe billing practices were also frustrating
- buffet style$120 a person buffet style
If you're looking for a deal, aim for their happy hour or consider the fixed/tasting menus. Otherwise, be prepared for a potentially steep bill, as many found the regular pricing and extra charges to be a significant drawback.
How are the prices at International Smoke?
Alright, lets talk numbers! On average, youre looking at about 81 $ per person here, based on what 161 guests have shared. That puts this spot squarely in the $81–$90 range.
For a Restaurant in San Francisco, thats definitely a higher-end experience. Whats interesting is that while 81 $ is the average, a good chunk of diners are actually spending quite a bit more, with many enjoying meals well over 101 $. So, expect a premium experience!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 161 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering its a higher-end Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels appropriate for the experience. If youre looking for a special occasion or a premium meal, this could be a great choice.
Customer Reviews: what people think about International Smoke
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Spectacular Anniversary Dinner at International Smoke!
We absolutely loved our time at International Smoke for our 39th Wedding Anniversary. Everything was top notch. We were given the best VIP reception ever imagined, from the hostess Valerie to the General Manager Vanessa, who took the best care.
The service from the staff was exceptional, with Jay our waiter covering everything and more. We've already told friends and posted to our social media accounts about the spectacular hospitality and service. We have found a new restaurant now!
- VIP reception10
- hostess Valerie10
- General Manager Vanessa10
Price per Person
- $71–$80
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Exceptional Service from Andrew!
My wife and I had a wonderful experience at International Smoke last night. Our primary waiter, Andrew, was incredibly polite and helpful, making him the best waiter we've encountered in our many visits. His attentiveness significantly enhanced our enjoyment of the evening.
We will definitely continue to dine here and hope Andrew remains on staff, as he is a true pleasure. Thank you for hiring and retaining such a helpful individual.
- waiter10
- server10
- staff helper10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
9
Great Food, Fun Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was marked by great food and good service. While the atmosphere can get noisy, it contributes to a more fun experience when dining with a crowd and sharing food. I hope this place thrives, as it's been quiet since the pandemic.
- food10
- service10
- noise level6
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
3
Mixed Experience: Good Pork Belly, Bland Main Dishes
My experience at this restaurant was quite mixed. While the Pork Belly was good, the main dishes were disappointing. The food was not seasoned at all, with the salmon having 0 seasoning.
I would never eat here again based on the food quality. However, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was pleasant and quiet, making it easy to talk. The recommended Peking' Pork Belly Bao Buns were a highlight.
- Pork Belly8
- Service10
- Atmosphere8
- food2
- salmon1
- ribs3
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Exceptional Service and Experience!
My experience at this restaurant was excellent, largely due to the best service I can remember in YEARS! Everyone was professional, friendly, and on top of things, making the entire experience efficient and enjoyable.
- service10
- experience9
What International Smoke offers
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- 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
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Late-night food
- Hard liquor
- Vegan options
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Do you need reservations to dine at International Smoke San Francisco?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for both lunch and dinner at International Smoke San Francisco. Planning ahead ensures you secure your table and enjoy a seamless dining experience in this popular Transbay spot.
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at International Smoke San Francisco?
You’ll discover an upscale, cozy, and trendy atmosphere at International Smoke San Francisco. They offer a great wine list, extensive beer selection, cocktails, vegan options, and even late-night food for your enjoyment.
How does International Smoke generally perform according to customer feedback?
International Smoke holds a good overall score of 7.1. Customers particularly appreciate the Service (7.8), Ambience (7.4), and Food (7.1), though Value (4.1) is an area where opinions are more mixed.
What aspects of International Smoke do customers praise most?
Guests frequently commend the restaurant for its attentive and friendly staff, the inviting and sophisticated atmosphere, and the generally delicious food, including standout dishes and cocktails.
What are some common concerns or drawbacks mentioned by diners at International Smoke?
Common concerns include the perception of high prices and less-than-ideal value, occasional inconsistencies in food quality, and sometimes a high noise level that can make conversation difficult.