Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
- Great tea selection
oChef » Alexander’s Steakhouse – San Francisco
Alexander's Steakhouse - San Francisco
Photo from Alexander’s Steakhouse
Alexander's Steakhouse at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🥩 Steak House
$$$
Price per Person $91–$100
mentioned by 96 of the guests
#1157 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#4 Steak House out of 7 in San Francisco
Good
7.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
671
Reviews
72.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Attentive service
- Flavorful food
- Elegant atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Overpriced items
- Inconsistent quality
- Billing issues
The restaurant Alexander’s Steakhouse offers an exceptional dining experience as a premier Steak House in San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood. You’ll discover an upscale and romantic atmosphere perfect for a memorable evening.
Known for its exquisite menu, this establishment also boasts a great dessert selection that provides a delightful finish to any meal. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or simply seeking a top-tier culinary adventure, you’ll find a sophisticated setting awaiting you.
Overview: Introducting Alexander's Steakhouse
Alexander’s Steakhouse offers a refined dining experience where the attentive staff often leaves a strong impression. Guests frequently commend the overall presentation and flavor of the food, making for memorable meals.
However, some diners have noted concerns regarding the overall value, particularly with certain menu items, and occasional inconsistencies in the dining environment. These aspects can sometimes temper an otherwise pleasant visit.
Good
7.5
out of 10
671
Reviews
72.9%
Satisfaction
135
negative
47
neutral
489
positive
Alexander’s Steakhouse generally delivers a good experience, reflected in its overall score of 7.5. Customer satisfaction also stands at a solid 72.9%, indicating that most patrons leave content.
This assessment is drawn from a substantial 671 customer observations, with 489 positive remarks outweighing 135 negative ones. The Service (8) truly shines here, often described as stellar and attentive.
The Food (7.7) also performs well, with many appreciating the curated dishes, though some specific items receive mixed feedback. The Ambience (7.6) contributes positively to the dining experience, while Value (4.8) is where opinions diverge, suggesting it’s an area for consideration.
What people like
- Stellar, attentive service
- Curated, flavorful food
- Elegant dining atmosphere
What people don't like
- Overpriced for some items
- Inconsistent steak quality
- Occasional billing issues
If you prioritize exceptional service and a generally well-executed meal in a pleasant setting, Alexander’s Steakhouse is worth considering. It particularly shines for those seeking a refined experience where attentive staff enhance the occasion.
However, be mindful of the value proposition, as some items may feel overpriced, and there can be inconsistencies with certain dishes. With a recommendation score of 7.7, it’s a solid choice, especially for special events, but approach with an understanding of its potential drawbacks.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Alexander's Steakhouse
Food (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
When it comes to the food, diners are generally quite pleased, with a good score of 7.7 and a strong customer satisfaction of 76.8%. Based on 312 positive comments, many rave about the exceptional steaks, particularly the Wagyu and bone-in filet, praising their superb preparation and rich flavors. The sides and desserts also receive high marks for being delicious.
However, not every dish hits the mark, with 69 criticisms pointing to issues like overcooked wagyu, small portions for side dishes, and some steaks lacking flavor or being chewy. A few also felt the food quality didn't always justify the high price, especially for certain appetizers.
Food
406
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
69
negative
25
neutral
312
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional steak quality
- Superb preparation, flavor
- Amazing sides, desserts
What people don't like
- Steaks lack flavor
- Small side portions
- Inconsistent food quality
Often praised
- foodAmazing food, very curated and exceptional presentation and flavor.
- steakWhile the food was objectively good, it was excessively expensive for what it is. You can definitely find much cheaper places in San Francisco for a good steak. Beyond the steaks, the overpriced side dishes are served in child-sized portions!
- steaksMy experience at this restaurant was outstanding, particularly with the food. The steaks are all great, of course. The salads are truly amazing and worth a visit on their own, with standout options like the tomato/watermelon and beet/persimmon.
- drinksdrinks on the side which were very good
- cotton candyAs many have noted, they genuinely know their steaks and prepare them exceptionally well. I was also pleasantly surprised by the dessert and cotton candy.
- dessertAlexander's Steakhouse is a good place with consistently very good attention. The best part is at the end when they surprise you with a dessert, I was delighted!
- wineMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic. It's the perfect venue to catch up with a good friend and enjoy delicious steaks and wine. Our server, Hogni, was very attentive and provided excellent recommendations.
- cocktailsThe service was impeccable, and the food was outstanding. I also enjoyed the good cocktails. The portion sizes were generous, with enough steak left over for another meal for two.
- T-bone steakMy T-bone steak was off the charts delicious
- breadI ordered the T-bone steak, which was incredible. To my surprise, they also provided two soups, bread, and three desserts for free. The food was excellent, and the service was top-notch, as reflected in the perfect scores for both.
Frequently criticized
- steakAppetizers were enjoyable. The two main misses were a really long wait between appetizers and entrees with no apology, which seemed odd given the mostly empty restaurant, and then a tough and undercooked steak. For a $100 steak, we expected more, especially since it's their specialty.
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. The food was served cold, and the service was a little bit aggressive. I asked for wine multiple times but did not get to taste it.
- oystersthe oysters were overpowered by the mignonette topping
- portionsthe portions were a bit on the smaller side
- steaksMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. While the service was great, the kitchen failed to deliver on the steaks as ordered. I would not recommend this place for a special occasion.
- winedid not get to taste the wine
- Australian wagyuI highly recommend ordering the Emperor's Beef Wagyu, the milk bread, and the N/A cocktails. However, I would advise skipping the charcuterie, Australian wagyu, ribeye wagyu, wagyu carpaccio, and onion pancake. I've been here many times, and the tasting menu is consistently very good.
- DrinksDrinks take long time
- Japanese Wagyufound it overpriced for 3 oz
- Wagyu filetWagyu filet, and it was a complete disappointment
If you're seeking a high-end steak experience with exceptional Wagyu and delicious sides, this place is likely to impress. Just be mindful of the pricing and manage expectations for some of the smaller, less consistent dishes.
Service (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 77% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 8 and customer satisfaction at a good 78.7%, many guests rave about the attentive staff and excellent service. Out of 141 comments, a whopping 111 praise the accommodating and friendly staff, making for a truly enjoyable experience.
However, its not always perfect. A smaller number of 26 comments point to some hiccups, mentioning issues like it taking too long to order or significant wait times. A few even encountered what they described as arrogant servers or generally slow service, suggesting theres room for improvement in consistency.
Service
141
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
26
negative
4
neutral
111
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive staff
- Excellent service
- Accommodating personnel
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Long wait times
- Arrogant servers
Often praised
- serviceThe sides were also excellent, though a bit large for one person. The wine by the glass selection was great, and the service was first class. I'm only deducting one star because the restaurant management added a 3% San Francisco surcharge to the bill.
- ServiceService was stellar and surprised us
- staffFrom the moment I walked through the door, the level of service demonstrated was absolutely astounding. Dawn, Alise, and the entire staff were informative and attentive, answering each of our questions and obliging every request. Compliments to Chef Eric Upper and all of his team for delivering a most excellent menu that delighted each sense.
- attentionhigh level of attention to the table
- attentive staffattentive staff including not only our personable waiter, Ruben, but also the sommelier and many assistants
- level of serviceI had the absolute pleasure of enjoying the 11-course Chef's Hitachi Menu and could not recommend it highly enough. From the moment I walked through the door, the level of service demonstrated was absolutely astounding. Dawn, Alise, and the entire staff were informative and attentive, answering each of our questions and obliging every request.
- managerEven while in training, he provided excellent service, demonstrating proficiency in his knowledge and truly making our night special. The manager was also very attentive and welcoming. Overall, it was a 10/10 experience, and I will definitely come back.
- recommendationsrecommendations provided were spot on
- servergreat experience with Albert as our server
- serverstip the servers more, they deserve everything and more
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. The food was served cold, and the service was a little bit aggressive. I asked for wine multiple times but did not get to taste it.
- serverthe waiter, who I did not even call out, gave me a new bill
- blatant racismI experienced blatant racism
- bread limitstrict "bread limit"
- checkoutAt checkout, the bill included items that I did not order
- credit cardsavoid credit cards
- customer serviceridiculous customer service
- entry with strollerIn 2022, during my visit to San Francisco, I was surprised and disappointed when they denied us entry with a stroller. I would never have guessed this would happen.
- foodThe only downside was that our seating area was quite cold. The food doesn't come out quickly, so it's advisable to order drinks and appetizers. It might be a bit awkward if you go with people you don't have much to say to.
- kitchenThe highlights of the meal were the truffled mash and the bread plate. The waitstaff were great and genuinely wanted to do the right thing, but they were sadly underserved by the kitchen.
Overall, the service here is a strong point, with many guests enjoying a top-notch experience. While there are occasional reports of slow or inconsistent service, the positives heavily outweigh the negatives. If you value attentive and friendly staff, this place is definitely worth a visit.
Ambience (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 47% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits the mark, scoring a solid 7.6 and leaving 75% of customers satisfied. Based on 68 customer observations, with 51 positive remarks, many rave about the premium dining experience and modern, classy interiors. Its often described as having a special occasion vibe, perfect for a date night with its dim lighting and beautiful decorations.
However, not everyone finds it perfect, with 10 negative comments pointing out some areas for improvement. Concerns include narrow table space, a cold seating area, and an exterior front entrance area that isnt well-lit. Some also felt the space overall is loud due to hard surfaces, which can detract from the atmosphere.
Ambience
68
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
10
negative
7
neutral
51
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Premium dining experience
- Modern classy interiors
- Romantic date night
What people don't like
- Narrow table space
- Poor exterior lighting
- Loud overall space
Often praised
- atmosphereThe mashed potatoes were incredibly, incredibly, incredibly delicious. The meat was also tasty, and the atmosphere was good. The only downside was that our seating area was quite cold.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambiancethe ambiance. Everything was spectacular!!!
- experienceThe experience does not end until you are home. Thank you to the servers and to the chef for an amazing, unforgettable experience. It was definitely worth the price.
- date nightNice date night with the wife
- 2nd floor view2nd floor over looking the restaurant and open kitchen it's a nice touch
- beautiful decorationsMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic, especially for our holiday dinner with friends. The exposed brick interior created a beautiful atmosphere, complemented by the beautiful decorations. The steak was amazing, and the drinks were delicious.
- clean kitchenThe recipients were happy and seemed to enjoy their special time. Overall, the service was great, with a friendly staff and a clean kitchen. Good job!
- cocktail areaThey have a cocktail area in front
- decorhas the feel of a classic steakhouse in both decor
Frequently criticized
- ambiancethe ambiance is not classy at all
- deadit was dead. A bit sad to see
- exterior front entrance areaThe exterior front entrance area isn’t well lit
- lightingBrannan Street as a whole isn’t a well lit block
- neighborhoodThe food itself was very good. However, it's sad that the neighborhood is somewhat dead now.
- restaurant atmosphereI'm not sure I'd try any of their tasting menus, as those didn't include the cuts of beef we were interested in. The meal was pretty good, but the restaurant just felt a bit cold.
- restroomsRest rooms very dirty
- seating areaThe meat was also tasty, and the atmosphere was good. The only downside was that our seating area was quite cold. The food doesn't come out quickly, so it's advisable to order drinks and appetizers.
- spaceThe space overall is loud just due to the amount of hard surfaces in the space.
- space between tableThe space between table and seat was uncomfortably narrow
If youre looking for a place with a generally great atmosphere for a special evening, this spot is a strong contender. Just be mindful that some minor issues like seating comfort or noise levels might pop up, but they dont seem to overshadow the overall positive vibe.
Value (4.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 38% of the guests
While the overall sentiment around value is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 4.8 score, some diners found the experience truly worth it, feeling that every dollar paid was justified, especially for special occasions. With 15 positive remarks, many appreciated finding reasonable prices for certain items, making the splurge feel less daunting. However, a significant number of guests, 30 out of 56 comments, felt the restaurant was quite expensive and overpriced, leading to a rather low customer satisfaction of just 26.8%.
Concerns included unexpected charges like a San Francisco surcharge, issues with being cash only, and a general feeling of poor value for money for the quality received.
Value
56
Reviews
26%
Satisfaction
30
negative
11
neutral
15
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the price
- Special occasion worthy
- Reasonable options
What people don't like
- Overpriced food
- Cash only policy
- Hidden surcharges
Often praised
- priceThe staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, and they patiently explained the differences between the Kobe beef options. The food was all amazing and truly worth every penny. I particularly enjoyed the steaks, and the matcha raspberry souffle was the best dessert I've ever had.
- Price per person$100+
- every dollar paidI had the best steak I've ever eaten, and I've eaten quite a few 😂. While it's not exactly something for a tight budget, every dollar paid was worth it.
- experienceThe price we paid was justified in the experience we had
- price pointsawesome as it should be for the price points.
- pricesThe prices are reasonable for the regular steaks
- reasonable priceswith reasonable prices
- special occasionsworth it for those special occasions.
- sub-$100 ribeyesub-$100 ribeye (amazingly flavored)
- worth itin the end its worth it
Frequently criticized
- priceIt wasn’t juicy at all, didn’t taste like Wagyu, and felt like a regular, cold piece of steak. Honestly, it tasted like any average steak, not what you’d expect for that price or quality. The service and atmosphere received a rating of 4, but the food score was a low 1.
- overpricedFind it a bit overpriced for what it is
- $100 steakThe two main misses were a really long wait between appetizers and entrees with no apology, which seemed odd given the mostly empty restaurant, and then a tough and undercooked steak. For a $100 steak, we expected more, especially since it's their specialty. We imagine Alexander's would have offered to make it right, but after waiting nearly 40 minutes for it, we weren't willing to wait any longer.
- San Francisco surchargeThe wine by the glass selection was great, and the service was first class. I'm only deducting one star because the restaurant management added a 3% San Francisco surcharge to the bill. I strongly believe these costs should be included in the food prices, just like all other expenses.
- billthe bill included items that I did not order
- cash onlyThe food quality was average, but the prices were a complete ripoff. They exclusively require cash and go to great lengths to avoid accepting credit cards. To make matters worse, they automatically include the tip in the bill.
- expensivethey are very expensive
- expensive for the qualityHowever, we didn't make a reservation and were seated by the bar. The steak was good, but I found it to be pretty expensive for the quality. Due to the restaurant being busy that night, it took quite a while for someone to serve us, impacting the service.
- high pricesSmall plates for high prices
- overall experienceOverall, a disappointing experience
If you're eyeing a memorable meal for a special occasion and are prepared for a potentially hefty bill, you might find the experience worth it. However, be mindful of the price tag and potential extra charges, as many guests felt the overall value for money was lacking.
How are the prices at Alexander's Steakhouse?
On average, you’ll spend around 99 per person, based on 96 guests. That puts this San Francisco Steak House in the $91–$100 category. For a Steak House, thats definitely on the higher-end side.
While the overall average is 99, its worth noting that most guests (84 out of 96) actually opt for meals costing over 101 $, indicating a strong preference for premium options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 96 reviews.
Comparing value for money at this restaurant against similar ones in San Francisco.
Considering its a Steak House in San Francisco, the pricing feels appropriate for a higher-end dining experience. Wed say its a solid choice if youre looking to invest in a quality meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Alexander's Steakhouse
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Exceptional Fine Dining Steakhouse Experience
My experience at Alexander’s Steakhouse was that of a total gem for anyone who loves a fine dining steak experience with a creative twist. The steaks were beautifully cooked and packed with flavor. I loved the little Japanese touches throughout the menu.
The service was polished but still warm, and the presentation of each dish was gorgeous. It’s the kind of place where everything—from the first bite to dessert—feels thoughtfully done. Perfect for a special night out.
- steaks9
- Japanese touches8
- service9
Price per Person
- $100+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Disappointing Wagyu Experience
My experience at the restaurant was largely defined by the food, which was a significant letdown. I had the Porterhouse steak, which was just okay — nothing special. We also ordered the Wagyu filet, and it was a complete disappointment.
It wasn’t juicy at all, didn’t taste like Wagyu, and felt like a regular, cold piece of steak. Honestly, it tasted like any average steak, not what you’d expect for that price or quality. The service and atmosphere received a rating of 4, but the food score was a low 1.
- Porterhouse steak5
- Wagyu filet2
- juicy2
- taste like Wagyu2
Price per Person
- $100+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
8
Excellent Food and Service, Surcharge Deducts a Star
I had an amazing bone-in ribeye here tonight, which was the best steak I've had in a while. The sides were also excellent, though a bit large for one person. The wine by the glass selection was great, and the service was first class.
I'm only deducting one star because the restaurant management added a 3% San Francisco surcharge to the bill. I strongly believe these costs should be included in the food prices, just like all other expenses. So, while the food and service were 5-star, the management's pricing strategy was not.
- bone-in ribeye10
- steak9
- sides8
- San Francisco surcharge3
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Excellent Food, Special Occasion Worth the Price
My experience at Alexanders was great, especially for a special occasion like my mom's birthday. The food was amazing. Although they didn't have moscatos, the sommelier quickly found a comparable dessert wine.
My mom thoroughly enjoyed her halibut. We shared some wagyu, which was fantastic and melted in your mouth. The other guests had steaks; while the cut was great, the knife struggled with a medium-rare preparation.
We also enjoyed the oysters with blueberry vinegar sauce and the steak tartar, which was to die for. The little gem salad was just okay. For sides, the truffle fries were absolutely delicious and not overpowering, and we also had mashed potatoes and green beans.
For dessert, we tried the parfait, a chocolate option, and the sorbet trio. The presentation was a perfect 10/10. The atmosphere received a 7/10, and as noted in other reviews, it was a bit blah.
Overall, the food was great, and despite being very pricey, it was worth it for a special occasion. The birthday treat of cotton candy and chocolates was a sweet gesture.
- food9
- dessert wine8
- halibut9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Phenomenal Steaks and Service!
Man oh man. My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. The steaks were top notch, and the bone marrow was a definite 'wow' moment.
The wagyu was simply phenomenal. To top it off, the desserts were also 'oh man' good. The service was amazing, and the little extras provided by the staff were equally impressive.
The atmosphere was rated a 5, with a quiet noise level perfect for easy conversation. The food received a perfect 5 score.
- steaks10
- bone marrow10
- wagyu10
What Alexander's Steakhouse offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Has changing table(s)
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What parking options are available when you visit Alexander's Steakhouse?
When you plan your visit to Alexander’s Steakhouse in Union Square, you’ll find several convenient parking solutions. You can choose from paid parking lot options, a paid parking garage, or paid street parking nearby. This ensures you have hassle-free access to your dining experience.
Can you make reservations at Alexander's Steakhouse, and what kind of atmosphere can you expect?
Yes, dinner reservations are highly recommended at Alexander’s Steakhouse to secure your table. You can expect an upscale, romantic, and trendy atmosphere, perfect for a special evening or a cozy meal. The setting promises a memorable dining experience.
What is the overall dining experience like at Alexander's Steakhouse?
Alexander’s Steakhouse generally offers a good dining experience, with an overall score of 7.5 and customer satisfaction at 72.9%. Guests particularly praise the Service (8) and the quality of the Food (7.7), while the Ambience (7.6) also contributes positively. However, opinions on Value (4.8) are more mixed.
How is the service at Alexander's Steakhouse?
The service at Alexander’s Steakhouse is frequently highlighted as a strong point, with many guests describing the staff as attentive, informative, and providing a first-class experience. Positive comments often mention the high level of attention and helpful recommendations.
Are there any common concerns or drawbacks when dining here?
Some diners have expressed concerns about the pricing of certain menu items, finding them to be overpriced. There have also been occasional reports of inconsistent steak quality, billing discrepancies, and issues with the dining environment such as cold seating areas or loud spaces.