Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
oChef » Boulevard – San Francisco
Boulevard - San Francisco
Photo from Boulevard
Boulevard at a glance
San Francisco Transbay
- 🍔 American Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $91–$100
mentioned by 139 of the guests
#787 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#33 American Restaurant out of 121 in San Francisco
Good
7.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
856
Reviews
75.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious food
- Great ambiance
- Excellent service
Frequently criticized
- High cost
- Food inconsistency
- Cramped space
The restaurant Boulevard, an American Restaurant located in the vibrant Transbay neighborhood of San Francisco, offers you a truly memorable dining experience. You’ll discover a culinary journey where every detail is considered, from the historic ambiance to the exceptional service.
Patrons consistently rave about the great dessert options, making it a highlight of your visit. This upscale establishment is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated meal in the heart of the city.
Overview: Introducting Boulevard
Boulevard offers a dining experience where delicious dishes and attentive service often stand out, making meals memorable. Guests frequently commend the overall inviting atmosphere, contributing to a sophisticated yet comfortable setting.
However, some experiences at Boulevard highlight areas for improvement. While many enjoy the culinary offerings, the restaurant can be seen as a pricey option for some diners, prompting consideration of its overall value.
Good
7.8
out of 10
856
Reviews
75.8%
Satisfaction
153
negative
54
neutral
649
positive
Boulevard garners a solid overall score of 7.8, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. Customer satisfaction stands at a good 75.8%, indicating that a significant majority of patrons leave content.
These assessments are drawn from a substantial pool of 856 customer remarks, with 649 expressing positive sentiments and 153 noting areas for improvement. Delving into specifics, the restaurant shines in several key areas.
Its Ambience (8.4) receives high marks for creating an inviting atmosphere, closely followed by strong ratings for Service (8.2) and Food (7.9), suggesting a well-rounded experience. However, the Value (4.2) aspect presents a more mixed picture, indicating that some guests find the pricing to be a point of concern.
What people like
- Delicious dishes
- Inviting atmosphere
- Attentive service
What people don't like
- High price
- Inconsistent food
- Cramped seating
Boulevard generally delivers a commendable dining experience, particularly if you prioritize a sophisticated setting and attentive staff. With a strong recommendation score of 8.1, it’s a place that often leaves a positive impression, especially for those seeking a well-executed meal in a pleasant environment.
However, be mindful of the cost, as the value proposition is not its strongest suit. If you’re looking for a special occasion spot where quality food, service, and ambiance are paramount, and budget is less of a concern, Boulevard is certainly worth considering.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Boulevard
Food (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
The culinary experience here is largely celebrated, with a strong 7.9 score and 77.8% customer satisfaction. Out of 465 customer remarks, a whopping 362 praise the deliciousness and quality. Guests rave about the signature pork chop, perfectly cooked scallops, and beautiful dishes that showcase exceptional cuisine and a symphony of flavors.
However, not every plate is a hit, with 67 negative comments noting some areas for improvement. Concerns include occasional overcooked halibut, bland ravioli, and a lack of flavor in certain dishes. Some also felt portion size could be more generous, and a few desserts were deemed uncreative or out of a packet.
Food
465
Reviews
77%
Satisfaction
67
negative
36
neutral
362
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional cuisine
- Delicious pork chop
- Beautiful presentation
What people don't like
- Inconsistent flavor
- Small portions
- Overcooked dishes
Often praised
- foodJohn was instrumental in helping us select wines, consistently making excellent choices based on our preferences. The food was delicious, and every staff member we interacted with contributed to making our birthday meal truly special. I am immensely thankful for their efforts.
- pork chopAfter chatting with one of the bartenders, we were convinced to stay for dinner and ended up trying a significant portion of the menu. We savored the steak tartare (the best I've ever had), lobster bisque BLT, Spanish octopus, heirloom tomato salad, filet, and pork chop. For dessert, we indulged in the chocolate cake and pistachio tres leches.
- dessertsthe desserts are a sweet way to end
- dishesI would recommend asking for a table with a view to enjoy the sun setting over the Bay Bridge! The dishes were all well-balanced and delicious. While they are not extremely flashy and experimental, Boulevard has been reliably serving beautiful, delicious dishes for years and continues to perfectly execute.
- presentationMy experience at this restaurant was absolutely delightful! I enjoyed the crudo, ahi tartare, and tomato salad, all of which were incredibly delicious and beautifully presented. The service was very attentive, and they offer a wonderful wine selection by the glass.
- wineWe particularly enjoyed the tuna tartar, the ravioli, and the steak, which was absolutely divine. The wine was also wonderful. It was one of the nicest experiences we've had in a while.
- chocolate cakeWe savored the steak tartare (the best I've ever had), lobster bisque BLT, Spanish octopus, heirloom tomato salad, filet, and pork chop. For dessert, we indulged in the chocolate cake and pistachio tres leches. It was undoubtedly the best meal we've had, and we are so happy we decided to walk in.
- cocktailscocktails ( which were absolutely amazing )
- food presentationMy experience at Boulevard was that of a classic spot. The food was rich and flavorful, with dishes that were beautifully presented. I particularly enjoyed the perfectly cooked meats, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables that truly shone.
- wine listThe fixed-price menu offered a good selection, though it was heavily weighted toward animal proteins. I was impressed with the excellent cocktail program and the extensive wine list. The service was friendly and efficient.
Frequently criticized
- foodNot sure what happened, but I was thoroughly disappointed this time. The food at best had no flavor and worse, it was inedible (the ravioli). Please do something because I want my pre-pandemic Boulevard back.
- halibuti got the halibut which i think was a bit dry
- appetizersAll the appetizers we ordered were underwhelming
- dessertWhile the server was good enough, he failed to return to verify our dessert preferences. Instead, he brought out a dessert he assumed everyone would want, which was problematic as there were four of us and we don't all have the same tastes. I personally didn't mind as I was full and didn't particularly care about having dessert.
- food qualityMy experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly negative, primarily due to the food quality.
- saladI ordered a salad and what I got was a plate that wiuld feed a little mouse.
- tasting menumiss being able to just order a main rather than being forced into a tasting menu
- Italian truffle pastaThe tuna carpaccio, however, was spectacular. The Italian truffle pasta was dry, the beef tartare was average, and the arancini were bland, even with the truffles. The kaluga caviar and cauliflower soufflé was a significant letdown; the caviar was undetectable, and the portion was tiny.
- abaloneThe abalone was not fresh. It had a fishy smell and taste.
- animal proteinsMy experience at this restaurant was in a cozy, casually elegant space. The fixed-price menu offered a good selection, though it was heavily weighted toward animal proteins. I was impressed with the excellent cocktail program and the extensive wine list.
If you're seeking a generally delicious and high-quality meal, especially their famous pork chop, this spot is definitely worth a visit. While some dishes might occasionally miss the mark on flavor or portion, the overall culinary experience is highly regarded.
Service (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 83% of the guests
The service at this establishment truly stands out, earning a good score of 8.2 and a good customer satisfaction rate of 80.9%. With 152 positive remarks, guests consistently highlight the attentive and knowledgeable staff, impeccable service, and excellent wine suggestions, often praising individual team members for going above and beyond. However, 32 negative comments indicate some areas for improvement.
A few guests felt the service was rushed, with staff hovering or showing inaction. There were also mentions of a perceived lack of regret or attention, suggesting that while generally excellent, consistency could be enhanced.
Service
188
Reviews
80%
Satisfaction
32
negative
4
neutral
152
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, knowledgeable staff
- Impeccable service
- Excellent wine suggestions
What people don't like
- Rushed service
- Staff inaction
- Lack of attention
Often praised
- serviceThroughout the evening, she received personalized food, including a custom hors d'oeuvres plate, special sides, a custom sushi plate, and her own dessert plate with a specially baked cookie. We are incredibly thankful to Carlos for the amazing service and to the entire kitchen staff for making it a memorable evening. Happy holidays!
- staffBeyond the food, what truly stood out was the upscale customer service—something we greatly appreciate, especially when dining with our sons. Every detail was handled with care, and the entire staff made us feel welcomed and valued. We absolutely love this place and will definitely be back.
- ServiceService was excellent
- reservationWhile the seating layout felt a bit cramped initially, this is a minor point. I highly recommend booking a reservation a week in advance for the standard dining room, especially on weekends. The bar and Chef's Counter are first-come, first-served options.
- server DennisOur server Dennis-thank you! He went above and beyond with such a friendly attitude
- wine suggestionsFor my birthday dinner, I had a wonderful experience at this restaurant. The service was wonderful, and our server was knowledgeable regarding wine suggestions. The food was unique and tasty with lovely presentation, and everything felt so fresh.
- Anna the managerAnna the manager was also a delight
- Chef's Countertry your luck at the bar or Chef’s Counter as these options are first come first serve
- ConstantineOur server Constantine was very helpful
- David and the teamDavid and the team are the best.
Frequently criticized
- serviceservice was friendly and knowledgeable but ultimately forgot it was my birthday
- GinaGina was atrocious and has no idea what she is doing.
- billbringing the bill WITH the dessert
- checked coats3 checked coats dumped into the hands of the guest of honor
- couple next to usoverally friendly with couple next to us who confirmed she was terrible.
- coursesOur courses were nearly stacked up on one another.
- dining options: -((I did, however, enjoy the scallop starter! We were never given the option to dine at the bar or the chef's counter, and the waiter never mentioned these other dining options. Sorry, will not be returning to Boulevard!
- experienceWhat an awful experience I had that evening
- foodThe food also took a very very long time to come out
- hosthost to not ruin a surprise bday
If you're looking for a dining experience where attentive and knowledgeable staff are a priority, this place is definitely worth a visit. While a few guests noted feeling rushed, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests the service is a major highlight and will likely make your meal memorable.
Ambience (8.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 64% of the guests
The ambience here truly shines, earning a good score of 8.4 and a good customer satisfaction of 85.9%. With 122 positive remarks out of 142 total, guests frequently praise the fine dining place and cozy atmosphere. Many love the bayfront setting and gorgeous view, often highlighting the elegant interior and warm lighting.
It's clearly a place designed for a memorable experience. However, not every aspect of the atmosphere is perfect, with 15 negative remarks. Some found the seating layout a bit cramped, and the noise level can be an issue for those seeking quiet.
Parking can also be challenging, and wheelchair accessibility to restrooms was noted as difficult, suggesting some areas could use improvement.
Ambience
142
Reviews
85%
Satisfaction
15
negative
5
neutral
122
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Elegant interior
- Gorgeous bay views
- Warm, cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Cramped seating layout
- Challenging parking
- Not ideal for kids
Often praised
- atmosphereIt's a great place to showcase a sophisticated statement piece or outfit. Upon entry, you're greeted by a beautifully decorated interior and a bustling, yet tasteful and inviting atmosphere. While the seating layout felt a bit cramped initially, this is a minor point.
- ambianceservice and ambiance! Made a reservation for a birthday dinner and they went above and beyond
- ambienceAs a San Francisco stalwart, this restaurant offers exactly what you'd expect from a great dining experience: delicious food and a lovely ambience. The plates were both interesting and inventive, without being pretentious or small.
- noise levelNoise level:Quiet, easy to talk
- settingMy experience at this restaurant was truly magical. The highest quality staff, food, and setting created an unforgettable evening. It's easy to get to with plenty of parking, and the prix fixe menu was a delight to navigate.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- decorthe decor is really nice
- decorationsthe decorations were amazing
- experienceOne of the nicest experiences we've had in a while
- interiorgreeted with beautifully decorated interior
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereatmosphere - confused
- parkingParking:I would just get an Uber or a Waymo instead of trying to find parking
- Asian discriminating placeAn Asian discriminating place
- ExperientiallyExperientially on the decline
- Ken Fulk’s redesignKen Fulk’s redesign feels a bit gaudy
- bar seating and corner tablesrestaurant only gives the a la carte for bar seating and corner tables
- internal tablesinternal tables are reserved only for prie fixe meals
- kidsmay not the best option for kids
- seating layoutseating layout a bit crammed at first
- seatswe sat in the bathroom even though there were many seats
If you're seeking an elegant, classic dining experience with stunning views and a warm atmosphere, this spot is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that parking might be tricky, and it might not be the quietest or most accessible option for everyone.
Value (4.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 24% of the guests
When it comes to value, some guests found bright spots, with 13 positive comments out of 61 highlighting aspects like good value for money and high quality food for a fair price. Some appreciated the wine list and found the price-performance ratio to be well worth it. The overall score for value sits at an average 4.2.
However, the picture isn't entirely rosy, with customer satisfaction lagging significantly at just 21.3%. A significant 39 comments expressed disappointment, with many feeling the experience was expensive and overpriced, citing issues like high mark-ups on wines and concerns with the prix-fixe format. Sentiments like not worth the cost were common.
Value
61
Reviews
21%
Satisfaction
39
negative
9
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Good value
- Great wine list
- Quality food fair price
What people don't like
- Overpriced food
- High wine mark-up
- Fixed menu issues
Often praised
- priceWhile it’s certainly a pricey option for dinner, you certainly get what you pay for. I was dining alone and often times you find yourself shoved in a corner in this circumstance, but I was given a great table with a gorgeous view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
- price-performance ratioThe price-performance ratio was also good
- price-quality ratioBoulevard has a good price-quality ratio.
- pricingReasonable pricing for the level of quality
- value for moneygood value for money
- well worth itbut well worth it!
- wine listGreat wine list
- wineswines reasonably priced
Frequently criticized
- priceprice is similar to a Michelin star restaurant while it just doesn’t cut it
- American standardsAmerika standartlarında çok yüksek bir tutar
- CorkageCorkage is $50 which is high
- Hartford Court PinotI know the restaurant business can be very low-margin, but if marking up the wine list is how you get by, that's your business, but don't pretend you don't do it. For example, I purchased the Hartford Court Pinot for $88, which retails between $30-40, representing over a 100% mark-up. The 2016 Melville Terraces Pinot was priced at $175, while it retails for at most $80, an estimated 200% mark-up.
- Melville Terraces PinotMelville Terraces Pinot I think you had it priced at $175
- bill$317 for two people. Apparently the prix fixe is $125 per person.
- costnot sure it's worth the cost
- detailsfor prices like this details matter
- dinnersMy experience at the restaurant was outstanding. While the dinners are pricey with a fixed-price menu, the food, service, and ambiance were exceptional. For a special occasion, it's hard to find a restaurant that equals Boulevard.
- expensiveYes, it has always been expensive
If youre considering a visit, be prepared for a potentially high bill, especially with the fixed-price menu and wine mark-ups. While some find the quality justifies the expense for a special occasion, many feel its overpriced and not worth the cost. Go in with clear expectations about the pricing to avoid disappointment.
How are the prices at Boulevard?
On average, you’ll spend around 97 per person – from 139 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $91–$100 category. For an American Restaurant, that’s definitely on the higher-end.
While the average sits here, our data shows a large number of guests actually spend well over 101 $, indicating a more premium experience for most diners.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, using the 139 most recent reviews.
Heres how this restaurants value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Given the price point and the type of cuisine, we think the pricing feels fair for a higher-end American dining experience. Its a place where youre likely paying for quality and atmosphere.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Boulevard
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
A Timeless Culinary Gem with a Slight Service Hiccup
After 25 years, this Michelin 1-star San Francisco icon, led by James Beard award chef Nancy Oakes, continues to impress with its delicious food. The House Special Berkshire Pork Chop was a standout, perfectly seasoned with a gorgeous crust and incredible juiciness. Other dishes, particularly the seafood and fish options, were executed with near perfection and offered welcoming taste profiles.
While the food was exceptional, the professional service, though attentive, felt a bit stiff and pretentious, which was the only downside to an otherwise fantastic experience.
- House Special Berkshire Pork Chop10
- seafood and fish9
- menu8
- professional service4
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Spectacular Experience with Amazing Service
My experience at this restaurant was spectacular. The food was of the highest quality. Dino, our server, was amazing.
He shared fascinating details about the restaurant's history, the owners' journey, and even the building's architecture and interior design. This level of service has made me very loyal to this restaurant.
- atmosphere10
- food quality10
- server10
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
9
Excellent Desserts, Great Atmosphere & Service
Unfortunately, we discovered this place too late during our trip and only had the chance to try their desserts on our last day. The atmosphere, service, and desserts were all excellent. We hope to come back to San Francisco someday to enjoy the full experience of this restaurant.
- desserts10
- atmosphere10
- service10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
2
Disappointing Experience with Hidden Costs
The place and atmosphere were great ✌🏼. The food was good, but not great considering the price. We've had much better food at more reasonable prices in San Francisco.
The main issue was the pricing. We were told the fix menu was $128, but the bill showed the meat menu at $140. One of the appetizers arrived ice cold.
When we mentioned it, they heated it up and brought it back. We informed the restaurant manager, who agreed we were right and would have a new one made. The food arrived hot and we enjoyed it.
However, when the bill came, we were charged an extra $18 for this dish, which they said was for truffle mushrooms. We argued, but it wasn't resolved. Ultimately, we had to pay unnecessary money and left a very happy evening feeling unhappy.
I'm attaching the bill. This is a very high amount by American standards. We won't come again 😂🤦🏻♂️.
- place and atmosphere9
- food6
- price2
- fix menu2
- appetizers2
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Amazing Food, Service, and Vibe!
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. The pork chop and Bananas Foster dessert were absolutely amazing. I also enjoyed a phenomenal espresso martini.
The staff provided impeccable service throughout the meal. We loved the classy, old-school vibe of the place.
- pork chop9
- Bananas Foster dessert9
- espresso martini10
What Boulevard offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Counter service
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Historic
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
Do you need reservations to dine at Boulevard in San Francisco?
Yes, reservations are required at Boulevard, and dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your table. You can also make lunch reservations if you plan to visit during the day for table service.
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at Boulevard?
Boulevard offers an upscale, historic, cozy, trendy, and romantic atmosphere. You can enjoy a wide range of offerings including hard liquor, wine, cocktails, organic dishes, and vegetarian options, alongside their renowned great coffee and desserts.
How does Boulevard generally rate?
Boulevard holds a solid overall score of 7.8, with customer satisfaction at 75.8%. Its Ambience (8.4), Service (8.2), and Food (7.9) are well-regarded, though Value (4.2) is a notable area for consideration.
What makes Boulevard a good dining choice?
Many appreciate Boulevard for its delicious dishes and beautiful presentation, complemented by an inviting atmosphere and attentive service. The wine list and cocktails also receive positive remarks.
Are there any common concerns about dining at Boulevard?
Some patrons find the experience to be a pricey option, with concerns about underwhelming appetizers or dry halibut. The seating layout can also feel cramped at times.