Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
oChef » Garibaldis – San Francisco
Garibaldis - San Francisco
Photo from Garibaldis
Garibaldis at a glance
San Francisco Laurel Heights
- 🍔 American Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $61–$70
mentioned by 26 of the guests
#1139 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#49 American Restaurant out of 121 in San Francisco
Good
7.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
374
Reviews
75.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Quality dishes
- Good service
- Lively ambiance
Frequently criticized
- Food temperature
- Cost concerns
- Loud setting
The American restaurant Garibaldis in San Francisco’s Laurel Heights neighborhood offers you an upscale and trendy dining experience. You’ll discover a cozy atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening, where you can indulge in a truly great dessert.
This spot is trending, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality American cuisine with a sophisticated touch.
Overview: Introducting Garibaldis
Garibaldis often delivers a pleasant dining experience, with many appreciating the well-executed dishes, particularly the Chicken Milanese, and a notable wine list. The atmosphere is frequently described as a lively neighborhood spot, making it a comfortable place to gather.
While the service generally receives high marks for attentiveness, some guests have encountered issues with timing or specific staff members. There are also mixed feelings about the overall value, with some finding it a bit steep for what’s offered.
Good
7.5
out of 10
374
Reviews
75.1%
Satisfaction
71
negative
22
neutral
281
positive
Garibaldis earns a solid overall score of 7.5, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. Customer satisfaction also stands at a respectable 75.1%, indicating that most guests leave content.
This assessment is drawn from a substantial 374 customer comments, with 281 positive remarks outweighing 71 negative ones. Diving deeper, the Food (7.8) is a clear strength, often highlighted for its quality and execution.
Service (7.4) and Ambience (7.4) also contribute positively, suggesting a comfortable and well-attended setting. However, Value (5.3) appears to be a point of contention, falling into the average range.
What people like
- Well-executed dishes
- Attentive service
- Inviting atmosphere
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food delivery
- High price points
- Elevated noise levels
Garibaldis, with a recommendation score of 7.6, presents itself as a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable dining experience with generally well-prepared food. If you appreciate a lively setting and attentive staff, you’ll likely find it a worthwhile visit.
However, be mindful of the pricing, which some find a bit steep, and the potential for a noisy environment. If consistent food temperature and a quiet meal are top priorities, you might want to consider other options, but for a good meal out, it’s certainly worth a look.
Similar Restaurants in San Francisco
- American Restaurant
9
out of 10
out of 10
731
93.8%
- $$
- Bayview District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- American Restaurant
9
out of 10
out of 10
780
93.3%
- $$
- Silver Terrace
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- American Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
423
94.6%
- $$
- Outer Richmond
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- American Restaurant
8.7
out of 10
out of 10
804
89.9%
- $$
- Union Square
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- American Restaurant
8.7
out of 10
out of 10
294
89.1%
- $$
- Mission District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- American Restaurant
8.6
out of 10
out of 10
356
91%
- $$
- Mission District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Garibaldis
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at 79%, it's clear many diners leave happy. Based on 214 opinions, with a strong 169 positive remarks, you can expect delicious food, especially the highly praised Chicken Milanese, and a great wine selection.
However, not every dish is a winner, as 32 negative comments point out. Some found the menu items a bit dated, with instances of dry halibut or tiny portions, and a few mentioned bland food. It seems consistency can be a slight issue, but overall, the positives outweigh the negatives.
Food
214
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
32
negative
13
neutral
169
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious food
- Excellent Milanese
- Great wine selection
What people don't like
- Dated menu items
- Tiny portions
- Bland food
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's a true neighborhood gem with great food, an impressive wine list, and excellent service. I particularly enjoyed the Chicken Milanese, which was wonderful, and the zucchini small plate special was absolutely delicious.
- chicken MilaneseThe chicken Milanese is simple but very well done.
- Chicken Milanesetheir Chicken Milanese on a daily basis. Insanely good
- menuthe menu was well balanced and very approachable
- wine listMy experience at this classic SF restaurant was generally positive, offering a solid dining experience. The food is pretty great, and they have a solid wine list, making it a good choice for a nice night out. However, the menu could benefit from an update; I've found myself thinking 'nothing on this menu is standing out to me' more than once, as some menu items feel a bit dated.
- cocktailscocktails that made the experience remotely tolerable
- dessertdessert was a great way to finish the meal
- dishesOur party of 5, including a NYC visitor, was seated on a quiet Tuesday night at the best possible table for good conversation, the round table in the back of the main floor. We had five different dishes and it was all superb. It was a wonderful evening.
- saladsThe salads were fresh and lively
- burgerThe burger was great
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at Garibaldis Restaurant was a bit mixed. While the salads were fresh and lively, and the sauce on the fish was lovely, the food took longer than expected to appear on our table and wasn't hot enough when it did. However, we were all super happy with our desserts - Cheesecake and the Chocolate Budino.
- meatballsthe meatballs are grisly and not very good
- burntIt was burnt... As if it was done on purpose.
- chopped salad 2.0Did not love the chopped salad 2.0
- coldNot only did it come to the table cold.
- desertthe desert just flat fell on its face basically just a chocolate pudding dirt cup
- dishesthe dishes we picked were mediocre
- duck breastDuck breast was not very well cooked
- executionthe execution was horrible
- gritsgrits that just wasn’t as warm as it should have been
If you're looking for a place with generally good food, especially their signature Chicken Milanese and a nice wine list, this restaurant is worth a visit. Just be aware that some menu items might feel a bit uninspired, and a few dishes have missed the mark for some diners.
Service (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 61% of the guests
Alright, lets talk service! Overall, its looking pretty good with a solid score of 7.4 and customer satisfaction at 72.6%. Many guests rave about the friendly service, attentiveness, and professional wait-staff, often highlighting individuals like Eric, Milton, and Carlos.
With 53 positive remarks out of 73, it seems top service and care truly shine through, making for a fantastic experience. However, it's not all smooth sailing, as 19 negative observations point to some areas needing attention. Some folks experienced slow service, inattentive servers, and issues with the host.
There were also mentions of the restaurant being understaffed, leading to difficulties getting attention and longer waiting times. So, while many enjoy excellent service, be aware of potential hiccups.
Service
73
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
19
negative
1
neutral
53
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Attentive service
- Professional wait-staff
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Inattentive servers
- Host issues
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's a true neighborhood gem with great food, an impressive wine list, and excellent service. I particularly enjoyed the Chicken Milanese, which was wonderful, and the zucchini small plate special was absolutely delicious.
- staffthe staff is friendly and accommodating
- reservationsMy experience at this huge restaurant was fantastic! They offer tons of seating and easy reservations, which made planning a breeze. The food and service were both great.
- wait staffThe wait staff is competent
- Carloschat with Carlos. Everything about that experience was exceptional.
- Carlos and teamCarlos and team are wonderful, so much so that we didn’t want to leave.
- EricEric took great care of us
- MiltonMilton was amazing. His energy, warmth, and attentiveness was incredible.
- ServiceService was impeccable
- accommodating in the kitchenThe risotto croquettes are unforgettable, all crispy on the outside and oozy and gooey on the inside. They are very accommodating in the kitchen and are willing to make substitutions and omissions without even batting an eye. Even the pickiest and toughest to please have left happy when we've brought them here.
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was that it offered nice Italian fare, seemingly catering to an older, conservative crowd. However, it was pricy with mediocre service. The use of paper sheets on top of the tablecloth was also noted.
- waiting timeMy experience at Garibaldis Restaurant was a bit mixed. While the salads were fresh and lively, and the sauce on the fish was lovely, the food took longer than expected to appear on our table and wasn't hot enough when it did. However, we were all super happy with our desserts - Cheesecake and the Chocolate Budino.
- attitudeThe host appears not to like his job
- entreesThree people received their entrees 40 minutes before the other 4
- hostthe host is working at a job for which he is ill suited
- hostessThe bartender was great, providing excellent service. However, the hostess was less than enthusiastic, which detracted from the overall experience.
- managementan overhaul in management needs to take place.
- phobic treatmentphobic treatment from our server
- saltHad to ask for salt several times before getting any
- serverWe had a party of 7 people, and three people received their entrees 40 minutes before the other four of us. The server was new, to be fair, BUT you do not give a party of 7 to a new and inexperienced server without help. The restaurant did comp the majority of our meal that evening, which is redeeming in a way.
If youre looking for a place with generally friendly and attentive staff, this spot is often a hit. Just be prepared that service can sometimes be slow or inattentive, especially if theyre understaffed or you encounter an unenthusiastic host.
Ambience (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 56% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits the mark, earning a 7.4 score and a solid 77.3% customer satisfaction. Many of the 51 positive remarks out of 66 total highlight it as a neighborhood spot with an elegant atmosphere and great location. Guests frequently praise the decor, lighting, and even the clean bathroom, making it a sophisticated yet relaxed setting for a friendly dinner or date.
However, not everyone found it perfect. The 10 negative comments often point to the noise level being too high, making it difficult to linger, and some found the place a bit crowded. A few also noted minor details like paper sheets on tables or issues with climate control, suggesting room for improvement in these areas.
Ambience
66
Reviews
77%
Satisfaction
10
negative
5
neutral
51
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Elegant atmosphere
- Neighborhood gem
- Clean bathrooms
What people don't like
- Can be noisy
- Can feel crowded
Often praised
- atmosphereThis was a wonderful neighborhood stop, a tad classy and local. I enjoyed sitting at the bar and soaking in the atmosphere and local gossip.
- barSit at the bar or a table
- placeThe service was impeccable, with friendly and attentive staff. It's easy to see why the place was bustling on a Thursday night. Eric, who served us at the bar, took great care of us.
- neighborhood restaurantQuiet smallish neighborhood restaurant
- tableOur party of 5, including a NYC visitor, was seated on a quiet Tuesday night at the best possible table for good conversation, the round table in the back of the main floor. We had five different dishes and it was all superb.
- chairsThe food was very good, with the chicken Milanese being a standout. The restaurant's style is modern and comfortable, featuring soothing lighting and comfortable chairs. However, the noise level was so high that it made it difficult to linger over the meal.
- clean bathroomClean bathroom
- dateor a date.
- decorOn a weekday evening at 9 pm, the place was packed, indicating its popularity. The decor is sophisticated and intimate. I will note that it does get noisy.
- dinner in the dining rooma nice dinner in the dining room
Frequently criticized
- placeThe service was also excellent; it was prompt and friendly. However, I did find the place to be a bit crowded and loud, which detracted slightly from the overall atmosphere.
- noiseThe decor is sophisticated and intimate. I will note that it does get noisy. Overall, this is a charming neighborhood gem and always worth a visit.
- climate controlThey need to improve their climate control.
- crowdeda little crowded
- noisyNoisy
- paper sheetsHowever, it was pricy with mediocre service. The use of paper sheets on top of the tablecloth was also noted.
- themeno real theme
If you're seeking a charming neighborhood gem with an elegant yet comfortable vibe, this spot is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that it can get a bit lively and noisy when busy, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter experience.
Value (5.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 22% of the guests
When it comes to value, some diners found real gems! Many appreciated the specials on food and drink and felt the bigger portions offered great value for money, making it truly worth it. With 8 positive remarks out of 21 total, these guests enjoyed what they considered a good price for their meal.
However, the experience wasnt universally positive. Many found the restaurant pricy and expensive, especially when faced with an undisclosed fixed-price dinner or an additional business expenses fee. These concerns contributed to a poor 38.1% customer satisfaction, even with an average 5.3 score, as 10 negative comments pointed to issues with the overall price' and value.
Value
21
Reviews
38%
Satisfaction
10
negative
3
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Spectacular food/drink specials
- Huge, worth-it portions
- Reasonable prices (high-end feel)
What people don't like
- Excessively high prices
- Undisclosed fixed-price dinner
- Hidden business fee
Often praised
- pricesThey have an awesome menu selection, and the service staff are great too. Plus, their prices are amazing here.
- Worth itWorth it
- bigger portionbigger portion 12$ for 4 pieces compared to 9$ for 2 pieces
- mealThe server was new, to be fair, BUT you do not give a party of 7 to a new and inexperienced server without help. The restaurant did comp the majority of our meal that evening, which is redeeming in a way. I'm sure this experience is not a typical one, but I'm not exactly inclined to go back to find out.
- priceat a good price
- specials on food and drinkspecials on food and drink are spectacular
- value for moneyMy experience at this restaurant was one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time. The portions are huge and definitely worth every penny. I will definitely be seeing you again soon!
Frequently criticized
- priceThe service was great, and the food quality was good overall. However, I rated it 3 stars because the duck breast was not very well cooked and came with almost no side, making it not worth the price. The profiterolles were really good, though I recommend the bigger portion as $12 for 4 pieces is a better deal compared to $9 for 2 pieces.
- business expenses feeadd an additional 5% "business expenses" fee
- expensiveit was expensive
- fixed-price dinnernot informed it was a price fixed dinner at $75 a plate until we got there
- price of winethe price of the wine perhaps.
- pricesalready high prices
- walletabout your wallet
If you're hunting for a deal, keep an eye out for specials and larger portions, as some diners found excellent value there. However, be prepared for potentially high prices, especially for wine or fixed-price menus, as many felt it was simply too expensive for what you get.
How are the prices at Garibaldis?
You’re looking at roughly 62 per person – reported by 26 diners. That puts it in the $61–$70 category. For an American Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, prices are quite varied. While the average hovers around 62, we see a good mix of diners spending less, in the $41–$50 and $51–$60 ranges, and others opting for a more premium experience, reaching up to the $91–$100 range. It seems there’s something for different budgets here!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 26 reviews.
A comparison of this restaurant’s value for money against similar ones in San Francisco.
Considering the variety in spending, we think the pricing feels fair for an American Restaurant, offering options for different dining preferences.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Garibaldis
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Exceptional Bar Experience with Delicious Food
My experience at the restaurant was exceptional, especially when I took the pro move to sit at the bar and order the pappardelle with a glass of pinot noir. Chatting with Carlos made the experience even better. We couldn't decide between the budino or the strawberry shortcake for dessert, so we had both – they were both delish!
:) Carlos and his team are wonderful; we genuinely didn't want to leave. My aunt and uncle, who live in the area, recommended this place, and I'm so glad I checked it out. I will definitely be back for sure next time I'm in town.
- pappardelle10
- pinot noir10
- Carlos10
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Milton made our birthday celebration special!
My mother and I had an incredible experience at this restaurant, largely thanks to our server, Milton. His energy, warmth, and attentiveness were truly outstanding. He went above and beyond to make my mother's birthday celebration special, enhancing the evening beyond just a nice meal.
Thank you, Milton!
- Milton10
- energy10
- warmth10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Family Dinner
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
6
Good Service, Okay Food
My experience at the restaurant was a mixed bag. The service was very good, and the atmosphere was enjoyable (rated 4/5). However, the food, while decent (rated 3/5), didn't quite meet my expectations, and my family shared this sentiment.
Specifically, the dish I ordered was served on a bed of grits that were not as warm as they should have been.
- service8
- food6
- atmosphere8
- grits3
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Favorite Neighborhood Gem for 20+ Years!
My wife Noël and I have been going to this restaurant for over 20 years, and it remains one of our favorite neighborhood gems! The food is consistently spot on and absolutely delicious. Whether you choose to sit at the bar or a table, the service is always friendly and welcoming.
We highly recommend putting it on your list!
- food10
- service10
- bar8
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Delicious Food and Friendly Service
My experience at the restaurant was fantastic! We enjoyed delicious food and drinks. To start, we shared a Caesar salad, which they thoughtfully split onto two plates for us.
The croquettes were delicious, and the spicy penne vodka had a great kick. The chicken Milanese was cooked very well, though a bit more lemon would have been ideal. The drinks were also great.
The service was speedy and super friendly.
- food9
- drinks9
- Caesar salad8
What Garibaldis offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Lunch
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Atmosphere
- Trending
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
Can you make reservations at Garibaldis?
Yes, Garibaldis accepts reservations, and dinner reservations are highly recommended to ensure you secure your table for an enjoyable evening. You can plan your visit for lunch or dinner.
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at Garibaldis?
At Garibaldis, you’ll find a trendy, upscale, and cozy atmosphere, ideal for a romantic outing. You can enjoy a great wine list, hard liquor, cocktails, beer, and coffee, alongside delicious small plates and desserts.
What is the overall dining experience like at Garibaldis?
Garibaldis offers a generally good dining experience, with an overall score of **7.5** and customer satisfaction at **75.1%**. The **Food** (7.8), **Service** (7.4), and **Ambience** (7.4) are well-regarded, though **Value** (5.3) is considered average.
What are some standout dishes or menu aspects at Garibaldis?
Many guests praise the **Chicken Milanese** and the fresh, lively **salads**. The **wine list** is also frequently mentioned as impressive and well-balanced, contributing positively to the meal.
Is Garibaldis considered good value for money?
Opinions on value are mixed. While some find the portions generous and the prices “amazing,” others note that it can be **expensive** and mention additional fees, placing its **Value** score at an average 5.3.