Seemor
Gary DankoA-Worth Trying
800 North Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109
· Fine dining restaurant, American restaurant, Bar
· 4.6/5 Google (2103 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery
Classic SF fine dining with polished service, customizable tasting menus, generous portions, and some consistency/value quibbles; go for the experience, cheese cart, and scallops more than boundary-pushing cuisine.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Gary Danko delivers exceptional service hospitality and solid food quality with standout dishes like scallops and oysters with caviar, earning its reputation as a San Francisco landmark. However, inconsistent execution across visits and tight table spacing prevent grade A territory. The customizable tasting format and generous portions appeal to special-occasion diners seeking refined, classic French-California cuisine with attentive service.
Restaurant Summary
A landmark on the waterfront, Gary Danko feels at once polished and welcoming, with old-world service and choreographed touches that make celebrations feel special. Diners describe staff who seem to anticipate needs, plus extras like a tableside cheese cart. One guest summed it up: "The room hummed with energy while the team made everything effortless." The cooking leans classic French-influenced California rather than flashy, a refined, produce-driven approach where scallops, oysters with caviar, and lobster dishes shine. The format is a customizable three-to-five-course tasting, letting you pull favorites from any section. Execution is often excellent, though a few diners reported inconsistent dishes or desserts that did not land. If you crave avant-garde thrills, look elsewhere; if you value precision, portions, and service, you will likely be happy. Families do visit, and the team can suggest kid-friendly options even if not printed. That said, the menu reads adult and portions are generous; simple items like risotto, salmon, or ice cream help. Space can feel tight, so strollers are tricky, and prices are high with a surcharge—plan accordingly.
At a Glance
- Customizable tasting menu lets you pick favorites across courses
- Attentive, polished service with thoughtful occasion touches
- Generous portions and extras like the cheese cart
- Table spacing tight; carts can disrupt flow
- 7% surcharge adds to already high bill
What Sets It Apart
- customizable_tasting_format
- tableside_cheese_cart
- old_world_service_choreography
- generous_extras_and_takeaways
What People Love
- Being pampered by a choreographed, gracious team
- Mix-and-match tasting format
- Seared scallops and caviar-topped oysters
- Abundant portions and take-home sweets
- Tableside cheese cart theater
Points of Concern
- Pricing is high, with an added ~7% surcharge that some find irksome
- Quality can vary by dish; a few reports of bland or undercooked desserts
- Room can feel crowded; carts and tight aisles disrupt comfort
- Vegetarian variety is limited despite some flexible substitutions
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$185-210 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Opt for the 4-course ($158) to balance variety and portion size
- Seafood track: Oysters, scallops, salmon, then cheese cart
- Meat track: Tartare, duck breast, beef filet, then souffle
- Consider caviar upgrade ($105-$165) for a luxe opener
Perfect For
- Anniversary or milestone dinner
- Business entertaining with classic polish
- Seafood lovers seeking refined preparations
- Out-of-towners wanting a SF icon near the waterfront
Location Insights
Area: Tourist-heavy waterfront zone with landmark attractions; draws celebratory diners and visitors seeking upscale experiences.
Safety: Generally well-patrolled tourist area; busy foot traffic; typical urban precautions at night.
Nearby: Next to Ghirardelli Square and near Fisherman's Wharf; garages, hotels, waterfront promenade close by.
North BeachThe dining scene in North Beach is characterized by classic Italian eateries, casual cafes, and trendy bars. The social atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a mix of traditional family-run restaurants and modern establishments catering to a diverse crowd. The area is pedestrian-friendly and known for its bustling streets and vibrant nightlife.
Telegraph HillTelegraph Hill is a quieter, more residential micro-neighborhood within North Beach, known for its scenic views and proximity to Coit Tower. Dining options here tend to be more upscale and intimate, attracting visitors looking for a refined experience away from the busier main streets.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery
View full analysis on Seemor →