Seemor

The ProgressB+Worth Trying

Name: The Progress
Address: 1525 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, San Francisco, United States
Rating: 4.6

1525 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115 · Californian restaurant, Restaurant · 4.6/5 Google (1265 reviews)

Reservations

Vibrant Michelin-starred Californian spot with creative Asian-leaning plates, standout duck and seaweed noodles, excellent cocktails, but inconsistent dishes, small portions, and premium pricing.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

The Progress earns its Michelin star through exceptional food quality and strong service knowledge, with signature duck and seaweed noodles drawing loyal repeat visits. However, inconsistent execution across dishes and variable service pacing prevent grade A territory—diners should expect vibrant, creative Californian-fusion dining with occasional rough edges rather than flawless fine dining. The stylish modern setting and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for adventurous eaters comfortable with risk.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and lively with a hum of celebration, open-kitchen glow, and a bar that turns out deft, milk-washed cocktails. Guests rave that the duck can be "dream-level tender," while others flag uneven pacing and the occasional miss. Portions skew shareable but sometimes small, and while service is often genuinely welcoming, a few diners encountered brusque moments. Overall, it is a vibrant Michelin hangout more than a hushed temple of fine dining. The culinary approach leans creative Californian with confident Asian cues—think nori, yuzu, Sichuan heat, and citrusy crudos—executed with modern technique rather than theatrics. Dishes like the caviar potato cloud and brown-butter seaweed noodles win repeat orders, while bolder mashups can divide opinion. Expect a share-style flow guided by servers; it suits diners who enjoy adventurous flavor play and are comfortable with a few risks alongside big hits. Families should note that the menu skews bold and unconventional, without a dedicated kids menu. Some plates—like duck with peanut rice or simple crudos—could work for adventurous teens, but picky eaters may struggle. If you need guaranteed classics, consider nearby options better aligned with familiar comfort foods.

At a Glance

Signature duck and seaweed noodles are standouts
Smart, creative cocktails and helpful pairing guidance
Portions can be small and pricing is premium
Service pacing and attitude vary by night
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

michelin_star_caliber_with_relaxed_vibe
signature_duck_with_peanut_rice
creative_fusion_cocktail_program
open_kitchen_theater

What People Love

That first bite of tender duck with fragrant peanut rice
Playful textures like the airy caviar potato cloud
Original, balanced cocktails that elevate the meal
A lively room that feels special without stiffness
Knowledgeable staff who guide the adventurous menu

Points of Concern

Portion sizes vary; some sides are notably small for the price
Pacing can lag between courses on busy nights
A few dishes lean salty or have polarizing flavor combos
Parking is tricky; some note sketchy feel on the walk

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$90-120 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Anchor with duck or a seafood main, add seaweed noodles and a bright crudo, and share one or two vegetable plates to balance richness

Perfect For

Date night with cocktails and shared plates
Celebrations where lively energy beats formality
Foodies chasing inventive Californian-Asian flavors
Bar-seaters who like engaging with staff

Location Insights

Area: Lively Fillmore District corridor with upscale dining, bars, and concert venues; draws locals and destination diners.

Safety: Generally safe with active nightlife; some guests note sketchy feel and longer walks from parking at night.

Nearby: Near Japantown, live-music venues, boutique retail; mixed residential and commercial foot traffic.

Fillmore DistrictThe Fillmore District is known for its rich jazz history and evolving dining scene, featuring a mix of trendy restaurants, bars, and longstanding local eateries. It offers a lively yet neighborhood-oriented atmosphere with a blend of cultural influences and a focus on community.

Lower FillmoreLower Fillmore is particularly known for its concentration of upscale dining, boutique shops, and nightlife, attracting a hip crowd seeking contemporary culinary experiences in a walkable urban setting.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday17:30–22:00 Tuesday17:30–22:00 Wednesday17:30–22:00 Thursday17:30–22:00 Friday17:30–22:00 Saturday17:30–22:00 Sunday17:30–22:00

Available: Reservations

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