skeros
(3) reviews
5/29/2008
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
Experience and atmosphere is great and food is pretty good but the kitchen hit a couple bumps when bringing out the food. Part of the chicken was cold - go figure. But I liked my steak and really like the idea that they try to use sustainable food. ”
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Sheilarenee7
(12) reviews
3/2/2008
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
Rude waitstaff and very noisy. Not a place to take a date or anyone you want to talk to. The food was average. I had the chicken with curry and cumin. It was ok. No where near as good as Range's roasted chicken. My husband had the cod in banana leaves. It was way too spicey(hot) and but bland at the same time. How did they manage that? ”
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sillygoose408
(54) reviews
10/23/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I've taken almost all my friends here for their birthdays. Spacious with lots of candles. Best to get an outdoor table and come right around sunset. Great service and the food is delicious with a changing menu. The quail is excellent, fish are fresh. Altogether, thumbs up.
”
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lafontaine
(50) reviews
9/16/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ With all the high ratings we just had to try this place. Either it was an off night (Wed) or they keep their fish one or two maybe three days to long. My entree was old to the point of a bad smell, when advising the waiter; he picked it up like I just offended him and returned it to the kitchen. Wow, what service! Didn't ask if I wanted something else, then he returned with the same entree but this one was fine. Kind of weird. The other entree was a dried out pork chop that my friend just gave up on. We both didn't care for the atmosphere here, a little too tense and uneasy. Not a relaxing kind of place difficult to describe. The movie is distracting so I am not sure why you come here, Both of us cut the evening short and decided to get some Mitchell's ice cream to save the night! ”
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h2opoloali
(33) reviews
9/7/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Read the reviews- had to try! Arrived at the time of our reservation (7), seated immediately. The atmosphere is awesome- three long rows of tables in a pretty big courtyard. Candles on the table. We ordered a bottle of wine from their extensive wine list and were very happy with the choice. Our waitress was very helpful and told us about the daily changing menu and her suggestions. We started with the antipasto- ricotta cheese wrapped in mozzerella with salame and delicious tomatoes. Next we both had the soup which was jalepeno, lime, cilantro soup which was awesome- spicy and light. For our entrees, I had the linquine with vegetables (lots of them) and the boyfriend had the lavender pork which I tried and actually liked (I hate pork). Then, as it got dark and the movie started - so cool!- we ordered the lavender creme brulee. The crispy toppy mixed with the creamy inside was amazing!! We had a great experience and want to go back for brunch!! ”
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acupoftea
(1) review
9/4/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
Best meal I've had in the city in the past 3 years. Unbelievable! We started with a selection of oysters, recommended by our waiter. Not really a fan of oysters but appreciated the wide selections of types to choose from. This dinner for us was all about the pork. We had the ribs in a sweet salty sauce that melted with the meat. My stuffed pork chop came filled with a scrumptious mixture of truffle mushrooms and peaches and with a lavendar rub atop. MMMMMmmmmm. The salmon was cooked to perfection. Moist and lightly seasoned to enjoy to simple flavors. Presentation was beautiful, clean and crisp. All of the waitstaff were attentive and kind, except for the hostess. Watch out for her. Very snappy and full of rude comments. Not quite the way you want to start or end your meal, but she's the only thing we can really complain about. Amazing food--many kudos to the chef! ”
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sumichba
(119) reviews
5/14/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ We shared the fruit de mer, fromage d' Affinois, carpaccio, and the sardines- FANTASTIC. Husband had the curry chicken- so tender and tasty. For dessert he had the cannoli which he says isn't a true cannoli, but good and I had the lavendar creme brulee...definitely a place to go back to. We didn't know to ask to sit outside, but inside with the fire place was nice. ”
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jillduffy
(180) reviews
4/9/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I didn't know to request a table outside to see the film, but I still really enjoyed FC's sophisticate décor, exhaustive wine list, and some very tasty morsels. I was hesitant to order the simplistic fried calamari appetizer, but the plate in its entirety was immaculate. Hama Hama oysters, in tandem with squid, were battered very lightly and fried, yet the oyster nugget stayed remarkably soft, moist & delicate; a truffle mayo introduced an upscale element but wasn't needed. Tuna tartar with asian flavors was served with crisp wanton noodles. 4 of us passed around nibbles of our entrees ($25-ish); my monster pork chop with braised apples, endive & risotto gallette (I'll eat anything masquerading as cake) was the clear winner. One diner had the thinnest slices of duck I've ever seen—we all thought it was steak. Boyfriend had seafood chowder with scallops, cod, and if I recall halibut served with a puff pastry shaped like a fishtail. We shared 3 desserts (about $7.50 ea.): crepes, crème b ”
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LISAD
(109) reviews
2/20/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
I came here on Sunday for brunch with a group of friends and I have to say, it was very good! Not your usual brunch dishes. Very interesting twist on some old standard dishes.
We started with the hand made pop tarts and then we each tried a different dish. Everything was excellent!
The service could have been a bit better, but the food more that made up for it!! ”
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spazatck326
(17) reviews
2/15/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
Always a good experience at this wonderful restaurant. I love the decor of this place, it has a loft feel to it. One of those restaurants where you can feel very comfortable at. I like this restaurant so much that I have the number on speed dial on my cell. ”
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h
(11) reviews
2/7/2007
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “
Good for brunch and for dinner. It seemed slightly on the expensive side for dinner, but not outrageously so. For brunch, the slow cooked scrambled eggs are generally the best. (One time they were pure garlic though - not good at all). Very good cocktails. ”
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KMK
(119) reviews
11/2/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Brunch at Foreign Cinema does indeed feel like a foreign experience. We walked down a long, cold entryway and into the large patio outside. It was covered with heating lamps, all of which were off, even though it was quite chilly. We ordered a "pop tart"...raspberry...and it was delicious. My crab frittata was a bit dry and uninteresting, while my hubby's Croque Madame was absolutely dripping with gooey cheese. One bite and he was full. The atmosphere put me off a bit, because I felt like it was too much Asphalt Jungle and too little A Room With a View. Too bad they allow smoking in the patio...it was extremely stinky and made eating unappealing to both of us. We'd definitely consider eating indoors next time, and perhaps we will return for dinner instead. ”
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cja2k1
(10) reviews
7/17/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ One of those rare places in the City that opened HOT and is still a destination spot. The crowd is always changing depending on the day and time, though it seems like more tourists have found this place lately so they seem to overshadow the locals (how do you tell? they ask to be seated outside with with their shorts and sleeveless shirts during the summer in SF, with not a sweater or jacket to be found). Still, the food is good, the waitstaff friendly and knowledgable, and the atmosphere is the best part.
”
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cheeselover
(79) reviews
6/16/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I went for dinner last night and had to write today because I have tell everyone about how great the experience of dining was at Foreign Cinema. Wonderful wine list and the food is perfect. Try the Sancerre- they have had it on list for a while, and for a reason. It was a delight to try the duck confit and the beet salad was to die for. Go... ”
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Angela Von Buelow
(227) reviews
5/26/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I have avoided Foreign Cinema; something about the concept troubled me. I thought, “is this another style over substance restaurant? Is this a complementary culinary concept or a cheesy gimmick?” May 2006, several friends coming to the BIG city to celebrate a special Birthday. My mission (as the city mouse), to find the perfect celebratory restaurant that could accommodate a large party, offer something for everyone and have an artistic urban feel that the country mice couldn't find at home. Bullseye! The concept that I feared might be over the top cheese was in fact charming and did not distract from the company, food and wine. The winning “feature” aka entrée was by far the Lavender Scented Pork Chop, simply lovely. I was impressed by the industrial elegant décor, service and food. Improvements? desserts could use some work, we ordered everything, none of which were memorable. cocktails, surprisingly below average, stick with the extensive wine list and you'll be better off. Enjoy! ”
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firefly00
(53) reviews
5/20/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ This was down the street form where I was living a few years ago. I remember, during lulls in the conversation briefly looking at the movie on the wall, but what I love about Foreign Cinema is the whole experience: Walking down the candle lit corridor, and entering the patio, where there are either individual tables or communal tables. The braised lamb cheeks (I think that's what I had)...the exposed brick walls...I love this place. ”
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sierra01
(5) reviews
1/23/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I can't help but love this place! It's exactly where I want to be after a long week and I finally have a chance together with my food and wine loving buddies. The atmosphere is excellent, you won't find anywhere else like in the city. Deffinately sit outside (there are heaters). Admittedly the entrees are a bit lacking, in fact I've never been thrilled with any of them. But the apps and desserts are fabulous. There is a great selection of oysters and a good fruits de mer plate, the baked formage, while simple, is very yummy. Great wine list and a knowledgeable staff who will happily tell you about any your uncertain of. Coming here really makes you feel like you've gotten away, even if only for an hour or two ”
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eschmitt
(1) review
1/10/2006
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Some of the best food in San Francisco in a spectacular setting. This is not the place to go for architectural (precariously balanced piles) or experimental food. I've never had a bad meal here. Its all about perfect ingredients prepared with finesse here. The atmosphere is great also. Two bars, the flickering movie seen through the windows (or in front of you if you're outside), a new gallery space bordering the courtyard (there was some great work on display last time I was there). ”
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RoxyCat
(59) reviews
10/4/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I went here with a group of people to just hang and have some drinks so I can't comment on the food. The drinks were OK but the music was GREAT! They had a guy there spinning and mixing. It was awesome. Will definitely go back for the after hours atmosphere. ”
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bigtongue
(23) reviews
9/13/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I have been there twice over the last 2 months, on a Friday night (was in the main dining room) and on a sunday for brunch (on the patio).
I really enjoyed both experiences.
The food was great for dinner (I had the lavender porkchops, I loved it).
The brunch was good too.
They have a pretty extensive wine list.
The waitress was very nice and friendly in both occasions.
I like the atmosphere there and would definitely recommend it! ”
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hang
(13) reviews
9/9/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Nice decor, good ambiance for brunch, thou expensive.
I like the very clean food. One advice thou: the beef carpaccio I had didn't need that horseradish sauce which completely overwhelmed the taste of the good beef...a little bit of extra virgin olive oil with a bit of crushed capers would do marvels here ”
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green tea smoothie
(63) reviews
8/12/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ on some nights they show foreign films out on the patio. about the food, we had the (super rare, had to send it back for more fire)lavender scented porkchops...i know weird right? lavender's for massage oils and potpourri not food. desserts were very good but overall it was hard getting the attention of server. i think it's better to get a cocktail and dessert. cool scenery. ”
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lottanotta
(132) reviews
7/25/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Expensive, but tasty and fun. Dishes have never blown me away though except for the raw bar! Highly recommend spending your money on the oysters. Go for the experience. Not to be missed. Brunch was a disappointment. (I think they were understaffed that day though). ”
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tangedmond
(13) reviews
6/18/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ At first I was simly attracted to the notion of watching a foreign movie while dining out. It turned out to be a pleasant surprise that I was indeed impressed with the quality of the food and the service provided by the Foreign Cinema.
I highly recommended the oyster bar. The restaurant featured a wide array of oyster selection. And, for the quality and freshness of the top-notch oysters, charing $2 each was a complete bargain. We also had cherrystone clams that were to die for. Carpacio was excellent, almost comparable to the ones we had in Venice. And, the portion of the carpacio was by far more than we would get in other restaurants.
Enough praises about the food. I hate it when we all have to be pretencious while eating out. The environment is just lovely. Good friendly service!! ”
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evilcindy
(55) reviews
5/17/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ The restaurant is cute but the food is so-so. I wouldn't make a repeat visit just because there are other restaurants in the city, for the money and the ambience, with better food. We live in foodie capital and a cosmopolitan vibe just doesn't cut it. ”
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jchansky
(35) reviews
4/30/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I think this restaurant is beautful. And it's kinda hip too. The whole movie playing outdoos is really neat and you feel almost like you could be in Europe. Almost. Cuz then when you go outside and see all the f'ed up people on crack, you know you're just in the Mission. Not that i don't love the Mission. Cuz i do. Don't yell at me.
Oh, also- the steak is VERY delicious. It's a filet mignon and the best i think i've ever had. Like buttah' i tell you. ”
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mburkart4
(6) reviews
4/28/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I went to Foreign Cinema last night for the first time. First of all I thought it was in the old theater down the street and was expecting a dark grundgy place serving fried foods and draft beer. My friends failed to tell me it was NOT in that building, but rather a very nice clean well lit place that served nothing fried or greasy, and that was fine by me. We had a nice white Burgundy, I did not catch the name, but I am not a white wine drinker and actually liked this one. I am vegetarian and although there is not much for a veg. I did manage to find something to eat. The baked fromage d'Affinois was yummy on the crusty bread. The rose endive salad was great, but could have had more or else larger bits of beets. I chose the Orecchiette for my entree and although it looked like Annie's Shells & Cheese it was even better that that. My specialty is dessert, but their dessert list was not for me, not enough chocolate! Coffee was good and strong. ”
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TasteBuddy
(106) reviews
4/12/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I honestly want to like this restaurant, because it just looks soooo cool. It reminds me of chic New York restaurants I've been to. I just can't justify a positive review since the food is uninteresting (tasteless chicken) and the service curt (waiter never once cracked a smile- maybe just got botox). Can I really give it a positive review simply based on the movie projected on the back wall and the chic entry hallway? My answer is a firm and determined 'no!' If you're going to charge me $30 for a plate of bland laced with a big dollop of rude then, Foreign Cinema, you are not just foreign, you are alien. For only an alien would come here and assume that that is acceptable. This is San Francisco and we San Franciscans demand good food and good service! Yay! Hooray for me and my first negative review!!! You guys should do it, too. It's liberating. ”
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Nish
(4) reviews
3/9/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ You'd have thought Foreign Cinema would have disappeared with the dot com crash, but it's more alive than ever. A new husband-wife chef team has made the french-inspired food reason enough to visit, but FC is also great just to enjoy cocktails inside or out, taking in a film as backdrop while you're there. Their Sunday Brunch is a splurge, but a perfect way to spend an afternoon.
”
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coffeegal
(2) reviews
3/7/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ My husband and I had our 20th anniversary dinner at Foreign Cinema recently. It was a last-minute reservation, because we had planned to be out of town. I was a bit nervous to celebrate at a place I hadn't been to or heard from friends about, but we took a chance (despite some reviews which criticized the service here). We had nothing but positive experiences to relay. We had an early reservation to allow us to attend a jazz show afterward, so the restaurant was very quiet when we arrived. Our waiter was attentive, knowledgeable, and supremely gracious, starting our evening with complementary champagne when he learned of our special occasion. We enjoyed one of the most delicious meals in recent experience (oysters, a delicious soup, perfectly prepared sea bass, pork chops, and excellent coffee). Not inexpensive, but the price was in line with the quality of the experience. I'd love to go again. ”
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wjboring
(180) reviews
2/22/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I suppose some people go to Foreign Cinema for the movie, but most people think of it as simply part of the decor. One of only a few "patio styled" restaurants in SF - it does make it nice on those warmer days. It's hard to dislike the menu with so many great seafood items and for me the tasty carpaccio. Service was pretty good, the dining room can get a little noisy. ”
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jadegyrlee
(106) reviews
2/10/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ The food here is not that good and overpriced for what you get. I think there are much better places than this for food. I went with a large party, so I wasn't able to see the movie screen at all (because they sat us upstairs). They said we could watch the movie afterwards, but dinner took a long time with so many people. Too bad, b/c they were playing the original italian Job. I remember the Mojito there being very good. I think it's a place to go for the atmosphere and the ambiance. Not worth it if you go with a large group of friends, b/c they're bound to sit you upstairs (and you get no view of the movie). I would like to go there again just with one other person and see how that goes. ”
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kushnir
(405) reviews
1/5/2005
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ You feel like your going to get mugged in the corridor going into the restaurant. The best thing about this place is the bar! The drinks are full and cold! The food was a little off the night we were there, The ambiance can get a little loud but when they have movies, it'S kind of a fun place to go, if you like to eat and watch! The salad was the best part of the dinner, the balance of dressing was perfect, I almost ordered another one instead of my entree.Their oyster bar is a must go! The wait staff sometimes has an attitude, but so do I! ”
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stuuchef
(12) reviews
12/25/2004
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ I've had mixed experiences with the wait staff, but it's definitely unique and a cool place to take out-of-towners. If you don't sit outside and go when a movie is on, you're sure to be disappointed. I say skip the food and just have dessert outside if it's a nice night. ”
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punks
(110) reviews
11/4/2004
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ Fun atmosphere. I had the baked frommage D'Affinois with fingerling potatos and roasted garlic. Deeeelightfully yummy. Split a spinach salad with friend pancetta, sweet red onions and toasted hazelnuts. Split the chicken with madras curry coating but it had five spice in it too. I know because I was able to recreate it at home! Tasted very similar! Nice place for a date. Friendly wait staff. ”
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wyld4yoo
(212) reviews
11/2/2004
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ The best thing Foreign Cinema has going for it is the atmosphere. A very unique setting with an outdoor patio which shows old movies on the building wall. A very romantic spot for dates, although the food is just mediocre. With this cool concept, maybe a spruced up menu would draw me back. ”
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lina70
(54) reviews
10/23/2004
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Cuisine:
Californian Mediterranean
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Mission |
| “ This is one of those places where the food isn't quite as good at is looks like it's going to be or seems like it should be. Not that it's bad. The atmosphere is certainly interesting. We sat inside; outside on a warm evening would be better. ”
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