Scala's Bistro

(415) 395-8555

432 Powell St (In the Sir Francis Drake hotel, at Sutter St, Union Square)
San Francisco, CA 94102 37.7886 -122.4083

Get Map & Directions »

Neighborhoods: Downtown, Northeast

SCALASBISTRO.COM

Hours:

Daily 8-10:30am and 11:30am-midnight

Price:

$$

Last updated 8.12.11

Category:

Restaurants

Payment Methods:

American Express, Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard

Restaurant Special Features:

Romantic Dining, Date Spot, Group Dining

Cuisine:

Italian

Other Locations:

What People Are Saying About Scala's Bistro

Featured Review

Patrick Heig

Contributor

Stone-tiled floors, soaring ceilings and abundant mahogany give this downtown bistro a grand, turn-of-the-century feel that the nouveau-rustic French-Italian menu compliments well. A well-dressed and mature mix of after-work crowd, theatergoers, and well-informed out-of-towners fill the comfy booths, which dampen the din of what would otherwise be an overly loud restaurant. The expansive menu, reconceptualized by local celeb-chef Jennifer Biesty in 2009, reflects the modern movement towards old-world technique: pastas and cheeses made fresh daily in the kitchen go with house-cured charcuterie,…

Editor's Tips

Parking:
Parking around Union Square can be supremely frustrating; valet is $11 with validation.
The Extras:
Groups of 20 to 70 may dine in the ornate Renaissance Room in the adjoining Sir Francis Drake Hotel.
The Extras:
Groups of 15 to 70 may dine in the ornate Renaissance Room in the adjoining Sir Francis Drake Hotel.
1 Star Rating: Poor

12/26/08

Bad Service and Worse Food

by lolamac at Citysearch

I was a big fan of Scala's Bistro until about a year ago, when -- after dozens and dozens of business and leisure meals there -- I was issued the ultimate insult: bad service, bad food, and my complaint to the manager was absolutely ignored even though I had left my phone number and email address for a response (he seems to greatly favor and fawn over women under 30, so perhaps I didn't fit his demographic of whom to cater or listen to). I stayed away for about 11 months but ventured in last week after Christmas shopping, and was so disappointed that I will no longer waste another dime or minute there. The food was lackluster, the service desultory, and the bartender/server at the bar seemed bored and uninterested in service. Stay away -- there are many other places to be fed WELL on Union Square -- places that may actually CARE about your business.

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

12/17/08

Always at home

by baldeagle123 at Citysearch

A favorite that we have frequented at least 10 times in the past three to four years- the service is great and the food wonderful. Reservations are a must ( they keep your prefernces on the coputer so no need to worry about whewree you wil sit) or the walk-in wait is forever! Try the calamarie-to die for! The wine list could be a bit more varied but then such is life. An excellent place to sit and relax while shopping at Union Square! Noisey due to high s ceilings but a great place to enjoy

4 Star Rating: Recommended

07/11/08

Outstanding! Fantastic food and service.

by hargyle at Citysearch

I stopped into Scala's after a long, long day travelling and sightseeing - what a great place to finish the day. Hostess, servers, even busboys were so pleasant and warm, and excellent guides for both the food and wine menu. I loved the salmon with a crispy skin, served on garlic mashed potatoes. A real pleasure!

1 Star Rating: Poor

02/28/08

DO NOT give Credit Card Number- Terrible Customer Service

by CParrish at Citysearch

During OracleOpen World in November 2007 a handful of colleagues and I (from a very small company) made reservations at this "acclaimed" restaurant. Unfortunately, travel plans changed and we were unable to make our reservations. We were informed that a $25.00 fee would be charged, however we received a $200.00 charge and the Scala's management claimed it was a $25.00 fee per person. They did NOT inform me of this "policy" initially and management conveniently did not return my calls nor credit the money back.

With that said- DO NOT give them your credit card number- they don't care. I was incredibly disappointed and frustrated that money was more important to them than their reputation.

  • Pros: Great Website
  • Cons: Lack of Communication
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

11/19/07

Perfect start to a great day

by hdelgros at Citysearch

My sisters and I meet in "The City" every year for a full day of eating, Christmas shopping, eating and Christmas shopping - and every year we start this fabulous day at Scala's. Best coffee in the known world (and this coming from a faithful Starbucks fan), wonderful mimosas, excellent breakfasts; and all of this in a gorgeous, warm, elegant and rich setting that makes us feel both special and welcome. The service is invariably attentive, friendly and efficient - no snobby waiters here. Our annual "SF Spree" just wouldn't be the same if we didn't kick it off with a magnificent meal at our favorite bistro!

  • Pros: Atmosphere, Coffee, Service, AM Table Availability
  • Cons: No Parking, Restrooms Far Away in Hotel
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