Mecca
San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone: (415) 621-7000
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Dolores Street
- Hours:
- Tue-Wed 5pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 5pm-2am, Sun 5pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Mecca – by Daniel Liszt
The Scene
Small groups listening to worldly lounge grooves sip sugar-rimmed gimlets at the center bar. Shimmering candelabras, a crimson color scheme and expert lighting allow the well-heeled crowd to look their best. Black-and-white movies flash on a screen above the decorative piano, while affable waitstaff explain the menu's seasonal highlights in delicious detail.
The Food
Chef Randy Lewis relocated to the Bay after redefining modern Southern cuisine in New Orlean. The change of scenery influences the menu at Mecca, where diners are treated to inventive fare. The grilled flatbread is a superb starter: Crisp strips of savory jamon Serrano rest atop a sweet membrillo (quince paste). A tried-and-true char-grilled filet mignon, prepared perfectly medium pink, is as good as that from a fine SF steakhouse. However, there are more unique dishes that will delight, including the tuna crusted with panko (Japanese breadcrumbs), which is bolstered by a vinegar-and-bing-cherry reduction and cushioned by mushroom-spinach risotto.
Hits: This romantic restaurant is great for impressing a love interest, plus the ample portions will leave everyone satisfied.
Misses: The tables beneath the front window are spaced too close to one another. Privacy requires a request for a back booth.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Save MoneyA daily happy hour (5-7pm) offers $7 infusion cocktails and half-priced oysters.
Look GoodThis is a see-and-be-seen destination.
The ExtrasAsk about renting the restaurant for private parties.
User Reviews for Mecca
03/13/2008 Posted by brian_the_knife
I lucked out and slid into Mecca with a party of two on a Saturday evening. The first table they seated us at displeased me, but they were more than happy to move me to a more suitable table. The food and service were solid, but I couldn't help but feel like the menu was too limited...just not enough choices. It seems like the chef went a bit too minimalist. The minimalism worked well for the restaurant's decor. A large centrally located oval bar is the restaurant's anchor, and it works well. Exposed air ducts and piping give the eatery a hip industrial feel while keeping it's upscale appeal.
01/15/2008 Posted by carmelajay
I went for brunch with friends....none of us are interested in going back. Too bad...I use to love this place. My food was cold...I sent it back and just the plate came back burning hot....my food was still the same on the inside.
