Reviews & Ratings for John's Grill

10/15/11

Great service.

by robinson ltd at Citysearch

We really enjoyed being introduced to Johns Grill.

It is a treat to see this kind of service still exists

in such a classic restaurant!

CL & Samantha Robinson

11/22/10

Great little steakhouse

by Kuryakin at Citysearch

We were, I admit, attracted to the Maltese Falcon connection, and expected only so so food, but were were pleasantly surprised. The steaks were excellent and side vegetables and potato came with the entree. We were seated in the Jazz room upstairs with a lot of people. This not a large restaurant and they fill every inch of space with a table, so if you are good at eating in a crowd this is the place! Overall - better than average food, good prices, cool decor with movie still pictures on walls, quaint setting, liked it.

12/30/09

Went for lunch - OUTSTANDING!

by DRomulous at Citysearch

I've only been the one time, so take my review as you will... Was up in SF to watch the Emerald bowl in 2007. Stopped in on a whim for lunch with the wife and kids. The seating is VERY TIGHT, and probably not the best place for kids... but I tell you, the frutti di mari was OUTSTANDING. the price was great as well, i believe it came in around $13 and change. I'd come back without hesitation.

• Pros: Amazing Frutti di Mari
• Cons: tight, not great for kids

03/09/09

john's "not so great" grill

by mix001 at Citysearch

The experience here was not so pleasant as sounded by locals. We were first sat a small small small table near the kitchen where the waiters frequently pass and patrons going to the second floor which we never saw but am sure would have been a more of a better experience. My wife and I both ordered steaks my wife the filet myself the ribeye both cooked as ordered but we found nothing special here. Our waiter seemed to careless of our time being spent here and at the end no dessert offered only coffee we were not pleased and wanted to leave right away. Our entire dining stay here from entrance to exit was a suprising 45 min. However we could not let that sour taste and waste of time ruin the night we left right away to Morton's (two blocks away) for their sigature hot lava cake that quickly turned the night back around to a pleasant night thank you Morton's for saving the day or night.

• Pros: a landmark
• Cons: does not live up to a great steakhouse

08/03/08

"City" charm and history to be cherished .

by MrsPumpkin at Citysearch

We visit The City from our home on the central coast whenever possible. A dinner at John's is always included. I lived in Burlingame as a child, so this resturant is part of my childhood. One can find a great steak in many newer places, but the service, great food and atmosphere all make the prices here acceptable. If you want to take in the charm of the City then John's is an important destination. For those who live in SF it is familiar and welcoming. Perhaps not the greatest place for economy minded tourists.

• Pros: classic city atmosphere and ambiance
• Cons: not recommended for "economy" seekers

07/26/08

Most Excellent

by apexron at Citysearch

My wife and I dinned there in June 2008. The seafood and the service was outstanding. My wife had the Seafood Cannelloni and I had the Seafood Cioppino A La Marinara. The first floor dining is compact and semi-private. Wine list was very adequate with good choices. All and all a great place.

• Pros: Great place!
• Cons: None

Editorial Review by Citysearch Editors

by Contributor at Citysearch

Historic downtown joint serves steak and seafood specialties like handmade lobster ravioli; full bar and extensive, Napa Valley-focused wine list.

10/04/06

Great Experience

by tm06 at Citysearch

Dined here while taking in the new Westfield Mall. Having lived here in the past and just returned from the east coast this is the next best find without going to NY for a clubby restaurant. Our reservation was honored the moment we walked in and the service was professional. Our steaks were big enough for 2. The lobster ravioli was to die for and they make big old fashion martini's. I notice other reviewers find the prices high; they really were not for the quality. It is still probably 30% less than Mortons or Ruth Chris and let's not forget we are dining in a place full of rich history.

• Pros: Excellent service and atmosphere
• Cons: Very popular and busy

07/28/06

Obscenely Overpriced

by dmwalker7867 at Citysearch

I do not understand the popularity of this restaurant. Yes, they have the historical charm of having been mentioned in The Maltese Falcon. However, as a dining establishment, John's Grill falls terribly short. I suppose that if 25%-35% were shaved from the bill I'd feel that the menu prices fit the value, but this is not the case. Do yourself a favour, if the John's Grill of the Maltese Falcon is an experience which you must have, have a drink at the bar but avoid the "tourist trap" menu at all costs.

07/26/06

Step back in time

by mw1999 at Citysearch

John's Grill is one of a few genuine historical restaurants in San Francisco. By stepping inside the well-reserved decor, you felt like you went back in the 1950's. The food was yet simple but scrumptious. The staffs were very attentive and friendly which was perfect for the casually dinner with my group of friends. Highly recommmended for people who looking for authentic food in the distinctive place.