Sam’s Grill & Seafood Restaurant

What you need to know

Sam’s Grill is the fifth-oldest restaurant in the United States. It opened in 1867 as M.B. Moraghan’s, was renamed Sam’s after Sam Zenovich bought it in 1922, and moved to its current Bush Street location in 1946. White tablecloths, tuxedoed waiters, curtained private booths upstairs, and a menu that hasn’t strayed from old-school grill house standards.

The Food

Mesquite-grilled fish is the focus. Sand dabs, petrale sole, and rex sole rotate based on the catch. The cioppino is a strong order. Steaks, oysters, and a long list of classic preparations round out the menu. The Hangtown Fry, a Gold Rush-era oyster omelet, has been on the menu since the start.

The Space

The curtained booths upstairs are the experience to book. Private, lined with wood paneling, with a buzzer to call the waiter. Below them, a long counter and bar fill the main floor. The space looks and feels like 1946.

Practical Info

Price: Entrees $30 to $55
Reservations: Recommended via OpenTable, especially for booths
Hours: Lunch and dinner Tue through Sat. Closed Sun-Mon.
Address: 374 Bush Street, Financial District
Getting there: Montgomery BART is a 5-minute walk. Valet parking available evenings.

📍 Location: This restaurant is in Financial District. Explore the neighborhood →