Sam’s Grill & Seafood Restaurant

What you need to know

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 room has not been remodeled since 1946 and looks the part.

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.