Greens Restaurant San Francisco: A Vegetarian Gem by the Bay With Stunning Views and Creative Cuisine

Name: Greens
Address: Building A, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94123, USA, San Francisco, 94123, US
Telephone: (415) 771-6222
Price range: $$

Nestled in the historic Fort Mason area of San Francisco at Building A, 2 Marina Boulevard, Greens Restaurant is a celebrated destination for vegetarian and vegan dining enthusiasts seeking a remarkable culinary experience with breathtaking bay views. Known for its inventive and sustainable vegetarian dishes, Greens has earned a reputation as a must-visit spot that combines fresh, flavorful cuisine with an inviting and vibrant atmosphere.

Elevated Vegetarian Dining Experience

Greens Restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring imaginative vegetarian and vegan dishes that surprise and delight the palate. Signature highlights include mouthwatering pasta, creative pizzas, unique potato cakes, crispy Brussels sprouts, and freshly baked cornbread. Diners can enjoy savory options like mesquite tofu skewers, pumpkin katsu sandwiches, yuba noodles, and Shawarma-spiced cabbage. The dessert selection showcases indulgent treats such as chocolate mousse parfait, pavlova, berry tea cake, and classic crème brûlée.

Bold flavors and creative combinations define the Greens experience, making it a top pick for vegetarians and food lovers alike.

Unbeatable Location and Ambience

Positioned overlooking the sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay, Greens boasts panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the surrounding hills, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your meal. Whether you choose to dine indoors by expansive windows or enjoy the fresh air at the outdoor seating area, the scenery adds a memorable touch to your visit. While the ambience tends to lean toward casual and slightly dated, the warm service and lively crowd provide a welcoming vibe suitable for smart casual attire.

Great spot for lunch, brunch, and dinner with excellent coffee, cocktails, and dessert options that appeal to groups and families alike.

Visitor Experiences and Community Sentiments

Patrons consistently praise Greens for its delicious vegetarian food and creative menu that exceeds expectations. Reviewers highlight the flavorful dishes such as the pasta, pizza, and Brussels sprouts, with some calling it superior to other well-known veggie spots. Service is often described as friendly and attentive, with particular appreciation for waitstaff who enhance the dining experience. Many guests enjoy the stunning views and appreciate the venue’s suitability for celebratory occasions, family meals, and casual outings.

While some visitors note the ambience is a little dated and the service can be slow during busy times, most agree the high quality of the food and the scenic setting make Greens a worthwhile and memorable dining destination in San Francisco.

Frequently asked questions

Does Greens Restaurant offer vegan options? Yes, Greens Restaurant provides a variety of vegan dishes clearly marked on the menu.
Is there parking available at Greens Restaurant? Yes, there is ample parking available, including free public parking in the marina and paid parking in Fort Mason.
Can I make a reservation at Greens Restaurant? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable or by calling the restaurant directly.

Greens Restaurant history overview in san francisco bay area dining scene.

Established in 1979 by the San Francisco Zen Center, Greens Restaurant is a trailblazer in vegetarian cuisine, renowned not only for its innovative dishes but also for its stunning panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Nestled in the vibrant Fort Mason neighborhood at 2 Marina Boulevard, this iconic eatery has shaped and influenced the way plant-based dining is embraced in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.

Early beginnings and influential leadership

Greens Restaurant began its journey in 1979 when it was founded by the San Francisco Zen Center, an organization dedicated to Buddhist practice and community. The restaurant's mission was to offer thoughtfully prepared vegetarian dishes that reflected the Zen principles of simplicity and mindfulness. Their emphasis on sustainability and fresh, local ingredients set them apart early on.

Deborah Madison, the founding chef, played a pivotal role in establishing Greens as a culinary leader in vegetarian fare. In 1980, she published "The Greens Cookbook," which became a seminal text promoting vegetarian cooking nationwide, reflecting the restaurant’s innovative spirit.

Continuing the legacy of excellence

In 1990, Annie Somerville took the helm as head chef, advancing Greens’ commitment to creativity and sustainability in vegetarian cuisine. Her culinary expertise ensured the menu stayed vibrant and attuned to seasonal produce, honoring the restaurant's core values while appealing to a growing audience of plant-based diners.

Over the decades, Greens became synonymous with not only delicious vegetarian fare but also with an ambience that showcased breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay, including the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. This unique blend of culinary artistry and scenery has made it a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike.

Modern stewardship and sustainable innovation

In 2020, Katie Reicher was appointed as the current head chef, continuing Greens Restaurant’s tradition of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the best of California's produce. Her leadership reinforces the restaurant's dedication to inventive vegetarian dishes that delight the palate while respecting the environment.

1979 Greens Restaurant was founded by the San Francisco Zen Center.
1980 Deborah Madison, the founding chef, published "The Greens Cookbook".
1990 Annie Somerville succeeded Madison as head chef, continuing the restaurant's legacy.
2020 Katie Reicher became the current head chef, maintaining the restaurant's commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Greens Restaurant stands as a celebrated mainstay for inventive and sustainable vegetarian dishes, perfectly complemented by its panoramic bay views. Its rich history reflects a dedication to culinary innovation and environmental mindfulness that continues to attract food enthusiasts and conscious diners from around the world.