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San Francisco

Nightbird is highly regarded for its innovative tasting menu, attentive service, and intimate ambiance. Many patrons appreciate the seasonal dishes crafted by Chef Kim Alter, highlighting local ingredients and culinary artistry. The wine pairings are also praised for complementing the tasting menu effectively.

Nightbird: San Francisco’s Premier Tasting Menu Destination in Civic Center District.

Nestled in the vibrant Civic Center neighborhood of San Francisco, Nightbird is an upscale bistro that redefines fine dining with its highbrow Californian tasting menu. This restaurant masterfully combines seasonal, locally sourced ingredients with the creative touch of acclaimed Chef Kim Alter to deliver an unforgettable culinary journey. Whether you're a foodie, a digital nomad seeking a refined dinner spot, or a traveler eager to explore innovative cuisines, Nightbird promises an experience brimming with flavor and artistry.

Nightbird’s tasting menu is a thoughtfully curated series of about 13 courses, taking diners through a spectrum of exquisite flavors and textures. From brown butter quail eggs to prawns nestled in potato espuma, and from scallops in squash and chestnut sauce to delicately prepared wagyu, every dish is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and culinary innovation. The restaurant also features "reflection dishes" that follow the main courses, offering a unique palate cleansing experience that keeps guests eagerly anticipating each next bite.

Service at Nightbird is consistently praised for being flawless and warm, with knowledgeable staff who enhance the overall experience by explaining each course in detail. The ambiance complements the food perfectly, with subtle table pieces, impressive ceiling artwork, and a curated soundtrack that sets the mood for an intimate and engaging evening.

Beyond its impressive food menu, Nightbird offers an excellent selection of cocktails, wines, and craft beers, carefully chosen to complement the tasting experience. Wine pairings are especially acclaimed for their inspired and thoughtful combinations that elevate each dish. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, and the kitchen happily accommodates gluten-free dietary needs upon request.

Meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu

 that surprises and delights with seasonal and local ingredients.

 with detailed explanations enhancing your dining journey.

 featuring unique ceiling artwork and subtle decor.

 that enhance the flavors of each course perfectly.

 Nightbird has a relaxed dress code, accommodating a range of attire from casual to formal.

Does Nightbird accommodate dietary restrictions?

 Yes, Nightbird offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It's recommended to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions when making a reservation.

Is there parking available near Nightbird?

 Parking options include nearby garages such as the Performing Arts Garage at 360 Gough St. and Liberty Park Management at 150 Hayes St. Street parking is also available in the area.

Nightbird enjoys a glowing reputation in San Francisco’s dining scene, celebrated for its innovative tasting menu, exceptional service, and intimate ambiance. Patrons consistently highlight the creative seasonal dishes crafted by Chef Kim Alter, the inspired wine pairings, and the warm, attentive staff. Whether you're seeking an adventurous culinary experience or a special night out, Nightbird remains a highly recommended gem in the Civic Center area.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Civic Center, Nightbird is a culinary gem that invites diners into a world of exquisite flavors and artistic presentation. This upscale bistro, renowned for its highbrow Californian tasting menu, offers a unique dining experience that blends creativity with seasonal ingredients. As you step inside, you're greeted by an ambiance that is both inviting and sophisticated, adorned with stunning artwork and subtle decor that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal.

At Nightbird, every dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to tantalize the senses. The menu features standout dishes such as the **brown butter quail egg**, which is a delightful explosion of flavor, and the **prawns in potato espuma**, a dish that showcases the chef's innovative approach to traditional ingredients. Each course is paired with carefully selected wines, enhancing the overall dining experience and ensuring that every bite is memorable.

One of the most captivating aspects of Nightbird is its thematic approach to dining. The restaurant often features unique concepts that surprise and delight guests, such as the recent horror movie-themed menu that left diners both thrilled and satisfied. This innovative spirit is a testament to Chef Kim Alter's culinary prowess, who is dedicated to creating an experience that goes beyond just food.

Located at 330 Gough Street, Nightbird is perfectly situated for those looking to explore the vibrant Civic Center area. After indulging in a sumptuous meal, guests can take a leisurely stroll to nearby attractions such as the San Francisco Opera, the Asian Art Museum, or the historic City Hall. This prime location makes it an ideal stop for both locals and travelers.

Nightbird is celebrated for its innovative tasting menu that changes seasonally, offering a unique dining experience with each visit.

For an unforgettable culinary adventure that combines creativity, flavor, and artistry in a beautiful setting.

The restaurant is close to the San Francisco Opera, Asian Art Museum, and City Hall, making it a great stop for culture enthusiasts.

Whether you're a local or visiting San Francisco, make sure to reserve your table at Nightbird for an extraordinary dining experience that will leave you craving more. Share your moments and reviews with friends and family, and immerse yourself in the culinary artistry that Nightbird has to offer.

Highbrow Californian tasting menu from an upscale bistro with an adjacent cocktail lounge.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQc3ZuUkVREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyzdPuJiAhYARaLoaRwaGRGE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURQc3ZuUkVREAE

Perhaps our new favorites one star! Love the thematic menu although we did not expect it would be horror movies and the dessert spook me out quite a bit 😅😅
But every course was meticulously crafted and very creative - and the flavors just work, didnt feel forced at all. Also loved the concept of “reflection dishes” after the main courses.
Service was flawless, we loved our waiter. And price point is so fair!
Our favorites were the brown butter quail egg, prawns in potato espuma, scallops in squash and chestnut sauce, and the pecan pie with foie gras. The wagyu was perfect as well - not too fatty and so flavourful.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqcUxyWGhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyzdPuJiAhYARaLoaRwaGRGE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqcUxyWGhBRRAB

This was our first experience with this kind of fine dining and it was very comfortable and a great experience! My husband had the meat menu and I had the vegetarian. It was about 13 courses and 2.5hrs. The servers were very nice and explained what we were eating to us. It's a nice place but people were dressed from suits to dresses to jeans and sweatshirt. There were some courses I didn't enjoy but overall it was an amazing food experience with flavors I'll never taste again I'm sure.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURXczh6VWtnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyzdPuJiAhYARaLoaRwaGRGE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURXczh6VWtnRRAB

The outside of the building is very unassuming, but the inside is nicely decorated and inviting. There's incredible artwork on the ceilings, subtle table pieces, and great background music. The staff is very friendly and gave detailed explanations of the foods and wine. Everything was plated exceptionally and the flavors were on point. Our favorites of the night were the blackened chicken and the prawns. The chef put together a masterful menu and we were delighted with every course! We also had we soft bread with garlic butter and several small bites. Will absolutely return to Nightbird in the future!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNKb00tcExnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyzdPuJiAhYARaLoaRwaGRGE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNKb00tcExnEAE

Truly amazing experience. Kim Alter is a phenomenal chef and eating here should be on your MUST list. I’ve been three times and each time is not only special but fun. Being surprised and delighted by food seems rarer and rarer, esp in a great food city like SF. But each bite and sip at Nightbird is enticing and surprising in the most fun way. The service is warm and friendly and professional, you feel really cared for, while you get to look forward to each course. I’ve had some of the best bites of my life there -  just blown away by multiple courses. Also the wine pairings were inspired!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNXdzRqMkd3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJyzdPuJiAhYARaLoaRwaGRGE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNXdzRqMkd3EAE

A hidden gem. The menu spans the full range: caviar and scallops, a delicious brown butter ravioli, quail and perfectly cooked tenderloin, plus a host of delicious small bite interludes along the way. We loved the range and balanced flavours. Great service too. You won't go wrong.

Luxury Dining at Nightbird in Civic Center, SF

Nightbird, located at 330 Gough St. in San Francisco, was opened in December 2016 by Chef Kim Alter. The restaurant offers a seasonal tasting menu that changes frequently, showcasing innovative dishes crafted with local ingredients. Adjacent to Nightbird is the Linden Room, a chic and intimate bar offering stylish and creative cocktails.

The History of Nightbird in San Francisco, CA 94102, USA.

Nightbird, located at 330 Gough Street in the heart of Civic Center, San Francisco, is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary journey. Founded by Chef Kim Alter in December 2016, this esteemed establishment has quickly garnered attention for its innovative and seasonal tasting menus that reflect the vibrant local produce available in California.

The journey of Nightbird can be traced through key milestones that highlight its growth and achievements. Since its inception, the restaurant has been dedicated to creating an intimate dining experience that delights the senses and evokes emotion through culinary art.

2016: Nightbird opened its doors in December, offering a unique tasting menu.

2022: Nightbird received the MICHELIN Plate recognition, attesting to its culinary excellence.

The culinary philosophy at Nightbird revolves around the creation of dishes that are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Each dish is carefully crafted using seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, highlighting the best of Californian cuisine.

The adjacent Linden Room complements the dining experience with an elegant cocktail bar, where patrons can indulge in creatively crafted drinks that pair perfectly with the tasting menu. This cozy yet upscale setting invites guests to unwind and savor the moment.

Nightbird's recognition as a MICHELIN Plate recipient in 2022 underscores its commitment to culinary excellence and the artistry of fine dining. With its focus on seasonal ingredients and creative presentation, Nightbird continues to be a standout in the San Francisco dining scene.

As it moves forward, Nightbird remains dedicated to creating memorable dining experiences that inspire and captivate food lovers from around the globe.

Dine In

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Vegetarian Food

Serves Cocktails

In the heart of San Francisco’s Civic Center district, Nightbird offers a highbrow Californian tasting menu that captivates the senses. Each dish is a masterpiece, artfully presented to intrigue the eye and delight the palate, making it a culinary gem in the city.

Nightbird

A seasonal tasting menu crafted by Chef Kim Alter, featuring innovative dishes that showcase local ingredients and culinary artistry.

Beignet and Caviar

Quail Egg

Taste of the Ocean

Scallop, Turnip, Black Garlic

Sourdough with Butter

Mochi Taco

Lobster, Hop, Passionfruit

Cappuccino

Squab, Morels, Truffle

Milk Bread

Tart

Flannery Beef Filet, Cabbage, Marrow

Creamsicle

Bay Leaf Ice Cream, Parsnip Cremeux, Apple

Nightbird Tasting Menu

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Civic Center, Nightbird offers a highbrow Californian tasting menu crafted with meticulous creativity by Chef Kim Alter. This exquisite dining experience highlights seasonal and local ingredients, delivering innovative flavors that captivate food lovers and adventurous palates alike.

Begin your culinary journey with elegantly crafted starters that tease the senses. Delight in the delicate Beignet and Caviar pairing, a luxurious combination that balances crispiness with briny richness. The Brown Butter Quail Egg dazzles with its rich, nutty flavors, while the Taste of the Ocean offers a fresh, evocative blend of ocean ingredients that embody the essence of the sea.

The mains at Nightbird showcase exceptional culinary artistry with dishes that highlight the best of Californian ingredients. Savor the tender Scallop paired with turnip and black garlic for an umami-rich experience. The moist and flavorful Lobster with hop and passionfruit brings a vibrant balance of sweetness and earthiness. For a decadent indulgence, the Squab with morels and truffle captivates with rich, aromatic earth tones. The Flannery Beef Filet, complemented by cabbage and marrow, offers a perfectly cooked cut with balanced textures and flavors. Complement your meal with housemade Sourdough with butter or a playful Mochi Taco, adding unique textures and tastes to the ensemble. A comforting Cappuccino is also offered as a refined palate cleanser within the tasting experience.

End your evening on a sublime note with inventive desserts that blend classic and modern flavors. The Milk Bread dessert enchants with its soft, comforting texture. The Tart offers a beautifully balanced treat with rich, fruity notes. For a nostalgic twist, enjoy the creamy, refreshing Creamsicle, while the Bay Leaf Ice Cream paired with parsnip cremeux and apple delivers a sophisticated harmony of herbal and sweet flavors.

Enhance your Nightbird dining experience with a selection of thoughtfully curated cocktails, fine wines, and beers, all chosen to complement the complex flavors of the tasting menu. The ambiance of the adjacent cocktail lounge invites guests to savor expertly mixed drinks, making each visit memorable. Nightbird’s specials often feature creative reflection dishes that follow main courses, presenting surprising and delightful flavor combinations unique to each season.

 meticulous craftsmanship, a horror movie thematic twist, and inventive reflection dishes that elevate the tasting experience.

Nightbird's menu is a must-try for anyone seeking a stunning fusion of local Californian ingredients and imaginative culinary techniques in an inviting San Francisco setting.

Indulge in a culinary journey at Nightbird in Civic Center, SF. Savor innovative dishes in a vibrant atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

Experience Nightbird: Fine Dining in Civic Center, SF

San Francisco County

A multi-course tasting menu that changes frequently, offering a variety of dishes crafted by Chef Kim Alter.

Prix Fixe Tasting Menu

Curated wine pairings to complement the tasting menu, enhancing the dining experience.

Wine Pairings

Nightbird San Francisco Dining Experience Overview 

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center, 

 offers discerning diners an unforgettable journey through highbrow Californian cuisine. This upscale bistro, located at 330 Gough Street, delivers a culinary adventure that is as creative as it is refined. Chef Kim Alter's expertise shines through in every meticulously crafted course, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and trend-conscious travelers alike.

At the core of Nightbird's appeal is its 

 priced at $125, a dynamic multi-course experience that evolves with the seasons and the chef’s inspiration. Diners can expect a dazzling array of flavors and textures, from delicate scallops bathed in squash and chestnut sauce to intricately prepared brown butter ravioli and perfectly cooked tenderloin. Each course tells a story, inviting you to savor the creativity and skill behind every bite.

Curated wine pairings and exquisite service

To elevate the tasting menu, Nightbird offers 

 priced at $50, thoughtfully matched to each course to enhance the intricate flavors and textures. The knowledgeable and attentive staff guide you through the menu and pairings with warmth and professionalism, ensuring a seamless and memorable dining experience. Guests often praise the flawless service and the inviting atmosphere, where both casual and dressy attire feel right at home.

The exterior of Nightbird may be understated, but step inside to discover a beautifully decorated space accented with incredible ceiling artwork, subtle table settings, and a curated music playlist that creates an inviting, intimate atmosphere. This venue is perfect for those seeking an upscale dining experience without pretension. Though it does not offer outdoor seating or live music, the refined ambiance and artistic touches make every meal feel special.

 Nightbird is not suited for children, focusing instead on a sophisticated dining experience for adults.

 Nightbird accepts credit and debit cards as well as NFC payments, making transactions convenient and cash-free.

 Reservations are recommended given Nightbird's popularity and limited seating.

Why Nightbird stands out in San Francisco

From the innovative horror movie-themed desserts that surprise and delight, to standout dishes like pecan pie with foie gras and prawns in potato espuma, Nightbird crafts an experience that is both playful and sophisticated. Guests consistently remark on the exceptional flavor combinations, creative presentation, and the seamless service that makes each visit special.

California

Experience Nightbird, an upscale restaurant in SF, serving innovative tasting menus by Chef Kim Alter. Reserve your spot for a culinary journey!

Nightbird: Elegant Dining in San Francisco's Civic Center

Discover essential tips for your visit to Nightbird, from dress code to must-try dishes. Unveil the secrets to a memorable dining experience!

Insider Tips for Dining at Nightbird in San Francisco

Learn the story behind Nightbird, a Michelin-recognized restaurant in San Francisco, offering seasonal menus crafted with local ingredients.

Luxury Dining at Nightbird in Civic Center, SF

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