Fun Dinner Spots in San Francisco

San Francisco’s dining scene isn’t just world-class in taste – it’s also full of fun restaurants that turn a mere meal into an experience. Whether you’re a local foodie or a traveler exploring the Bay Area, sometimes you want a fun dinner spot in San Francisco that’s not only delicious but also unique and entertaining. From cute dinner places San Francisco offers for an Instagrammable night out, to themed restaurants in San Francisco that transport you to another world, there’s no shortage of fun dinner places in SF to discover. In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite fun restaurants in San Francisco, CA, spanning interactive game nights, dinner-and-a-show venues, and other unique restaurants in San Francisco that guarantee a good time along with great food.

Before we dig in, remember that many of these spots are popular (for good reason!). Be sure to check reservation policies – some require booking weeks in advance, while others are more casual. Also, wear your stretchy pants and bring your sense of adventure – you’re in for an unforgettable culinary ride through the best fun restaurants in San Francisco!

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1. Foreign Cinema – Dinner and a Movie Under the Stars

One of the most unique restaurants in San Francisco, Foreign Cinema has been delighting Mission District diners for over two decades. As the name hints, this iconic spot pairs dinner and a movie – literally. In the enchanting courtyard, classic films are projected on a big wall as you dine, surrounded by string lights and a chic artsy vibe. My wife and I celebrated an anniversary here, and there was something so magical about watching a James Bond film flicker in the background while we savored our meal. It’s no wonder the city declared September 18th “Foreign Cinema Day,” honoring how beloved this place has become.

Despite the cinematic novelty, Foreign Cinema is far from gimmick – it’s a legit foodie destination. The seasonal Californian/Mediterranean menu features elegant dishes with local ingredients. We started with a lavender-scented goat cheese baked on a fig leaf that blew our minds. Their famous fried chicken is a must-try (crispy, with a hint of Madras curry in the batter) – honestly one of the tastiest fried chickens I’ve had. For mains, I loved the fresh seafood; the Sonoma halibut ceviche with watermelon aguachile was light and flavorful. Pro tip: Definitely reserve ahead (sometimes weeks ahead) and ask for a table in the courtyard where the film is playing. It’s a perfect spot for a fun date night or any occasion when you want dinner to feel a little extra special.

2. Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar – Tiki Themed Tropical Fun

Hidden in the basement of the Fairmont Hotel, the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar is a legendary themed restaurant in San Francisco that has been wowing guests since the 1940s. Step inside and you’re transported to a Polynesian paradise: there’s a tropical lagoon in the middle (it was actually the hotel’s old swimming pool!), a thatched-roof bar, and a band that plays 80s/90s hits from a boat that floats in the “lagoon.” 🍹 Every 30 minutes or so, a thunderstorm rolls through – complete with rain falling into the indoor lake around the band! My friends and I couldn’t help grinning like kids when the thunder cracked and the warm “rain” started sprinkling down. It’s over-the-top in the best way.

The menu is mostly Chinese and Polynesian-inspired dishes – think pu pu platters, spicy noodles, and tropical cocktails served in hollowed pineapples or tiki mugs. We ordered the Tonga Pu Pu Platter for a little of everything (spring rolls, poke tostadas, chicken wings, even house-made spam) and it was perfect for sharing. The fried rice is also delicious and comes in a huge portion ideal for groups. Drinks are sweet, strong, and festive – I loved the one that came in a coconut with a paper umbrella. Do note: since you’re getting dinner and a live show, there’s a cover charge in the evening (around $15) and reservations are only for hotel guests, so if you’re not staying at the Fairmont, be prepared to line up. It’s totally worth the wait for one of the best fun restaurants in San Francisco – an unforgettable tiki throwback that’s great for birthdays or any celebratory night out.

3. AsiaSF – Dinner with a Drag Show Extravaganza

When we’re talking fun dinner places in SF, we have to mention AsiaSF. Part restaurant, part nightclub, and 100% good times, AsiaSF is a SoMa district institution famous for its nightly drag show performed by beautiful and talented transgender women. The energy here is sky-high – as soon as you walk in, it’s like entering a glittery disco party. A giant runway runs through the dining room, and at various points during your meal the “Ladies of AsiaSF” will strut up and put on choreographed lip-sync performances that are downright show-stopping. I went here for a friend’s bachelorette party, and let’s just say we barely stayed in our seats – it turns into a dance party by the end of the night!

The prix-fixe dinner menu is actually pretty tasty (though, to be honest, you’re really here for the show and cocktails). It’s a mix of California-Asian fusion: think miso-glazed salmon, ginger-garlic chicken, veggie samosas, etc. Dessert came as a trio of mini ice cream cones which was adorable. But again, the food almost plays second fiddle to the entertainment. The servers and performers are super friendly and make sure everyone’s having a blast – they even pull some guests on stage if you’re celebrating something. Insider tip: There are two dinner seatings with shows nightly; later one is a bit racier. After dinner, there’s a downstairs club if you want to keep the party going. AsiaSF is the perfect fun restaurant in San Francisco for a girls’ night out, bachelor/ette parties, or any time you want dinner to double as a cabaret. (Just maybe leave the kids at home for this one!)

4. The Stinking Rose – A Garlic Lover’s Wonderland

The Stinking Rose is an SF icon and arguably one of the city’s most kitschy restaurants. If you love garlic or just enjoy quirky themes, you’ll have a blast at this garlic-themed North Beach eatery. Their motto is “we season our garlic with food,” and they aren’t kidding – this place allegedly uses 1.5 tons of garlic a month in their dishes! When you walk in, you’ll see garlic garlands hanging from the ceiling (they even had the world’s largest garlic braid on display). The decor is playful and eccentric: think cartoonish murals and a mechanical miniature garlic factory figurine on the wall. It’s the definition of a unique restaurant in San Francisco – there’s really nowhere else like it.

I’ve been coming to The Stinking Rose since I was a kid, and it’s always good fun. The menu is Italian-inspired and full of garlic – they have garlic pasta, garlic roasted prime rib, even garlic ice cream for dessert (yes, really!). We usually start with the bagna calda, which is basically a sizzling pan of roasted garlic cloves in olive oil that you slather on warm bread. It is heavenly (just maybe not ideal for date night unless your partner is equally garlic-obsessed!). The neon-green garlic pesto ravioli is another favorite of mine – super flavorful. Don’t miss the 40-clove garlic chicken if you’re daring; it’s tender and rich. While you might be coming for the novelty, the food is solid and portions are generous. The restaurant had closed for a while in 2020, but fans rejoiced when it reopened in 2022 just down the block from the original location – proving that San Francisco’s love affair with garlic is still going strong. If “more garlic” is your answer to everything, put The Stinking Rose on your list for a fun, cute restaurant SF visitors find memorable (and aromatic!).

5. The Pawn Shop – A Hidden Speakeasy Surprise

At first glance, The Pawn Shop literally looks like a tiny pawn store tucked on a gritty stretch of Mission Street – there’s a neon “Money Loaned” sign and a window display of trinkets. But if you hand the shopkeeper a “pawn” (any quirky item or even just a secret code), the back wall swings open and you’ve entered one of the most fun restaurants in San Francisco! This place is a speakeasy-style tapas bar, and the whole dramatic entrance is half the fun. My partner and I went on a whim, brought an old CD to pawn (who uses those anymore?), and we were giddy when the hidden door clicked open.

Inside, The Pawn Shop channels a retro Havana vibe. It’s cozy and dimly lit, decked out in 1920s Cuban decor – think vintage posters, patterned tiles, and a glowing bar. The vibe manages to be both intimate and buzzing. Since it’s small, it feels exclusive, like you’re in on a secret. We kicked off with some excellent cocktails (the bartenders here are top-notch – my Old Fashioned had a fun twist of chocolate bitters). The menu features Spanish-style tapas: we loved the charcuterie board and the pulpo (grilled octopus) which was tender and flavorful. The shareable plates are perfect for nibbling while you enjoy the live music that sometimes plays. Honestly, this spot is made for date night or a small group of friends who appreciate a little theater with their dinner. Dress smart casual to fit in with the scene. The Pawn Shop proves that in SF, not everything is what it seems – sometimes a sketchy pawn shop is hiding a swanky good time!

6. Urban Putt (Holey Moley) – Mini-Golf and Dinner All-in-One

Why just have dinner when you can also play a round of mini-golf while you’re at it? Urban Putt has long been a favorite fun restaurant in San Francisco, combining comfort food and inventive indoor mini-golf under one roof. Opened in the Mission District in a converted mortuary (spooky!), Urban Putt’s two-floor mini-golf course is whimsically designed – think San Francisco landmarks and fantasy obstacles glowing in neon lights. You can putt through a Transamerica Pyramid, around a Dia de los Muertos-themed hole, even one that’s a musical instrument. We had a blast putting between bites of pizza and sips of beer.

Recently, Urban Putt was taken over and rebranded as Holey Moley Golf Club, an Australian import that amps up the zany factor even more. They kept the mini-golf concept but refreshed the course with new pop-culture-themed holes and added an even bigger menu of playful cocktails. Ever had a drink served in a tiny bathtub with rubber duckies? You can here! 🎶 The food is casual and yummy – think gourmet pub grub like flatbread pizzas, loaded fries, and fried chicken sandwiches (Holey Moley’s menu leans into Americana comfort food). I recommend the jalapeño bacon mac & cheese bites if they have them – perfect for snacking between swings. There’s also a full bar on each floor so you won’t go thirsty waiting for your turn on the green.

This is one of those fun restaurants in San Francisco, CA that’s great for groups, especially mixed ages. I’ve seen date nights, family outings, and birthday parties all happening at once. It does get busy on weekends, so book a tee time online if possible. And even if you’re not a big golfer, the vibrant atmosphere (and maybe a cocktail or two) will guarantee a good time. Dinner, drinks, and a mini-golf tournament all in one night – sign me up!

7. Marrakech – Dinner with Belly Dancing

If you’re in the mood for a themed restaurant in San Francisco that combines flavorful food with live entertainment, Marrakech in downtown SF is the spot. This long-running Moroccan restaurant turns a simple dinner into a mini-vacation. The interior is designed like a sultan’s tent – low couches with colorful pillows, ornate lanterns, and vibrant Middle Eastern music set the scene. As you settle onto the cushions (shoes off, of course!), you’ll quickly forget you’re in California and start to feel like you’re in Casablanca or Marrakech itself.

The highlight here is the belly dancing show that happens nightly. Typically, the first dancer comes out around 8 PM, with a second show later in the evening. On weekends, they even have live drummers accompanying the belly dancers, which really gets the crowd clapping and cheering along. I went with a group of friends for a fun Friday night, and we all got into it – one of my buddies even got up to dance when the performer invited audience participation! It’s a joyous, party-like atmosphere, yet still family-friendly if you want to bring kids along for an early show.

Food at Marrakech is a traditional Moroccan feast served in courses. For a fixed price, you get a spread that includes lentil soup, fresh baked Moroccan bread, salads, aromatic chicken or veggie bastilla (a flaky pastry with sweet and savory filling), a choice of tagine or kebabs for your entrée, and mint tea with baklava to finish. And yes, you eat with your hands (bread is your utensil) for the authentic experience – don’t worry, they’ll teach you how. Our favorites were the lamb tagine which was incredibly tender, and the couscous with roasted vegetables. By the end of the night, we were full, slightly mesmerized by the music and dancing, and even got our hands painted with a bit of henna. For a fun dinner place in SF that’s both immersive and delicious, Marrakech is a winner. (Just be ready to find glitter from the dancer’s costume on your clothes the next day – a little souvenir!)

8. Old Skool Café – 1920s Supper Club with a Mission

Old Skool Café is a gem of a restaurant that combines a fun theme with a heartfelt mission. Tucked away in Bayview, this spot is a 1920s-themed supper club and is entirely run by at-risk youth from the community who are getting job training in the restaurant business. When you step through the door marked “Speakeasy,” you’re instantly transported to the Harlem Renaissance – the décor is all plush red booths, Art Deco touches, and jazz-era ambiance. One evening here felt like time-travel in the best way: I found myself sipping a ginger lemonade (it’s alcohol-free, as many staff are under 21) while a young woman with an amazing voice serenaded the room with Etta James’ “At Last.” It’s dinner and a show, but also you get the warm fuzzies knowing you’re supporting a great cause.

The menu at Old Skool Café is as eclectic as the staff’s backgrounds – it’s truly a global soul food menu. You’ll find West African peanut stew next to New Orleans gumbo and chicken and waffles. And guess what? It’s all really good. We shared the fried chicken platter (juicy, crispy, and came with greens and mac & cheese) and a flavorful coconut curry that had the perfect kick. Each dish on the menu actually notes which staff member or family inspired it, which makes it feel personal. The youth servers and chefs are so proud to explain the dishes and their heritage. By the end of the night, we were chatting with our waiter about his grandma’s recipe that inspired the peach cobbler on the dessert menu. Live music is a staple here (every night they’re open, there’s some performance – often jazz or Motown hits) and it just elevates the whole experience of this unique restaurant in San Francisco. Old Skool Café proves that “fun” and “meaningful” can go hand in hand. If you love jazz-era vibes or want to support a community-driven spot, give this place a try – it’s truly one of SF’s most special hidden gems.

9. The Game Parlour – Board Games & Mochi Waffles

For a lighthearted, cute dinner place in San Francisco that’s perfect for an easy night out, I adore The Game Parlour. Located in the Inner Sunset, this cafe-restaurant is heaven for board game enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a bit of play with their meal. The concept is simple but brilliant: they’ve got an entire wall of board games (over 100 titles, from Candy Land and Scrabble to the latest strategy games), and for a small $7 fee you get unlimited playtime with as many games as you want. Combine that with comfy couches and a menu of sweet and savory treats, and you’ve got a recipe for a super fun evening.

The vibe inside is cozy and family-friendly – lots of laughter, a few intense competitions of Settlers of Catan going on, and people sprawled out over Monopoly boards. I’ve come here on a rainy Sunday afternoon with friends and lost track of hours. Now let’s talk about the unexpectedly awesome food: first off, their mochi waffles are a must-try. You can build your own, choosing different flavors and toppings. I had a matcha mochi waffle topped with black sesame ice cream and it was heavenly (crispy on the outside, chewy mochi texture inside). They also have savory waffle sandwiches – the fried chicken waffle sandwich with spicy mayo was indulgent and delicious. To sip, the cookie-and-cream latte is a sweet pick-me-up (they have an extensive latte menu with creative flavors). It’s not alcohol-focused here; it’s more about reliving your childhood over cocoa or coffee.

The Game Parlour is budget-friendly and great for groups (though maybe not ideal for a romantic date – unless your idea of romance is beating your partner at Battleship!). If you have kids or are just a kid-at-heart, this is one of the most fun places to eat in San Francisco. They’re open late-ish on weekends, so it’s also a cool alternative to a bar – you can actually hear your friends talk, and you might discover a new favorite game. Just be prepared: a round of Exploding Kittens might get loud! 😄

10. Lazy Bear – The Ultimate Dinner Party (That You Need Tickets For)

How about a dinner that feels like a mix between a trendy supper club and a theatrical event? Lazy Bear in the Mission District delivers just that. This is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant that tosses the old stuffy fine-dining rulebook out the window and instead hosts what feels like an amazing dinner party with 40 strangers. I say “hosts” because you actually buy tickets in advance (usually released a month prior) rather than make a reservation – imagine snagging concert tickets, but for a multi-course meal. It’s tough to get into, but if you do, you’re in for one of SF’s most unique dining experiences.

The space is quirky and cool: you start upstairs in a lounge for cocktails and passed appetizers, mingling with other guests as if at a swanky house party. Then everyone is seated communally at two long tables in the loft-like dining room overlooking the open kitchen. The chefs come out and personally introduce each course, often with some story or explanation. They encourage interaction – you’re even given a little notebook to jot down thoughts about each dish like a true food nerd. During my visit, I met fellow diners from Boston, London, and Tokyo all in one night – the camaraderie was part of the fun.

Now, the food: it’s an epic seasonal tasting menu (10+ courses). Lazy Bear’s cuisine is hard to define – maybe “modern American nostalgic”? One course might be a tiny bite of a perfected s’more that kicks off a childhood memory, the next is a luxurious soup with locally foraged mushrooms. Every dish we had was beautifully plated; I remember a tomato dish that looked like a work of art, and a barbecued quail that was phenomenally flavorful. They switch up the menu constantly, so you likely won’t ever have the same dish twice here. The chefs and staff are super engaging, answering questions and encouraging guests to come up to the kitchen to chat. By the end of the evening, I was happily full and felt like I’d attended a really cool culinary workshop-party hybrid.

Lazy Bear is definitely a splurge and requires planning (and yes, paying upfront when you get those tickets). But if you’re a foodie looking for something beyond just a meal – more like a fun event – this is worth doing at least once. It’s fine dining, San Francisco style: high-quality but laid-back and social. Tip: Tickets drop on their website and sell out fast, so set a reminder. And dress up a bit; it adds to the occasion!

11. Loló – Colorful Cantina with Creative Bites

Loló is a cute restaurant SF locals adore, nestled in the Mission, and it’s downright joyful inside. This is the kind of place you walk into and immediately smile at the decor: vibrant tropical colors, walls decorated with Mexican folk art and even funky things like old car doors and hubcaps re-purposed as furniture. It’s eclectic and artsy, reflecting the creativity of its Oaxacan-influenced menu. My wife and I stumbled upon Loló on a random evening, lured in by the warm glow and lively chatter from within – we ended up having one of the most fun impromptu dinners ever.

The cuisine at Loló is Mexican fusion tapas, served family-style, and it’s fantastic. They do an amazing job of taking traditional Mexican flavors and giving them a twist. Case in point: their signature taco “tropical” where instead of a tortilla, the shell is a thin slice of jicama root. It’s crunchy, refreshing, and comes filled with juicy shrimp and spicy aioli – you have to try it. We also loved the panko-crusted avocado tacos (so crunchy and creamy!) and the ceviche, which was super fresh with a nice kick of habanero. Portion sizes are on the smaller side, which is actually great because you can order a bunch of different things to share – and you’ll want to, because everything on the menu sounds delicious. Don’t skip cocktails either; the bar program is fun and inventive. I had a mezcal margarita with a smoky chili salt rim that paired perfectly with our food.

Loló’s ambiance is part of the reason it’s one of the best fun restaurants in San Francisco for a casual night out. The music is upbeat Latin tunes, the service is friendly and unpretentious (our server sat down to chat about the artwork with us for a minute), and the whole place just buzzes with positive energy. It’s the kind of spot you could equally take a date (the colorful setting is a great conversation starter) or a group of friends for a celebratory dinner. The dining room isn’t huge, so a reservation is smart if you’re coming at prime time. It’s also in a great part of the Mission – after dinner, you can stroll down Valencia Street for ice cream or check out a local bar. Unique, flavorful, and utterly charming, Loló is a reminder of why San Francisco’s dining scene is never boring.

12. Good Good Culture Club – Trendy Rooftop Vibes and Family-Style Feast

One of the newer darlings of the SF restaurant scene, Good Good Culture Club is all about fun vibes and communal dining. Opened by the team behind the famed Liholiho Yacht Club, this Mission District hotspot feels like a hip house party happening on a rooftop. In fact, the dining room is partially rooftop – it’s an open-air space with heat lamps, full of greenery, colorful murals, and neon signs. The atmosphere is laid-back and buzzy, with a modern soundtrack playing and an enthusiastic crowd. We came here with a group of six friends, and it was ideal for a group get-together – such a fun restaurant in San Francisco for a celebration (we saw a couple of birthday tables cheering with giant sparkler-topped desserts).

The menu is Southeast Asian/Polynesian-inspired, meant to be shared family-style. They intentionally keep things casual: dishes come out as they’re ready, and everyone just digs in. We pretty much ordered half the menu to sample a bit of everything. Standouts: the fried chicken with a chili glaze (perfectly crispy and a little sweet-spicy), a grilled pork jowl dish that was melt-in-your-mouth, and the jackfruit curry which even the meat-eaters in our group devoured. Every dish has layers of flavor – you can tell the chefs are playing with creative combinations and having fun with it. Another cool thing: they include all staff tips in the price and emphasize equity (even the name “Culture Club” hints at their inclusive values), so you feel good dining here in more ways than one.

Cocktails at Good Good Culture Club deserve a mention too – my pandan coconut cocktail was basically a tropical vacation in a glass. And for dessert, they had this wild sorbet sundae with popping candy on it, which made us laugh as we felt it tingle. By the end of the meal, we were comfortably full and already planning what to try next time. Insider tip: Happy hour from 5–6pm has some specials if you want to save a bit. Also, they only take credit card – no cash – which is pretty normal for trendy SF spots now. If you’re looking for a place with “late 30s cool kid” energy, delicious shareable plates, and a setting that’s equal parts cute and modern, Good Good Culture Club will check those boxes. It’s the kind of place where dinner easily slides into a lingering hangout because you’re having such a good time. Good good, indeed!

Final Thoughts on Fun Dining in San Francisco

San Francisco’s restaurant scene proves that dining out can be so much more than just eating – it can be an adventure, a performance, a trip to another era, or just a chance to play and laugh together. From cute restaurants SF foodies love for their imaginative decor, to unique restaurants in San Francisco offering immersive themes and interactive experiences, the city is bursting with places that make a meal unforgettable. Whether you’re clinking tiki drinks during an indoor thunderstorm at Tonga Room, cheering on a drag performance at AsiaSF, or savoring a family-style feast on a Mission rooftop, you’re creating memories that go far beyond what’s on the plate.

The fun dinner places in SF we’ve highlighted cater to all kinds of tastes and occasions – some are great for families and casual hangouts, others are perfect for date nights or celebrations where you want that extra “wow” factor. What they all have in common is a commitment to delivering a good time alongside great food. So go ahead and add a little playfulness to your next dinner plan. Explore, experiment, and most of all, enjoy – after all, in a city as diverse and creative as San Francisco, you never know what delightful surprises await at the next table. Happy dining!

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FAQ: Fun Restaurants in SF

Q: Are fun/theme restaurants in San Francisco family-friendly?
Absolutely – though it depends on the venue. Many of the fun restaurants in San Francisco, CA are great for families. For example, The Game Parlour (board games and waffles) or Holey Moley/Urban Putt (mini-golf and comfort food) are big hits with kids and teens. Foreign Cinema can also be lovely for families, especially if the kids will enjoy the movie aspect. Some spots like AsiaSF or certain bars are 21+ or more adult-oriented (drag shows, loud nightlife vibes), so always check age restrictions. But overall, there are plenty of unique dining experiences that all ages can enjoy in SF.

Q: What’s a good fun restaurant in SF for a birthday party or group event?
For a group celebration, consider what vibe you want. Tonga Room is awesome for birthdays – you get tiki cocktails, a live band, and even a rainstorm; it feels like a built-in party. Berber is fantastic if you want a dinner show with wow-factor (ideal for a special milestone birthday). If your group loves games or activities, Holey Moley (Urban Putt) gives you mini-golf with your dinner which is super fun. And if you have a mixed-age group or family group, Marrakech (with belly dancing and interactive dining) or Foreign Cinema (for a classy yet fun ambiance) are crowd-pleasers. Just be sure to reserve in advance for group sizes, because these popular spots can fill up fast.

Q: Do I need reservations for these fun dinner places?
In most cases, yes – or at least it’s highly recommended. Many of the best fun restaurants in San Francisco are popular and can have long waits if you walk in. Spots like Foreign Cinema, Lazy Bear, Berber, and AsiaSF absolutely require advance booking (Lazy Bear even sells tickets weeks ahead). For places like Tonga Room, they don’t take reservations for non-hotel guests, so arrive early to put your name on the waitlist. Casual spots such as The Game Parlour or Loló might let you walk in, but even then, on a busy night you’ll be happier with a reservation. Always check the restaurant’s website or call ahead – it can save you a lot of time and ensure your fun night goes smoothly.