Planning an event in San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood? From sleek sushi spots to heritage saloons, this part of the city is packed with restaurant venues that blend atmosphere, flexibility, and seriously good food.
Whether you’re organizing a corporate dinner, weekend brunch, or team happy hour, these 10 picks offer standout menus, versatile spaces, and the kind of ambiance that makes guests want to stay for one more drink. Check out our list of SoMa restaurants to find the perfect spot for your next event!
Introduction to SoMa
SoMa, short for South of Market, is one of the most dynamic neighborhoods in San Francisco, California. Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, SoMa is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its vibrant culture, modern art, and endless opportunities to explore.
People from all walks of life live in SoMa, enjoying the neighborhood's ever-changing and dynamic environment every day. The neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most popular restaurants, offering everything from delicious weekend brunch spots to food markets and cozy cafes.
SoMa also continues to evolve, with new restaurants, art spaces, and cultural events regularly adding to its vibrancy.
Like Hayes Valley, SoMa stands out for its unique dining options and thriving cultural scene, making it a trendy destination in San Francisco.
With its mix of modern eateries and classic favorites, this neighborhood is the perfect place to enjoy the best of San Francisco’s food and events scene and experience the energy that makes the Bay Area so unique.
Private Dining Rooms in SoMa
When it comes to hosting a truly special event, private dining rooms in SoMa offer an unmatched blend of exclusivity and style. Many of the neighborhood’s top restaurants feature dedicated spaces designed for everything from intimate birthday dinners to high-profile corporate meetings.
With SoMa’s reputation for innovative design and hospitality, you’ll find private dining spaces that impress, complete with customized menus and attentive service.
The flexibility of these rooms means you can host anything from a lively celebration to a focused business lunch, all while enjoying the vibrant energy of the neighborhood. If you’re searching for the perfect space to make your event stand out, SoMa’s private dining rooms are sure to deliver a memorable experience right in the heart of San Francisco.
The 10 Best Restaurants in SoMa, San Francisco, For Events
These SoMa restaurants are ideal for hosting memorable events in the heart of San Francisco.
1. The Fly Trap

Address: 606 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
With over 140 years of history, The Fly Trap stands out as one of the oldest restaurants in San Francisco. In SoMa near Yerba Buena Gardens, the restaurant blends vintage character with modern hospitality, making it ideal for planners seeking a space that feels both rooted and refreshed.
The 1906 Room offers a warm and intimate space, perfect for team dinners, networking nights, or celebratory brunches with friends. The ambiance is reminiscent of a gastropub, with exposed brick, warm wood, and a casual yet elevated feel that reflects the city's evolving food culture.
What’s on the menu? Seasonal California cuisine is packed with local produce, sustainable seafood, and bold flavors. Dishes range from hearty burgers to more refined plates, such as bone marrow, all paired with local beers and inventive cocktails from the bar.
There’s also a heated patio, which is great for groups seeking open-air ambiance with the flexibility to adjust to San Francisco’s famously cool evenings. The Fly Trap is open Monday through Saturday and closed on Sundays, so keep that in mind for weekend event planning.
Conveniently situated near the Moscone Center and the Museum of Modern Art, the venue is also easily accessible for corporate events or groups exploring the city. Pricing is mid-to-upscale but competitive for the quality and history on offer.
2. Fang

Address: 660 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
If you’re looking to impress clients or host an elevated group dinner with character, Fang delivers.
Just a short walk from the Moscone Center in San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood, this expansive three-level restaurant reimagines traditional Chinese flavors through a modern, market-driven lens.
The menu and decor draw inspiration from both classic Chinese culinary traditions and contemporary San Francisco culture, creating a unique and memorable dining atmosphere.
The Glass Room, Fang’s premier private space, seats up to 14 guests and strikes a balance between exclusivity and the restaurant’s lively ambiance. Whether you’re planning a business dinner, a milestone celebration, or a cultural event, this semi-private room offers the perfect blend of intimacy and energy.
Menus follow a “Chef’s Choice” (omakase-style) approach. There’s no printed menu, just seasonal dishes curated daily by Chef Peter Fang, who also co-hosted Chef Dynasty: House of Fang. It’s a format that brings surprise and conversation to the table. The team also works closely with planners to accommodate dietary needs and custom requests, ensuring every guest is well taken care of.
If you need more space, the full venue is also available for buyouts, with flexible layouts across three floors for groups of all sizes. From cozy team dinners to full-scale private events, Fang can adapt.
Prices reflect its upscale dining experience, yet the vibe remains welcoming and fun, ideal for executive events, red egg ginger parties, and group dinners with flair.
3. Joyride Pizza

Address: Yerba Buena Gardens, atop Moscone Center, San Francisco, CA 94103
Perched above the Moscone Center in SoMa, Joyride Pizza is a chance to experience San Francisco from above. Floor-to-ceiling windows open up to sweeping downtown views, while the kitchen puts on a show of its own with open-fire ovens turning out golden-edged Detroit-style pizzettas.
For event planners, the crown jewel here is the Patio Terrace. This outdoor space can host up to 40 seated guests or 100 standing, making it great for anything from an afternoon team meeting to an evening cocktail party under the city lights. The vibe shifts beautifully throughout the day — bright and energetic for lunch, romantic and lively after sunset.
Joyride’s location within Yerba Buena Gardens opens up options for events of up to 500 guests, ideal for product launches, brand activations, or full-scale company mixers. Self-serve ordering works well for casual receptions, while private events can be upgraded with full table service.
The food brings something new to the table: thick, rectangular Detroit-style pizzas with crispy caramelized edges that guests love to talk about. Their menu also offers fresh pasta, vibrant salads, and house-made desserts, all crafted with care.
Expect local drinks as well, including craft beers on tap and wines sourced from Bay Area vineyards. Please note that alcohol service wraps up at 9:00 PM, which may affect your evening plans.
4. Yokai

Address: 545 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
If your client values authenticity, subtlety, and craftsmanship, Yokai offers an elevated space where tradition takes the spotlight. Waiting in downtown San Francisco, this refined Japanese restaurant is an excellent option for intimate gatherings that prioritize connection and calm.
Yokai’s private dining room is understated in the best way, featuring a minimalist design that encourages conversation and attentiveness. It’s an ideal fit for small corporate dinners, client meetings, or appreciation events where a quiet ambiance and thoughtful service are essential.
Menus evolve according to seasonal availability, anchored by Japanese culinary philosophy: let the ingredients speak for themselves. Expect dishes like sashimi, seasonal vegetables, and food bites rooted in centuries-old techniques. It’s less about flash and more about finesse.
The space suit groups that want to slow down and enjoy. Whether you're entertaining out-of-town guests or planning a cultural appreciation event, this dining room delivers an experience that feels simultaneously authentic and refined.
Pricing sits in the mid-to-upscale range, accessible for business budgets yet polished enough for special celebrations. And with frequent menu changes, even repeat visits feel fresh.
5. House of Shields

Address: 39 New Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94105
House of Shields is a Downtown San Francisco icon, a preserved saloon with over a century of character. For event planners seeking to capture the city’s old-school charm, this venue offers full buyouts that transform its storied setting into a private gathering place.
With exclusive access to the entire space (bar, lounge, and dining areas), planners have complete control over lighting, music, and flow.
It’s a rare level of flexibility, perfect for events that require privacy, personalization, or a bit of both. Think company-wide mixers, investor events, launch parties, or internal celebrations where your team can relax without outside distractions.
House of Shields falls within the mid-to-upscale pricing range, with full buyouts starting at around $5,000. The space can host up to 175 guests and includes access to the bar, mezzanine, and AV setup. It’s best suited for evening events and late-night celebrations where historic ambiance and exclusivity are key.
6. 1601 Bar & Kitchen

Address: 1601 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Tucked just outside the heart of SoMa, 1601 Bar & Kitchen offers a refined yet welcoming space where craft cocktails meet seasonal California cuisine. The restaurant’s layout and service model make it a favorite for planners looking to balance professionalism with a touch of fun.
Whether you're booking a private dinner for eight or hosting a semi-private reception, the venue adapts easily. The design is clean and modern, yet never sterile — ideal for business dinners that may transition into more relaxed conversations as the night progresses.
The menus reflect a modern American approach: familiar dishes elevated by fresh, local ingredients and creative techniques. Guests can expect vibrant plates that work well for shared dining alongside a cocktail program, happy hours, or branded beverage experiences.
1601’s pricing sits comfortably in the mid-to-upscale range, giving planners quality without blowing the budget.
7. The Willows

Address: 1582 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
The Willows offers a cozy, neighborhood gastropub atmosphere that's ideal for intimate corporate gatherings and special occasions.
With a commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, the menu evolves throughout the year, providing fresh options for event planners. The venue's intimate scale ensures private dining events feel exclusive, fostering personal connections and meaningful conversations.
The Willows features three distinct areas: the Craft Beer Room, the Full Bar, and the Game Room. Their Craft Beer Room accommodates up to 35 seated or 40 standing guests, while the Full Bar can host 45 seated or 60 standing guests.
For larger events, a full venue buyout is available, accommodating up to 62 seated or 100 standing guests. Pricing for private events ranges from $600 to $3,000, depending on the day and space reserved.
8. Azucar Lounge

Address: 299 9th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Azúcar Lounge infuses San Francisco's dining scene with vibrant Latin American culture, making it a standout choice for celebrations and networking events.
The venue's lively ambiance, authentic cuisine, and craft cocktails create an energetic atmosphere that encourages guest interaction and memorable experiences.
Their lounge offers versatile event spaces, including the El Palenque Bar, which accommodates up to 10 seated or 15 standing guests. For larger gatherings, the Main Lounge can be reserved, with a minimum of nine guests required for booking.
Azúcar Lounge's mid-range pricing structure makes it accessible for regular corporate use, while its focus on cultural authenticity ensures events are both engaging and distinctive.
9. Birdsong

Address: 1085 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Located in the heart of SoMa, Birdsong delivers an unforgettable dining experience rooted in heritage cuisine and elevated through precise, modern technique. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a natural choice for event planners aiming to impress, whether you're hosting high-level client entertainment or a milestone celebration.
The ambiance is intimate, the service polished, and the food (a 6-course tasting menu that changes with the seasons) nothing short of remarkable.
Private dining options include the Starling Room, which seats up to 10 guests for a curated tasting experience, and the Merlin Room, which accommodates up to 20 guests. For full restaurant buyouts, Birdsong hosts up to 36 seated or 45 standing guests Tuesday through Saturday evenings, with tailored service and menu flexibility.
Pricing begins at $265 per guest and climbs to $325 for the full tasting experience, positioning Birdsong squarely in the upscale tier.
With its artisanal approach, heritage ingredients, and beautifully composed plates, Birdsong delivers a sensory experience that sparks conversation and leaves a lasting impression.
10. The Roll

Address: 921 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
The Roll brings authentic Edomae-style sushi to SoMa in a way that’s both refined and welcoming. This modern Japanese restaurant leans into craftsmanship, from its aged Akazu-seasoned rice to meticulously prepared sashimi, creating an ideal setting for events where culture and detail matter.
The space itself is sleek and understated, making it a smart pick for client dinners, international team meetups, or culturally-driven group dining.
While it doesn’t offer traditional private rooms, the restaurant’s layout and smaller footprint support intimate event formats. The food menu features sashimi rice bowls, specialty futomaki, and delicately flavored inari.
Most dishes fall between $12 and $38 (in the mid-range to upscale bracket), making them accessible for regular corporate entertaining without compromising on sophistication.
For event planners looking to share a taste of Japan without leaving the San Francisco Bay Area, The Roll delivers clean flavors and a soothing ambiance.
Restaurant Ambiance: Setting the Scene for Your Event
Having the right ambiance can transform a simple dinner into an unforgettable experience. In SoMa, restaurants are known for their diverse and thoughtfully designed spaces, making it easy to find the perfect setting for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a cozy gathering with friends, a modern corporate dinner, or a festive celebration, the neighborhood offers everything from chic, contemporary interiors to warm, inviting nooks.
Many SoMa restaurants feature unique touches like artful lighting, curated music, and stylish decor. These touches set the mood and elevate your event. Some venues even offer customizable video, audio, and lighting elements, letting you tailor the space to your vision.
When choosing a restaurant, consider how the ambiance will enhance your event, and don’t hesitate to ask about options to make the space feel truly your own. With so many choices in SoMa, you’re sure to find a restaurant that matches your style and creates a memorable experience for your guests.
Catering Options for Events in SoMa
Planning an event in SoMa means you have access to some of the best catering options in the San Francisco Bay Area. Many local restaurants offer catering services that range from casual to upscale, ensuring your menu fits the tone of your gathering.
From modern takes on classic sandwiches and tacos to gourmet, chef-specialities, SoMa’s catering scene has something for every palate. Customizable menus also make it easy to accommodate dietary preferences and group size, while some restaurants even provide delivery and setup for a seamless experience.
You can count on SoMa’s restaurants to deliver fresh, flavorful food that keeps your guests talking. Explore the neighborhood’s diverse catering options to find the perfect fit for your next event and enjoy a modern, delicious experience from start to finish.
Conclusion
When it comes to event planning in the San Francisco Bay Area, location sets the tone, and SoMa delivers on every front. With its mix of historic architecture, modern art, and an ever-evolving culinary scene, the neighborhood offers planners a rare combination of ambiance, accessibility, and variety.
Whether you're organizing a small team dinner, an executive client event, or a weekend brunch for a large crowd, these restaurant venues bring together exceptional food, flexible layouts, and atmospheres that spark meaningful connections.
Ready to find and book a space that matches your vision? Browse the Perfect Venue Marketplace to discover even more event-friendly restaurants throughout the San Francisco Bay Area!