11 Union Square Restaurants That Double as Stunning Event Venues

Union Square is one of San Francisco’s most iconic destinations, and for event planners, it’s also one of the most convenient and versatile neighborhoods to host a gathering. 

From timeless steakhouses to contemporary fusion concepts, Union Square offers a diverse range of dining experiences that also serve as sophisticated event venues. 

Some of the city’s most respected names in hospitality call this area home. And with flexible event spaces, private dining rooms, and thoughtful service, these venues bring more to the table than just food. They deliver unforgettable experiences.

A Quick Introduction to Union Square 

Union Square is heaven for hosting events in San Francisco. The neighborhood spans just a few compact blocks, yet it offers an impressive concentration of upscale restaurants, cocktail lounges, boutique hotels, and transit access points.

From designer shopping at Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue to art-filled alleyways like Maiden Lane, Union Square blends commerce and culture effortlessly. The layout is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore without a car.

You can wrap a client lunch at ONE65, then head to rooftop drinks at Mastro’s or a wine tasting at The Press Club — all within five minutes of each other. That kind of convenience is rare in San Francisco, and it's a major reason event planners continue to return to this neighborhood.

Union Square is also serviced by multiple MUNI lines, Powell Street BART, and the iconic cable cars, and it's within walking distance of the Moscone Center.

For out-of-town guests, nearby hotels like The Westin St. Francis, Hotel Nikko, and The Donatello make overnight logistics simple. Add in the Union Square Greenmarket for a local flair, and the area becomes an unbeatable choice for hosting everything from intimate dinners to large-scale corporate events.

Top 11 Union Square Restaurant Event Venues

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best restaurants in Union Square that also double as unforgettable venues, combining excellent food, adaptable layouts, and polished service.

1. The Parthenon

Location: 582 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Just steps from the heart of Union Square, The Parthenon has long been a go-to for diners seeking authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine in San Francisco. 

Signature dishes like souvlaki, spanakopita, and baklava reflect a commitment to tradition, while its inviting, family-style dining room makes it feel like home. The classic Mediterranean ambiance creates a welcoming setting for private dinners, cultural gatherings, and milestone celebrations. 

While capacity details vary, the space offers flexibility for smaller groups seeking an intimate, flavorful dining experience steeped in heritage.

2. Last Drop Tavern

Location: 550 Powell Street, Union Square, San Francisco, CA

Conveniently located between Union Square and Nob Hill, Last Drop Tavern blends the feel of an Olde English pub with the energy of the city. Exposed wood, cozy seating, and warm lighting create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for events ranging from birthday dinners to team celebrations. 

The venue’s bar features a curated selection of craft beers and cocktails, paired with hearty pub fare that elevates familiar classics. With an intimate setting that suits both locals and tourists, it’s a natural fit for private dining, engagement parties, and holiday gatherings. 

Event capacity varies, so planners should contact the team directly for details.

3. One Kearny Club

Location: Market, Kearny & Geary Streets, San Francisco, CA

Inside the historic One Kearny building at the crossroads of three major streets, One Kearny Club stands at the forefront of modern event venues in San Francisco. 

Its flexible floor plan, advanced tech setup, and rooftop terrace (offering 270-degree views of downtown) make it a sought-after space for corporate presentations, wedding receptions, and upscale social events. 

The design merges early 20th-century architecture with contemporary finishes, creating a timeless backdrop for both day and evening occasions. For private events, the roof terrace is available after 5 pm on weekdays and throughout the weekend.

4. Zingari Ristorante & Jazz Room

Location: 501 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 (located inside The Donatello Hotel)

The Donatello Hotel hosts the Zingari Ristorante & Jazz Room, which has been a cornerstone of San Francisco’s fine dining scene since 1995. 

Founded by Krishan Miglani and now led by Executive Chef Victor Cedillo, the restaurant delivers a refined Italian steakhouse experience, pairing hand-cut meats and housemade pasta with live jazz in an elegant mid-century modern setting.

The venue features five distinct event spaces, including the Venetian Room, Florence Room, Piano Room, Terrace Room, and the Donatello Rooftop, allowing planners to create tailored experiences for a range of occasions. 

The Artist Room seats up to 30 for private dinners and can host up to 75 for a standing reception, while the Rooftop Ristorante offers skyline views and accommodates up to 310 guests. 

Whether you're planning a corporate presentation, social mixer, or wedding reception, Zingari offers a stylish backdrop with amenities like valet parking, WiFi, and AV equipment, all wrapped in classic hospitality and live entertainment.

5. Amber India

Location: 25 Yerba Buena Lane, San Francisco, CA 94103 (near Union Square)

Amber India brings a bold, modern approach to classic Indian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco. Located just a few blocks from Union Square, this sleek dining room offers rich flavors and a diverse menu that caters to vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike. 

From traditional tandoori dishes to refined curries and street food–inspired starters, the restaurant captures the vibrancy of Indian hospitality and regional specialties.

Though detailed private event specs aren’t listed online, the layout and upscale ambiance make it a strong candidate for group dinners, cultural gatherings, and business events. 

With its central location, sophisticated menu, and welcoming atmosphere, Amber India is well-suited for those seeking to dine and celebrate in the city, with flavorful dishes and a dash of spice. 

6. E&O Kitchen & Bar

Location: 314 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94108

E&O Kitchen & Bar offers a stylish and modern approach to Asian fusion cuisine. The restaurant’s vibrant dining room blends urban design with Southeast Asian flavors, making it a standout choice for corporate mixers, networking dinners, and private group events. 

The food menu features shareable dishes, creative small plates, and bold ingredients that reflect a diverse culinary vision.

Though specific event capacity details aren’t published online, the venue’s contemporary layout and full bar make it well-suited for gatherings looking to impress with atmosphere and flavor. 

Whether you're entertaining clients or hosting a social celebration, E&O is a convenient, centrally located option in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square restaurant scene. 

7. ONE65 Bistro

Location: 165 O’Farrell Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

Set in the heart of Union Square, ONE65 is a six-floor culinary destination from acclaimed Chef Claude Le Tohic, a Michelin-starred and James Beard Award–winning talent. 

The venue seamlessly combines French fine dining with a modern aesthetic, offering multiple experiences under one roof, including the casual Bistro, refined dining upstairs at O' by Claude Le Tohic, and a patisserie and bar.

This reputation-driven space works best for elevated corporate events, private dinners, and special occasions that demand precision and sophistication. 

While event space details vary by floor and concept, each level delivers the kind of high-touch hospitality and impeccable cuisine that makes ONE65 one of the most prestigious restaurants in the city. 

8. Mastro's

Location: 399 Geary Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

Mastro’s San Francisco offers a refined steakhouse experience with the energy of a city hotspot. Known for its USDA Prime cuts, seafood towers, and classic cocktails, the restaurant strikes a balance between luxury and vibrancy, complete with live entertainment and a sleek, renovated interior.

The venue also features a rooftop dining space that overlooks the city, providing a dramatic backdrop for upscale events. Whether you're planning a corporate dinner, celebrating a milestone, or hosting a VIP gathering, Mastro’s delivers exceptional service and a sophisticated setting just steps from Market Street. 

9. The Press Club

Location: 20 Yerba Buena Lane, San Francisco, CA 94103

Right between Market Street and Union Square sits The Press Club, which has one of the most curated wine experiences in the city. The venue blends modern design with a deep reverence for wine culture, making it a go-to for tastings, corporate mixers, and stylish private parties. 

With its expansive wine list, knowledgeable sommeliers, and warm hospitality, the space draws in wine lovers, event planners, and business professionals alike.

Standard events are typically held within a three-hour window, but the venue also offers complete buyout options for larger occasions. For maximum capacity, an event tent located along Yerba Buena Lane can accommodate up to 400 guests. 

Whether you're hosting a product launch or a wine-forward celebration, The Press Club delivers a standout event experience in the heart of downtown San Francisco.

10. Dirty Habit Restaurant

Location: 12 4th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103 (inside Hotel Zelos)

Tucked inside Hotel Zelos, Dirty Habit brings an unexpected fusion of moody elegance and whiskey-forward hospitality. With over 640 whiskeys and an award-winning cocktail program, the venue blends New American cuisine with a serious passion for spirits. 

Its sleek indoor dining room flows seamlessly into the Angel’s Share Patio, a stylish outdoor space ideal for al fresco events and cocktail receptions.

Dirty Habit is a top choice for planners looking to host private parties, whiskey tastings, or upscale social gatherings in the heart of the city. While exact capacity details vary by setup, the space can be tailored for intimate dinners or lively receptions.

11. John's Grill

Location: 63 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA 94102

A true San Francisco classic, John’s Grill has been serving up steak and seafood since 1908. This historic restaurant played a role in literary legend (famously mentioned in The Maltese Falcon) and still retains the elegance and charm of early 20th-century dining. 

Rich wood interiors, white tablecloths, and vintage photos set the tone for a timeless dining experience.

This venue is great for corporate dinners, private celebrations, or events that want to tap into the city’s heritage. Known for hearty cuts of beef, fresh seafood, and old-school service, John’s Grill offers a welcoming, nostalgic space in the center of the city. 

Conclusion

Planning a successful event in San Francisco starts with finding the right space, and in Union Square, the options are anything but ordinary. These 11 restaurant settings are designed to bring people together, whether you're raising a glass with colleagues, celebrating a milestone, or hosting out-of-town guests.

Each venue brings its own personality to the table (some historic, some sleek and modern), but all are rooted in hospitality and built for memorable experiences. With Union Square’s unmatched convenience and culinary depth, the only hard part is choosing where to book.

Explore your options on the Perfect Venue Marketplace and secure your date early. San Francisco's best spots don’t stay available for long!

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