The experience here was not so pleasant as sounded by locals. We were first sat a small small small table near the kitchen where the waiters frequently pass and patrons going to the second floor... More

The experience here was not so pleasant as sounded by locals. We were first sat a small small small table near the kitchen where the waiters frequently pass and patrons going to the second floor which we never saw but am sure would have been a more of a better experience. My wife and I both ordered steaks my wife the filet myself the ribeye both cooked as ordered but we found nothing special here. Our waiter seemed to careless of our time being spent here and at the end no dessert offered only coffee we were not pleased and wanted to leave right away. Our entire dining stay here from entrance to exit was a suprising 45 min. However we could not let that sour taste and waste of time ruin the night we left right away to Morton's (two blocks away) for their sigature hot lava cake that quickly turned the night back around to a pleasant night thank you Morton's for saving the day or night. Pros: a landmark Cons: does not live up to a great steakhouse
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The burgers here are amazing. I have never tasted burgers like these before. They are juicy and fresh. They also go well with their mashed potatoes. This place is great to go with your boys.

The burgers here are amazing. I have never tasted burgers like these before. They are juicy and fresh. They also go well with their mashed potatoes. This place is great to go with your boys.
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We visit The City from our home on the central coast whenever possible. A dinner at John's is always included. I lived in Burlingame as a child, so this resturant is part of my childhood. One can... More

We visit The City from our home on the central coast whenever possible. A dinner at John's is always included. I lived in Burlingame as a child, so this resturant is part of my childhood. One can find a great steak in many newer places, but the service, great food and atmosphere all make the prices here acceptable. If you want to take in the charm of the City then John's is an important destination. For those who live in SF it is familiar and welcoming. Perhaps not the greatest place for economy minded tourists. Pros: classic city atmosphere and ambiance Cons: not recommended for "economy" seekers
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My wife and I dinned there in June 2008. The seafood and the service was outstanding. My wife had the Seafood Cannelloni and I had the Seafood Cioppino A La Marinara. The first floor dining is... More

My wife and I dinned there in June 2008. The seafood and the service was outstanding. My wife had the Seafood Cannelloni and I had the Seafood Cioppino A La Marinara. The first floor dining is compact and semi-private. Wine list was very adequate with good choices. All and all a great place. Pros: Great place! Cons: None
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Dined here while taking in the new Westfield Mall. Having lived here in the past and just returned from the east coast this is the next best find without going to NY for a clubby restaurant. Our... More

Dined here while taking in the new Westfield Mall. Having lived here in the past and just returned from the east coast this is the next best find without going to NY for a clubby restaurant. Our reservation was honored the moment we walked in and the service was professional. Our steaks were big enough for 2. The lobster ravioli was to die for and they make big old fashion martini's. I notice other reviewers find the prices high; they really were not for the quality. It is still probably 30% less than Mortons or Ruth Chris and let's not forget we are dining in a place full of rich history. Pros: Excellent service and atmosphere Cons: Very popular and busy
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I do not understand the popularity of this restaurant. Yes, they have the historical charm of having been mentioned in The Maltese Falcon. However, as a dining establishment, John's Grill falls... More

I do not understand the popularity of this restaurant. Yes, they have the historical charm of having been mentioned in The Maltese Falcon. However, as a dining establishment, John's Grill falls terribly short. I suppose that if 25%-35% were shaved from the bill I'd feel that the menu prices fit the value, but this is not the case. Do yourself a favour, if the John's Grill of the Maltese Falcon is an experience which you must have, have a drink at the bar but avoid the "tourist trap" menu at all costs.
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John's Grill is one of a few genuine historical restaurants in San Francisco. By stepping inside the well-reserved decor, you felt like you went back in the 1950's. The food was yet simple but... More

John's Grill is one of a few genuine historical restaurants in San Francisco. By stepping inside the well-reserved decor, you felt like you went back in the 1950's. The food was yet simple but scrumptious. The staffs were very attentive and friendly which was perfect for the casually dinner with my group of friends. Highly recommmended for people who looking for authentic food in the distinctive place.
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Avoid at all costs! TIGHT seating. Bad service. The people at the tables next to me were closer than my wife across my table. The staff never asked how the meal tasted. They never refilled the water... More

Avoid at all costs! TIGHT seating. Bad service. The people at the tables next to me were closer than my wife across my table. The staff never asked how the meal tasted. They never refilled the water glasses. They never brought more drinks. They were fast at getting us seated and getting us out the door when we were done. Pros: food was OK Cons: tables crammed together
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Oh well. I will move on to other venues. There are other well known steak houses in San Francisco - will try them all "one-by-one".

Oh well. I will move on to other venues. There are other well known steak houses in San Francisco - will try them all "one-by-one".
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I have never had a bad meal at John's grill. the best steaks, chops, and wine. With the old picture's on the wall and the white linen tablecloth's this is the grace kelly of restaurants. If your... More

I have never had a bad meal at John's grill. the best steaks, chops, and wine. With the old picture's on the wall and the white linen tablecloth's this is the grace kelly of restaurants. If your looking for the "old" san francisco when Herb Caen referred to it as "baghdad by the bay" this is where it starts and ends. John's grill is as good as "the stinking rose" is bad. Bravo for John's grill! Avoid north beach, go to John's grill, have the sam spade special, and ambience you will feel. Pros: Great food, Great service, Romantic Cons: None, None, None
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