The Big 4

Temporarily closed

French Restaurant $$$ 4.4 (323)


The Big 4 restaurant exudes an old-world charm, highlighted by a menu rich in classic dishes and an ambiance that captures the essence of historic San Francisco. Guests have lauded the authenticity of its offerings, particularly the emphasis on prime steaks and traditional favorites like their renowned chicken pot pie. While the quality of food is generally praised, service consistency appears to be a recurring theme in customer experiences.

Overall:

4.5

(270 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.3

Atmosphere:

4.5

Service:

4.1


Address: 1075 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, USA


Photo gallery

Service options

  • Takeout Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Live Music

Good for

  • Menu for Children

Payment options

  • Credit Cards

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" Absolutely loved my dinner at The Big 4! Everything from the decor to the food felt like an indulgent experience. The staff were incredibly professional and made us feel like VIPs. I was particularly impressed with the chicken pot pie; it was soul-warming and packed with flavor. The drink menu was creative too—enjoyed a fantastic cocktail. The portions were generous and it was a nice touch to serve everything in classic dishes. It’s the perfect spot for a refined evening out; I’ll be back for sure! " (*Curated Review*)

" My experience at The Big 4 was a mix of highs and lows. On one hand, the ambience is rich and inviting—perfect for a night out. The live pianist added charm to our evening. I ordered the duck liver mousse and it was heavenly! However, my friend's salmon arrived undercooked. We had a long wait for our drinks as well. I really appreciated the cocktails, but I hope they improve consistency in the kitchen. I’d recommend it for a drink and appetizers, but maybe not a full meal until they get their act together. " (*Curated Review*)

" The Big 4 is a fantastic dining experience! I went there for a special occasion and was blown away by the ambiance. It's like stepping back in time with the piano music and vintage decor. The steak I ordered was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful. The service was attentive without being intrusive, making the evening enjoyable. A perfect place to celebrate a romantic dinner. Highly recommended! " (*Curated Review*)

" Stepped into The Big 4 not knowing what to expect, but the grand decor and refined atmosphere blew me away. The history of the place is palpable and adds an inviting touch. I had their signature burger, which was solid—juicy and satisfying, though not necessarily unique. Service was friendly, albeit a bit distracted. I’d visit again just for the ambiance and cocktails, though the food could use more creativity. " (*Curated Review*)

" I had such high expectations for this place since it’s often recommended for a taste of old San Francisco. While I appreciated the nostalgic vibe and elegant ambiance, I left feeling underwhelmed. My steak was overcooked and my friend's dish lacked seasoning. It felt very pricey for what we received. The live piano music was lovely, but that alone doesn’t justify the cost. I might give it another shot, but I’m cautious based on this experience. " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (260)

" This establishment is a throwback to the elegant dining experience of yesteryear. The ambiance is something to savor—a classic San Francisco vibe. However, my meal fell flat; while the presentation was picturesque, the taste didn't match. The French onion soup was more salty than savory, which was disappointing. Although I enjoyed the atmosphere, I'll look for better food next time. " (*Curated Review*)

" A fantastic spot for a meal! The Big 4 is picture-perfect for a special night out. The decor is breathtaking and feels luxurious, setting the mood for a memorable evening. I had the opportunity to try their famous chicken pot pie and I thoroughly enjoyed it—warm and comforting! Prices were steep, but the service was attentive, creating a lovely dining experience. " (*Curated Review*)

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