I need a restaurant suggestion.  I'm in charge of a group of about 30 people that will be in SF in May.  I'm looking for a restaurant that is very casual, maybe has a private room, and would serve us a buffet or maybe a menu with 3-4 choices. Laid back, networking-friendly.  Any ideas?

(I realize this may be a strange place to pose this question, but I'm hoping that my fellow hobbyists, being men about town, will come through.)

some references:  http://www.sfgate.com/food/

Gordon Biersch is casual, and has a private room
also Shanghai 1930....really depends on your tastes, budget and location.  Good luck

Hi there aloral-

The good thing is - you have plenty of time to plan for your large party. Unfortunately, it might be rather difficult to find a very casual place with the capacity to cater to such a large business crowd. One Market www.onemarket.com, is one relatively moderately priced yet upscale option. It's also close to a lot of the conference venues downtown.
In fact, it might be best if you mention if the restaurant should be in proximity to Moscone or any other convention site. We might better be able to assist you.

All the best,
Nicole Kelly

...around $50-60 per head.  We're in a hotel near the Ferry Building on Embarcadero.  I'm aware of One Market, but can't get a return call from them. Any thoughts on Cliff House?

-- Modified on 2/19/2008 4:23:37 PM

Call Cliff House and ask...Shanghai is one block away from you...some other restaurants on the second floor of the Embarcadero mall there might suffice.

...is it a "tourist trap"?  It's a famous place, but is it any good.  The website shows their private dining room and it looks nice, especially the view.  And thanks again for your help!

from the link I gave you:
"It's been more than two years years since the Cliff House was redone, better capturing the dramatic ocean views and creating an airy dining room and an ambitious seafood menu. At the time of the initial review, the service was amateurish and the interesting-sounding but complicated menu was often poorly executed. A recent visit showed that not much has changed. Service is well- meaning but slipshod. The menu reads well but the results are mildly disappointing.Still, if you want a great romantic view, Sutro's delivers. In terms of food, stick with the simpler preparations."

HKL's observations ring true to me as well. I was not overly impressed with the menu or preparation post-renovation. Granted, I have not returned for over a year for that very reason, so it may have improved.

It's very far from the Embarcadero as well. It might be a logistical chore to get everyone all the way out there to the Outer Richmond.

I hope One Market gets back to you as they would be a good option. Alternatives include Faz on Steuart St and The Thirsty Bear (much nicer than it sounds) on Howard St.

It might also be a good idea to investigate Sens and the Holding Co. - both in the Embacadero Center: http://www.embarcaderocenter.com/ec/dining/

Good Luck!

You've given me some good options to pursue.  I really appreciate it.  Now, back to the really good stuff....The Hobby

Okay, if you had to click, read about me

...use of the EOM trap.  I love it!  Anyway, merci.  I hope one day our paths cross in a non-restaurant mode.