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Carnelian Room - CLOSED
Categories: Restaurants Nightlife Bars Lounges Restaurants, Lounges [Edit]
555 California StSte 1950
San Francisco, CA 94101
Neighborhood: Financial District
(415) 433-7500
- Price Range:
-
$$$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sun, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
269 reviews for Carnelian Room
Review Highlights
"The view is amazing, if not a little dizzying."
(in 18 reviews)
"we were watching the sunset and the golden gate."
(in 15 reviews)
"Coit Tower and the TransAmerica building are visible."
(in 8 reviews)
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269 reviews in English
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Review from Craig C.
Barrington, RI
12/30/2011
It's a huge loss to San Francisco that the Carnelian Room is closed; a testament to a why company (Aramark) that evaluates success strictly on the bottom line has no business running whos value is esoteric. I'll regret never again enjoying cocktails and conversation while twilight overtook the city. It'll live forever in my memory.
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Review from Sheeva G.
12/24/2011
It's so sad that this restaurant closed because it was such a gorgeous place. The food was mediocre, but the view....wow. The view was unparalleled. You could literally see almost every part of the city from the 58th floor. I had been plenty of times and the atmosphere was just mesmerizing...very intimate and romantic. Every table had some sort of view, but my favorite table looked over the entire financial district and you could see the bay bridge sparkle too. Snobby staff, food was just ok, but 4 stars goes to the best view in San Francisco. I really hope they utilize that amazing space for something as memorable as the Carnelian Room was. So much potential!
-
Review from Krista C.
5/5/2011
They really should have called themselves the CarNASTYass Room. Mainly because of the nasty ass staff with their nasty ass attitudes all up in there.
I went here during my senior prom dinner back in high school. What's that, you say? The fact that I came here a little over a decade ago makes anything I say about the place irrelevant?
Wrong. The fact that it is closed for good and I am still writing a review makes this review and all other reviews that were written after they closed their doors irrelevant.
Here's a true story:
A few of my friends and I were standing street level to this place years ago and we were looking up toward the top of the BofA building.
Friend1: That doesn't look like 52 stories high
Friend2: Yeah, it looks more like 51
Ba dum pum! -
Review from stephy s.
San Francisco, CA
1/28/2009
Have you ever been somewhere that makes you wanna use profanity. And not in the "the this place f*ckin s*cks a dog's di..." errr, um, you get the picture, but a place so friggin awesome that you just can't help yourself from gazing at the view and saying an almost silent, breathless, "Fuuuuck"
Well, that was me last night after staring at the view from the Carnelian Room. IT IS SIIIIIICK! And while I already knew that I fell head over heals in love with SF from the ground looking up, standing in front of the window on the 52nd floor of this building, looking at the entire city, the Bay and the sunset. Good grief, there are no words.
I honestly could care less how much they charge for their drinks or their wine, this view is worth every penny!
I am happy to say that I now have a place to come whenever it feels like life has delivered a swift kick to the shins or I start to question my place in the world. This view is that answer. -
Review from Christine C.
San Francisco, CA
12/30/2009
When you employ the rudest hostess possible, how can you not close down?
View lounge was said to close at 10:30 on the website. When we arrived at 9:10, the hostess insisted they are closing at 9:30. Another patron commented that there's still over 15 minutes left. She replied with, "Earlier there was a 50 minutes wait just for the cocktail lounge."
What does that have to do with the fact that there is still 20 minutes left?
To be sure, I asked again if they were closed at 930. She said dinner closes at 930. She muttered something else. Her poor English is really confusing me. Is the cocktail lounge closed? We just want a drink. She yelled, "No, we are closed!"
We slipped in to take a look at the view for a few seconds. After all, this is a bar/lounge, not the emperor's throne.
She comes inside moments later as we were exiting, huffing and puffing, "You are not allowed to be in here! There are people sitting in here!"
At this point, I told her she doesn't have to be so rude. She argued with me that she was not rude.
A gentleman, perhaps the manager, came in and said we can take a look.
"No, it's fine. We walked inside and she told us to get out." Everyone standing in the waiting area was now staring...
English as her second language is no excuse. Rude is rude in every language.
If they weren't closing after new year, I would have made sure she doesn't have a job the next day.Listed in: Despicable Me, Put on Your Cocktail Dress
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Review from Tam F.
10/26/2009
We were lucky enough to be included in my husband's cousin's 40th birthday party here and I am glad we got to go. The night was clear and the views were spectacular. We were in a private room for the party which had about 20 people. I would rate the place 5 stars, but they were out of one item on the menu and I did not like being called "Lady" over and over again when asked what I wanted to order, if I wanted another drink, etc.
The food we had was wonderful. The bread basket had and assortment of rolls and lavosh. I love lavosh-it reminds me of my childhood. The cocktails were free flowing and strong, but the soda my husband ordered was flat. We were not provided with appetizers and everyone (well just about) had delved into a libation or two by the time we were ready to order (hence why the bread basket was so popular). Husband started with a crab and something or other and an ahi entree I had a roasted beet salad and one of the best steaks I have tasted in a long time. I am a big fan of the charbroiled steak and this place cooked mine perfectly. The party was a huge success, and it was a wonderful celebration. I am sad to know this institution will be closing soon, but am super glad to have been able to partake before it happens. -
Review from Sylvia N.
Newark, CA
11/21/2009
Just came here for a 2 year anniversary date and I loved it. The view was amazingly GORGEOUS. Thank goodness for clear skies tonight because I was able to see ALL of San Francisco. I can honestly say I've never realized how beautiful the city is until this evening.
I started off the meal with an oxtail ravioli appetizer. It was very different, but extravagant. The oxtail was delicious. Next, for my main dish, I got the house special Prime Rib with shrimp. The shrimp was AMAZING. It was soooo juicy. The prime rib was also really good, it basically melted in my mouth! Then last, but definitely not least, I had a vanilla suflee for dessert. It was the first suflee I've ever tried. It was decent, nothing special. I kind of wish I got a creme brulee instead, but it still added a nice finish to the evening.
Overall, the service was GREAT.
Everyone should come experience the view and wonderful food before they close in a month. -
Review from Stanley C.
Cupertino, CA
9/24/2007
First off, how do you give negative stars?
If Possible, please revise java script to include--kthxbye...
Why the hostility from my usual cherry happy go lucky awesome self? I'd like to mention that in my 31 years on this planet, I have never walked out of a restaurant *after* ordering... Nor, have I have ever gotten near blows with the maitre d'.
Yet--I have accomplished both in one sitting and an hour ordeal at the famed Carnelian Room. I will tell my story, accurately as possible, as I don't like to embellish, nor do I want to sway anyone from eating at this deathtrap, rat infested, hell hole POS they call a restaurant..
So I was in SF with a friend checking out spas, when the famed Carnelian Room was being tossed around as a possible dinner locale.. Never been there, never heard too much, but eating above 50+ floors should be cool, eh? If the food was bad, at the very least I can pretend to get sick and do fake gag reflexes during dinner right? Oh the fun that can be had! The time was 5pm and I called them to see about availability.. Not surprisingly, they had an open spot at 8pm.
Upon arrival, I can see the maitre d' (d is for dick) was not amused by our super cultoure attire.. I guess my $150 AG's, $250 Y-3 top, with my $20 sneakers did not qualify for his best dressed list... My friend was a female, so it should not matter what she was wearing, unless she was naked.. oh wait.
Anyways, right off the bat, the d (dick) made us wait, despite an empty restaurant.. When I asked to be seated near a window, he bucked down and with a tone of attitude, said verbatim, "Those seats are for more important customers that made reservations.."
At this point, I was getting annoyed, but not to the point of walking out, since I figure, he was probably jealous of my $20 sneakers.
When seated, he basically gave us the worse possible table.. I mean, it's the one right in front of the kitchen doors, and next to the garbage can and dead rats. It was *that* bad.
Sensing at this point, that my friend was uncomfortable, I tried to make light of the situation, by being my usual jovial self, but that only works soo much.. I decided to have a little talk with the dick again.
"Excuse me kind sir, I noticed that we have been here for approximately 20mins, and those extra 10 tables you have by the windows have still not been taken. Is it possible to move us to one of those free tables? Despite being Chinese, I am a very generous tipper!"
His response nearly made me break out the blade from my sheath..
"Uh NO! You're lucky I gave you a table--We do have a dress code you know!"
At this point, I was very upset.. You can make fun of my $150 jeans, my $250 top, but don't mess with my $20 sneakers.. I hurried back to our table, told me friend that we're leaving and I will never step foot here again.. My friend happily obliged.
On the way out, I went up to dick and told him he made a huge mistake.. I was right about to order the Dom, but now I will never be back and tell all my foodie friends about this rat hole.. He yelled back to me, "well, you're never welcome back here!!"
I exchanged one final "pwned" look with him, and yelled out, "fifth floor rules!" as I ran out.
On my way out, I noticed the reservation sheet on the dick table, and I did what you think I was going to do.
I took it.
I took it, but I could see in the corner of my eye that I was seen taking it by an employee, and as I hurriedly pressed the elevator call button, my adrenaline was in full kick...
The elevator door finally opens and I pound lobby and close door repeatedly like I was playing track and field on the NES.
Just as the dick comes running to us, and just like in the movies, the door closes right on his face, with his arm nearly inside the elevator door.
As the 50 flight ride down, was the longest ride in elevator history!
Just as we reach ground level, the door opens and my friend and I run to the nearest exit.. As I am running to the exit, the 2nd elevator opens up and the dick starts yelling for security. I cleverly dispose of the reservation paper at the nearest trash can.
And again, just like in the movies, we were stopped by the biggest security guard i've ever seen. His hand was the size of my head (on a side note, does he pay more for gloves? Anyone know?) At this point, the dick arrives and says I stole something and he wants it back. I told him I have noting, and I am more than happy to strip down. I do the reverse pocket trick only to reveal my money clip with one dollar bills on the outside ha!
We go head to head at this point, and he says he can have me arrested for stealing, and I said I can have him arrested for being a dick. Sensing I am not going anywhere with this, I point to him the trash can where I threw out the paper. He fetches it like a dog, and I leave.
If you don't believe my story, you can hear it from the dicks mouth.
Just call them and ask for the dick. -
Review from InfodivaMLIS B.
San Francisco, CA
12/17/2008
4 Stars for the view. If you are fortunate to attend a party in the banquet room that faces the San Francisco Bay then you would know. The view on a clear day or night is spectacular.
Coit Tower and the TransAmerica building are visible. You can look at the detail and variety of the landscape.
The food was good although not plentiful. Spinach filled pastry, cheese stuff mushrooms, and curry chicken skewers were tasty.
The coat check can fill up quickly if there are other events. The restroom boasts an attendant that distributes cotton hand towels to dry your hands. I felt pampered.
There is an express bank of elevators best found via the Montgomery Street entrance near the Bay Club entrance.
I love parties here, when is the next 2009? -
Review from Nish N.
11/7/2007
I can't believe I had never been to the Carnelian Room until last Friday. I suppose, while you can eat a regular dinner there, many people experience it as part of a larger party or gathering.
After going up - and feeling it - fifty floors by elevator, the doors open to a hostess who checks you in. There are a bunch of different rooms that you can book, so it's good for banquets, weddings, business meetings, etc., and the clientle tends to be on the conservative side (jackets are recommended for the gents).
We were there for a rehearsal dinner and the space our friends rented had a fabulous view of the city. That alone is worth an experience but I was surprisingly pleased by the quality and variety of the food. The night was set up like a cocktail party with a separate bar and plenty of waitstaff to keep the flow going. Overall, a well-executed night from an event standpoint. Definitely a great way to mark a special occasion, making up in charm what it may lack in hipness. -
Review from Luis C.
12/31/2009
As some people would say, another one bites the dust (tomorrow is the last day).
My cousin's wedding reception was held at the Carnelian Room several years ago. I was glad that the event went well.
I'll miss the fantastic views here, but not the food or the service. In the meantime, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel also has nice views of the city.
I've read that Rick Tramonto (Tramonto's, a popular Chicago steakhouse) is looking for locations to open 2 restaurants in both San Francisco and Napa. I think this would be an enviable location for a steakhouse. Just a suggestion.Listed in: CLOSED, out of business,…
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Review from Aaron G.
San Leandro, CA
12/7/2008
When my company has a party or a happy hour, i know that the booze will be flowing and the food will be aplenty. So i try not to miss any of these events. For the 2nd year in a row, my company has had it's holiday party here. I didn't go the first year despite planning a proportion of the party (i.e. choosing the location, coordinating with the event planner, creating the invitations, etc.). This year, i'll be damned if i miss it again.
When you first arrive, you are greeted by these little old asian women who are leading you over to the coat check. They are seriously motioning you towards the coat check area before you can even grab your name tag. Once I got into the main dining room, I almost immediately ran over to the window to look at the view. AMAZING!! BREATHTAKING!! GORGEOUS!! and really HIGH!! 52 stories is quite a ways up. Looking down can make anyone a little off balance.
The service staff was friendly and accommodating, even though i only really interacted with 2, one who served me my glass of red wine and one who served me this corn bean salad on a cucumber. After a little while, i headed over to the hors d'oeuvres with my date (a fellow yelper) and took a bit of everything. I was not that impressed with the food. My favorite was this roast beef canape with a horse radish creme. The rest was forgettable. I really expected higher quality food, but i guess my expectations were just too high.
In the end, the location was awesome and the food so-so. It's also interesting to see people outside of the office in a more social setting. That really made the night fun for me. My date was also very awesome. I'm so thankful that she agreed to come with me after only giving her a few days to confirm. It was great getting to know her a little better as well. LIgaya, you rock! -
Review from Kristina R.
San Francisco, CA
2/27/2006
Come here for the views, but not the food. It's expensive, ritzy food that doesn't impress.
The only times I come here is to have a drink and to enjoy the beautiful views of the city I love so dearly.
Also, it's romantic. But I've never been to a view restaurant that wasn't, have you?Listed in: Isn't It Romantic?
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Review from Katie W.
12/26/2009
We don't all have Fathers who would rather be with us, their kin more than anyone else. Or Fathers that are sentimental about the Good Old Days and want to share them - but I do.
Sometimes this makes for a load of quiet nights in front of the tv - but sometimes this makes for San Francisco adventures to see all the old haunting grounds, the back streets and the tiny storefronts that have long turned from housing the best homemade ravioli or thick ice cream, huge doughnuts or fresh baked rolls- in favor of feeding the neighborhood need of liquor or laundry.
The Carnelian Room will soon be among the city's legends of a sure bet for high society dining in a sophisticated classic setting. That also happens to showcase the best view of the city.
From the ride in the elevator to this top floor destination, you know this is a special night out. They will take your coat, they will hold hand towels for you in the bathroom and they will treat you as royalty for the duration of your stay, you Gorgeous Guest, you.
Cocktails in an old school place like this are not optional. They have been around since the invention of the mixed drink, and as such are a serious treat. A Manhattan will never lead you astray.
They will ask you with your order if you will be ordering a souffle and you will. This is what they are known for, and no one does better. So, get the Grand Mariner and don't look back.
The bread bowl houses so many different kinds and flavors, all tender and all tasty. Dinner will be traditional and good. You don't come for the latest trend, you come for something you know that is made perfectly and elegantly.
The tasting menu is a good deal, and that's what the bulk of our group had, but I broke out and got the halibut with a curry sauce and steamed mussels. Not a big fan of mussels - but somehow, all of mine were gone by the time I was done...
We all loved our experience here, and that's just what it is when you're dining at the Carnelian Room. The atmosphere, the view and the people you are with are what make this place special.
So, go, before it's gone and take someone sparkly with you. You won't forget it. -
Review from Connie C.
San Jose, CA
7/3/2006
April 1994 was the first time I ever had dinner here... with my prom date! I remember being taken by the gorgeous views of the city, the wonderful service even though we were obviously teenagers, and I can't remember not being wowed by the food. What did I know, I was only 16! The following year, my then boyfriend took me to Valentine's dinner there and I was impressed yet again. We even rode the express elevator with Alicia Silverstone - I was in awe - she was huge in '95, remember "Clueless"?!
Fast forward to July 1, 2006. My good friend had her wedding reception here. The space seemed a bit old and worn, the artwork of hunting dogs fading, the chairs and lace tablecloths so tacky. The space felt a bit crammed, especially the head table where the bridal party sat. I felt so bad for them, because there was about 2 feet between their table and the wall. The food was really bad - presentation was mediocre and flavors forgettable. The service was good - they kept on serving my fiancee bottles of beer without him asking for any. "Probably because I'm the only Mexican here. That's rascist!" he laughed.
The view was still spectacular. I looked over to my just married friend and her husband who were clearly in heaven. It was sweet. And where better to be than at the top of the second tallest building in San Francisco? -
Review from Pammy C.
San Francisco, CA
9/9/2007
First, get yourself some seven year olds. Add some Europeans, preferably German as, in my experience, Germans are the loudest people in the world. Make sure all members of the party are armed with cell phones and the ringers are on - loud. At least two of the seven year olds should be programmed to respond to a ring with some sort of squeal or yell, followed up with "MOM, WHO IS IT?"
Sit next to a nice white couple from some state in Middle America that looks like they haven't spent this much time together since their honeymoon. They'll be happy for the distraction and probably thank you later.
It should be one of the seven year old's birthdays and, of course, everyone at the table should be in a party hat. Cut the bickering about who gets to wear what hat off after about 10 minutes - that shit gets annoying. Clearly, all of the adults should drink. Heavily. One of the seven year olds should have massive allergies and come with her own Benadryl. Store that shit on the table right next to those little butter balls.
When a cell phone rings, for god's sake, answer it! You don't want to be rude to the caller. In any case, if you don't, she'll call back, especially if it's PETRA FROM GERMANY. Talk to Petra for awhile - in German. Don't worry if you have to yell; how the hell are you supposed to hear her over the guy at the end of the table yelling into his phone in Spanish?
Open the gifts! There probably won't be any room on the table, what with all the seven year olds using a different plate for their individual pieces of watermelon, so go ahead and spread out on the floor. Don't worry about not having a bag for the paper; you're leaving soon anyway to go take a ride on a CABLE CAR!
After the gifts, it's time to sing! Everyone should join in and, of course, everyone should sing as loudly as humanly possible. Ignore all the death stares from the staff - you're used to them by now and, besides, they're just jealous.
And, THAT, my friends, is how you rock the Carnelian Room. Next year - Gary Danko! -
Review from Jason B.
2/1/2009
Everyone should come here once, and definitely do so on a clear day. This was my second time, first was years ago for dinner, right out college, trying to impress a girl. I don't remember it being memorable, I was in way over my head, and my expense limit. Girl didn't work out.
Today I was back for brunch. My grandparents had expressed an interest in eating here, and when they drop any hint of driving up from SC (San Carlos) to SF you jump on it. Brunch is totally the way to go. Five stars for a number of reasons:
- The spectacular view. Yet another moment where you realize the iconic sites of this gorgeous city are second to none. Bay Bridge. Coit Tower. Golden Gate Bridge. The bay. Transamerica building. Columbus Ave. cutting through the city. All there for your breathtaking pleasure.
- My awesome grandparents. Rolling all the way from the SC, you gotta give props (and stars) to anyone in their 80s who still appreciates the city and can discuss politics, religion and current events with the best of them. Thanks for being alive in so many ways gpa and gma!
- The old school scene, including a pair of performers doing up the best of adult contemporary/soft rock. Not my usual musical choice, but for today, it sounded just right.
- The good food for a reasonable price. This one surprised me the most. Did the food blow me away? No. But for $29 (the french toast, my choice) up to $59 (steak), you get a seafood starter, soup, your entree choice, dessert, coffee or tea, orange juice, breads and a glass of champagne. It was a lot of food, and definitely felt worth it.
I guess it all comes down to this: at any point over two hours I could enjoy some eats, toast my sister with a glass of champagne, look across the table at my grandparents, and easily take in one of many stunning views. This is an easy five stars to give. -
Review from Whitney H.
Manhattan, NY
7/22/2008
Worst. Service. EVER!!!! I wish I could give this place zero stars.
I've been a few times, and each time was worse than the last. Views are amazing, but the food is mediocre, the prices are disgustingly high for the quality served, and the service is absolutely terrible. This is what I encountered during my last visit:
My girlfriend and I came here in hopes of getting a clear view of a fireworks display taking place that night. Upon arrival, the hostess told us that seating was limited, and were wished "good luck" in trying to find a table. After about 10 minutes we found one, and quickly sat, plucking up our menus to review their drinks & desserts.
It's 15 minutes later, and there is no sign of a cocktail waitress. I finally see one and try to get her attention. I watch her attend to other tables for about 5 minutes, and as she passes ask if we may place an order. She huffed "hang on" and sped off. At this time, we happen to notice a family of five grab the table next to us.
10 minutes later, we are still waiting for the waitress to return. Finally, she makes an appearance and takes the order of the table next to us. Yes, the table that arrived 20 minutes after we did. She runs off as I try, yet again, to get her attention.
It's 5 minutes later, and she finally, FINALLY approaches our table. We order our drinks and ask for a tasty looking lemon dessert to share. "They got the last one", she said impatiently as my jaw hit the floor. "And the kitchen closed ten minutes ago".
Then, as a final nail in their coffin, she got our check wrong and charged us for an extra drink.
All I could think of was, ARE YOU KIDDING?! I was livid, and my temper never reaches a state of such rage. Never, NEVER returning. The view is amazing, but the service is so horrid I wouldn't go back if you paid me. -
Review from Chris M.
San Francisco, CA
11/17/2006
12 year Bowman scotch, three cubes...$12
Virgin Strawberry Daquari....$8
Chicken spring roll appetizer....$14
View of North Beach, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Golden Gate Bridge, Marin, Tiburon, and the East Bay from 52 floors up....priceless
...no wait, it was $34 -
Review from Carol L.
San Francisco, CA
7/20/2007
Stunning view, but very uneventful food.
To get the best out of it, come here after dinner for drinks and their chocolate souffle to enjoy the beautiful view of the city. You might want to call ahead to pre-order the souffle since it takes 45 mins to prepare. -
Review from Jenny W.
Brooklyn, NY
12/20/2008
Been here twice now for our company's holiday parties. The food is always only decent - the best thing about the Carnelian Room is the view. You can see the entire city + Oakland and Berkeley. The appetizers were only as good as decent gets. Started off trying the tuna tartar (sushi style). Was not very good and the tuna didn't taste fresh at all. I agree with Patricia P that the fried shrimp was too greasy, i remember all the grease it left on my camera...the crab cakes were the worst, being mushy. The crust is supposed to be crispy, it was soft. The lamb was TOUGH, and the fried chicken on a stick (sounds awful) was Ok, I enjoyed the sweet and sour esque dipping sauce.
For the entrees, we had three options to choose from (this was a holiday party). Spare ribs, Seabass, or Goat cheese ravioli. I chose the seabass, which was quite dry and lacking a bit of flavor. I also found three bones, which I wasn't too happy with. Patricia P had the goat cheese ravioli, which she said was pretty disappointing. My co-worker sitting next to me had the spare ribs, which looked burnt and not so appetizing.
I def won't be coming back for the food, but the view is so great. I would recommend grabbing an after work cocktail here, just to take in the view of SF and the entire bay area. -
Review from Amy S.
5/4/2009
Beautiful!!!
I came here on NYE 2 years in a row and watched the fireworks. Dinner was fancy smancy with lots of alcohol choices (duh! new years)
Random celebs can be seen here, like the SF doublemint twins (the old ladies) and one year an Ed Hardy team was up there and they started throwing ed hardy baseball caps at everyone. It was obnoxious and awesome! Im assuming this one guy with them was a celeb since he was smoking everywhere he went and rode in the VIP elevator with STILL SMOKING in the elevator.
The staff that works at Carnelian room is awesome and accomadating, even on the most hectic of nights.
Fireworks are amazing when you can see them OVERHEAD! -
Review from David T.
Oakland, CA
11/27/2009
I brought my girlfriend here for our 2 year anniversary and she loved it. The reason how i know is because I read her yelp. Let's just say that this place was located on the 52nd floor, you can pretty much see all the piers and some of SF's most beautiful lights..
First thing i noticed when i walked into this building was the automatic elevators. It just knows when someone needs an elevator. I thought that was hella cool because i didn't have to get my hands dirty.
When we first walked in, we were greeted and got our coat checked in. We was then seated right away next to a window which was great because we got to see the beautiful view of SF. Let's just say i got the best view of the bay bridge in this nicely dim lit room. I can see the Port of Oakland in the background, the dangerous S-turn, the lights from the bay bridge, everything!
I started my meal out with a Ceasar Salad, i love ceasar salad for some reason. I also ordered a glass of Franciscan red wine that the waiter recommended. After my appetizer, came my main dish, i ordered halibut because im a big seafood fan. The fish tasted fresh, but i thought the seasoning was a little bland. For dessert, we shared a vanilla souffle that completed my meal.
Overall, i think this place beautiful but the food wasn't to die for. Don't get me wrong, the food was still good, just not drool status. 4 stars for the great service and nice view.
By the way, the girl i took here is Sylvia N. You can read what she ordered. -
Review from Angie M.
8/17/2009
This is a review for the cocktail lounge only!!
I've been here several times to enjoy the few and a cocktail ... or two... or a bottle of wine... or two....
The views of the city and bay are incredible, the atmosphere feels like a cross between touristy and library-ish; but this is a good thing!
Just one word of advice: when you go, leave your cheapiness attitude at the door, drinks are expensive, wine is expensive, the snack menu is expensive... just deal with it and enjoy being 52 floors above the world. -
Review from Nikki c.
Oakland, CA
9/20/2007
I have never actually paid to go here. But....... because I'm a hustla', I have been to numerous events here. The views are AMAZING. The food and drink have always been good - but, I don't know if it was in house food or catering.
So, to sum up my advice - try to go here on someone else's dime before you spend your own cash. :) -
Review from jeffrey d.
Charleston, SC
3/16/2007
The View. What the heck else are you here for???? It's amazing. Over priced wine and bad food. But heck. . . .look at the bridges and the city view and wow. . .some fun. Have a $90 bottle of wine that you can purchase at $20 and settle into a groove.
The views really make this place and you think I am being mean but the food sucks, and that is wrong. If you build it they will come. Not so here. They need to find a chef who gets San Francisco and the farmer's market movement. Be current. -
Review from Tatyana S.
Emeryville, CA
8/12/2009
I had a special occasion and I wanted to go somewhere very special to celebrate. What better place than Carnelian Room can provide a bird's eye view of Mount Tam, Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. No other place. That is when there is no fog as thick as my grandma's reading classes! Oh well, that's no fault of Carnelian Room per se...
They have a 5-course prix fixe menu for $59 (alcohol is not included). However, we opted for a la Carte and were not disappointed. This was an orgasmic gastronomic experience.
Price of food (for two): $120
1 Grimaud Farms Duck Breast (omg)
1 Slow Braised Beef Short Rib (omg)
Grand Marnier Carnelian Room Soufflé (had better)
2 Glasses of Wine
Quality of service: impeccable, outstanding, praiseworthy
View: view of what exactly?
Total: 5 stars no matter what.
Piece of advice: come here for lunch/brunch or dinner on a clear sunny day. You will be stunned, I promise!Listed in: Restaurants not for 'just a…
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Review from Ronaldo R.
Monterey, CA
3/22/2009
I have been to Carnelian Room a few times since my junior prom which is a lot for someone as thrifty as me. It never fails me. It is my go to restaurant if I really want to schmooze and feel important. The Sunday Brunch is always the way to go here, although you won't be disappointed with anything you chose from the menu dinner time. Have the char grilled veal and truffle oil mac which are exceptional and are my favorites here. It is a nice restaurant with a legendary view, so go here to enjoy your meal and the ambiance, do not rush through it. They aren't too picky about dress codes here, but it is always more enjoyable to feel fancy when you are eating at one of the fancier restaurants in our little unpolished gem of a city!
Minus a couple of stars because it is very hard to swallow a $15 cocktail. I'll keep coming back though on those special occasion nights. -
Review from Inga W.
8/2/2007
My friend and I decided that we should plan some happy hours for everyone and expand a circle of friends. So after some back and forth emailing and brainstroming we decided on the Carnelian Room. I have never been here but I have heard it's a great place for a drink and of course the view.
So me being a marketing professional, I crafted this great colorful email with the when and where and sent it out to about 10 people. I said no formal RSVP needed but would be nice to know who's planning on going. At first I received a few responses with comments but no actual "yes I'll be there" so I was a bit annoyed. A few days before I sent another email and got about 5 yes. I told everyone that they should invite friends but haven't heard anything.
At 6:15pm I take the elevetor up to the 52nd Floor. I right away notice the old money banker feel of the hallway and the fact that there are no usual happy hour loud crowed here, but I know the lounge is open from 3pm to the public. I walk in and see a few couples sitting at tables enjoyng a drink and no one else. So i sit down at the window, and let the waitress know that we will have a few more people.
The view is absolutely amazing in this place, I mean I have never seen SF in this way and I have lived here for 4 years and in the Bay Area for over 20. You see the city from a post card view, but yet you know exactly where you are and what you're looking at. I don't care how much my drink was, this was so worth it.
I look at the drink menu, well the only happy thing about it is the variety of martinis that are about $15 per drink. I knew this was the case but was hoping so did everyone else. 10 minutes later a few friends show up, then a few more, every time we order drinks and get them, we have more people coming, pretty soon we took over the lounge and basically had 20+ people, some we knew, some we didn't.
The happy hour is a success!!! Not only was everyone loving the view, but the fact that we could sit and talk and hear each other was a huge benefit too.
But please make sure you know how much your drink is, people came, drank and left and put in money and we trusted them and of course at the end of the night we were short, really short. So if you go in a big group then pay as you go or make sure they are all there when the bill comes.
I would definately do this again with a group, date or whatever. But while I have not had the food, I heard it's not that great, expenisve but nothing special so get your drink(s) and go somewhere else for the gourmet meal. -
Review from Vanessa y.
San Jose, CA
10/15/2008
Great View
Terrible service
Blah food
Very expensive
I wouldn't go back. -
Review from Max P.
Philadelphia, PA
10/1/2006
The good:
- Breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city
- Seafood appetizer (shrimp, lobster, oysters)
- The trio of sorbets dessert (served in a sugar glaze bowl)
- Portion sizes - their portions are not as small as typical restaurants of this caliber
The not-so-good:
- Service - maybe it was just that our waiter was useless, but service was unimpressive. I asked for recommendations on both food and wine and both times the waiter had no clue. I'm not sure he even spoke english. I think the only thing he said was "very good". Then later he came to check on us and said "very good?". I would expect more if you're paying $100 per person for dinner.
- Seared ahi tuna main course - ahi tuna just doesn't do it for me when it is crusted with bread crumbs and served "well done"
Advice
- Save this for when you have friends from out of town visiting, since the panoramic view of San Francisco is really the only reason to come here.
- Don't come on a foggy night.
- When making reservation, specify that you only want a window seat. You may still not get it, but if you don't ask, you are guaranteed a seat in the middle of the room.
- Come for drinks (there's a bar), that way you get the benefit of the views and avoid dropping major mula -
Review from Black K.
Oakland, CA
11/29/2009 1 photo
Closing its doors December 31st, 2009....
You don't go the Carnelian Room for the food... Its sucks.
You don't go to the Carnelian Room for the drinks... They tend to be watered down.
You don't go to the Carnelian Room for the service... It can be a little snobbish...
You go to the Carnelian Room for two things being 1) the view that is breathtaking from 52 stories above the BofA building and 2) the fact that the Carnelian Room really is the LAST place in SF with high class you can go that doesn't require a dress code, cover charge, or reservation.
Be warned: If you decide to visit on a weekend, be prepared to spend at least $1 to tip the restroom attendants if decide to tinkle tinkle...
Yup, that's right. You have to pay to use the restroom at the Carnelian Room.. LOL Optional of course.
I'm going to miss this place... :( -
Review from Jon E.
New York, NY
7/21/2009
Was here back in February. Total tab was about $130 for two and we bought a 2 appetizers, 2 entrees, and 2 drinks (we skipped dessert).
You definitely are not paying for the food but are paying for the environment.
The clientele are definitely on the well-heeled end of the spectrum (in fact I heard a guest mutter to his server "I spend $600 every time I'm here and you give me this table?"
Dining here at night is amazing and thats really the only reason one would go.
Scratch that, have drinks in the bar at sunset/night and go to Absinthe for dinner. -
Review from natasha z.
Dublin, CA
8/29/2008
OK maybe this place sucked because it was on New Years Eve but that's honestly NO excuse. It was $600 to reserve a VIP table here for NYE. That includes 1 bottle of grey goose and 1 bottle of champagne. First off, we get there and it was a cluster F*$#!!! There were hundreds of people packed like sardines in this idiotic area that was suppose to be the will call line. Just my luck a security guard approaches me and asked me what I needed...So i told him my name and that i had ressies for a vip table and everything was paid for. He took care of my whole party right away.
We get to our table..it's nice and all being at the very top of this building and seeing 360 degree views of the city. BUT i realized that our "vodka" was in a carafe. Since when did lounges start giving you bottle service out of a carafe? It probably wasn't even Grey Goose...I complained of course, I demanded he bring me our vodka in the Goose bottle. So he did, but wasn't too happy about it.
Midnight comes and I want to prepare our party with all champagne..hence champagne toast at midnight. Well, to my surprise this guy says "NO, NO champagne is not included in the table"..
WTF!!!! -
Review from Karlita ..
San Jose, CA
9/26/2006
I must say, I have never eaten here... Haven't found a man who could handle the bill...
But I am giving this place 5 stars on the views alone! I was invited up to privately view the place with a friend of mine who was visiting from Germany. We got to wander around wherever we wanted.
The views are absolutely breathtaking. Worth going up, just for a look. -
Review from Karen F.
San Francisco, CA
4/27/2007
Upon entering this establishment with several coworkers, I instantly craved a cigar and a glass of brandy, and almost expected Michael Douglass to burst into the main dining room.
In a nutshell: The view is pretty, but the food is shitty. -
Review from Dee C.
San Francisco, CA
2/11/2008
This place deserves a star or two because the view from here is amazing. As for the service, food/beverage selection and ambiance... it needs an ubber amount of help.
I want to share with all my visitors of this view, but it is such an uncomfortable treat to be served by a snobbish wait staff and a cocktail that costs more then my cable bill. It is so unfortunate a place with so much potential can be such a disaster.
There are so many awesome places in San Francisco with exceptional service. I can not say the same for the Carnelian Room. I would never recommend this spot, but it doesn't mean I will stay away from the view in hopes that the service will someday match up. -
Review from Julia B.
Oakland, CA
11/17/2006
The VIEW!
Even with its crappy decor its still romantic. I liked my strawberry daiquiri even if it was the same price as a movie.
I didn't like the elevator ride back down the 52 floors as it was too fast and gave me an earache afterwards.
It was worth it. -
Review from David D.
10/4/2006
Up on the 52nd Floor I feel like I'm flying! The floor-to-ceiling windows give an unobstructed view of the City, and you all look like ants down there. It's a beautiful view, in any direction.
The USF MBA Alumni Association meets here for lunch six times a year. Imagine a room full of people dressed in suits and sport jackets, meeting in a light, airy, dining room in the sky. Imagine the Mayor or a New York Times columnist as the guest speaker.
Imagine the food ... no menu at a banquet, it was eat as served. We were served tortellini, a Cobb salad (unmixed, to do what we would with it), and chocolate mousse with fresh fruit topping. The food used to range from bad to OK, but was very delicious today! Maybe they have a new lunch banquet chef. I'm looking forward to the next meeting! -
Review from helen f.
6/7/2009 1 photo
This is for the bar side only review
spectacular view!!! It would be a great place to take your out of town guest!
Service was slow... The drink was ok.. I had a apricot colada, I didn't taste much of the apricot or the alcohol.
