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Midi - CLOSED
Category: Restaurants American (New) American (New) [Edit]
185 Sutter St(between Lick Pl & Kearny St)
San Francisco, CA 94104
Neighborhood: Financial District
(415) 835-6400
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- 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
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
164 reviews for Midi
Review Highlights
"The pot de creme was fantastic - do not miss it."
(in 12 reviews)
"Love the Happy hour and the LAish feel."
(in 23 reviews)
"Making Galleria Park Hotel my new SF favourite."
(in 7 reviews)
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164 reviews in English
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Review from Layla L.
11/8/2010
5 stars for the burger! I didn't have anything else here but from what i understand, I chose the best item... the atmosphere- meh, just ok.
DELICIOUS cheese burgers! Quality meat, perfectly cooked with caramelized onions and sharp cheddar- you can't go wrong. AND it came with seasoned shoestring fries... so tasty. Yes, it's pricy for a burger, but, as other yelpers have pointed out, you won't be disappointed. -
Review from Luis C.
11/9/2010
My first impression a year ago was very pleasant. It's an enjoyable lunch spot, but a bit too expensive to be a regular stop. And with so many new restaurants popping around the city this year, it's not remarkable enough for me to crave more return visits. Like for example, I crave going back to Baker & Banker.
Midi will CLOSE this weekend, Sunday 11/14 is their last day.Listed in: CLOSED, out of business,…
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Review from phil h.
10/1/2010
My review in a nutshell: Weird layout, awkward service, pretty solid burger.
Full story: Walking into Midi on a Thursday evening, you definitely get the feeling that you are entering a hip hangout. The bar was packed and had funky lighting (think Virgin America) but once we went upstairs to the dining room, it was a different story altogether. We were one of the only tables upstairs and the vibe was much more subdued than the rave going on one floor down.
We asked if we could order from the bar menu upstairs (since I was in a burger mood) and were told we could but we were never brought bar menus. No matter, we both ordered a burger anyhow. And then when we wanted to order a glass of wine the waiter didn't offer up a wine menu, he just listed a couple that they had available. Again, no biggie, but it's always nice to peruse a menu to know a) exactly what options are available and b) the price of each glass.
Burgers arrive and they were pretty damn good. Cooked a perfect medium rare, topped with ripe tomatoes and sharp cheddar. And the fries were hot and crispy, as they should be.
As we were leaving the restaurant had actually started to fill up a bit but walking through the bar again, we were surprised to see that it was empty. I guess the party ends early at Midi. I wouldn't hesitate to return for a burger but next time I'll probably stick to the bar to avoid the awkwardness upstairs.Listed in: 7x7's Top 20 Burgers
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Review from Julie F.
7/23/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Came to Midi for lunch with some coworkers. I was in awe about the redesign - looks so much different from when Perry's used to be there. The downstairs is the bar area with some tables for bar bites and upstairs is the main dining room. The Midi decor is definately modern!
The reason that I chose Midi for lunch was for their tuna melt sandwich. I had fallen in love wih the tuna melt at the Palace but since its been closed for so long I had to find a replacement. The tuna melt arrived pressed on french bread i believe with melty cheese and accompanied by a side of fries. The tuna melt was delicious and enjoyed the aioli to accompany my fries.
Service was pleasant + tuna melt was great = I'll be back! -
Review from Dolores L.
San Francisco, CA
9/21/2010 1 photo
Disappointed and confused in San Francisco. A month ago.
My bff took me here for my birthday and we could even call it a 15 year anniversary of our friendship. Oooh la la...we're so fancy!
Intimate setting. Nice place for a date...if you want to talk to them that is. There were maybe about 5 tables total including us. The service was kind of slow and inconsistent.
The process:
-Rib-eye was decided while mulling over menu at home.
-Saw prix fixe with duck confit, rattled me a bit indecisive.
-Wanted fries, gluttonous thoughts, elicited waiter for help.
-Waiter proceeds to tell me rib-eye is a lot for me, but tried to convince me to order extra miscellaneous items.
-Decision: SHOW ME THE RIB-EYE!
-Waiter tried to pressure me into ordering more food. Order the fries, order a soup, order a salad...
-Shoo him away.
--Awkward--
Rib-eye me! Still feeling awkward...
Sure, I admit to my sins, but he doesn't know about my gluttony. So, why did he tell me to order more food when he said the rib-eye would be too much for me? I am still perplexed....
Everything felt mediocre to me, but I was mainly put off by the service. Meh.
I hear good things about happy hour and I'm always down to give places a second chance...so perhaps another time... -
Review from Yee-Shing Y.
San Francisco, CA
7/8/2010
Happy Hour Review.
3-6pm M-F but the bartender Sean will let you slide past 6pm if you're on good terms with him ;)
Some great deals - food and drinks! $5 house sangria, select wines and beers. They have an assortment of small bites like sliders, fries (3 types but I recommend the sea salt and pimento fries...all come with 3 types of dipping sauces for $1.50-$3). I think all the food items are below $8...I think. Also tried the midi popcorn w/ white truffle for $3 - not bad but I wouldn't get it again. Nothing special
Good times, nice space, not too crowded and the service is great. Thanks Sean! -
Review from Leah E.
San Francisco, CA
3/31/2010 8 photos
Splurge-y lunch but fa-vu-lous!
Heather and I met up to plan our dear GF's bridal shower. And we needed an inspiration-- a pretty place with good food for maximum planning efficiency!
Midi's colorful mural of a beautiful tropical girl http://www.yelp.com/bi... did get our creative juices flowing. Lovely chick-inspired ideas started popping up over our delicious Midi Quarter of Snapper Po-Boy, Citrus Salad, Pumpkin Soup and Muffin Dessert.
The complimentary BREAD WITH SEA SALT BUTTER was good and interesting. They also give you FREE SPARKLING WATER as an option.
MIDI QUARTET ($19) is Midi's version of Prix Fixe Lunch. The menu changes every week. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
The SNAPPER PO-BOYS were cute little sliders packed with fried juicy fish fillets. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
The CITRUS GREEN SALAD was very refreshing and fresh. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
The PUMPKIN SOUP was really tasty and full of earthy Winter/Early Spring flavors. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Sadly, I didn't like the dessert. It was a MUFFIN that was a little dry for me. (Maybe that's why I could not remember what it's called.) http://www.yelp.com/bi...
We did not even miss the absence of alcohol to accompany our delicious lunch when we ordered a LAVENDER drink for me (sooo good!) http://www.yelp.com/bi... and an ORANGE BUNNY drink for Heather. (I made up the name but look at the picture.) http://www.yelp.com/bi...
The venue is classy with a view of FiDi buildings since Midi is on the second floor.
Our server was very nice, friendly and did not have the snooty attitude that some fru-fru establishments seem to breed by the dozens.
It was a pricey lunch of $62 including 2 non-alc drinks, 2 Quartet, tax and tip. (About $31 per person.)
It's totally worth it! Our tummies were full with MIdi's adequate portions. The place inspired us to come up with great ideas for my GF's Big Day! *Singing: Here comes the bride.....la! la! la!*Listed in: Just Me and My Girls, My Fabulous Meals, Bye! Bye! Birdie!
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Review from Christine Y.
San Francisco, CA
6/24/2010
Came here for dinner on Saturday night after a day of shopping (for me!) and working (for my bf). My first thought upon walking in was that it was so empty -- I think we made reservations for 7:30pm, and we were one of two couples in the upstairs dining area during the entire time we were there. The downstairs is a bar/lounge area that looks pretty hip (think W hotel style).
The lack of fellow diners concerned me at first, but this concern was quickly overcome as our meal progressed. We started with the steamed p.e.i. mussels to share and then moved on to entrees of the dayboat scallops and the grilled pork chop. The mussels were good, but not particularly stand-out (I think it's pretty difficult to go wrong with mussels).
The entrees were definitely the highlight of the meal (as it should be!). The dayboat scallops came perfectly seasoned and grilled over this lemon risotto that had great flavor and texture (very refreshing yet also satisfying without being too creamy). I also loved that it had peas and pea tendrils mixed in as well (although I wish it had more pea tendrils versus peas, but that's just personal preference).
My bf got the grilled pork chop, which looked just like a normal pork chop to me, but when i had a bite it was incredibly juicy! Also it was served over this delicious fried "something" (I later looked it up and learned that it was spaetzle = pasta/dumpling type thing). It was so good that I kept sneaking bites, and even offered to trade plates when his was almost empty and mine was over half full just so I could lick up his scraps.
For dessert we had a blueberry cobbler ala mode. It was good, but c'mon, what's not to like about hot blueberry with a crunchy crust and cold vanilla ice cream...I will note however, that it stained our teeth blue so do NOT order this if you plan on going out afterwards.
Overall, I really enjoyed this restaurant. At first glance, I thought it was going to be one of those restaurants that tried but missed, but after finishing the meal I feel that they definitely delivered. -
Review from kristin e.
Portland, OR
4/26/2010
I started writing this review in July 2009, shortly after my visit to Midi and left it to collect dust for 9 months (see link):
http://static3.px.yelp...
I could've gotten knocked up and had a BABY and still wouldn't have finished the review!
But yeah, great bartender and great cocktail. It is what it is. -
Review from Alexandra N.
San Francisco, CA
1/7/2010 ROTD 7/12/2010
One of my PopChip Guardian Angels was in the city for a tooth cleaning yesterday and as he was coming down from his nitrous haze we met up for a drink in Union Square. We walked a few blocks without really knowing where we were going. It was really cold, and at 4 PM the sun was already beginning to set, so I was eager to go somewhere. Then, standing at a corner, Rene started yapping about Perry's and I just thought he was still high on dental drugs. Perry's is no more, but we decided to check out what is standing in its place. And that's how we came about Midi.
Midi is a really cool-looking spot for drinks, snacks, and conversation. We sat at the very modern bar which was illuminated underneath and little drill holes in the surface let the light shine through like light bright pegs. It was awesome. The drink list was very extensive and kind of complicated. Everything looked very fancy and I didn't know what half of the ingredients were in any of the drinks. Rene got his Brazilian standby cocktail and I ended up ordering white rum and grapefruit juice. Is that corny?
For snacks we ordered some really good French fries (Rene said I could have some of his, but I knew I was going to need my own order) with three dipping sauces, two aiolis and a roasted pepper ketchup. Delicious! Ben joined us a little later and ordered a chilling Grey Goose martini and a grass-fed burger, which was oh-so-juicy, so much so that I kept going back for little bites :) A lovely little evening was had by all!
Special thanks to Rene and Erica for the Christmas gift! Expect a meatloaf soon!!!!Listed in: Nightlife, ROTD, beeyotch!
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Review from Connie C.
San Jose, CA
11/15/2009
Friday the 13th started out terribly, but ended up great, thanks to Midi. We arrived 15 minutes before our reservations, and decided to grab a seat at the bar and order some much needed cocktails. I had the Pomegranate Metro, which was like a refreshing Sweet Tart, and my girlfriend had her usual, a Grey Goose martini, which was made perfectly. The bartenders were friendly and gave us recommendations on the food menu. Already, our Freaky Friday was taking a turn for the better.
When it was time for dinner, we headed upstairs to the intimate and sleek dining room. We were seated at the corner table by the window, which was the best seat in the house. Three items caught our eyes, so we decided to share the pear and endive salad to start, the butternut squash ravioli and the braised pork short ribs.
They were nice enough to split the salad onto two plates, and the portions were still good. I loved the candied hazelnut vinaigrette and blue cheese on the salad. My short ribs were very tasty, especially the fatty parts near the bone. The ravioli was delicious, but for $20, we were expecting more than just four ravs.
Service was fantastic from everyone who attended to us, and the mellow atmosphere was perfect for girl bonding time. I definitely plan on coming back for drinks, their chocolate pot de creme, and their lunch menu. They also have a private dining room, and someone was having a party in while we were there. I'll definitely consider it for a private party in the future.
Thanks Midi, for saving us from a midi-ocre night out in SF!Listed in: Lunch spots near Yelp HQ
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Review from Poma Celeste T.
Los Angeles, CA
7/4/2010
The room is nice, the location is ideal - but READ THE FINE PRINT.
They add a % to your meal (depending on what time of day) for their employees who only have CA-state funded healthcare. WHAT? I'm happy to contribute to a worthy cause - but why not just add it into the price and stop nickel-and-diming me! What are you, a mobile phone service provider or a bank with "free checking"?
Also, they were super snotty and borderline rude. Especially in comparison to their mediocre food.
Midi, you put shame in the name of "California Cuisine!!" Skip this place and head down 2nd & Natoma for Zebulon's friendly faces and better cuisine. No hidden fees there! -
Review from Nish N.
4/3/2009
Midi is going to fit nicely into my business lunch circuit. They've done a complete revamp of the space (hard to believe Perry's was here before!), and it's a sleek one at that. Only trouble is getting to the bathroom, which is in the adjoining hotel.
You enter at the ground floor bar area, and the dining room is upstairs. I had lunch the other day, and had some choice seating by the window, a perfect vantage for watching Fi-Di button-downers and midday shoppers passing below.
The easy (and most fun) way to try out Midi is with their quartet, a serving of four small plates -- soup, salad, savory and sweet -- that can be eaten in order or mixed together, well not counting the dessert plate I suppose. It's a cool way to go big without necessarily spending a fortune, and the items do change so regulars benefit from repeated visits.
I"m also envisioning Midi as a nice place to grab an after-work drink. The cocktail menu is spot on, and they carry Pliny the Elder, one of my new favorite beers. Order up some bar snacks (truffle and sea salt popcorn, baked cheese with toast crisps, etc.), and you're set for a for-midi-ble good time! -
Review from Jenna s.
Benicia, CA
9/8/2010
*Please note this is just a bar review.
I came here after work with some of my co-workers. It was really crowded and there was very limited seating. The bartenders were really nice and even made us custom drinks. The drinks were very pretty, but watered down. Looking around, I noticed that the majority of the drinks were really small. Hmmmm......disappointing.
Midi is very chic place with great service, but their drinks are just not that good. End of story.
Drink it. MEHHH. Try not to repeat. -
Review from Jenny L.
5/18/2009 8 photos
E, L and I joined Monica for lunch at Midi on Friday. I originally thought it was going to be a long trek from the office, but seeing how we were efficient and fast walkers, we made it there in under 15 minutes.
We arrived at Midi before our reservations, but were promptly escorted from the downstairs bar area to the upstairs dining area. The restaurant is very chic and modern, which made me feel slightly out of place with my Giants jacket. But never fear, once I took it off, we were on our way!
We all started with the Fuzzy Bunny - an extremely refreshing, sparkly and tangy non-alcoholic beverage. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Then, onto the entrees:
Steak - cooked medium rare, over a side of watercress and radish. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Tartine - with burrata and veggies. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Chicken - one of their most popular items on the menu. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
Salmon - one of their newest additions to the menu. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
The portion sizes were perfect for lunch, and it leaves us with room for dessert.
Semolina - http://www.yelp.com/bi...
And...the best thing of all, the chocolate pot de creme. So good I finished mine, and Monica's. Yes, the inner fatty prevails. http://www.yelp.com/bi...
They are also open for happy hour, which we'll be sure to return and check out. They have a drink called the 209 Jenny! Holler.
I didn't use the restroom, but apparently it's a long trek. Be warned. -
Review from Rene C.
1/6/2010
Sometimes it's the company more than the venue that makes or breaks your experience. Tonight was one of those nights. Once again I met up with up super yelp mega star Alexandra and her 3rd degree black belt boyfriend for drinks and bites. After walking aimlessly around the block we decided on MIDI.
The bar sits in the former Perry's space, but I will tell you right now this is nothing like Perry's. They have done a great job updating the interior and making it more modern yet still cozy with excellent service provided by the bartenders.
The cocktail list is extensive and it took Alexandra a bit to decide, she finally went off menu and ordered up some rum drink with lime. I could tell by the expression by her face that it did not lack any alcohol and I advised she wait for the ice to melt before continuing. Ben ordered up a Grey Goose martini and it looked mouth watering.
We ordered just some light bites fries served up with three different sauces. YUM! all three tied as my favorite. Alexandra's bf did order a burger and it looked amazing. He was even nice enough to share bites with his beautiful and super cool girlfriend.
We shared stores about snakes and Philly pizza and had a great time. I am already looking forward to a return visit.Listed in: With a little help from my…
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Review from Andrea R.
2/10/2010
I got a weird sense of deja vu walking into this restaurant and about halfway into my meal I realized I had stayed at the adjoining hotel a few years ago. My memory isn't quite what it used to be as I'm approaching 30...sigh.
Based on the reviews it sounds like the upstairs dining room is the place to be, but they put our party of 4 for lunch downstairs. I ordered the chicken breast salad, which was a very healthy salad full of lettuce, chicken, apples and nuts.
The service was pretty fast and we were in and out of there within an hr. A bit expensive for lunch so probably more of a special occasion/business lunch.Listed in: Planning a Trip to SF!
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Review from Angelic L.
San Jose, CA
8/9/2010
This place was pretty disappointing. The way it looks is just beautiful, but other than that, it didn't meet my expectations. Maybe it's because I went for dinner instead of happy hour or lunch, but all I know is that I was expecting something better.
I came here with a friend after our long day in the city about 6:30, and it was pretty vacant. There was only one other party on the top floor, yet the service was slow. To be fair, I guess I should say it got pretty busy after an hour or so, but I really don't think it should take more then 10 minutes to come pick up my check once I've left my card in it regardless of how busy it is!
My friend and I had some questions about the different entrees, but asking seemed to have been of no help because our server pretty much told us that everything was good without giving a lot of detail. I had the Gnocchi which was delicious although I do wish it came with some chicken, and my friend had the Trout. The Trout was nothing spectacular... It seemed like something that could be made at home.
To sum it all up:
-Beautiful restaurant
-Mediocre food
-Slow service! -
Review from Su K.
Oakland, CA
3/7/2010
A great lunch place and pretty fast service, too. The menu is pretty limited -- mostly sandwiches and salads, but that's good for lunch. Their little pre fixe deal is pretty sweet. I went with the oh-so-delicious and not-so-healthy chicken and bacon sandwich with some darn good fries. Free sparking water is a nice touch.
This is going to be one of my regular lunch places. :) -
Review from Lauren R.
San Francisco, CA
12/7/2010
Horrible experience! I came here with my dad while he was visiting in the city, and I had read great reviews of the place.
We came in a little after six on a Monday, and we were the only people in the restaurant the entire time we were there. My bad for ignoring the most obvious sign of a bad restaurant.
I can't knock the service because our waiter was very friendly and attentive, but the food was HORRIBLE! Even the bread was bland, apart from the GIANT salt chunks stuck to the top. We ordered the roasted chicken and pear salad, and both were also WAY too salty. The salad was very bland, and didn't have enough dressing.
I don't recommend this restaurant to anyone. There are plenty of other options nearby with edible food at a reasonable price. -
Review from Betty N.
11/14/2009
3.5 stars.
Bar downstairs, dining room upstairs.
Good ambiance. Love the surrounding bold artwork. Great customer-service from beginning to end, made us comfortable.
We shared the following:
(1) Pear and Endive salad ($9) - fresh, organic, delicious, especially with the blue cheese
(2) Homemade butternut squash ravioli ($20) - 4 pieces? $5 a ravioli? Overpriced, but filling was good. Ravioli was slightly under-cooked, too al dente.
(3) Brasied short ribs ($20) - reasonably-priced considering the portion, the meat was slightly dry and salty, but overall, tasty
We were too full to indulge for dessert ($7), but perhaps next time.
I am a fan of their downstairs bar, so will have to go there again.
Good restaurant and recommend. -
Review from Donna Z.
9/5/2009
The best word to describe Midi: Unexpected
We weren't expecting to find a cool, hip spot for after-lunch drinks.
We weren't expecting to see Moulin Rouge being projected across the entirety of one wall (minus sound).
We weren't expecting for this slightly pretentious bar to have happy hour specials consisting of two $5 wine offerings (both were great), a cocktail of bourbon, lemon and ginger (also for $5) and even a beer option.
We weren't expecting said beer option to be spilled as it was being served. But it was quickly wiped up. *We were expecting said glass to be brought back to the bar to be topped off, since it wasn't our doing. (Didn't happen).
We weren't expecting the friendly greeting by who seemed to be a manager, explaining the secret purse storage area inside the chairs - without which, my purse would have had beer all over it (see above).
We weren't expecting to have to trek through the hotel lobby, around a corner and down several flights of stairs to find the bathroom.
We weren't expecting to even come here, but it's definitely a good option for business drinks or lunch (upstairs). Or, in our case, some friendly drinks and loud conversation.Listed in: The Best Bars
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Review from Sally K.
San Francisco, CA
4/30/2009
More like FuMe.
This place is sex on a plate. -
Review from Phil M.
San Francisco, CA
3/20/2009
Came down here for an early preview of their cocktail menu and was treated to some top notch service from GM Aaron, head bartender Jake and bartender Shira. We tasted through the entire menu, 8 cocktails and small bites that push hard on the crave button. The chickpea fries were light and crispy, the tartare was fresh and meaty delicious and the fried asparagus was cooked just right, al dente.
Midi has been added to the happy hour rotation. -
Review from Donna Y.
San Jose, CA
11/5/2009
It was a slow night on Halloween. We pretty much had the place to ourselves besides a couple of tables. I came here since Midi was one of the restaurant on Yelp Eats so I thought I would give it a try. Our hostess and server was nice and attentive. Since I been eating all day I am surprised that I even had room for dinner. As a yelper I think we make room in our tummy to try more items.
Pan-fried Veal Sweet Breads - I always wanted to try Sweet Breads, if they make it well it should be like a Chicken McNugget. It sure was taste and juicy. The puree was good too. Yes I ate the whole thing and I wanted to lick my plate too, but didn't.
Roasted Chicken Breast - The chicken was juicy and sun-choked puree was good. A little to heavy on the butter for me, cuz I could not finish the dish
Grilled Colombian River Sturgeon - I had a bit and to me it seems over cooked but it was a bit on the fishy side for me.
Roasted Royal Trumpets - The mushrooms was good but I think they cooked in to much butter.
Pear Mousse - Was a perfect end to the meal. It was not overly sweet and was like taking a bite out of a Pear.
Chocolate Bacon Tart - I have not gotten use to the taste of bacon and chocolate but it was a good. I am more of a fruit person than chocolate but it was interesting. At least it didn't have the after bacon fat after taste.
Pomegranate Metro - The drink was alright but alittle to tart for me.
Dinner was good and both of us was full and ready for a walk. -
Review from Jessica L.
San Mateo, CA
9/4/2009
A very cool space. Downstairs is a small bar and upstairs a larger-than-it-looks dinging space. Comfy chairs and a long window overlooking the busy fidi streets. The bar has a happy hour 3-6pm
They have a diverse cocktail list: specialties, beers and wines - my friend and I enjoyed a half bottle for $17.
The tomato burrata was great - the pesto on it thick and garlicky.
She had the hanger streak and I had the lamb - yummy! The plates were not that pretty and there were a lot of other things I would have liked to try.
Next time!
Staff was pretty good and I love when you get your own little water carafe - bc I drink so much water!
Oh - the weird pink bag/envelope that the receipt comes in - strange. and does not really go with the decor. I guess they are trying to be modern.Listed in: DOWNTOWN!
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Review from Cindy S.
Oakland, CA
3/17/2010
A client was in town and my boss decided to have a team lunch and meet our client.
It was packed when we arrived, but we had already made reservations in advance, so no waiting in line. The staff was great, they showed us to the table right away and had our water poured as soon as we seated.
I ordered the Roasted Halibut. It came out fairly fast considering they were busy and we were with a group of 7. My Roasted Halibut was good. It wasn't dry, the flavor was just perfect. I finished everything down to the last bite.
Overall, I wasn't disappointed and it made it better when the boss paid :P -
Review from Linda C.
Updated - 5/22/2010 7 photos
Came here for a team lunch per my suggestion and everyone liked the food. We had no problem getting a reservation for 10 at 12pm. Service was excellent, but got a bit slow when the restaurant filled up during the lunch rush. Food is overall good.
- Halibut: a bit overcooked, nicely fried crisp on top, broth was flavorful1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/20/2010
Chic, trendy, good food, and nice staff.
I'm surprised I didn't check this place out sooner. It's a… Read more »
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Review from Jeff H.
4/8/2009 2 photos
Maybe it was the remainders of the Giants opening day buzz, or the unexpected sunny afternoon amid a sea of forecasts of rain for the day, or maybe it was the warm glow from the Manhattan I sampled here in the late afternoon. Whatever it was, I enjoyed my dinner at Midi.
It was a fairly long day with Opening day festivities, walking around the city taking pictures of interesting people while my wife had her hair done (after the game). So I stopped in here after picking up a few bottles at John Walkers next door for a libation.
Since they carry R(i)1 Rye whiskey, I went for an old school Rye Manhattan. It was very nicely made. Looking around (and at the menu) I definitely made a note to come back for dinner at a later date.
Turns out that the later date was to be 2 hours later when we decided to have a bite before going home. So after a quick call to the kids to tell them to heat up the leftovers for themselves, a semi legal uturn, and a lucky find of a great parking spot, we grabbed a table in the downstairs bar area.
We had the roasted beet salad and the warm seafood & fried baby artichoke salad. Then we split fines herbes pappardelle. Not a single speck was left on any of the plates. Very well prepared. The service was friendly, efficient, but not overbearing in any way. And I like the sleek decor with the view of the kitchen area through the glass.
My only complaint is that the bread served upon request is a standard dinner roll. I was expecting something more interesting and flavorful. Oh well, maybe they will read this and fix the only flaw we had in the experience here.
And another plus is the coupon I picked up at John Walkers earlier that day for (I think) 25% off the food. In today's economy, I'll save $12 if I can. Remember though, if you use a coupon, make sure you tip your server based on the pre-coupon amount.Listed in: My SF haunts
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Review from roxmarie g.
San Francisco, CA
9/9/2009
The endless march toward a reasonably priced, decent, spiritually uplifting work lunch continues. Plod plod plod.
Today my coworker suggested Midi, a place which recently replaced something on Sutter which I can't remember. We entered the bar and headed upstairs. It's a nice place with a new car smell and an airport lounge feel. I hardly ever dine upstairs downtown so it was kind of bizarre, like being in a big cosmopolitan Asian city. Not totally crazy about the loungey somewhat claustrophobic feel here, but I could get used to it with friends and a large flagon of vino.
The service is excellent. The pressed panini sandwiches are made from the super thick focaccia type bread, which I don't really like, but my table mates really enjoyed their chicken breast sandwiches with smoked bacon. They were spectacularly massive, served with your choice of salad or fries. The fries are excellent. I chose the burger, a hefty serving of "natural" beef, cooked to medium rare perfection with a kind of carmelized onion glaze and a nice piece of butter lettuce, on a fluffy bun. I really liked the burger and the catsup, mustard and aoli served on the side were nice.
Their prices aren't cheap but they give you a hefty serving of good quality food. I try to keep work lunch under 10 dollars these days but given the very good food and the really excellent service, I'd put it in the rotation for special days or meeting people after work. -
Review from Bill B.
4/11/2009
I was pleasantly surprised by the classy, post-modern decor when I was graciously brought here for a birthday lunch. My next surprise was how busy they were - even at 1:15 on a weekday, we had a 20-minute wait for a table. (Note: Reservations highly recommended.)
The wait, however, was worth it. All the staff were friendly, attentive, and helpful. (More on that in a moment.) The complimentary, house-filtered water--your choice of still or sparkling--came out quickly and our food didn't take long to prepare either. The bite of roasted garlic-bacon soup that I stole was quite good, and we were both highly impressed with the french fries. Given the excellent flavor, I suspected a fancy preparation, but apparently they're made in canola oil and it was merely the quality potato, perfect crispness, salt, and sprinkled herbs that made them so good. My chicken club sandwich (chicken, smoked cheddar, bacon, avocado on grilled ciabatta) was outstanding as well. It's a splurge for lunch, but not outrageous and certainly worth it for the quality and atmosphere.
For me, a 5th star is only earned if a business knocks my socks off with something truly impressive. Midi earned theirs because I haven't been many other places where the server will chase you 2 blocks down the street to return the credit card you forgot on the table! -
Review from Michele K.
Oakland, CA
5/8/2009
Midi is one sexy little restaurant! It is sleek inside and has a very groovy mural that reminded me of Tahiti on the wall. The restaurant is upstairs w/the bar below at street level. The restaurant has a modern sleek feel to it with comfortable yet fashionable petite dining room.
The menu has a focus on french bistro cuisine. I enjoyed a croque madame---an open faced ham, gruyere topped w/ a poached egg. My mom had a Niman Ranch Roastbeef sandwich with Roasted peppers, arugula and fontina cheese. Our lunch was divine and we both enjoyed a glass of wine that was served in cute tiny Karafes, mine a rose from the Loire valley and my Mom enjoyed a Merryvale SB.
The service was excellent, Michael was so patient and kept a smile on his face the entire time ...even though we were the last people in the restaurant...
A great new addition to the neighborhood!!! -
Review from Spanky M.
San Francisco, CA
6/8/2010
Love the Happy hour and the LAish feel.
Great appetizers for the happy hour and the drink specials are usually well balanced.
The bar area is pretty small so not good for parties of 10 or more..
I haven't been up stairs though. Maybe its better. -
Review from Laura F.
San Francisco, CA
4/8/2009
Limited veg options, but I had an amazing noodle dish, filled with asparagas and shallots, and a few other items I honestly can't remember. Tossed in a super light, fresh squeezed lemon. Could have eaten it over and over and over and over, like a monkey with a miniture cymbal.
Love the feel, very non-hotely, and the upstairs area was quiet. Spoke with the super-charming GM on my way out.. he's excited and passionate about this place... which makes two of us! -
Review from Gloria H.
12/27/2009
Shopping is hard work. I don't know how I did it before. After shopping for hours looking for gifts for the babies and kids, I was beyond beat. The only thing that kept me going was the thought of relaxing with a glass of wine or champagne somewhere.
Walked into Midi's Happy Hour (M-F 3-6pm) and the place was empt, which was a welcomed sight. I chose the corner low seating and stretched. I was looking through the menu when the waiter gave me their HH appetizer menu. He then told me they are doing some kind of cab and chardonnay for $5 and a nice rose. I opted for the rose and it was refreshing and nicely chilled.
Haven't eaten a thing all day, the filet mignon tartare croustade sieved eggs and caperberries (2 slices for $5) sounded delicious and it was. Watching muted Charlie Brown's Christmas on the large screen and listening to lounge music really helped to relax me and take away the headache that was developing from the crowds in the mall. I opted for the chickpea fries when I ordered my 2nd glass of rose. For $5, you get 9 thick pieces stacked prettily on a small dish served with a trio of dipping sauce: harissa aioli, roasted garlic and nicoise olive aioli and roasted pepper ketchup. It was good and hit the spot perfectly.Listed in: Happy Hour in SF
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Review from Chris C.
San Francisco, CA
7/19/2009
What a great place!! I really do not give out five stars lately for restaurants but this place really impressed me.
My partner had a gift certificate that he won in a raffle and my buddy and I along with my partner decided to give this place a try tonight.
The host station was a bit weird for the location because it was located UPSTAIRS rather than downstairs. After being seated quickly. Our server Nicole was totally fabulous. She was nice, attentive without being overbearing and very knowledgeable about the food. She gave us some fabulous recommendations on the food and none of us were disappointed with our choices.
Our starters were filet mignon tartare and the salmon carapaicco. The salmon carapaicco with its slivers of raw salmon with cucumber and English green peas was light and refreshing and all of us thoroughly enjoy eating the filet mignon tartare.
Our main course was equally delicious. My friend had the salmon with was cooked perfectly with a great medley of vegetables. And my partner and I had a fabulous and tender hanger steak cooked to the medium rare that we wanted. We also got the fries on the sides which was great as well although it was hard to share it with 3 people since the fries were so good. We also got the chickpea fries as well, which was crispy and different but it was good nevertheless.
The desserts were the stars in my opinion. Their buttermilk fritters with a trio of strawberry, chocolate and blackberry sauces were absolutely DIVINE!!! So light and airy, sort of like a beignet but a bit more like a cake, again it was hard to share with your table because they were so freaking good. The pot de creme with the caramel and sea salt were delicious as well.
The food and service were spot on for the entire evening. The water glasses were never empty and Nicole made sure that our needs were met promptly. She was never frazzle and always had a smile on her face. Our dinner for 3 with drinks and coffee came out to 220. So definately not a casual everyday dining place. But definately a special occasion place.
I found my place for birthday dinner in September and hopefully we can stop back here again really soon. -
Review from Marcus C.
Boston, MA
3/25/2009
My boss and I came here for a business lunch the other day and it was nice to have a casual alternative to Maxfield's, where our company seems to always conduct business lunches.
I had the braised lamb tartine, which was quite good, and we split a side of fries, which was meh.
But I'm glad to have a sit-down option that doesn't cost a million dollars and doesn't make you feel like you're a poser among REAL people who do business. -
Review from Natalie S.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2010 1 Check-in Here
Love the trendy modern decor. The bar looks HAPPENING downstairs and I always like the bar and restaurant in hotel theme. As this is a joie de vivre hotel, it is very boutiquey.
The dining room is upstairs. The service was great and they whisked away our coats. We ordered wine by the glass and they came in their own little decanter bottles. Liked that. I decided to try the dine about menu and ordered the duck broth soup (rich with little chunks of duck, flavorful), the chestnut squash ravioli (flavorful but a tad bit salty for my taste) and the cilantro mango sorbet (two huge scoops that was plenty for the three of us). My brother had the pork which fell off the bone. My mom had the halibut (which she said had this weird green sauce). We also started with mussels (which were ok) and the endive and pear salad (no complaints).
All in all, we liked the ambiance. The food was good, nothing wrong with it, but not a "wow'd" caliber. I'd come back to check out the bar and the happy hour menu. -
Review from Katie H.
San Francisco, CA
7/6/2009
So one of my old roommates from college is a concierge- which is fantastic because he invites me to industry stuff that is fancy on the cheap! I highly recommend becoming friends with a concierge so that you can be their +1 at events.
Anyway, we tried out Midi the other day and we were impressed by the service (big ups to Bob- yes his name is really Bob, even though he doesn't look like a Bob type of guy) and the decor.
We shared the sweetbreads app which they ever-so-considerately plated separately for us, and I had the halibut/ cod (can't remember which it was.) My dish was good but I wish I had been more adventurous and gone with something with more interesting flavor combos, such as the pork chop with fruit that my friend had.
Also! I had a few martinis which made navigating upsatirs to the bathroom a bit difficult...
My favorite part about Midi is that they serve wines in mini- carafes which I adddooorre (as you know it doesn't take much to amuse me) and I want to come back to Midi and sit downstairs and eat fancy bar snacks with a mini- carafe or three. Fun times! -
Review from Joe S.
San Francisco, CA
8/4/2010
Since I now live in the area, I decided to come back to Midi. On a Tuesday night, I was surprised how empty the restaurant was. There were 4 tables being served at 7.
Given its quietness, it's a great spot for a romantic dinner, or an intimate conversation with a friend/friends. The clientelle ... well, you're right up against a hotel, so 2 of the 4 tables were tourists, and 1 of the other tables were San Franciscans hosting a guy from San Diego (ok, I'm nosy and I listen in to other people's conversations)
As far as the food goes ... my friend had the tomato/corn soup and the rib-eye, both of which were quite good, I had the heirloom tomato salad and the duck leg confit. Tomatoes were really fresh, vinaigrette was balanced. Duck leg also good. Fig tart at the end of the meal was nice because it wasn't another bloody (fill in the blank) creme brulee ... though I do think they had that on the menu. (I don't blame them - tourists are part of their core customer base, it seems).
A solid 4 stars
