Cafe Zoetrope

Cafe Zoetrope reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Review summary

1. G

   Gwen VIP

   San Francisco261 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on April 12, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Great SF Restaurant Week destination. Interesting Asian staff in a North Beach Italian restaurant.
   

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2. W

   Wim

   Birmingham6 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on April 12, 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Stepping into Café Zoetrope feels like walking onto the set of a classic film — and that’s no coincidence. Housed in the iconic Sentinel Building and owned by legendary filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, this charming café is steeped in cinematic history. From the vintage movie posters to the rich wood interiors and soft, ambient lighting, every detail celebrates the golden age of film. The atmosphere is warm, intimate, and undeniably inspiring. It’s the kind of place where film buffs, creatives, and casual visitors alike can soak in a unique blend of culture, history, and excellent cuisine. The walls practically whisper stories of Hollywood legends. The Italian-inspired menu is equally impressive. From hearty pastas to perfectly curated wine selections (including Coppola’s own), every dish is thoughtfully prepared and deeply satisfying. The service is attentive and welcoming, making the whole experience feel special. Café Zoetrope isn’t just a place to eat — it’s a destination for anyone who loves great food and the magic of movies. A must-visit in San Francisco.
   

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3. S

   Susan

   Sacramento9 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on April 5, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   We first came here to eat because we loved the exterior of the historic building. Now we come back for the food and excellent service
   

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4. W

   Warren

   San Francisco1 review

   5.0

   Dined on April 4, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   great service, food, and environment - would recommend to anyone esp for celebrating special events like birthdays
   

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5. L

   Lesley

   Tampa1 review

   5.0

   Dined on March 9, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Friendly staff and the best Caesar salad I've ever had. Nice ambiance and large bar selection.
   

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6. T

   Tara VIP

   San Francisco8 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 23, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   It’s wonderful, everything is good but best place for pizza and wine in North Beach
   

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7. D

   Deirdre

   San Francisco30 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on February 22, 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   We went for late lunch on a Saturday ..  lovely old world, but upgraded, ambience, terrific food, perfect atmosphere for deep conversation with friend.
   

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8. J

   Jeff VIP

   Fort Lauderdale23 reviews

   3.0

   Dined on February 18, 2025

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 3

   We grabbed a last minute dinner reservation on Presidents' Day and sat at a 2-top squeezed next to other guests. There were plenty of other open tables available that even stayed open during our entire time, like the four top next to us. But our server told us he couldn't sit us there because they had a reservation booked (no show). No worries. I understand restaurants have to keep their seats available for walk-ins. Next, a kind young gentleman approached us to ask for drinks, and I asked him if he had sangiovese by the glass, then he asked me if it was a red or white wine? Shocking! Obviously, I was concerned, being that I was in an Italian restaurant in North Beach, SFO. He quickly went away and sent back another server who was more informed. 2 warm rolls came out complementary. They were very good. All the usual condiments were in the table for dipping. We had the cauliflower appetizer (no meatball app :( but they serve Spaghetti & Meatballs, puzzling. We ordered two bowls of pasta (spaghetti w/ meatball, and the classic carbonara). The pasta was not proper al dente,, and meatballs were average.... nothing to write home about. Carbonara was a bit over-sauced and the marinara was under-sauced. What I was shocked and surprised over was the $160 bill for having 4 glasses of wine-by-the-glass, one appetizer, and two bowls of pasta. Ouch! I would say, go for lunch and happy hour, but avoid it for dinner.
   

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9. K

   Kristin

   Chicago13 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on February 18, 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   I've been wanting to try Cafe Zoetrope for a while as it is in an iconic building and such a beautiful setting and it did not disappoint.
   

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10. S

    Sandy VIP

    San Francisco36 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on February 15, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    First time at the restaurant- it was a busy day for them with the Chinese New Year Parade The good was excellent- service was good I will absolutely go back again.
    

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