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Dinner & a Movie at Foreign Cinema (San Francisco)

by Mary Jo Manzanares on July 10th, 2007

Dinner and a movie may be the quintessential date, but then there’s the decision about which to do first.  Dinner first, followed by a late movie?  Or a movie first, followed by a late dinner?  Such are the decisions that have plagued couples for years.

With Foreign Cinema, however, you don’t have to choose — because dinner and the movie occur at the same time!  Or, you can just make it drinks and a movie — whatever suits your style.

Movies, which start at dusk, are screened in the covered outdoor courtyard.  Seating is available in the courtyard, and also indoors fireside and in the semi-private mezzanine that overlooks the dining room.  Cocktails, as well as a complete menu are served in the main bar and on the patio.  The menu, which changes daily, is heavy on California-Mediterranean cuisine, and feature a good selection of share plates.  Check out some sample menus here.

And if your date is going really well, you can step next door to the hip, industrial-chic bar, Laszlo.

I’ve always been to Foreign Cinema on warm evenings, and have been able to enjoy sitting outdoors in comfort.  It seems to be a place that friends choose to gather for drinks and appetizers.  I’ve tried a lot of things on the menu, but it’s never been a full dinner service.  Some of my favorite menu items include:  steamed mussels (especially when served in a curry sauce), an excellent gazpacho, and they do a great job with a cheese plate.  Pair those up with some good wine (which also changes regularly), and I’m a pretty happy person.  Although I’m not an oyster lover, they also offer an extensive selection.

Foreign Cinema is located in the heart of the Mission District (2534 Mission, between 21st and 22nd).   Dinner is served Monday - Thursday 6 - 10 pm, Friday & Saturday 6 - 11 pm, and Sunday 5-10 pm.  Brunch is served on Saturday 11 am - 6 pm, on on Sunday 11 am - 5 pm.  You can make reservations online, or by calling the restaurant at 415-648-7600.

Area parking is difficult — this is the Mission District after all, but the restaurant offers valet parking ($10).

Showing thru July 29th is Pan’s Labyrinth, or you can check out the future film listings.

Photo credit:  Elizabeth Churchill

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POSTED IN: Food & Beverage, Outdoor Activities, Things to See & Do