Rich Table
#1 Date-NightSeasonal Californian cooking with handmade pastas, wood-fired mains, and one of SF’s most consistent date-night experiences.
415-355-9085 · ★ 4.6 (218+) · $$$
Early tables mix neighborhood regulars with destination diners; later it tilts date night and industry folks at the bar. Service is warm, quick with honest recommendations, and happy to pace the evening so it never feels rushed.
Notu is known for picking just the best of every neighborhood. When we picked the best Date-Night in Hayes-Valley, we started with the people because people drive every great experience.
Crowd & Vibe
Early seatings mix neighborhood regulars with destination diners; later it skews date night and industry friends at the bar. Staff is quick with honest recommendations and happy to pace the evening so it never feels rushed.
- Date-night
- Food people
- Celebrations
Every business excels at a few things and is merely fine at the rest. For Rich Table, we’ve highlighted the offerings it does best—reliable standouts that deliver the most value and consistently great experiences. Use this as your quick guide to what’s worth choosing first.
What to Order
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Handmade Pasta
From silky ribbons to hearty shapes, the noodle work is the star—ask for the night’s standout.
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Seasonal Crudo
Clean, bright, and citrus-driven to wake up the palate.
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Wood-Fired Catch
Crisp edges, tender center, and a simple jus that lets the fish speak.
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Braised Short Rib
Fork-tender and rich without heaviness—share if you’re ordering multiple courses.
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Olive-Oil Cake
Fragrant, moist, and not overly sweet—the ideal finish.
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Sardine Chips & Horseradish
House signature—salty, crunchy, and perfect with a spritz.
There are solid alternatives, too. This quick comparison shows how Rich Table stacks up so you can choose confidently.
How Rich Table Compares
| Date-Night Options | Rich Table | a Mano | Absinthe Brasserie & Bar | NOPA |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reservation Difficulty | ✓ Usually bookable 1–3 days | Often same-week | Same-week or walk-in bar | 1–2 weeks for prime times |
| Date-Night Atmosphere | ✓ Intimate, warm lighting | Lively brasserie energy | Casual neighborhood vibe | Bustling, high-energy room |
| Signature Pastas | ✓ Handmade, changing nightly shapes | House-made, rustic | Limited pasta focus | Not pasta-led |
| Bar Program | ✓ Balanced, food-first cocktails | Classic absinthe-leaning program | Italian aperitivi focus | Whiskey/wood-fired cocktails |
| Noise Level | ✓ Conversation-friendly | Buzzing | Casual loud | Loud |
| Avg price for two (food only) | $120–$160 | $90–$120 | $70–$100 | $120–$160 |
Why Rich Table stands out: the few qualities that consistently deliver are highlighted below.
Chef-Led Seasonal Menu
Dishes change with the market—bright produce in spring and summer, slow-braised comfort when the weather turns. The kitchen keeps flavors focused and lets ingredients lead.
Date-Night Atmosphere
Low, flattering light; well-spaced tables; and a soundtrack that stays in the background. It’s intimate without being stuffy, and service is warm and attentive.
Wine & Cocktail Program
A tight list of bottles and by-the-glass options that pairs cleanly with the food; cocktails lean balanced and food-first rather than showy.
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