Best Restaurants for Groups in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Fun menu with emphasis on plates to share, creative use of seasonal ingredients and the pita bread is to die for. The Breaking Bread appetizer sampler is a must order. Lamb chops were divine. Our server was friendly, helpful and attentive, but not overly so--made for a delicious, relaxing weekday lunch with girlfriends.

I only put moderate noise because our party was loud, and we were in a cozy nook. Otherwise, the noise level throughout was bustling but not over the top (how I like my Thursday nights out). All I can say about the food and drinks are, be prepared for the unexpected (in a great way). Every drink I had, and dish, had a twist to it, which is something I was looking forward to. The staff was super friendly and ready to help/answer questions, and I can't wait to try everything else I didn't get to taste on the menu. This is a very unique spot I'd like to try regularly!

Friend's Birthday dinner. She absolurely loved everything and she's a very critical person. We'd borh go back again and bring other people.

While the noise level is very high, the food and service is excellent!! The beet salad was possibly the best either of us have ever eaten, the agnolotti is exceptional, and the chocolate desert was rich without over doing it! What a fantastic evening we were able to share at a truly exceptional restaurant in SF. Thanks for making it special.

First-time visit to China Live, and we were not disappointed! Attentive, helpful service (Raffi was super-helpful with navigating the menu), lots of choices, and quick service. We got the XLB, sea bass, and crispy noodles with chicken, and really, I can't think of a single negative thing to say about any of them. Dessert was the wonderful mandarin brownie with lychee ice cream. All in all, a wonderful meal and a great time out for my bride and I.