For those seeking a taste of San Francisco history alongside their meal, Sears Fine Food San Francisco stands as an enduring landmark. As a content creator for foods.edu.vn, and a devoted enthusiast of culinary institutions, I recently ventured into this 85-year-old Union Square fixture to experience its charm and, of course, its renowned cuisine. Having heard varied opinions, I was eager to discover firsthand if Sears Fine Food lived up to its legacy. Especially before catching a performance at the nearby San Francisco Playhouse, finding a spot with character was paramount, and Sears Fine Food certainly promised just that.
Founded in 1938 by Ben Sears, a former circus clown, and his wife Hilbur, Sears Fine Food quickly became famous for its breakfast offerings, most notably the delicate silver dollar Swedish Pancakes. These weren’t just any pancakes; they were crafted from a cherished family recipe. Topped with lingonberries, these iconic Swedish Pancakes remain a star attraction on the menu even today, drawing in generations of diners.
Stepping inside Sears Fine Food is like stepping back in time. While perhaps not overwhelmingly ornate, the restaurant exudes a classic, old-fashioned ambiance. The walls are adorned with black and white photographs, capturing moments of past patrons and San Francisco history, adding a layer of nostalgia to the dining experience. It’s a cozy, intimate space that feels far removed from the bustling energy of Union Square just outside its doors.
On my visit, I decided to sample the dish that put Sears Fine Food on the map: “Our World Famous 18 Swedish Pancakes.” Opting for the lingonberry sauce and a side of sausages ($27), it served as my dinner for the evening. Truthfully, the rest of the menu didn’t immediately capture my attention that night, and the allure of these legendary pancakes was simply too strong to resist. However, I must admit, the reality didn’t quite match the hype.
While the portion of pancakes was indeed generous, they lacked a distinctive flavor profile. They weren’t overtly artificial tasting, but they weren’t particularly memorable either. The accompanying corn syrup felt like a rather generic choice and didn’t enhance the dish. Having recently tasted superior homemade silver dollar pancakes elsewhere, the comparison unfortunately underscored the mediocrity of this iconic offering.
The saving grace was the lingonberry preserves, which did add a welcome tartness and brightness, elevating the pancakes somewhat. However, the portion of lingonberries was insufficient for the entire stack, and requesting more seemed excessive given the already carb-heavy plate. The breakfast sausages were standard and unremarkable. Overall, while I appreciate the historical significance, I wouldn’t enthusiastically recommend this particular dish, especially considering the price point. It feels like you’re paying a premium for the prime Union Square location and the restaurant’s storied past.
My companion chose the lobster risotto ($27), which proved to be a slightly more satisfying option. He appreciated that the lobster was served atop the risotto rather than mixed in, allowing for controlled portions of each. The risotto itself was rich and creamy, exhibiting a pleasant umami flavor, though perhaps a touch too salty. The lobster, however, could have benefited from a touch of butter to add moisture and richness. While decent, it wasn’t a dish he felt compelled to order again.
For dessert, we opted for the creme brulee ($10). It was, in a word, adequate. The custard lacked the depth of flavor one hopes for in a creme brulee, making it a somewhat forgettable end to the meal.
Despite some culinary shortcomings, the service at Sears Fine Food was genuinely commendable. The staff were attentive and friendly, contributing positively to the overall experience. While I enjoyed the ambiance and historical atmosphere, and appreciated the service, the food itself didn’t leave a lasting impression. As such, a return visit isn’t high on my list, but for those seeking a taste of old San Francisco in a classic setting, Sears Fine Food still holds a certain appeal.
**[Sears Fine Food](https://www.searsfinefood.com/)**
439 Powell Street
San Francisco, CA
(415)986-0700
Daily 6:30am-9pm
