John’s Grill, Famous Landmark and Restaurant in San Francisco, California
John's Grill, a famous San Francisco Landmark
Did you ever read Dashiell Hammett detective stories as a kid? Do you like watching film noir movies such as The Thin Man with Nick and Nora Charles? The thrill of Sam Spade solving a murder in San Francisco as well as the romantic notion of apartment living in the style of Nick and Nora (and their little dog Asta!) filled my head with all kinds of dreams as a kid. And downtown near all the major hotels and theaters, you will find the restaurant whose claim to fame is being a setting in The Maltese Falcon!
One of my favorite restaurants in San Francisco is John’s Grill, with its landmark status and original period furnishings, opening its doors in 1908. The dark oak interior walls are filled with 8×10 headshots of local and international politicians and celebrities. Photos range from Lauren Bacall, Alfred Hitchcock, Truman Capote and Sophia Loren to Ronald Reagan, Bill Gates and Senator Dianne Feinstein.
During the holidays, my husband and I always make a special trip – meaning I get dressed up – to this venerable restaurant for a quiet romantic dinner. We start with a cold Manhattan (or two) at the tiny six-person bar, usually prepared by Luis, the bartender who has been at John’s Grill for decades and never forgets a name.
If you like local history and have a strong constitution, you might try ordering the house specialty drink called “Bloody Brigid”. It is made with sweet & sour, vodka, soda, special mix, lime and grenadine over crushed ice. You get to keep the souvenir glass.
Humphrey Bogart as Sam Spade
The back-story for this drink comes from The Maltese Falcon novel, “Miles Archer, Sam Spade’s partner, was done in by Brigid O’Shaughnessy at the blind end of Burritt Street just west of the overpass, where Bush roofs Stockton Street.” This book and movie, with Humphrey Bogart, had me walking all around the city looking for the scene of the crime!
Often we begin dinner with an appetizer of garlicky but savory escargot, and fresh Dungeness crab or shrimp cocktails. Depending on the weather we might have the chowder which is wonderful with the fresh sourdough bread. Dinner choices for us are usually steak or a delicious petrale sole. Last year I had the Sam Spade lamb chops, and they were cooked perfectly.
I hope you get a chance to soak up this unique dining experience, especially if you are a film noir movie buff like me.
John’s Grill
63 Ellis Street
Between Stockton and Powell Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
415-986-3274
Monday thru Saturday 11:00am to 10:00 pm
Sunday 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Photo credit to rick and 1horsetown
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6 Responses
This sounds like a great place for a holiday dinner! I could use a Bloody Brigid right this minute!
Cat Lincolns last blog post..Wordless Wednesday – Boston, Massasschusetts photos
This is the kind of place as a tourist I’d never know to go into. But I’d love the connections, so thanks for the recommendation.
Now I just have to figure out when I’m getting back to SF
Julie – This is a great time of year to visit SF, come visit.
Sharon Castellanoss last blog post..Nick’s Restaurant, Oceanfront Dining in Pacifica, California
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