Best Family Style Restaurants in Financial District / Embarcadero

I've been looking forward to "coming back" since I heard about Empress by Boon! I grew up going to the Empress of China for countless weddings, red egg & ginger parties, birthday parties, fundraisers, etc. I even shook Mrs. Barbara Bush's hand in front of the restaurant as she got out of her vehicle to attend a Republican event. So many precious memories at this land mark. It's so exciting to see how Empress by Boon has transformed it into its own special modern style while preserving some of the images of the past. It's beautiful; helps us natives to appreciate what we have in the City. The food portions are just right, & the tastes are so unique & fulfilling! This gives me a good excuse to treat my loved one down a trip on memory lane in addition to sharing a new experience! Thank you for re-creating this special place for all of us to enjoy!

Small authentic Italian spot hidden in Belden Lane. We felt like guests at an extended Italian family party. Appetizers and pasta courses before entrees served family style were delicious and a big hit with our large party (8). Entrees from Short ribs to salmon were universally loved. Finishing off with the namesake Tiramisu for dessert was sublime.

Beautiful restaurant. Mixed experience on the food quality.

Love this restaurant. Food is delicious and the food presentation is beautiful.

An excellent experience all around. We sat on the patio with the heaters and were comfortable the whole time. The chickpea hummus was excellent, as were the blistered peppers. For man courses, we had the track of lamb and the scallops. It's so nice to have lamb in a restaurant that understands how to prepare lamb. Mine was seared on the outside and juicy rare as I ordered it- absolutely perfect. The scallops were prepared beautifully and tasted great. The staff was attentive without hovering. We'll definitely be back!