Foreign Cinema
Foreign Cinema – San Francisco’s Cinematic Culinary Venue
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, Foreign Cinema offers a unique blend of culinary excellence and cinematic charm, making it an exceptional choice for event planners seeking a distinctive venue. Since its establishment in 1999, this iconic restaurant has seamlessly combined Californian-Mediterranean cuisine with the allure of outdoor film screenings, creating an unforgettable ambiance for any occasion.
Key Features:
Versatile Event Spaces: Foreign Cinema provides a range of private dining options to accommodate various event sizes and styles:
Entire Restaurant: Ideal for large gatherings, this option offers complete privacy with access to the outdoor heated courtyard, main dining room with fireplace, full bar, and the Modernism West Gallery. Capacity: 166 seated, 350 standing.
Modernism West Gallery: A unique space featuring curated international artwork, 18-foot high ceilings, skylights, a built-in bar, and advanced audio/visual capabilities. Capacity: 60 seated, 100 standing.
Mezzanine: Overlooking the main dining room, this semi-private area offers a theatrical ambiance with exposed beams and wood floors. Capacity: 30 seated, 40 standing.
Director’s Table: An intimate setting for up to 12 guests, providing a semi-private dining experience with views of the nightly featured film and courtyard.
Amate Terrace: A cozy outdoor space adorned with a custom mural by Jet Martinez, café lights, and heating, perfect for gatherings up to 18 guests. Available April through October.
Laszlo: A full-service DJ bar with a second-level lounge, advanced sound system, and a vast vinyl collection, suitable for receptions and cocktail gatherings. Capacity: 60 standing reception, 100 for drinks only.
Culinary Excellence: The chefs at Foreign Cinema craft personalized menus that highlight sustainable, seasonal ingredients, aligning with guests’ preferences and the restaurant’s globally-inspired cuisine.
Cinematic Ambiance: Enhance your event with the venue’s restored vintage “drive-in” quality projection system, capable of showcasing custom presentations or full-length feature films, adding a unique touch to the guest experience.
Artistic Flair: The Modernism West Gallery, in collaboration with international art dealer Martin Muller, offers an evolving collection of curated artwork, providing an inspiring backdrop for events.
Why Choose Foreign Cinema:
Foreign Cinema stands out as a venue that transcends the typical event space, offering an immersive experience where culinary artistry meets cinematic nostalgia. Its diverse spaces cater to a wide range of events, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations, all set against the backdrop of San Francisco’s rich cultural tapestry.
