The first St. Ignatius Church was a simple, wooden structure and was dedicated in July 1855, only six years after the first Jesuit Fathers arrived in San Francisco from Italy. A three-story brick school building was built adjacent to it in 1862, into which the St. Ignatius Church worshipping community moved its services. The church grew to accommodate the needs of the growing city, and the first grand St. Ignatius Church was built and dedicated in 1880 and stood on the site now occupied by Davies Symphony Hall.
After its destruction by fire following the 1906 earthquake, the Jesuits moved to the western edge of the city near Golden Gate Park. The Jesuits acquired a piece of land atop the hill so that the church would be visible from all parts of the city. The new church was dedicated on August 2, 1914, and has become a San Francisco landmark.
St. Ignatius Church has the benefit of being situated on the campus of the University of San Francisco, a Jesuit university. This geographical proximity allows the church’s community to be at the center of many educational opportunities and to benefit from the tradition of education within the Jesuit order.
Here are five top dining options near St. Ignatius Church in San Francisco, each offering a unique culinary experience:
1. State Bird Provisions
Address 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Rating 4.5
Price Range $50–100
Cuisine American, Californian
Highlights Known for its dim-sum-style small plates featuring locally sourced ingredients, this urban-rustic restaurant is popular for dinner and desserts. Reservations are recommended due to high demand[1].
2. The Rustic
Address 215 Church St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Rating 4.6
Price Range $30–50
Cuisine Contemporary American
Highlights This cozy spot offers a modern menu with a great wine list and is suitable for lunch and dinner. It features outdoor seating and is family-friendly[2].
3. Camino Alto
Address 1715 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Rating 4.7
Price Range $50–100
Cuisine Californian
Highlights Renowned for its ambiance and service, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on organic dishes. Reservations are recommended for dinner[3].
4. Bistro Central Parc
Address 560 Central Ave, San Francisco, CA 94117
Rating 4.5
Price Range $30–50
Cuisine Mediterranean, French, Italian
Highlights A bustling eatery with outdoor tables, it offers a diverse menu perfect for brunch or dinner. The restaurant is noted for its fast service and extensive wine list[5].
5. Spruce
Address 3640 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94118
Rating 4.6
Price Range $100+
Cuisine New American
Highlights This upscale venue features seasonal contemporary dishes and handcrafted cocktails in a posh setting. It’s ideal for special occasions and reservations are recommended[6].
These restaurants not only provide delicious food but also a variety of atmospheres suitable for different dining experiences near St. Ignatius Church.
Photography Credit Ryan Fitzsimmons