Best Family Style Restaurants in North Beach

The "dim sum" small dishes are delicious, innovative, surprising. And they keep on coming. The servers are so friendly, so efficient, and so obviously proud to work at the restaurant. That alone would keep us coming back. PS: wine isn't and can't be the primary issue at a restaurant with these amazing tastes, but their wine is good and really complements the meal.

First-time visit to China Live, and we were not disappointed! Attentive, helpful service (Raffi was super-helpful with navigating the menu), lots of choices, and quick service. We got the XLB, sea bass, and crispy noodles with chicken, and really, I can't think of a single negative thing to say about any of them. Dessert was the wonderful mandarin brownie with lychee ice cream. All in all, a wonderful meal and a great time out for my bride and I.

Cassava is truly a gem in San Francisco, and my recent visit only reinforced why it’s such a beloved spot. The food was simply outstanding—every dish was beautifully prepared, flavorful, and clearly crafted with care. From the first bite to the last, it was a culinary experience that delighted all my senses. What made the evening even more special was the presence of the owner, who was not only visibly helping her staff but also warmly engaging with every table. She attended to our needs with such genuine care, answering questions about the menu and making us feel like treasured guests. It’s rare to see such dedication and passion, and it elevated the experience to something truly unforgettable. While it’s bittersweet to know Cassava is closing temporarily, I’m counting the days until it reopens. This restaurant is a treasure, and I can’t wait to return for more exceptional meals and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Cassava, we’ll miss you and eagerly await your comeback! M & W

I visited this restaurant with my girlfriends, and we ate so much that I had to order an entire meal for two to take home for tomorrow night. The food was delicious, and I loved the atmosphere. It was casual, relaxed, and unpretentious. The young woman who served us tonight knew her food and her drinks so well, and the server guy was very attentive. Every dish was carefully designed and cooked with a lot of joy and attention to details. All the desserts were made in house and to their perfection. What a great modern Italian restaurant that we discovered tonight!

We’ve been coming here for lunch on Fridays for several month and always had great service with Alejandro. We order several dishes to share and the food is delicious.