Christmas Restaurants for Rent in San Francisco, CA

When it’s Christmas in San Francisco, the fog doesn’t dampen the festive spirit—if anything, it adds a little magic. So what makes a great Christmas venue? Think flexibility (vegan menu? DJ allowed?), atmosphere (cosy or cocktail-chic?), and a layout that works for your group size and flow. Below are some fabulously diverse with different styles and price points—and a few festive tips to make it a night to remember.

Tips for Booking the Right Christmas Venue in San Francisco

• Confirm the layout. Want space for a gift exchange, karaoke, or speeches? Ask early what’s possible.
• Book early for December weekends. Many restaurants are snapped up by corporate bookings by late October.
• Dietary needs? Check which venues are equipped to handle vegan, halal, or gluten-free menus for group settings.
• Look at minimum spends. Often more flexible than flat hire fees—and you’ll usually meet it just with food and drink.
• Decor options. Some venues will allow you to bring in seasonal decorations, while others already go full holiday mode—ask what they provide.

Smaller Dining Spaces for Intimate Gatherings

El Lopo (Van Ness)
They’re a casual neighborhood bar serving food and drinks from an alternate reality in which California is still a part of Spain. They feature a unique menu, specializing in sherry, vermouth and wine. Host a special birthday, corporate event, holiday party, or drinks reception here. It’s a relaxed but classy space that’s perfect for groups under 50 looking for something warm and conversational. With both hourly rates and minimum spend options, it’s ideal for relaxed holiday drinks or a festive friends' dinner.

The Temple Bar (Inner Sunset)
Rich woods, velvet booths, and just the right touch of old-school glamour—this venue is tailor-made for groups wanting a private space with a festive lounge feel. Relax at the picnic-style benches, ideal for casual conversations, dining, or group activities. The patio also features multiple TVs, perfect for watching sports events, hosting viewing parties, or showcasing visual presentations. Concerned about San Francisco weather? The patio comes equipped with a retractable covering, providing flexibility and comfort rain or shine.Perfect for wrapping up the year with good cocktails and better company.

Misfit Manor (Ocean View)
This versatile 1,850 square foot Modern Home is ideal for a range of events, from business meetings and creative workshops to intimate dinner parties. The main floor features a fully equipped kitchen with modern appliances, including a rare 1947 O'Keefe and Merritt Aristocrat Ranch Range, making it perfect for cooking demonstrations or catering large gatherings.Great for a small team dinner or unique friends’ gathering—especially if you want something informal but thoughtfully designed.

North Beach Restaurant (North Beach)
As a traditional Tuscan fare & housemade vino served in an upscale setting, they’ve been part of the neighborhood for over 54 years and are a favorite spot for many locals. This classic SF institution offers private rooms perfect for an old-school Italian Christmas. The smaller spaces fit 12–20, and the menu does not disappoint when it comes to indulgent holiday fare. 

Big Spaces and Full Buyouts for Larger Groups and Work Parties

Cityview Event Hall (Treasure Island)
Over 700 standing capacity and a view to match the scale of the space. If you’re going big—think end-of-year galas, company-wide holiday parties or fundraising dinners—this one delivers on space and spectacle without blowing the budget. Their on-site kitchen simplifies your catering needs, offering both convenience and affordability. Located adjacent to the venue, it ensures a seamless experience, whether you're preparing your culinary delights or hiring a chef. To make your planning even more hassle-free, we provide the option to rent tables, chairs, and more, sparing you the effort of transporting your own equipment. Their dedicated team will be at your service from the moment you arrive until your event kicks off.

Novela (Financial District)
Stylish and central, this literary-themed bar has spaces for both small dinners and 300-guest cocktail events. The space is utilized for social functions, VIP hostings, fundraisers, holiday celebrations, and cocktail receptions, all accompanied by two 55” TVs. Novela is located in the Yerba Buena District of San Francisco, just blocks from Moscone Center and Union Square. They are surrounded by the city’s finest hotels including St. Regis, W Hotel, Four Seasons, Park Central, Palace Hotel, and more.

LEVELS (Dogpatch)
This sleek space is popular for company events and brand parties during the holidays. The sleek, dark atmosphere is perfect for cocktail hours, VIP experiences, brand activations, and any other exclusive events. Its flexible layout and neutral decor make it perfect for adding your own seasonal styling—think wreaths, fairy lights, or custom cocktails. Head down the steps illuminated by the bridge lights and enter a swanky lounge. This space features a full sized bar, lounge seating, multiple TV screens, and an outdoor patio.

Kilowatt (Mission Dolores)
If you’re hosting a creative crowd or just want a less formal venue with an energetic atmosphere, Kilowatt's setup works for dinners, DJ nights or something in between. The second floor offers an electric mid-century lounge with antique furniture from the 50s and 60s as well as a full bar custom built for the space. The room is equipped with a '60s HiFi sound system mounted to the ceiling with Bluetooth and Vinyl capabilities and can be connected to our authentic 1962 Seeburg jukebox for a fuller sound. All of this with room for a dance floor, your guests will never want to leave.

Christmas in San Francisco is never boring and neither are its venues. Whether you're planning something intimate or throwing the kind of party people talk about well into January, there's a festive restaurant here ready to help you eat, drink and be merry.