Since 1949, House of Prime Rib San Francisco has perfected the art of singular focus, transforming one exceptional dish into a theatrical dining ritual that defines classic American steakhouse tradition. Located at 1906 Van Ness Avenue, this iconic institution has carved its place in San Francisco fine dining history through unwavering dedication to prime rib excellence and tableside presentation that turns every meal into memorable theater.

Founded in the post-war era when San Francisco was establishing its culinary identity, House of Prime Rib emerged under the vision of serving exclusively USDA Prime beef aged for 21 days and prepared in the English tradition. Current owner Joe Betz, who acquired the restaurant in 1985, transformed operations from serving 75 dinners nightly to over 600, while preserving the timeless rituals that make this establishment legendary. The restaurant has earned Michelin Guide recognition and James Beard Foundation acknowledgment for Outstanding Hospitality, cementing its status among the best restaurants San Francisco offers.

The cuisine philosophy centers entirely on prime rib perfection, featuring corn-fed Midwestern beef representing the top 2% of available stock. Signature cuts include The City Cut, The English Cut, The King Henry VIII Cut, and the substantial King's Cut, each carved tableside from gleaming stainless steel carts by skilled servers. Every prime rib dinner arrives with house-made Yorkshire pudding baked atop the meat, creamed spinach, choice of mashed or loaded baked potatoes, and the famous House of Prime Rib Salad tossed tableside with proprietary fermented apple vinegar dressing. The generous "seconds" tradition offers diners additional thin-sliced prime rib, elevating the indulgence beyond typical fine dining expectations.

The atmosphere evokes English manor elegance through rich wood paneling, plush red leather booths, white linen tables, and warming fireplaces across five intimate dining rooms. The theatrical tableside carving service transforms dinner into performance art, while the classic cocktail program features oversized martinis served in shakers that remain tableside for refills. The curated wine list emphasizes California selections and international bottles chosen to complement the rich, aged beef. Private dining accommodates special occasions, though securing any reservation requires booking weeks in advance due to the restaurant's legendary status.

House of Prime Rib represents more than dining—it's a San Francisco institution where tradition meets theater. Reservations fill rapidly for this authentic steakhouse experience that has hosted celebrities, sports legends, and discerning locals for over seven decades, making it essential for anyone seeking the city's most iconic prime rib destination.