Where San Francisco's historic Fillmore district meets culinary innovation, The Progress San Francisco transforms the former Progress Theater into a stage for Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski's bold family-style dining experience. This Michelin-starred destination occupies the same building that once showcased silent films, now presenting an entirely different kind of performance through its theatrical approach to shared plates.

Since opening in 2014, The Progress has established itself as the sophisticated counterpart to the duo's acclaimed State Bird Provisions next door. Brioza and Krasinski, James Beard Outstanding Restaurateurs, built their philosophy around "looking to the past to inform the future," embracing whole animal and whole vegetable cooking techniques. Their commitment to curing, fermenting, smoking, and preserving creates the intense, layered flavors that have earned the restaurant its Michelin star recognition and cemented its place among San Francisco's finest dining establishments.

The cuisine at The Progress celebrates Northern California's seasonal abundance through large-format dishes designed for communal enjoyment. Signature presentations like the show-stopping Liberty Farms duck with peanut fried rice command attention as they traverse the dining room, while innovative creations such as seaweed noodles with brown butter and dashi showcase the kitchen's technical prowess. The menu structure allows guests to curate their own adventure through eight-dish prix fixe selections or à la carte choices, with each plate crafted to highlight peak-season ingredients from trusted local producers. Vegetarian and pescatarian options receive equal attention, elevating vegetables to starring roles rather than supporting acts.

Designed by Aidlin Darling Design, the two-story space honors its theatrical heritage through soaring vaulted ceilings softened by abundant greenery and natural light from strategically placed skylights. The main dining room balances grandeur with intimacy, while the lively bar area welcomes both reservations and walk-ins seeking the restaurant's innovative cocktail program. Service strikes the perfect chord between professional refinement and approachable warmth, with knowledgeable staff guiding diners through the sharing-focused experience that defines The Progress's unique hospitality philosophy.

Reservations at The Progress book quickly through Resy, reflecting the restaurant's status as a special occasion destination in San Francisco's competitive fine dining landscape. The combination of Michelin-starred cuisine, theatrical presentation, and the pedigree of its award-winning chef-owners makes securing a table here essential for serious food enthusiasts exploring the best restaurants San Francisco offers.