Foreign Cinema 2534 Mission Street • San Francisco • CA 94110

Dinner and a movie…it's the quintessential first date that's probably launched more relationships than any other activity. So what could be more perfect than celebrating the most important day of your relationship by playing out your own romantic wedding scene at Foreign Cinema in San Francisco?

This dynamic and thoroughly original venue in the Mission District has become a magnet for foodies, cinephiles, and loyal locals by artfully editing together critically acclaimed cuisine with several unique dining environments—including a glorious courtyard where films are projected on an exterior wall. If you buy out the restaurant, all of these spaces become yours for the Big Night.

A small marquee-style awning marks the entrance to the restaurant, where two stainless steel doors usher you down a seductively lit hallway, flickering with votive candles. If you're having your ceremony here, your guests will be invited outside to the canopied center Courtyard, which provides a nice long aisle for a dramatic bridal entrance. After the service, friends and family can enjoy a sumptuous cocktail reception in the Modernism West Gallery, a loft-like space with a two-story ceiling. Lining the crisp white walls is an impressive display of visually exciting artwork, which gives the setting a cultural edge and provides a great backdrop for photos. There's a chic bar at one end, and along the other are floor-to-ceiling windows inset with glass doors that lead to a cozy Zen-like Upper Patio. Some couples opt to host their entire event in the Gallery.

For larger groups, the festivities continue across the Courtyard with dinner in the rustically elegant Dining Room, whose wood-framed windows open to the outdoors, creating a nice connection between the two spaces. A remodeled bar area features a Brazilian barrocca soapstone counter atop a colorfully tiled base that harmonizes with avocado-hued banquettes. The wood floor, fireplace, and very cool chandeliers—whose lighting elements are actually truck headlights—give the room a warm, yet trendy feel.

Overlooking it all is the Mezzanine, which can serve as a VIP lounge, an intimate rehearsal dinner spot, or a retreat for the bride and groom…all with great views of the action below. And part of that action is the open kitchen, because Foreign Cinema, being chef-owned, is very focused on maintaining the high level of its popular California-Mediterranean dishes, prepared in inventive ways with only fresh, organic ingredients.

Finally, top off a wonderful evening with dancing in the Gallery and nightcaps in the Courtyard while your favorite movie or a slideshow of your own love story is projected on the wall.