Unique Birthday Party Ideas in San Francisco

You’ve gone out for birthday drinks, done karaoke with your best friends, maybe have even taken a birthday trip or two. The ideas may seem exhausted, but that’s exactly why we’ve put this list together. Unique birthday party ideas in San Francisco are not as hard to come by as you might think. Check out some of our favorite ideas for a unique celebration that will make you excited for next year.

Experience a new kind of dining at Lazy Bear.

If you’re into fine dining and looking for something new, Lazy Bear is the place to go. It’s not only a dining experience, it’s also a performance. The chefs come and introduce themselves, plate in front of you, and invite you into the kitchen. Nothing can make you feel more special on your birthday than some VIP treatment at this two-starred Michelin restaurant. The communal dining space makes it feel open and easy to mingle with your guests, plus anyone else who is also dining that night. The more the merrier, right? Definitely a good place for those who like to celebrate a birthday week! If you’d like something a little more private, you can also book the space for events. A unique birthday party that’s part high-end, part quirky makes any age seem doable.

Appreciate the arts (and a cocktail) at the Exploratorium.

Every Thursday night from 6-10pm, the Exploratorium turns off its lights. Well, almost. During the After Dark hours, the museum offers 650 interactive exhibits that plays with perception and darkness. The event is not only really cool, but you can grab a few cocktails while you explore. It’s a great excuse to get to the Exploratorium and cross it off your San Francisco bucket list. Go out for a meal before or after you’re finished, and your birthday celebration is completely planned. If you’ve got a little extra budget or maybe you’re trying to put together a unique surprise party, the Exploratorium can be booked for a variety of events. The great views of the Bay and the city will serve as the perfect backdrop for your birthday photos.

Eat some great food while watching a movie at Foreign Cinema.

Watching a movie for your birthday may not sound like a unique birthday party idea, until you realize you’ll be watching said movie at Foreign Cinema. The cozy, romantic space gives off special birthday vibes for sure. It doesn’t matter if you’re celebrating with a partner or with your best buds, they’ll be impressed with the venue. The lighting in the courtyard is warm and inviting as the movie plays in the background. The food looks just as inviting, with dishes like lavender baked sonoma goat cheese, spring cassoulet, and balsamic fried eggs making you forget you were even watching a movie at all. Plus with cocktails that have names like “Serpent’s Kiss” and “Parting Glances”, you’ll probably even forget it’s your birthday. Turn it into a private event, go for brunch, or go to see a classic film with your friends.

Get a unique view of San Francisco on a food tour.

Instead of one birthday dinner, why not have four? On a food tour, not only will you learn more about the city, but you’ll also get a sampling of the ever-changing dining scene. Birthday dinners don’t need to be the whole “book a reservation, everyone sits in the same spot the entire evening” kind of thing. A food tour breaks up the monotony of a typical meal by introducing you to new dishes and drinks might not have tried before, showcasing the neighborhood, all while interacting with your friends. Booking a private tour will also give you the option for hands-on experiences like a mixology lesson or pizza making class. Plus, the planning is already done for you- all you need to think of is where the after party is going to be.

Like the idea of booking a private food tour for a unique birthday party in San Francisco? Let us plan an event for you in North Beach, Mission District, or Tendernob.