Dalida Restaurant: A Mediterranean Gem in the Presidio of San Francisco

About Dalida Restaurant

Dalida SF opened in June 2023 in the heart of the Presidio, quickly earning acclaim as one of San Francisco’s top dining destinations thanks to its vibrant Eastern Mediterranean menu and charismatic chef-owners Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz. In fact, not long after opening,  Dalida was named one of Esquire’s Top 50 Best New Restaurants in America. What’s more, it has received glowing reviews from the Michelin Guide, and inspired a culinary renaissance in the Presidio, with its commitment to sustainability, hospitality, and culinary innovation.

Meet the Chef Owners: Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz

When you dine at Dalida, you’re experiencing the vision and talent of chef-owners Laura Ozyilmaz and Sayat Ozyilmaz. This dynamic duo has earned widespread acclaim for their creativity, dedication, and culinary excellence.

In addition to being two-time James Beard semifinalists for Best Chef: California, Laura and Sayat are the 2025 Chefs of the Year by San Francisco Magazine and Modern Luxury magazine. As a result, their innovative approach and commitment to quality have made them standouts in the Bay Area culinary scene.

Furthermore, back in 2019, they were recognized as Rising Star Chefs by the San Francisco Chronicle. Of course, Laura’s creative talents furher shone on a national stage, as a final four competitor on Top Chef’s Season 21.

Laura Ozyilmaz: From Guerrero to the World Stage

A native of Guerrero, in southwestern Mexico, Laura is a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, New York. Shortly after graduation, she worked at Boulud Sud and Café Boulud, led by the famed celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. Equally important was her subsequent studies at the Basque Culinary Center in Spain, among the world’s leading culinary institutions. After graduation and moving back to the States, Laura honed her craft at Michelin Three Star Eleven Madison Park—often cited as the best restaurant in New York City and among the world’s best. Lastly, her impressive resume also includes work at the former Michelin Three Star Saison in San Francisco. In brief, Laura’s journey is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion for culinary excellence.

Sayat Ozyilmaz: Istanbul Roots, Global Perspective

Originally from Istanbul, Turkey, Sayat is a graduate of the Ivy League Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Afterwards, he enrolled at CIA Hyde Park, where he met his future wife, Laura. Sayat’s equally impressive resume includes work at the Michelin Two Star Blue Hill at Stone Barns in Tarrytown, NY. In addition, he found employment at the Michelin Three Star Le Bernardin, another of the world’s best restaurants, in New York City. Collectively, this highly talented and hardworking couple also worked together at other famous spots like Spago, Pujol in Mexico City, and Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak. Fast forward to the present, and you’ll see how their combined experiences and multicultural backgrounds infuse Dalida with a spirit of innovation and heartfelt hospitality.

Plan Your Visit

Dalida is open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, brunch on weekends, and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings and special occasions. You can book your table online or by calling (415) 237-1999.

Whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor eager to experience the best of San Francisco’s dining scene, Dalida promises a meal you’ll remember. Bring friends, family, or someone special, and prepare to be delighted by the flavors, hospitality, and story that make Dalida a true Mediterranean gem in the Presidio.

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Savor the Flavors: Dalida’s Menu Highlights

At Dalida, you’re invited to share across the table. The menu is a love letter to the Mediterranean, blending Turkish, Greek, Armenian, Jewish, Arabic, and Persian influences with California’s fresh produce. The philosophy here is “little little in the middle”—a celebration of sharing, conversation, and culinary adventure.

Breaking Bread

Begin your meal with Dalida’s signature “Breaking Bread.” This dish is more than just an appetizer—it’s an experience. You’ll receive pillowy, hearth-baked pita, still warm from the oven, accompanied by housemade hummus, muhammara (a vibrant red pepper and walnut spread), smoked yogurt, pickles, and marinated olives. The pita is rolled and baked to order, and the spreads are bursting with flavor. This is a must-order, and you’ll quickly see why it’s become a Bay Area favorite.

Aleppo Half Chicken

If you’re craving something hearty, the Aleppo Half Chicken is a standout. Marinated with Aleppo pepper and a blend of Mediterranean spices, the chicken is roasted to juicy perfection. The flavors are bold yet balanced, and the dish is designed for sharing—or for savoring all to yourself.

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Saffron Tahdig

Dalida’s Saffron Tahdig is a showstopper. This crispy Persian rice dish is elevated with California touches—think Santa Barbara uni, smoked trout roe, yellowtail, and preserved yuzu. The golden crust of the rice gives way to a tender, aromatic interior, and the seafood toppings add a luxurious finish. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and innovative, and it’s perfect for those who want to experience the fusion of Mediterranean and Californian flavors.

Grilled Mediterranean Turbot

Seafood lovers will delight in the Grilled Mediterranean Turbot. This dish features a whole turbot, expertly grilled and served with seasonal vegetables. The fish is tender and flaky, with a delicate char that enhances its natural sweetness. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean’s bounty, brought to life with California’s freshest produce.

Shoestring Fries

For a playful side, don’t miss the Shoestring Fries. Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned, these fries are the ideal accompaniment to Dalida’s rich and flavorful mains. They’re also a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a great choice for sharing.

More Must-Try Dishes

Dalida’s menu is filled with other delights:

• Cypriot Lamb Chops: Tender, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean spices.
• Octopus and Sujuk: Thinly sliced octopus with olive-caper dressing and a savory pork sujuk sauce.
• Seafood Platter: A generous selection of oysters, taramasalata with trout roe, octopus cocktail, yellowtail crudo, mussels escabeche, bottarga, and lavash crackers.
• Kibbe: Spiced beef in crisp bulgur wheat with tahini sauce.
• Truffled Borek: Fluffy, pan-roasted layered yufka with mushrooms, chestnut cherry sauce and shaved Burgundy truffles.
• Kayseri Manti: Turkish-style dumplings with yogurt and spiced butter.
• Along with the many superb dishes, you also have the option to enjoy the Chefs’ Menu, where the chefs curate your own experience for you. In addition, you have the option to add Kaluga Reserve Caviar, as well as a Full Table Participation for a modest added fee.

Desserts: Sweet Endings at Dalida

No meal at Dalida is complete without indulging in their memorable desserts. The pastry program is as creative and cross-cultural as the savory menu, offering a sweet finish that celebrates Mediterranean and Californian influences.

• Layered Baklava: Dalida’s baklava is a standout, featuring delicate layers of crisp phyllo pastry, toasted nuts, and fragrant syrup. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness, with hints of honey and citrus. This classic Mediterranean treat is elevated with California ingredients and a modern touch, making it a must-try for dessert lovers.
• Tres Leches Cake: This classic Latin American dessert is reimagined with Mediterranean flair, featuring a moist sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk and finished with seasonal fruit or aromatic spices. It’s light, creamy, and perfectly balanced—ideal for sharing or savoring solo.
• Turkish-Style Ice Creams: Experience the unique texture and flavors of Turkish ice cream, known for its stretch and chew. Dalida’s versions are crafted with local dairy and infused with flavors like rose, pistachio, and cardamom. These ice creams are a playful, refreshing way to end your meal.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, ask your server about seasonal desserts or off-menu treats. The pastry team often features limited-edition sweets inspired by Mediterranean holidays and California’s harvest.

Drinks: Spirits, Wines, and More

The beverage program at Dalida is as thoughtfully curated as the food, designed to complement the bold flavors and vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant.

Cocktails

Dalida’s bar features Presidio-inspired cocktails, crafted with housemade cordials, spices, yogurts, preserved fruits, and foraged aromatics from the surrounding park. Signature drinks might include:

• Eucalyptus Martini: Infused with locally foraged eucalyptus, this martini is crisp, aromatic, and uniquely San Franciscan.
• Rose Geranium Spritz: A refreshing blend of sparkling wine, rose geranium syrup, and citrus, perfect for sipping on the patio.
• Yerba Buena Sour: This cocktail highlights the native mint of the Presidio, balanced with citrus and a touch of yogurt for creaminess.

Wines

Dalida’s wine list is progressive and global, with a focus on Mediterranean varietals and California producers. You’ll find:

• Greek Assyrtiko: Crisp, mineral-driven white wine that pairs beautifully with seafood and lighter dishes.
• Turkish Kalecik Karası: A rare, elegant red that complements lamb and spiced meats.
• California Natural Wines: Featuring small producers who prioritize sustainability and organic practices.

The staff is happy to recommend pairings for your meal, whether you’re seeking something classic or adventurous.

Spirits and Non-Alcoholic Options

Dalida’s spirits selection includes Mediterranean favorites like arak, ouzo, and raki, as well as local craft distillates. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the restaurant offers:

• Housemade Cordials: Flavored with preserved fruits and spices.
• Fresh Juices: Seasonal blends using California produce.
• Herbal Teas: Infused with foraged botanicals from the Presidio.

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Sustainability and Community

You’ll notice that Dalida is committed to sustainability. Indeed, the team sources ingredients from nearby farms, collaborates with local artists, and selects products with the lowest ecological footprint. They utilize every part of their ingredients—candying spent walnuts, making stock from juiced limes, and composting what’s left to enrich the community garden. Proceeds from the restaurant help support the Presidio of San Francisco, making your meal part of a larger mission. Moreoever, Dalida’s plant-forward menu gives you the option of a fully vegetable-driven experience, and the restaurant’s practices ensure that nothing goes to waste.

Why You’ll Love Dalida

You’re not just dining at a restaurant—you’re joining a story of cross-cultural integration, culinary excellence, and heartfelt hospitality. Dalida is a place where tradition meets innovation, where every meal is an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and savor the best of the Mediterranean in the heart of San Francisco. The restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere, thoughtful design, and commitment to sustainability make it a destination for locals and visitors alike.

Directions and Parking: Getting to Dalida

Dalida is located at 101 Montgomery Street, Suite 100, in the Presidio of San Francisco—a National Park site on the Main Post. The location is easily accessible by car, public transit, and even bike.

By Car

If you’re driving, you’ll find paid parking available in the rear of the restaurant on Taylor Road. This lot includes EV charging stations for electric vehicles. There’s also limited paid parking along Montgomery Street in front of Dalida. In addition, accessible parking is available both in front of the building, as well as behind the restaurant. For the most convenient access, map your ride to “Dalida” (101 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94129), as there are two Montgomery Streets in the city.

By Public Transit

Dalida is a short walk from the Presidio Transit Center, which is served by Muni Route 43 (Masonic) and the Presidio GO Shuttle (Downtown Route). Both options make it easy to reach the restaurant from anywhere in San Francisco. If you’re using a ride-sharing app, be sure to select the correct Montgomery Street in the Presidio.

Insider Tips

• For a romantic date night, pair your meal at Dalida with a performance at the nearby Presidio Theatre—just steps away from the restaurant.
• The restaurant is accessible, with restrooms and parking designed for all guests.
• Dalida offers a variety of seating options, including a chefs’ counter, patio, private dining room, and a main dining room surrounded by windows on two sides.

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About The Author

Randy Yagi is an award-winning writer who served as the National Travel Writer for CBS from 2012 to 2019. More than 900 of his stories still appear in syndication across 23 CBS websites, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. During his peak years with CBS, Randy had a reported digital audience reach of 489 million and 5.5 million monthly visitors. Additionally, his stories have appeared in the Daily Meal, CBS News, CBS Radio, Engadget, NBC.com, NJ.com, and Radio.com. He earned a Media Fellowship from Stanford University and is a Bay Area Travel Writers (BATW) member.