This original Art Deco-inspired restaurant was built by Milan Kralevich in 1928 and named the Lincoln Grill. The ceiling fans, light fixtures, mahogany bar, and private dining booths made it a popular place to be and "to be seen" through its various incarnations. The Elite Cafe opened in 1981 under Sam Duvall and Tom Clendening. It was the premiere, upscale Cajun & Creole restaurant in San Francisco and one of the most beloved establishments in the city. The menu originally adhered to classic Cajun & Creole cooking. At the end of 2005, the menu underwent a complete overhaul to become a restaurant offering "American Cooking with a New Orleans accent." In addition, the spectacular Art Deco design elements were all refurbished and returned to their original magnificence. We feel honored to continue the tradition of this institution in one of the great restaurant cities in the world.