Best Soul Food Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

37 restaurants available nearby

1. Soul Cafe

4.7

Exceptional(1425)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • North Scottsdale

Booked 28 times today

Soul Cafe in North Scottsdale offers an authentic Southwest dining experience that truly stands out. Heralded for its "eclectic menu of American classics with a spicy Southwest twist," this gem delights with dishes like the Arizona Medallions and the Bacon-wrapped Shrimp. Patrons rave about the quality and creativity of the menu, emphasizing that the food is "always outstanding" and the service "very attentive." Celebrated for its cozy ambiance and the welcoming vibe of its award-winning chef Sheila Bryson, Soul Cafe captures the essence of Southwest cuisine with a flair that keeps guests returning. "The food is delicious, and the service is impeccable," as one satisfied customer put it, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Southwest flavors.

A photo of Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant

2. Original Joe's - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(4209)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • North Beach

Booked 65 times today

Original Joe's in San Francisco's vibrant North Beach is a true emblem of authentic Italian-American cuisine, offering a dining experience that's both classic and exceptional. Established over 80 years ago, it stands as the oldest of the Joe's restaurants nationwide, pioneering the renowned "Joe's Concept." With its iconic red leather booths and a menu celebrated for its Italian American flair, Original Joe's is a bastion of comfort food crafted with a Northern Californian twist. Glowing reviews often highlight dishes like the "best lasagna I have ever tasted" and praise its "incredible customer service." Whether it's the meatballs or the linguini and clams, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine slice of San Francisco's culinary heritage.

3. Miller & Lux

4.7

Exceptional(1173)

Price: Very Expensive

• Soul food • Mission Bay / South Beach

Booked 26 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Mission Bay/South Beach neighborhood of San Francisco, Miller & Lux redefines the Contemporary American dining experience. Spearheaded by the renowned Tyler Florence, this modern American Steakhouse delivers an unmatched culinary delight. From the highest-quality steaks sourced from America's finest ranches to a fresh, sustainable seafood selection, each dish is a testament to Tyler's innovative approach to classic American luxury. Patrons rave about the "impeccable service" and "culinary masterpieces," with special mentions of the unique tableside Caesar salad and the meticulously curated wine list. Whether you're there for a "splurge dinner" or celebrating a special occasion, Miller & Lux promises an "outstanding" gastronomic journey that perfectly captures the essence of refined American cuisine.

A photo of Historic John's Grill restaurant

4. Historic John's Grill

4.7

Exceptional(7403)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 99 times today

Nestled in the heart of Downtown San Francisco near Union Square, Historic John's Grill offers an exquisite seafood dining experience that has delighted guests since 1908. Known for its "expertly prepared fresh seafood," this landmark establishment is a favorite among celebrities and locals alike. Diners rave about the "amazing" lobster bisque and the "delicious" broiled halibut, highlighting the freshness and quality of the dishes. With its vibrant atmosphere and a nod to classic San Francisco charm, John's Grill continues to be a top choice for seafood lovers. As one patron put it, "Dinner was outstanding!! I had the broiled halibut which was so fresh and my husband had the Ribeye (also delicious). Our server Daniel was excellent! We will be back!!" Whether you're a local or just visiting, a meal at John's Grill is a must for anyone seeking the best seafood in the city.

A photo of Firefly Restaurant restaurant

5. Firefly Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(3006)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Noe Valley

Booked 27 times today

Discover the heart of American cuisine at Firefly Restaurant in Noe Valley, San Francisco, where every dish tells a story of tradition and creativity. Renowned for its ever-evolving seasonal menu, Firefly stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence. Patrons often describe their dining experience as unforgettable, with one diner noting, "the fried chicken was excellent," while another praised the "food cooked to perfection." The restaurant's dedication to accommodating diverse dietary needs, such as vegan and gluten-free options, further showcases its commitment to all diners. Firefly's vibrant atmosphere and thoughtful service make it a cherished gem in the community, where both the food and the warm, inviting ambiance bring people back time and again. Whether it's the "sublime" trout or the "ambrosial" furikake-crusted trout, each meal is a celebration of authentic American flavors, lovingly prepared and served.

A photo of Biscuits and Blues restaurant

6. Biscuits and Blues

4.7

Exceptional(2012)

Price: Expensive

• Soul food • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 3 times today

Biscuits and Blues in San Francisco's vibrant Theater District offers a unique blend of authentic Southern, Creole, and Cajun cuisine paired with world-class blues music. This celebrated venue, praised for its "excellent night" of entertainment and dining, is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Patrons rave about the "amazing" Southern Fried Chicken and biscuits and the "melt-in-your-mouth" beef brisket, highlighting the quality and authenticity of the dishes. With its intimate setting and top-notch service, it's no wonder guests say, "If you like R&B, Soul and Blues music plus southern cooking, you need to go here right away!" Biscuits and Blues truly stands out as a gem in San Francisco’s culinary and cultural scene.

A photo of Perry's Union Street restaurant

7. Perry's Union Street

4.8

Exceptional(696)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Booked 28 times today

Perry's Union Street in San Francisco's Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio neighborhood is a true gem for burger enthusiasts. Celebrated for maintaining its classic charm and exceptional American cuisine, Perry’s excels in crafting burgers that are both hearty and delectable. A patron raved, "My husband got the hamburger for $16 and it was hearty and juicy and delicious. You could taste the grill in the best way." This praise is a testament to the quality and authenticity that Perry's brings to its burger offerings. The restaurant's commitment to excellence is reflected in its consistently favorable reviews, with customers highlighting the perfect cooking and outstanding flavors. Perry's not only promises a delightful dining experience but also ensures every burger is a bite of San Francisco history.

A photo of Hard Knox Cafe on Clement Street restaurant

8. Hard Knox Cafe on Clement Street

4.8

Exceptional(149)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Richmond District

At the heart of San Francisco's Richmond District, Hard Knox Cafe is a beacon of southern comfort, offering an authentic taste of southern hospitality with its delightful array of home-style cooking. Renowned for dishes that "stick to your ribs," the cafe ensures every meal is as comforting as it is satisfying. Patrons rave about classics like the "fall-off-the-bone tender" oxtails and the perfectly crispy fried chicken, often highlighting the generous portions and the warmth of the service. One customer adored the "light and fluffy" Belgian waffle, affirming it's "like there is an orchard out back." Another declared the cornbread and oxtails a must-try, calling Hard Knox a "family-friendly" spot that feels like home. Whether it's the gumbo, po-boys, or jambalaya, Hard Knox Cafe captures the essence of southern comfort food, making it a cherished gem in the neighborhood.

9. Surisan

new

4.5

Awesome(166)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • North Beach

Booked 10 times today

Located in the center of San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf district, our heart is a savory Asian-inspired American comfort breakfast and brunch, with our soul being innovative Korean dinners. We combine young creative chefs, top-quality, locally-sourced organic ingredients and relaxed indoor and outdoor dining spaces to create a haven for people who love great food, drink and service. Led in the kitchen by Executive Chef Nick Yoon and in the front of the house by James Choi, together, we aim to provide uncompromised experiences for the diner.

A photo of Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd Street restaurant

10. Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd Street

4.6

Exceptional(20)

Price: Moderate

• Soul food • Potrero Hill / Dogpatch

Booked 2 times today

At Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd Street in the heart of Potrero Hill / Dogpatch, San Francisco, the essence of Southern comfort food is brought to life with authenticity and heartwarming flair. Diners rave about the "stick-to-your-ribs goodness" that includes staples like gumbo, jambalaya, and "the best fried chicken sandwich ever." The atmosphere is described as "soulful" and "peaceful," perfect for enjoying a meal that's "tasteful and warm to the soul." One patron exclaimed, "The cornbread was golden and slightly crumbly on the outside, yet delightfully moist on the inside." Another insisted the oxtails and collard greens were "fire," urging others not to "sleep on this spot." Overall, Hard Knox Cafe is celebrated for its huge portions, reasonable prices, and the "downhome flavor that reminds you of old days," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Southern comfort food in San Francisco.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Soul food

Best Soul Food Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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37 restaurants available nearby

1. Soul Cafe

2. Original Joe's - San Francisco

3. Miller & Lux

4. Historic John's Grill

5. Firefly Restaurant

6. Biscuits and Blues

7. Perry's Union Street

8. Hard Knox Cafe on Clement Street

9. Surisan

10. Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd Street

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