A running record, kept honestly
Tacia's Table
Every place I've eaten in San Francisco.
Tonight
Plan a Night Out
A walkable evening from places already in the journal — with what to order and a rough bill.
the journalEvery place I've eaten in San Francisco.
A walkable evening from places already in the journal — with what to order and a rough bill.
the journalDrag to choose what matters right now — the list re-sorts live. "My notes" scores each place by what the written review says. Anything without a tier or review falls back to the star rating. Remembered on this device.
Tacia's Table is a personal San Francisco eating journal kept by Tacia — cafes, bars, bakeries, and restaurants mapped with honest notes and ratings. Places I want to try is the short list of spots she hasn’t been to yet. After she goes, she adds notes and they join the journal. Not a business directory; just one person's record of where she's eaten across the city.
places I want to trySpots I haven’t been to yet. After I go, I add notes and they join the journal.
Nothing on this list yet. Mark a place you want to try.
the journalA personal map of cafes, bars, bakeries, and restaurants in San Francisco, with notes and ratings by Tacia. Browse Places I want to try, Hayes Valley, Bakeries, Bars, and Restaurants. See also About this journal.
Excellent pastries and sandwiches. To say these may be the best pastries outside of Paris wouldn't be overkill. The chocolate almond croissant is delectable — and kind of massive, honestly probably worth sharing with someone. The Mediterranean, though, is truly something else: they keep it simple with high-quality ingredients. My mouth waters just thinking about that sandwich. It's about $20 all in, but very filling.
Tacia's notes on Arsicault in Inner Richmond · Inner Richmond guide · Bakeries · Official websiteCome here for the sweets — they're great.
Tacia's notes on Tartine Bakery in Mission · Mission guide · Bakeries · Official websiteExcellent service, tasty food, creative drinks. A very nice date-night spot! The food is very good for bar food — the burger is a simple smash burger but does the job, and I had a delicious tuna tartare that I'd definitely recommend. I loved their drinks: they had an entire section of mezcal cocktails, which was just too cool. I had one of the spicy mezcal drinks and it was delectable.
Tacia's notes on ABV in San Francisco · Bar · Official websiteCome for happy hour and chill drinks.
Tacia's notes on Anima in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Bar · Official websiteVery fun and vibrant! Awesome happy hour where all of their drinks — from martinis to margs — are $8, plus cute snacks. The happy hour drinks are really a steal, and they have a cute pizzette. On weekends it does seem to get too busy, because it turns into a club — weird music, not really my cup of tea. But I'm obsessed with how they decorated the place.
Tacia's notes on Bella in San Francisco · Bar · Official websiteGreat wine bar with super fresh food. The food is simple, fresh, and delicious — not many spices, but really well prepared. I'd recommend the picanha steak and the Acme bread. Phenomenal date spot: romantic and cozy. Afterwards you can walk up to Alamo Square, or head across the street to Salt & Straw for ice cream if you're in the mood.
Tacia's notes on Bosque in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Bar · Official websiteA dive/sports bar that's been around forever. A fun stop on a night out, though it's typically crowded. The drinks are consistent and fine — you come here more for the ambiance. Can't say the drinks are particularly expensive, either.
Tacia's notes on Bus Stop in San Francisco · Bar · Official websiteA jazz club with an older crowd and plenty of partner dancing.
Tacia's notes on Dawn Club in Financial District · Bar · Official websiteA great bar — perfect for date night.
Tacia's notes on Horsefeather in NoPa · NoPa guide · Bar · Official websiteCute aesthetic, but it's vegan and loud.
Tacia's notes on Phonobar in Civic Center · Bar · Official websiteA tiki bar through and through.
Tacia's notes on Smuggler's Cove in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Bar · Official websiteA true dive/grunge bar. A classic dive bar — grungy, punky, stickers everywhere. There's a very cute photo booth in the back, but make sure to bring cash to use it. The drinks are definitely not memorable, but it's a vibe — great for meeting up with a group, or as one of many stops on a night out.
Tacia's notes on Zeitgeist in San Francisco · Bar · Official websiteA super cute, intimate wine bar. Very intimate, and the ambiance is good — a great date spot. The wine is pretty solid, and it's not super expensive: I spent about $50 for one date.
Tacia's notes on Arcana in Mission · Mission guide · Cafes · Official websiteExcellent drinks, super cute aesthetic. I get their black sesame latte on a regular basis — it's one of those very SF places. There's usually a projector near the counter playing an old movie with no sound. It's cozy and low-lit without being overkill. I haven't been for dinner so I can't speak to that, but if it's anything like their lattes, I'm a huge fan.
Tacia's notes on Buoy in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Cafes · Official websiteThe pizza is very solid, and the space is clean and modern. I've never been beyond impressed by the food — I don't think I've ever left wanting more pizza. That said, I got the pepperoni and didn't explore their other options. They do have a nice setup — clean and proper — but nothing breathtaking is happening here. Maybe that's okay: it's a good spot to catch up with an old friend. Just don't come here expecting to be wowed by the food.
Tacia's notes on Flour + Water Pizzeria in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteThe coffee is mid, but it's a solid cafe to post up and work in.
Tacia's notes on Flywheel Coffee Roasters in Haight · Cafes · Official websiteA cute bar, but the food is overpriced. Seriously overpriced food, and I wasn't blown away by the selection on their menu. Their drinks are great, though. It's typically not too busy during the week or on Sundays — I've caught a game here a few times, and it's quite nice because it's a bit quieter than your typical sports bar. If you want a fancy cocktail or some beer, they've got it.
Tacia's notes on Hazzies in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Cafes · Official websiteArab coffee is the draw here.
Tacia's notes on Heyma Yemeni Coffee in SoMa · SoMa guide · Cafes · Official websiteKinda trash, honestly. Some of the pastries are good — like the rosemary pistachio croissant — but skip the reheated ones, they're not impressive. It's a busy place, and I can't say the upkeep is great. That said, I'm sure there are folks who are big fans.
Tacia's notes on La Boulangerie in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Cafes · Official websiteNot bad pastries, but there's always a line. I wasn't blown away — though maybe I'm wrong, because there always seems to be a line here on weekends. The price is solid for a pastry that could count as your breakfast. Maybe I'll have to go back and try their cakes.
Tacia's notes on Loquat in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteNot a bad spot for an afternoon matcha, but the aesthetic leaves a lot to be desired.
Tacia's notes on SPRO in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websitePeople love their matcha! I can't say I'm a matcha connoisseur, so I can't speak much to that — but I do enjoy their egg sandwiches, which are just so well made. Overall a very popular spot on weekends. I also really enjoy how they decorated the place: simple and timeless.
Tacia's notes on Stonemill Matcha in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteA historic spot, and very much a dive bar.
Tacia's notes on The Saloon in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteDelicious Turkish food. Very good Turkish/Mediterranean food — fresh ingredients and a very nice atmosphere. I'd recommend the lamb skewers: quite delicious, and they come paired with raisin rice that counteracts the lamb nicely. The chicken skewers are also quite popular. The fries are filled with oil, but delectable with some spices. Make sure you have at least a little tolerance for spice, because the food can be spicy.
Tacia's notes on Troya in Pacific Heights · Pacific Heights guide · Cafes · Official websiteA gorgeous gem in the middle of SoMa! It feels like you've been transported to an island in Turkey, even though you're in the middle of the Tenderloin. Perfect for an early breakfast, or an after-dinner coffee and dessert. Delicious avocado toast! I highly recommend their pastries, from the baklava to the San Sebastián cheesecake (though definitely not the best I've ever had).
Tacia's notes on Turquaz in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteA very quirky bar! All different types of frames and posters cover the walls, yet the bar is still cozy enough to play cards with friends in the corner.
Tacia's notes on Vesuvio Cafe in San Francisco · CafesExcellent food! Everything is so fresh, and all of the ingredients complement each other. The food is mezze-style, so I'd encourage coming with a group to share. The salmon crudo was definitely my favorite — but I'd be mistaken not to mention the french fries with garlic-honey sauce, or the steak shish. And how could I forget the lovely pita, which blew my mind.
Tacia's notes on Zaytinya in San Francisco · Cafes · Official websiteA chain, of course — but a good one. I like the Hayes Valley location.
Tacia's notes on Salt & Straw in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Official websiteSimple, excellent food — exactly as it should be.
Tacia's notes on Il Pollaio in San Francisco · Quick Resto · Official websiteThe best burritos in SF. Full stop.
Tacia's notes on Los Kuyas in Stonestown · Quick Resto · Official websiteNot that good, and slightly overpriced. I've eaten here a lot because it's an easy lunch spot — quick and filling. But there's just something about the food I can't quite put my finger on; maybe it's the aftertaste I get after eating here. I've had everything from the beef bowls to the chicken to the brussels sprouts, and I'm always underwhelmed. Still, if you're looking for a quick to-go lunch under $20, this is your best bet. Maybe it's just a me thing.
Tacia's notes on RT (Rotisserie Chicken) in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Quick Resto · Official websiteA bit overpriced for quick food — but I'm slightly biased on pasta. Solid food, definitely overpriced. I'm a bit biased because I don't care much for pasta, but it was actually pretty good. It's probably $20 for a plate — a bit more than I'd spend, given the aesthetic isn't much — but it's a very easy, quick restaurant. The pasta is filling and the sandwiches are solid. Get the bolognese with pink sauce and the fettuccine noodles — quite delicious.
Tacia's notes on The Italian Homemade Company in San Francisco · Quick Resto · Official websiteMid Italian food — nothing to write home about.
Tacia's notes on A Mano in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteVery mid. The fries were good — that said, I haven't tried much else, and I know it's a bit pricey.
Tacia's notes on Absinthe Brasserie in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteGood food, though slightly overpriced.
Tacia's notes on Arbor in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteAn interesting take on Chinese food.
Tacia's notes on Bao in Mission · Mission guide · Restos · Official websiteGenuinely some of the worst food I've had in San Francisco. My pad thai was too sweet and gummy, the salmon was dry even though it was soaked in sauce, and the popcorn chicken was unmemorable and a bit dry. However, I love the environment: the restaurant is in a beautiful brick building with exposed beams and long, beautiful wooden tables. The service was phenomenal — I was genuinely impressed with our server. Just maybe not the spot if you're looking to eat well.
Tacia's notes on Basil Canteen in San Francisco · Restos · Official websiteThe best French food outside of Paris — and the best meal I've had in SF. I love this place. They recently added Mexican dishes to the menu — an interesting addition I can't speak to yet — but the French food is extraordinary. It reminds me of food made in Rwanda: just delicious, not too much spice, hearty and warm. The crêpes are beyond delectable. The Sarrasine is one of the best galettes I've ever had — the only other one that compares was in Paris. The Campagnarde is also quite delectable; although it's like a BEC in a crêpe, it doesn't taste too breakfast-y.
Tacia's notes on Bistro La Chaumière in NoPa · NoPa guide · Restos · Official websitePerfectly fine Burmese food.
Tacia's notes on Burma Love in SoMa · SoMa guide · Restos · Official websiteThe second-best Ethiopian food in SF. The aesthetic is classic Ethiopian resto — nothing too fancy — and the doro and tibs do the job. The injera is slightly dry for my liking, but the honey wine is good; I recommend getting a bottle if there are more than four of you. Not too expensive, probably $30–40 a person depending on whether you drink or get apps. It's in a good area too, with some fun spots you can walk to for drinks or ice cream after.
Tacia's notes on Cafe Ethiopia in Mission · Mission guide · Restos · Official websiteExcellent brunch in a space with a great aesthetic.
Tacia's notes on Chez Fico in NoPa · NoPa guide · Restos · Official websiteWent here with my lovely friend Patrick and had a very lovely time.
Tacia's notes on Chez Maman West in San Francisco · Restos · Official websiteClassic brunch comfort food. It's Palestinian owned and operated, and there's always a line out the door — because the food is just that good. Think traditional Southern comfort breakfast: chicken and waffles, breakfast burritos, fries. I really do love this food; sadly the line always discourages me. Perhaps I must go on a weekend.
Tacia's notes on Crack & Battered in Potrero Hill · Restos · Official websiteExcellent Korean food! Just know it sits very heavy on the stomach.
Tacia's notes on Daeho in Japantown · Japantown guide · Restos · Official websiteWeird aesthetic and overpriced. The food is unmemorable! I do appreciate that it's always quite warm inside — a nice break from the SF wind. Think to-go breakfast items like smoothies and bagels (which don't compare to NYC bagels). A bit too overpriced for my take on to-go breakfast food, but you could probably get a meal for under $20.
Tacia's notes on Doppio Coffee & Brunch in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteBad aesthetic, below-mid food. The food never really impresses me. Don't get me wrong, it's good — but it's not fresh, full of spices, or original. It is a good place to watch a game if you also want a meal, and it's pretty inexpensive: around $70 for two with drinks and tip. The spicy honey pizza is probably what I'd recommend.
Tacia's notes on Doppio Zero in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteA super cute outdoor area and good food — just a little overpriced.
Tacia's notes on Fable in Castro · Castro guide · Restos · Official websiteSimply delicious ramen.
Tacia's notes on Hinodeya in Union Square · Restos · Official websiteOkay Ethiopian — just okay.
Tacia's notes on House of Tadu in Mission Bay · Restos · Official websiteGreat pad thai — that's the order.
Tacia's notes on Lers Ros in Tenderloin · Restos · Official websiteVery good ramen.
Tacia's notes on Marafuka in Japantown · Japantown guide · Restos · Official websiteUnmemorable ramen, sadly.
Tacia's notes on Marufuku in Japantown · Japantown guide · Restos · Official websiteOverpriced diner food, but a clean environment. They did a nice job with the new renovations. I'm not entirely happy with the food because it's just too expensive for diner food — that said, they have excellent french fries that truly never disappoint. The chicken wings are alright, nothing revolutionary.
Tacia's notes on Mel's Drive-In in Inner Richmond · Inner Richmond guide · Restos · Official websiteImagine a dining experience built around a single, wildly creative theme. Past menus at this spot have ranged from playful concepts like Humpty Dumpty to deep dives into specific color palettes. For my visit, the spotlight was entirely on mushrooms, and the kitchen absolutely blew me away. They managed to seamlessly incorporate mushrooms into 16 distinct courses, spanning all the way from appetizers to dessert. The culinary creativity was incredible—they even found ways to infuse fungi into everything from the milk to the steak. Keeping a single flavor theme exciting across 16 different plates without feeling repetitive is no small feat, but every single bite was delicious. Just be ready to splurge! At around $240 per person, it was definitely the most expensive meal of my entire life, but it was 100% worth every penny for a bucket-list experience. Just keep in mind that it's strictly reservation-only, so you'll need to book well in advance.
Tacia's notes on Merchant Roots in San Francisco · Restos · Official websiteA disrespect to Ethiopian food. Below sub-par — the most gentrified Ethiopian food I've ever had. Don't recommend.
Tacia's notes on Moya in SoMa · SoMa guide · Restos · Official websiteAn excellent meal — the portions are just too small.
Tacia's notes on Nightbird in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteExpensive, but the food is very fresh and the aesthetic is good. It does get busy, though.
Tacia's notes on Nopa in NoPa · NoPa guide · Restos · Official websiteExcellent, fresh ingredients — delicious farm-to-table food. One of the best farm-to-table restos in SF. Definitely on the nicer side — a bit more upscale, but very good. If you're feeling like balling out, get the chef's menu: it easily feeds four and it's very good! The menu changes, and the last time I was there was June 2025, so don't hold me to it too much. This resto is very California — I'm pretty sure they make their own bread here.
Tacia's notes on Octavia in Pacific Heights · Pacific Heights guide · Restos · Official websiteDelicious Mexican food, plain and simple.
Tacia's notes on Papito in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteThe aesthetic is excellent; the food is overpriced.
Tacia's notes on Restorative Hardware in Dogpatch · Restos · Official websiteExcellent pocket pizzas to grab and go.
Tacia's notes on Sforno Pizzeria in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteHands down the best Ethiopian food in SF! Nice jazz music and a very cozy room. Make sure to RSVP.
Tacia's notes on Sheba Jazz Lounge in San Francisco · Restos · Official websiteNewly renovated — uninspiring food, but great TVs. I can't emphasize enough how great the TVs are. The food, though, is very unimpressive — just regular bar food, and the portions are a bit small. It's typically pretty empty, so if you're looking for a place without a lot of people, this is your spot. Really kind service, too.
Tacia's notes on SoMa Social in SoMa · SoMa guide · Restos · Official websiteThe yogurt ice cream is great — everything else is mid.
Tacia's notes on Souvla in Hayes Valley · Hayes Valley guide · Restos · Official websiteA great brunch spot, with outdoor seating to boot.
Tacia's notes on Starbelly in Castro · Castro guide · Restos · Official websiteHome of a great breakfast burrito.
Tacia's notes on Taqueria Cazadores in Mission · Mission guide · Restos · Official websiteLackluster, I'm afraid.
Tacia's notes on The Grove in Yerba Buena · Restos · Official websiteVery fresh food — you feel awesome after you eat! The menu always rotates, so I think they have a thing for fresh, seasonal food — some of the freshest food I've eaten in San Francisco. It's a great weekend lunch spot with decent outdoor seating (much better to sit outside, where there's some sunlight to keep you warm). It's also great on a Friday or Saturday — but make a reservation, because you're not getting in otherwise. A great restaurant to eat tapas-style.
Tacia's notes on True Laurel in San Francisco · Restos · Official websiteReminds me of NYC sandwiches — a hefty sandwich you could probably get two meals out of. Depends on who you are, of course! Their Dutch crunch roll is magical. If you're in the area and need lunch, this is your spot.
Tacia's notes on Ted's Deli Market in SoMa · SoMa guide · Official website