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Fin Thai SF
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Fin Thai SF
8.6
Contemporary Thai on the Russian Hill stretch of Polk with a polished room and seafood lean. Elevated takes on classics and a cocktail list make it a low-key date choice that stays neighborhood at heart.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Sea Bass with Lime & Chili, Crab Fried Rice, Tom Yum Seafood Noodle Soup
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Seafood-forward Thai plates in a refined, intimate space.
Who should go: Date-night diners and seafood fans
When to visit: Reserve for weekend evenings; walk in early weekdays
What to order: Steamed sea bass, crab fried rice, tom yum seafood noodles
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seafood specials—availability changes nightly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally available within a few blocks on Polk or Union after 7pm but tight during peak hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual — stylish but relaxed. Most guests wear jeans with a nice top or light jacket.
Noise level: Moderate — lively buzz with music but still easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady but not packed.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several curries, stir-fries, and appetizers can be made vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Limited — about 2–3 dishes can be adapted by removing fish sauce or egg.
Gluten-free options: Yes — rice-based dishes and some curries are naturally gluten-free; staff can advise clearly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — intimate lighting, elegant plating, and a polished vibe make it a relaxed but elevated first-date pick.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early on weekdays or before 6:30pm on weekends; after that, expect a short wait or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — better suited for adults and older teens; no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Refined plating, seafood execution, and balanced spice levels make it stronger than most nearby Thai spots for date nights or small group dinners.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-spicy street-style Thai or quick takeout — nearby joints like House of Thai suit that better.
Fin Thai SF
8.5
Contemporary Thai in Russian Hill with polished plating and a concise, seafood-friendly menu. It’s a go-to for date nights when you want refined flavors without white-tablecloth formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Whole Branzino (pla tod), Khao Soi, Crying Tiger
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Refined Thai plates with seafood focus in a sleek Polk Street room.
Who should go: Date-night and special-occasion Thai fans
When to visit: Prime 7–9pm; reserve weekends
What to order: Whole branzino, khao soi, crying tiger
Insider tip: Bar seats are ideal for walk-ins and drinks plus small plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Russian Hill; meters run until 8pm and spaces are scarce after 6pm. No valet service provided.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean toward dressy-casual attire for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate — lively enough for energy but you can still carry on a conversation at your table.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may be quicker for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, but note lunch service is limited to select days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several dishes can be prepared vegetarian, and there are vegetable-forward options like stir-fries and curries.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options, but staff can adjust some plates on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — rice-based dishes and select curries are naturally gluten-free; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the polished atmosphere, balanced noise, and shareable plates make it a strong pick for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky on weekends; bar seating is your best bet if you walk in without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially; the vibe is adult-focused and better suited for couples or groups rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Refined Thai dishes with elevated plating and a seafood emphasis; ideal for date nights and special gatherings.
Skip if: You’re seeking quick, casual takeout-style Thai — better alternatives exist nearby for fast and inexpensive meals.