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Pacific Plaza Cafe
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Pacific Plaza Cafe
7.6
Daytime cafe blending American breakfast/lunch with Korean staples. Budget-friendly rice bowls and bento-style plates make it a convenient daytime option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef bulgogi bowl, Spicy pork bento, Short rib plate
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Korean bowls and bentos at daytime-only, wallet-kind prices.
Who should go: Lunch crowd and nearby office workers
When to visit: 11:30am–1pm before peak noon rush
What to order: Bulgogi bowl; spicy pork bento; short rib plate
Insider tip: It’s daytime only—confirm hours before heading over.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is metered and can be tricky at peak lunch hours; nearby garages on Bush and Pine offer paid spots.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; office attire and jeans both fit the daytime crowd.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy for conversation during lunch, with some bustle at peak noon rush.
Weekend wait: N/A – the cafe closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: 10–15 minutes at peak; generally no wait outside noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bibimbap with vegetables, tofu dishes, and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable-based plates, but confirm on sauces and sides.
Gluten-free options: Some options—rice bowls and grilled meats work, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more of a casual lunch spot than a date-night destination.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken; seating is first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple plates, quick service, and a casual vibe make it easy for families with kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Budget-friendly Korean plates during daytime hours; convenient for quick office lunches.
Skip if: You want dinner service, a more upscale dining room, or extensive vegan options.
Pacific Plaza Cafe
7.6
Unpretentious counter-service spot blending Korean lunch plates with hearty breakfast staples. Friendly prices and quick pacing make it a practical neighborhood brunch option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bulgogi Rice Plate, Teriyaki Chicken Bowl, Breakfast Bagel Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Korean-leaning cafe with speedy service and generous portions.
Who should go: Budget-minded brunchers
When to visit: Late morning for shortest waits
What to order: Bulgogi Plate; Teriyaki Bowl; Bagel Sandwich
Insider tip: Ask for kimchi on the side to brighten breakfast plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking nearby; neighborhood garages available a few blocks away on Van Ness.
Dress code: Very casual; jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate; conversations are easy but expect some background bustle from counter service.
Weekend wait: Not applicable; the cafe closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; peak 12–1pm may see a short line at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – breakfast plates, bagel sandwiches, and teriyaki tofu options are available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few sides and modified rice bowls; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options like rice bowls are naturally gluten-free, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic date – the setting is casual and practical, better for a quick bite or casual meet-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, all seating is first-come, first-served; no reservations needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – simple menu items, quick service, and casual seating make it fine for families, though there are no high chairs or kids’ amenities.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Korean-influenced plates and hearty breakfasts at prices well below trendier brunch spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking a polished ambiance, craft cocktails, or a long, leisurely brunch experience.
Pacific Plaza Cafe
7.8
Cozy lunch cafe with a Korean-leaning menu alongside classic sandwiches. Portions are generous, and the hot grill items come out quickly without losing balance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bulgogi steak sandwich, Spicy pork sandwich, Turkey avocado on wheat
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Lunch counter marrying Korean flavors with deli staples.
Who should go: Office crews wanting hearty hot sandwiches
When to visit: 11:30–12:15 before the line forms
What to order: Bulgogi sandwich; Spicy pork; Turkey avocado
Insider tip: Call ahead; they’ll time the grill so bread doesn’t steam.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Van Ness and side streets; fills up quickly during weekday lunch hours.
Dress code: Casual – office attire or jeans are both fine.
Noise level: Moderate – busy but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Not applicable – café closes before dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: 10–15 minutes during peak lunch rush; otherwise minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – options like avocado, veggie, and egg sandwiches.
Vegan options: Limited – possible with customizations (skip mayo/cheese, load veggies).
Gluten-free options: Limited – no dedicated gluten-free bread, but some grill items can be served over greens.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic date – it’s more of a practical, hearty lunch spot than a linger-over-drinks café.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – walk-in only, counter-service setup with fast table turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – casual space with booth seating; menu has mild options that work for older kids. Not stroller-friendly during peak rush.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and heartier portions than most neighborhood sandwich shops; unique Korean-influenced flavors set it apart.
Skip if: If you’re looking for gluten-free bread, dinner service, or a quiet sit-down café atmosphere, you’ll want to look elsewhere.