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Il Pollaio
Master Critic Review
Il Pollaio
7.6
Compact grill house known for charcoal-roasted chicken and simple Italian-Argentine plates. No-frills setup; big flavors and steady crowds.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half Charcoal Chicken, Polenta with Sausage, Mixed Grill Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Charcoal-grilled chicken with a cult local following.
Who should go: Casual diners craving hearty plates
When to visit: Off-peak early dinner
What to order: Half chicken; polenta sausage; arugula salad
Insider tip: Order chicken well-done if you like extra char.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking around Columbus Ave; best bet is the North Beach Garage on Vallejo (5-min walk).
Dress code: Ultra-casual; jeans, T-shirts, and hoodies common.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; quieter for early dinners.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during rush; fast table turnover.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options—salads, grilled veggies, and sides.
Vegan options: Very limited; best for sides or customizing orders.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated menu, but grilled meats and salads work fine.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—more practical than romantic. Great if you both appreciate old-school simplicity and smoky grill aromas.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins only. Arrive early or after 8pm to avoid the dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids; small space and no booster seats, but straightforward menu appeals to all ages.
Best For
Better for: Quicker, cheaper, and smokier grilled chicken than most sit-down Italian spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re looking for pasta variety or a long, leisurely dinner—try Original Joe’s instead.