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ZipPicks Awards
Best Burgers in the Tenderloin
Best Luxury Dining French in the Tenderloin
Best Instagram Worthy French in the Tenderloin
Best Date Night French in the Tenderloin
Best Brunch in the Tenderloin
Best French Fries in the Tenderloin
Best French in the Tenderloin
Master Critic Review
Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
8.6
Long-running Hayes Valley brasserie known for a refined, juicy burger and classic cocktails. A polished room and sharp service make it a pre-symphony standby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Absinthe Burger with Gruyère and Fries, French Onion Soup, Seasonal Greens
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: A brasserie burger executed with precision in a classic setting.
Who should go: Cocktail and burger traditionalists
When to visit: Pre-theater evenings or weekend lunch
What to order: Burger with Gruyère, frites, a classic cocktail
Insider tip: Bar seats are first-come and ideal for solo diners.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley can be very tight after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Gough and Hayes are the most reliable options. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are acceptable but lean dressy, especially for pre-symphony or date night crowds.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible across the table, though the bar area can get lively on weekends.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait, though business lunch rush can fill tables quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options including salads, soups, and a few entrées can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items, though the kitchen is accommodating with modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free bread is available, and many dishes can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the polished brasserie setting, attentive service, and classic cocktails create a sophisticated but relaxed vibe perfect for a first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—bar seats are first-come and often available for solo diners or pairs, but main dining room tables usually require reservations, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—better suited for adults, though older kids may be fine at lunch. No kids’ menu or high chairs are provided.
Best For
Better for: Pre-theater dinners and polished burger-and-cocktail pairings in an upscale brasserie setting.
Skip if: You want a casual, family-friendly burger joint or late-night eats—the vibe here is more refined and tied to the neighborhood’s arts crowd.
Hours
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11:30am - 10pm
Thursday11:30am - 10pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 9pm