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Jang
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Jang
8.6
Hayes Valley’s modern Korean tasting menu with charcoal-finish BBQ elements and seasonal plates running late into the evening. A polished room and precise plating make it a solid late-night date option within walking distance of Patricia’s Green.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charcoal-finished Galbi Course, Kimchi Trio with Seasonal Banchan, Chef’s Seasonal Seafood Course
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Late-running tasting menu blending contemporary technique with Korean flavors.
Who should go: Design-minded diners and date-night planners
When to visit: 9–10:30pm for a quieter late service
What to order: Tasting menu; galbi course; seasonal seafood plate
Insider tip: Book counter seats to watch final charcoal finishes up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Hayes Valley; metered spots free after 6pm but hard to find. Closest garage is Hayes Street Garage (1 block away, $5–$7/hr).
Dress code: Smart casual with a polished edge; jeans are fine if paired with dress shoes or a blazer.
Noise level: Moderate – music and chatter fill the room, but you can comfortably hold a date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: Reservations recommended; without one expect 45–60 minute wait after 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable – dinner service only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – the kitchen offers seasonal vegetarian plates on the tasting menu.
Vegan options: Limited – 1–2 items can be modified but no full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – several dishes are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the sleek design, attentive pacing, and late service hours make it an impressive but approachable first-date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are occasionally possible after 9:30pm, but most tables are booked earlier; the counter is your best bet without a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; there’s no kids’ menu, and the tasting format runs late into the night. Better suited for adult groups and date nights.
Best For
Better for: A refined, late-night Korean dining experience with design-focused ambiance and a polished tasting menu – rare for the neighborhood.
Skip if: You’re looking for casual BBQ platters, large portions, or family-friendly service – head to more traditional Korean spots instead.
Jang
8.4
Hayes Valley tasting-menu restaurant highlighting Korean flavors with a charcoal-finish Korean BBQ approach alongside modern techniques. It’s a polished, reservation-friendly spot for intimate dinners where the kitchen leans into fermented sauces and carefully grilled proteins.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu New York strip with bulgogi jus, Doenjang pork neck, Sake-poached oyster with kimchi brine foam
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Modern Korean tasting menu with charcoal-finish BBQ elements.
Who should go: Date-night diners and small groups into Korean flavors
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for a calmer dining room
What to order: Wagyu bulgogi course; doenjang pork; oyster starter
Insider tip: Bar seats are easiest to snag for last-minute reservations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley is limited after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Gough and Fell offer easier options.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; button-downs or dresses fit the vibe, though nice jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate – lively but controlled; you can carry on a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation; prime tables are booked weeks ahead.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable – dinner service only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful—expect a couple of composed vegetable starters or adaptations.
Vegan options: Minimal; best to call ahead as most courses incorporate animal protein or fermented sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff can adjust certain dishes; fermented sauces are generally safe but confirm when booking.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its polished tasting menu and intimate design make it a strong choice for impressing a date, with pacing that allows conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Rarely—walk-ins might snag bar seats on weeknights, but reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; the structured tasting menu and upscale vibe are better suited for adults and teens accustomed to fine dining.
Best For
Better for: More polished and contemporary than casual Korean BBQ spots—expect elevated plating, fermented accents, and a curated wine list.
Skip if: If you want a casual, all-you-can-eat grill experience or wide à la carte BBQ selection, this isn’t the right fit.