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Little Skillet
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Little Skillet
8.5
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Long-running SoMa counter known for crispy, well-seasoned fried chicken and the signature chicken-and-waffles (since 2008). Consistent execution, generous sides, and easy walk-up service keep it a staple near Oracle Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken & Waffles, Fried Chicken (bone-in pieces), Family Meal Box
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Neighborhood fixture for soulful fried chicken and waffles since 2008.
Who should go: Fans of classic Southern plates near Oracle Park
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner before games
What to order: Chicken & Waffles; dark-meat fried chicken; mac & cheese
Insider tip: Order ahead for family boxes on game days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Ritch and Townsend, fills fast during events; nearest paid garage at 153 Townsend St.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—come as you are; ballpark and tech-office crowd mix.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially at lunch rush; conversation possible but not quiet.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes depending on game traffic; move quick for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually under 10 minutes; occasional short line at peak noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—sides like mac & cheese, waffles, and salads only.
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan entrées, though some sides qualify.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free fryer; menu items may contain cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it's more casual, counter-service style. Great for a low-key lunch or comfort-food meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Walk-up only—seating is first come, first served, with limited stools and outdoor benches nearby.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Families frequent it for takeout and simple seating; kids love the waffles and fried chicken baskets.
Best For
Better for: Classic Southern comfort flavors and crispy texture—best value fried chicken near Oracle Park.
Skip if: You want a sit-down restaurant or healthier prep—this is pure comfort, not a light meal.
Little Skillet
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Fried-chicken counter inside Victory Hall serving properly salted fries that pair with wings, tenders, and chicken-and-waffles. It’s fast, affordable, and close to Caltrain for easy takeout.
Must-Try Dishes:
French Fries (side or basket), Wings + fries combo, Chicken tenders + fries
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Counter-service fries with dependable seasoning and speed.
Who should go: Budget-minded fry-and-chicken fans
When to visit: Weekdays 11–1 or after 7
What to order: Basket of fries; wings + fries; tenders + fries
Insider tip: Order ahead online on rainy days to skip the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking nearby; metered spots fill during weekday lunch rush. Best option is Caltrain lot across the street.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; jeans and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible but background music and takeout flow add buzz.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on takeout orders; faster for counter pickup.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush; minimal wait outside of rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—fries and sides only, as chicken drives the menu.
Vegan options: Minimal—plain fries are vegan but cross-contact with fryer oil is possible.
Gluten-free options: Fries are gluten-free, but shared fryer may affect strict gluten-free needs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—this is a casual counter spot better for quick bites than date-night atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken; counter seating and shared tables are first-come, first-serve.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—casual space with fries, tenders, and quick service works well for families with kids.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable fried chicken and fries near Caltrain with dependable seasoning and speed.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a sit-down meal with ambiance—this is a counter-service, quick-stop spot.