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Bender's Bar & Grill
Master Critic Review
Bender's Bar & Grill
7.8
Long-running rock-and-roll dive slinging smash burgers and tots with a kitchen typically open until 11pm. It’s casual, loud, and exactly the kind of late-night burger stop Mission regulars rely on.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smash Burger, Tater Tots, Fried Chicken Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A true late-night burger with dive-bar personality and friendly prices.
Who should go: Night owls who want fast, satisfying burgers
When to visit: Tue–Sat 9–11pm for peak kitchen window
What to order: Smash burger, tots, house pickles
Insider tip: Order at the bar first—food tickets run separate from drink tabs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect limited availability on South Van Ness after 7pm. Meters free after 6pm but spaces fill quickly.
Dress code: Ultra-casual dive bar atmosphere—jeans, tees, and hoodies all good. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Loud—music, chatter, and TVs make it tough for quiet conversation, especially on weekends.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait; grab a seat or bar stool when available. Gets busier after 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—kitchen typically closed midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—black bean patty or grilled cheese available, but menu leans meat-heavy.
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan items; can modify fries or tots.
Gluten-free options: Minimal—no gluten-free buns; fries share fryer oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves dive bars and rock music. It’s fun and unpretentious, but not romantic or quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s first come, first served. Most patrons order at the bar and grab any open table or booth.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—21+ atmosphere after 9pm with a bar-first crowd. Best for adults or late-night groups.
Best For
Better for: Casual late-night burgers and a rock-bar vibe at unbeatable prices.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, upscale ambiance, or dietary accommodations.