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Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
7.7
Neighborhood Italian spot that also serves saucy BBQ pork ribs as a full entrée with pasta and vegetables. It’s an unexpected rib option when the group wants pizza and you want ribs.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Pork Ribs entrée, New York Steak dinner, Garlic bread with house salad
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Full rib dinner inside a long-running neighborhood pizzeria.
Who should go: Groups wanting pizza plus ribs
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for easier seating
What to order: BBQ ribs entrée; garlic bread; Caesar salad
Insider tip: Call ahead for large parties; they’ll hold tables when possible.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geneva and nearby residential blocks is free but competitive after 6pm; no valet or private lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and polos are fine, but many locals dress up slightly for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate—family chatter and background music allow normal conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for large groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; steady but not crowded.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pasta and pizza options can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—request cheeseless pizza or vegetable pasta with marinara.
Gluten-free options: Partially—gluten-free pasta available on request, but pizza crust not GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s casual and comfortable rather than romantic—best for relaxed, low-pressure dinners where conversation matters more than ambience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small parties; call ahead for groups of six or more to ensure space, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs, quick service, and pizza favorites make it easy for families with kids ages 3 and up.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for groups that can’t agree on one cuisine—great balance between Italian comfort dishes and hearty BBQ ribs.
Skip if: You’re looking for a specialized BBQ joint or outdoor rib experience; this is a pizzeria first.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
7.7
Neighborhood spot dating back to the ’60s serving thin-crust pies, pastas, and pitchers with a small tap list. It’s a casual, budget-friendly date option where you can split a pizza and linger without rush.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sausage and mushrooms pizza, Baked ziti, Chicken wings to share
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Long-running pizzeria with easy prices and shareable plates.
Who should go: Casual dates on a budget
When to visit: Early evening before game-night crowds
What to order: Sausage-mushroom pie; baked ziti; garlic bread
Insider tip: Ask about rotating taps—pints pair well with the pies.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Mission Street and nearby side streets; spots open up more easily after 7pm but can be tight on weekends.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are fine, but a button-down or nice top fits the date-night vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation-friendly early evening, gets louder during sports games or larger group tables.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation around 7pm; quicker if you arrive before 6:30.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; tables available throughout service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pizzas and pastas can be made meat-free, and salads are flexible.
Vegan options: Limited – one or two cheeseless pizza options; request to hold cheese or butter.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free crusts available upon request, but prepared in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s relaxed, affordable, and easy to talk without pressure. Not fancy, but perfect for a casual first meet-up or second date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes – they keep tables open for walk-ins, especially before 6:30pm or after 8pm. Groups of four or more should call ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – families are common earlier in the evening, with booster seats and quick service; later hours lean more adult and date-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Affordable pizza-and-pasta dates where conversation matters more than formality; great for low-key nights with a pint.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale Italian or candlelit ambiance – it’s more of a neighborhood hangout than a romantic splurge.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
7.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Outer Mission fixture (est. 1963) serving classic pizzas, pasta plates, and kid-friendly starters alongside a casual taphouse setup. Flexible seating and straightforward counter service suit relaxed family nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
World Famous Bravo Pizza, Baked Ziti, Mozzarella Sticks
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Long-running pizza spot with shareable pies and a casual taphouse feel.
Who should go: Parents wanting easy seating and kid-friendly options
When to visit: Weekends noon–2pm or 5–6pm for shortest waits
What to order: Bravo pizza, baked ziti, mozzarella sticks
Insider tip: Ask for well-done bake if you prefer extra-crisp crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available on Mission Street and surrounding residential blocks, but fills quickly after 6pm on weekends. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Completely casual — jeans, tees, and sneakers fit right in. No need to dress up for family meals.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy at lunch but can get lively during evening sports broadcasts.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak family hours 6–7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; counter service keeps things moving.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple options like veggie pizza, eggplant parm, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited — cheese-free pizzas and a few pasta sauces can be adapted upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free crust available for small pizzas; prep handled with shared surfaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups or early-stage dates — the bright lighting and family atmosphere lean informal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s counter-service, so no reservations are needed. Arrive a bit before 6pm on weekends to secure larger tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely. Booster seats and kid-friendly menu options make it easy for families with children aged 3–12.
Best For
Better for: Group meals and family nights where easy ordering and shared plates matter more than ambiance.
Skip if: You’re seeking an upscale Italian dining experience or a quiet romantic dinner.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Old-school pizzeria and tap lineup serving the Outer Mission since 1963. Shareable pies, baked pastas, and kid-friendly starters make it an easy family night with something for everyone.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bravo Special pie, Baked ziti, Mozzarella sticks
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Long-running pizzeria-taphouse pairing classic pies with beer on tap.
Who should go: Parents wanting casual seating and shareable pies
When to visit: Weekends noon–2pm or 5–6pm for shortest waits
What to order: Bravo Special; baked ziti; mozzarella sticks
Insider tip: Request a well-done bake if you prefer extra-crisp crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; can be limited on weekends after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual attire—jeans, tees, and sneakers are perfectly fine. Families and locals keep it low-key.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—expect chatter and music during peak hours, but tables still allow for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation, especially between 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; quick turnover after the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetarian pizzas, pastas, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 pizza options with dairy-free cheese and several build-your-own choices.
Gluten-free options: Available on request—gluten-free crusts prepared separately upon request but not in a dedicated area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for casual and nostalgic—better suited for relaxed get-to-know-you hangs than candlelit romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are welcome. Go early on weekends or call ahead to check for large-party seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs, booster seats, and a kid-friendly menu make it easy for families with young children. Noise level keeps it stress-free for parents.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners, sports nights, and casual family outings where beer and pizza are the main event.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner or artisan Neapolitan-style pizza—this is more old-school and hearty.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
8.3
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Group Dining Gatherings
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Comfort Food Classics
Excelsior institution (since the 1960s) pairing classic pies with a rotating tap list and later weekend hours. Go for shareable combos and a pint when other kitchens wind down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bravo Special (everything pie), Meat Lovers, Margherita with fresh basil
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Decades-old Mission Street pizzeria with taps and later weekend close.
Who should go: Groups wanting pizza plus beer
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9:30pm for extended kitchen
What to order: Bravo Special, Meat Lovers, Margherita
Insider tip: Kitchen takes well-done requests for a crisper finish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street and side streets; fills quickly after 7pm but usually manageable within a 1–2 block walk.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans, tees, and light jackets all fit the neighborhood vibe.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but lively, especially when the taps are busy on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours, especially for larger groups after 8:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; service is prompt and relaxed.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pies can be made meatless, and salads round it out.
Vegan options: Limited — can omit cheese and use veggie toppings, but no vegan cheese offered.
Gluten-free options: Available — gluten-free crust option on request, prepared with shared equipment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re aiming for relaxed and local. The tap list, shareable pies, and casual booth setup make it easy for conversation without feeling stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes — they operate mostly walk-in. On weekends, plan for a short wait or grab a beer at the bar while you wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families before 9pm. Spacious booths and a casual setup make it comfortable, though late-night hours lean adult with bar crowds.
Best For
Better for: Best for group hangs and pizza-with-pints nights — the combination of long-running local charm and a solid tap list sets it apart from newer spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking artisan thin-crust or romantic quiet dining; this is more of a lively community hangout than a date-night bistro.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
8.0
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Sports Bar Central
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Neighborhood stalwart (since 1963) known for crowd-pleasing pies, wings, and a beer lineup that makes game nights easy. Portions are generous and the kitchen turns out consistent classics at fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
World Famous Bravo Special, Pepperoni & Mushroom, BBQ Chicken pie
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Decades-old pizza shop with tap handles and game-night energy.
Who should go: Families and sports-watching groups
When to visit: Weeknights after 8pm for easiest tables and parking
What to order: Bravo Special, wings + pepperoni, BBQ chicken
Insider tip: Request extra-crisp bake if you like a firmer bottom crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Mission Street and side blocks, though it fills quickly during evening games. A small private lot behind the building has limited spots after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual—jerseys, hoodies, and jeans fit right in. No formalwear needed unless you’re coming from an event.
Noise level: Lively during games with TVs and chatter; moderate on weeknights, so conversation is possible if seated away from the bar.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for large parties during peak sports events.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; seating available immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple veggie pies, salads, and appetizers available.
Vegan options: Limited—can do cheeseless veggie pizza upon request, but no dedicated vegan cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free crust option available; shared oven, so not certified gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangouts than romantic first dates. The energy is upbeat and communal—great if you’re both into sports or beer tasting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, reservations aren’t required. Walk-ins are fine, though large groups should call ahead during big games or weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common early in the evening. Booster seats and kids’ portions available before 9pm, after which the crowd skews more adult for late games.
Best For
Better for: Game nights, family dinners, and large groups looking for hearty pizza with draft beer options.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, romantic dinner or refined pizza experience—try a boutique pizzeria instead.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
8.1
Long-running Excelsior spot with taps, game-day screens, and hearty wings alongside pizzas. Expect crowd-pleasing flavors and generous portions with casual counter-service ease.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Buffalo Wings, BBQ Wings with Ranch, Lemon Pepper Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Game-friendly taphouse with reliably crispy wings and pitcher deals.
Who should go: Sports watchers and groups on a budget
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm for quickest tables and pickups
What to order: Buffalo dozen; lemon-pepper; wings + pepperoni slice combo
Insider tip: Look for midweek wing specials posted near the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; it’s free but can be competitive during evening games. No private lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual – jerseys, jeans, and hoodies fit right in. No need to dress up unless you’re heading out afterward.
Noise level: Loud during games with TVs and cheering crowds; moderate otherwise – conversation is doable off-peak.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime game nights; faster for takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: No wait – counter service moves quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – pizza and salads can be customized easily.
Vegan options: Limited – no dedicated vegan wings, but a few meatless pizzas are possible with adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free crust option for pizzas; wings are fried separately but ask staff about sauce ingredients.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves sports bars – it’s more about fun energy than quiet ambiance. Great for casual meetups but not ideal for candlelight conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only. Arrive before major game start times for best seating, or grab bar stools when the main tables fill up.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, during daytime and early evening hours. Families frequent it for pizza and wings; after 9pm it shifts to a louder adult crowd with bar service focus.
Best For
Better for: Casual group hangouts, game watching, and generous portions at fair prices – ideal for teams or families who want hearty wings with beer on tap.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet dining, craft cocktails, or upscale presentation – it’s built for comfort and community, not fine dining.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
7.8
Counter-service spot known for thick-crust pies and value pricing along Mission Street. A go-to for quick slices after work or an inexpensive family dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thick-Crust Pepperoni, Vegetarian Supreme, Garlic Knots
Scores:
Value: 9.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Thick-crust pies and slices priced right for the neighborhood.
Who should go: Budget-minded pizza lovers
When to visit: Late afternoon for hot slice turnover
What to order: Pepperoni slice, veggie supreme, garlic knots
Insider tip: Call ahead for whole pies—turnaround is fast and fresher.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks, though it can fill up during dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Completely casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — mostly takeout traffic and short dine-ins, so conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes for slices, 15–20 for whole pies during peak dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; slices ready to go.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese, veggie supreme, and garlic knot options available daily.
Vegan options: Limited — can request no-cheese veggie pie but not full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free crust; cross-contact likely in shared ovens.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless you’re going for a super-casual, no-frills slice date. It’s more functional than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, seating is first-come, first-served. Most guests grab takeout or eat quickly, so tables turn fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — great for families with young kids. Booths, simple menu, and fast service make it easy for casual family meals.
Best For
Better for: Quick, inexpensive pizza meals or grab-and-go slices when you’re in the area.
Skip if: You’re after artisan pies, craft beer, or a sit-down Italian dinner experience — head elsewhere for atmosphere or gourmet toppings.
Bravo Pizza & Taphouse
8.0
Neighborhood pizzeria with a small tap lineup and sit-down service, turning out classic American pies with a lightly crisped crust. It’s a go-to for game nights and casual groups along Mission Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bravo Combo (pepperoni/sausage/olive/onion), Margherita with fresh basil, Buffalo Wings
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Sit-down pizza plus taps under one roof on Mission Street.
Who should go: Casual groups and game-day crews
When to visit: Evenings before big games to secure tables
What to order: Bravo Combo; Margherita; wings for the table
Insider tip: Request well-done bake if you like a darker, crisper crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street; availability can be limited during peak hours, but nearby side streets open up after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, team jerseys, and hoodies fit the game-night crowd.
Noise level: Loud during games, moderate otherwise—expect TVs and conversation buzz.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during big sporting events or Fridays after 6pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; tables available immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several veggie pies and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize with no cheese and extra veggies, but no vegan cheese option.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free crust offered, prepared in shared kitchen space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves casual, lively sports-bar energy—great for relaxed vibes but not intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, but arrive early on game nights as tables fill fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family groups welcome; kids' menu options and high chairs available, though noise may be high during games.
Best For
Better for: Watching sports with pizza and beer in a friendly local setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for romantic or quiet dining—try a calmer sit-down Italian spot instead.