0 Followers
Fable
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Fable
8.2
Garden-patio favorite with a compact, seasonal brunch menu and calm mid-morning pacing. The all-weather terrace is the draw for relaxed, lingering meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shakshuka, Lemon ricotta pancakes, Smoked salmon Benedict
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Heated multi-deck garden patio with seasonal brunch plates.
Who should go: Patio brunch traditionalists
When to visit: Mid-morning for the calmest patio vibe
What to order: Shakshuka, lemon ricotta pancakes, salmon Benedict
Insider tip: Patio seats are covered—good even on foggy days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along 14th and Market is limited—arrive early or use nearby garages on Noe Street or 16th and Hoff.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and layers work fine, but dressy casual fits the garden ambiance.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are easy on the patio with occasional street noise from Market.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several brunch entrees and sides are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable dishes; staff can modify certain plates.
Gluten-free options: Partial—some menu items are gluten-free or can be adjusted upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its leafy patio and relaxed service make it one of the Castro’s most charming brunch date settings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are accepted, but weekend brunch fills fast; smaller groups have better luck mid-morning.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids; no dedicated kids’ menu, but the patio’s open-air layout works for families.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for a relaxed, scenic brunch with high-quality ingredients and garden ambiance.
Skip if: You prefer fast service or large-group seating—space and pacing are better suited to leisurely meals.
Fable
7.9
Garden-patio charmer serving seasonal American plates and one of the Castro’s most popular brunches. Simple flavors, friendly service, and an indoor-outdoor vibe define the experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Lasagna, Eggs Benedict, French Toast
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Leafy back patio with approachable, seasonal cooking.
Who should go: Brunchers and patio seekers
When to visit: Early evening for calmer patio seating
What to order: Lasagna, benedict, French toast
Insider tip: Patio warms up—layers help after sunset.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 16th and nearby residential blocks; meters turn over quickly but fill by 7pm. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top fit right in; brunch crowd trends relaxed, dinner leans a bit dressier.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation friendly inside, quieter on the back patio depending on crowd size.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, even on the patio.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple options including seasonal salads, pastas, and brunch dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—one or two adaptable items; confirm with server about substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several dishes can be made gluten-free upon request, though no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the leafy patio and warm lighting set an easygoing yet romantic tone without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes for weekday brunch or lunch; dinner and weekend brunch benefit from advance booking to secure patio spots.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for daytime meals—families with strollers often opt for brunch; evenings trend more adult and date-focused.
Best For
Better for: Laid-back brunch and outdoor dining with neighborhood charm—more relaxed than Frances or Starbelly.
Skip if: You’re seeking fine dining polish or an extensive cocktail program—opt for Frances or Santería instead.
Fable
8.3
Heated multi-deck garden patio sets the scene for a photogenic brunch in the heart of the Castro. Classics like eggs Benedict and French toast, plus seasonal plates, shine in great natural light.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, French toast, Chilaquiles
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: All-weather garden patio with brunch-friendly natural light.
Who should go: Patio lovers and photo-focused brunchers
When to visit: Golden hour brunch for best patio lighting
What to order: Eggs Benedict; French toast; seasonal salad
Insider tip: Request the upper deck for the best angles on the garden.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only — limited on weekends, best to use neighborhood side streets or rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual — brunch attire fits the garden setting; sundresses and light layers recommended.
Noise level: Moderate — lively patio chatter but still fine for conversation.
Weekend wait: Not open for dinner; weekend brunch wait averages 30–45 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately, especially before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — many brunch plates like omelets and French toast are meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify a few dishes like salads or avocado toast.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several dishes can be adapted upon request, though no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the garden patio creates a relaxed, charming backdrop ideal for daytime dates, especially in good weather.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a line during peak weekend hours. Early arrival before 10am usually avoids long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — patio seating works fine for families with small children, though the space caters more to adults and couples.
Best For
Better for: Outdoor ambiance and photogenic brunch plates — one of the Castro’s most scenic patios.
Skip if: You’re in a rush or seeking a quiet meal indoors; this spot is more about leisurely, social brunches.
Fable
8.1
Garden-patio New American with a produce-forward menu and all-weather outdoor seating. Popular for brunch and relaxed dinners with cocktails and a solid burger.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Lasagna with Pomodoro, Pan-Roasted Chicken on Panzanella, Fable Double Cheeseburger
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: All-weather, multi-deck garden patio with seasonal California plates.
Who should go: Patio lovers and cocktail seekers
When to visit: Golden hour or late brunch for best ambiance
What to order: Vegan lasagna; chicken panzanella; double cheeseburger
Insider tip: Patio reservations go fast—book ahead for outdoor seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking; metered spots on 14th and Market fill quickly, but residential blocks nearby open after 6pm. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top work well; most guests dress up slightly for evening patio dining.
Noise level: Moderate—outdoor seating allows for easy conversation, though brunch and dinner peaks bring lively chatter.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating or lounge tables sometimes open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait before 1pm; short 10–15 minute waits during prime brunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong selection of vegetarian mains and starters, including seasonal salads and the popular vegan lasagna.
Vegan options: Yes—several thoughtful plant-based entrees and brunch items; staff can adapt many dishes on request.
Gluten-free options: Partial—some entrees and salads are gluten-free or can be modified, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the garden patio and twinkle lights set a relaxed, romantic tone without feeling too formal. Good conversation volume and quality cocktails help the flow.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible for small parties, especially on weekdays or early evenings. For weekends or brunch, reservations are strongly advised—outdoor spots book out early.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—daytime and brunch hours are fine for older kids, but evenings lean adult and social. No dedicated kids’ menu or highchairs.
Best For
Better for: One of the best patios in the Castro for outdoor dining with craft cocktails; standout for groups seeking a stylish but comfortable meal.
Skip if: You prefer quiet indoor dining or need dedicated gluten-free facilities—look to nearby upscale American spots with indoor seating.
Fable
7.9
Garden-patio spot in the Castro featuring a house-made vegan lasagna with pomodoro and almond/plant-based mozzarella. It’s a lighter, produce-forward take that works for mixed-diet groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Lasagna with Pomodoro, Pan-Roasted Chicken (seasonal), Brunch French Toast
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: House-made vegan lasagna served on a lush, all-weather patio.
Who should go: Plant-forward diners and patio lovers
When to visit: Golden hour for patio seating and ambience
What to order: Vegan lasagna; seasonal fish; cocktail of the day
Insider tip: Request a patio table under the canopy heaters on cooler nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots along Market and Noe can fill quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; polished but relaxed fits the garden setting.
Noise level: Moderate — you can hold a conversation easily, especially on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, walk-ins seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple dishes, including pasta and starters, are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Yes — standout vegan lasagna and several small plates built for plant-based diners.
Gluten-free options: Yes — some entrees can be made gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the garden patio lighting and relaxed service make it a charming first-date spot that feels both casual and romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are often accommodated, but weekend evenings fill fast; patio tables are the first to go, so booking ahead is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for adults and older teens; while kids are welcome, the menu and ambiance lean more toward adult dining and social gatherings.
Best For
Better for: Plant-based and mixed-diet groups who value outdoor ambiance and lighter Italian fare.
Skip if: You’re craving traditional meat-heavy lasagna or a purely indoor, formal dining experience.
Fable
8.2
Garden-patio Californian with a calm, daylight setting that suits client conversations. Lunch leans toward crisp salads and well-built sandwiches with dependable pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dungeness Crab BLT, Oven-Roasted Turkey Club, Niçoise Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Leafy patio and composed plates that feel meeting-ready.
Who should go: Client lunches needing quiet outdoor seating
When to visit: 11:00–12:00 for best patio availability
What to order: Crab BLT, turkey club, Niçoise salad
Insider tip: Request the back-garden section for lower noise.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on 14th and Market; metered spots fill fast during lunch. Closest paid lot is behind Chase Bank on 14th Street (2-minute walk).
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts or blouses fit the business-lunch crowd; jeans are fine if paired with polished footwear.
Noise level: Moderate to low, especially on the garden patio—ideal for conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Typically 30–45 minutes without a reservation; patio tables book out first.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait before 12:15pm; can fill by 12:30 with business and neighborhood traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong selection of salads and composed veggie plates; several mains can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options, but kitchen is accommodating with substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—marked on the menu, and staff are trained to handle modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio’s greenery and calm atmosphere set an inviting tone for conversation, while service is attentive without hovering.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually for lunch if you arrive before noon. Evenings and weekends benefit from booking in advance, especially for outdoor seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally adult-oriented but fine for well-behaved older kids; no dedicated children’s menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Relaxed business lunches and professional meetups that need privacy and daylight; outdoor ambiance feels more upscale than nearby cafés.
Skip if: You’re looking for quick counter service or large-group seating—space and pacing favor small parties and slower dining.
Fable
8.0
Garden-patio American spot known for a back-deck setting that’s forgiving for families. The menu leans familiar—double cheeseburger, steak frites, pastas—executed with steady polish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Cheeseburger, Steak Frites, Baked Mac-and-Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: All-weather garden patio with approachable American crowd-pleasers.
Who should go: Families wanting patio seating and dependable mains
When to visit: Early dinner for easier seating and calmer vibes
What to order: Double cheeseburger, steak frites, sorbet trio
Insider tip: Request back-deck tables; they’re roomier for high chairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally easier on residential blocks west of Castro but tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and layers are fine, especially with the outdoor seating.
Noise level: Moderate; patio seating allows normal conversation though interior can get lively during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation, longer for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple composed salads, vegetable mains, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify a few dishes like salads and sides.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free pasta and clear menu markings available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – especially on the garden patio where lighting and spacing feel relaxed but still elevated. The approachable menu helps keep focus on conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays; weekends and sunny evenings require advance booking, particularly for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – high chairs available and staff accommodate families early in the evening. The outdoor deck offers space for strollers and less noise sensitivity.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for groups and families wanting elevated comfort food with outdoor seating and attentive pacing.
Skip if: You’re looking for experimental cuisine or ultra-quiet fine dining; this leans casual and social.