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Blind Butcher
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Blind Butcher
8.2
Castro New American spot where prime ribeye and filet mignon share space with seafood and a strong wine list. Locals use it for date nights and small-group celebrations when they want a proper steak without leaving the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
16 oz Prime Ribeye Steak, Filet Mignon, Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Steakhouse-level cuts and preparations in a Castro neighborhood setting.
Who should go: Date-night and small celebration diners
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for easiest seating
What to order: Prime ribeye; filet mignon; truffle lobster mac
Insider tip: Ask for the butcher’s board to share if the table wants variety.
Blind Butcher
8.3
Steak-forward New American spot in the Castro with prime cuts, a tight wine list, and an energetic, date-friendly room that often features a DJ. Hand-cut steaks and polished service make it an easy pick for a celebratory night without going downtown.
Must-Try Dishes:
16 oz Prime Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Truffle Lobster Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.3
What makes it special: Chef-led steak program with hand-cut prime steaks in a lively Castro setting.
Who should go: Couples who want buzzy steakhouse energy nearby
When to visit: Early evening for calmer vibe; weekends for DJ energy
What to order: Prime ribeye; filet mignon; truffle lobster mac
Insider tip: Request a table away from the speakers if you prefer conversation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited spots near Market and 16th, best after 8pm. No valet service available.
Dress code: Smart casual — button-downs or blouses fit right in; jeans are fine if styled cleanly.
Noise level: Lively to loud on weekends with DJ; moderate during weekday dinners, suitable for conversation at closer tables.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without reservation; bar seating may open faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early evening reservations recommended.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but thoughtful — seasonal vegetable plate and sides available.
Vegan options: Minimal options; kitchen can modify select sides but no dedicated entrees.
Gluten-free options: Strong awareness — most steaks and salads are gluten-free; dedicated prep surfaces used.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — energetic without being pretentious, with dim lighting and shareable appetizers that make it easy to relax. Go early if you prefer more conversation over the music.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible for small parties before 6:30pm or at the bar, but weekend walk-ins often face long waits. Reservations are highly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it’s geared toward adults with a bar-forward vibe and louder music after 8pm. Families with older teens might fit earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Ideal when you want a neighborhood steakhouse with upbeat energy and solid cocktails without trekking downtown.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, white-tablecloth steakhouse experience — try Harris’ or House of Prime Rib instead.
Blind Butcher
8.3
Modern Castro steak-forward spot with hand-cut prime steaks and a compact, efficient lunch service rhythm. Works for quick client catch-ups with comfortable seating and attentive pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Ribeye, Filet Mignon, Truffle Lobster Mac
Scores:
Value: 6.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Chef-led cuts with polished service in the Castro.
Who should go: Teams wanting steakhouse comfort near offices
When to visit: Early lunch window for fastest seating and tickets
What to order: Ribeye, filet, truffle lobster mac
Insider tip: Ask for a two-top away from the entry for quieter talks.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots along Market and 16th fill quickly by noon. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Smart casual — button-downs or blouses fit right in; suits optional but polished attire recommended for client lunches.
Noise level: Moderate; ambient buzz from music and chatter but tables are spaced enough for clear conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:15; short delays after 12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — roasted cauliflower and truffle mushroom pasta are strong options.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify sides or salads upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — most steaks and salads are gluten-free with proper prep; staff accommodates.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The polished atmosphere and attentive service strike a balance between relaxed and refined — good lighting, modern music, and quality cocktails create a confident impression without feeling stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually at lunch, yes — walk-ins are fine before 12:15. For dinner, reservations are highly advised, especially Fridays and weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the menu leans adult, and the setting suits business and date nights more than family meals. Older teens comfortable in upscale settings will be fine.
Best For
Better for: Business lunches needing solid steak quality without downtown crowds — faster pacing, better acoustics, and a tighter menu than large-chain steakhouses.
Skip if: You’re after white-tablecloth formality or prime ribeye cuts over $100 — this is refined but not ultra-luxury.