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Park Tavern
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
Park Tavern
8.5
Upscale North Beach standby running a strong ‘North Beach Hour’ with discounted bar bites, including crisp chicken wings. Polished service and park-side seating make post-work meetups easy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Happy Hour Chicken Wings, Loaded Fries (HH), Park Tavern Burger (HH)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Refined bar program with HH wings in a stylish setting.
Who should go: After-work groups and date-night pregame
When to visit: Before 6pm to catch HH pricing
What to order: HH Chicken Wings, Loaded Fries, Hannah Pizzetta
Insider tip: Snag a patio table facing Washington Square for quicker bar access.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Washington Square; nearby garages on Vallejo and Stockton typically run $10–$15 for evening hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual fits best—button-downs or elevated denim for men, chic casual for women. Most patrons dress for after-work drinks or early dinner dates.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—bar area gets chatty during happy hour, but patio and main dining room remain conversation-friendly.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins; reservations recommended for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: No wait; happy hour starts filling by 4:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous small plates and salads like burrata and roasted carrots.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify a few sides or salads upon request, but not a strong focus.
Gluten-free options: Several options available; staff can adapt wings and fries upon request, though prep area is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, park views, and a polished bar make it relaxed but elevated. Works best for early-evening drinks or small bites rather than a long dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes before 5:30pm or at the bar, but the patio fills fast once happy hour peaks. Walk-ins often land bar stools or high-tops.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; it’s more of an adult-oriented scene. Families are welcome at lunch, but evenings skew toward cocktails and groups.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for upscale happy hour gatherings with strong cocktails and polished ambiance—rare for the North Beach area.
Skip if: If you’re seeking casual sports-bar wings or a family dinner spot, nearby casual pubs or pizza joints may fit better.
Park Tavern
7.7
Washington Square anchor serving a well-executed burger on a sit-down dinner menu, with a value-priced version at happy hour. Polished room and steady pacing suit later evenings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Park Tavern Burger (Happy Hour), Classic Cheeseburger, Loaded Fries (happy hour)
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: A polished North Beach dining room with a strong burger and late-ish hours.
Who should go: Dinner crowds wanting a sit-down burger
When to visit: 5–9:30pm; happy hour for the best burger deal
What to order: Park Tavern Burger, Classic Cheeseburger, Loaded Fries
Insider tip: Ask for the bar area—faster turns and easier walk-in seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered parking around Washington Square; street spots fill fast after 6pm. North Beach Garage (735 Vallejo) is a 4-minute walk; valet available weekends after 5pm (~$15).
Dress code: Smart casual—polished but relaxed. Jeans and nice tops work; avoid overly casual gym wear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at smaller tables or the bar, but expect ambient buzz during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats often open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; early dinner (before 6:30pm) is smooth.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, sides, and a few main plates can be made vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—no dedicated vegan mains, but kitchen can adapt a few sides or salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free bun available for burgers; many menu items naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The atmosphere is upscale yet comfortable, with candle lighting and solid service—ideal for a first date that feels polished without being stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are common but expect a wait on weekends. The bar and communal tables turn faster; best to arrive early or near the end of dinner service.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult-focused, but older kids (10+) are fine at early hours. No kid menu or booster seats; better suited for family dinners than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for a refined burger experience in a full-service setting—better wine list and atmosphere than nearby taverns.
Skip if: You’re craving a quick or casual late-night burger—go to Sam’s or Boardroom instead.
Park Tavern
7.8
Reopened North Beach fixture on Washington Square offering steak frites and composed lunch plates in a lively, sunlit room. Works for informal client catch-ups when you want a central, recognizable setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites (ribeye), JW Kale Salad + add steak, Beef-fat Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Square-side setting with steak frites and quick daytime pacing.
Who should go: Teams wanting buzzy-but-professional energy
When to visit: 11:30–12:30 for easier tables
What to order: Steak frites; kale salad + steak; seasonal vegetable sides
Insider tip: Ask for a window banquette—better acoustics for business talk.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited; use the North Beach Parking Garage on Vallejo and Stockton for best results.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and clean denim or slacks fit the daytime business crowd.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from the bar and open room, but table conversation stays comfortable.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; book ahead for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 10 minutes before noon; fills fast after 12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, vegetable plates, and sides like roasted carrots and fries.
Vegan options: Limited—salads can be modified, but few fully vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Yes—steak plates and salads are naturally gluten-free; fries cooked separately.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a working lunch or casual follow-up than a first date—bright room, steady buzz, and attentive pacing suit conversation but not intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for lunch if you arrive early; walk-ins after 12:30 may face a short wait, especially on sunny park days.
Is it kid-friendly? Tolerant of well-behaved kids during lunch hours; no specific children’s menu but approachable options like fries and sliders.
Best For
Better for: More polished and central than nearby grills, ideal for meetings with out-of-town clients.
Skip if: You want quiet seclusion or heavy steakhouse formality—opt for Alfred’s or Harris’ instead.
Park Tavern
8.6
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Trendy Table Hotspots
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Modern American bistro on Washington Square Park with polished service and a business-friendly pace. Lunch favors composed salads, burgers, and shareable starters in a bright, professional setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
PT Burger, Deviled Eggs, Little Gem Caesar
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Refined American plates with professional pacing overlooking Washington Square.
Who should go: Teams or clients needing a polished midday setting
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00 for smooth seating and service
What to order: PT Burger, deviled eggs, Little Gem Caesar
Insider tip: Request a window banquette for quieter conversations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered parking around Washington Square; nearby North Beach Garage at 735 Vallejo St offers paid hourly parking.
Dress code: Business casual; button-downs or blouses fit right in, jackets optional but common for client lunches.
Noise level: Moderate during peak hours—buzzing but conversational; quieter at window tables.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; tables turn slower after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:00; short queue between 12:15–1:00pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, vegetable starters, and seasonal pastas rotate regularly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable dishes with modifications (ask servers for current options).
Gluten-free options: Yes—clearly marked menu items; servers can advise substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re aiming for an upscale but relaxed lunch or early dinner. The bright setting and attentive service make conversation easy without formality.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually at lunch on weekdays, yes. Walk-ins are common before noon or after 1:30pm; reservations are smart for peak lunch hours or weekend brunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. While the crowd skews professional, older kids are fine for brunch or daytime visits; no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: More polished than nearby casual cafés; ideal for client lunches or meetings needing quiet service and refined food.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quick grab-and-go or budget-friendly meal—this is a sit-down, full-service experience.
Park Tavern
8.1
Revived Washington Square staple with a buzzy bar and polished American cooking. Steak frites and wood-fired mains anchor a menu built for groups and celebratory nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Ribeye, Steak Frites, Deviled Eggs
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A lively square-side room pairing steaks with strong cocktails.
Who should go: Groups and celebratory dinners
When to visit: Prime buzz after 7pm; book weekends
What to order: Ribeye, steak frites, seasonal vegetables
Insider tip: Bar seats are the fastest path for walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited and competitive after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Stockton or Vallejo are your best bet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale — think dress shirts, blouses, or elevated denim with jackets.
Noise level: Lively and energetic; conversation is possible but raised voices help during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though outdoor tables fill quickly on sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple starters and sides, plus a few mains like the market vegetable plate.
Vegan options: Limited – 1–2 options, but staff can adjust sides or salads upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – several dishes are naturally gluten-free; alert staff for modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the buzzy yet polished ambiance creates a lively first-date energy, especially at the bar or patio tables overlooking Washington Square.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins can try the bar area or outdoor tables, but expect a wait on weekends; reservations are strongly advised for dinner.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to the volume and cocktail-heavy crowd, though older teens will enjoy the upbeat scene.
Best For
Better for: Lively group dinners and upscale nights out with excellent cocktails in a high-energy setting.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet, intimate meal or need extensive vegan options — try a more relaxed bistro nearby instead.
Park Tavern
7.8
Rebooted Washington Square staple with a lively bar and neighborhood energy. Menu leans classic American with cocktails and shareable starters.
Must-Try Dishes:
JW kale salad, Roast chicken, Deviled eggs
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Bustling Washington Square hangout mixing heritage vibes with cocktails.
Who should go: Groups and bar-forward diners
When to visit: Prime time after 7pm for the buzz
What to order: Kale salad; roast chicken; deviled eggs
Insider tip: Bar seats are easiest for walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited, especially evenings; nearest paid garage is North Beach Garage on Vallejo at $8–12 for dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—stylish jeans, boots, or a casual dress fit right in with the North Beach crowd.
Noise level: Lively and energetic after 7pm; conversation possible but raised voices help during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seating sometimes faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or brief 5–10 minutes if seated at the bar.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, pasta, and vegetable plates make up several satisfying options.
Vegan options: Limited—ask staff to modify salads or small plates; not a primary focus.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes can be adapted; servers are knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a lively date with cocktails and people-watching—less ideal if you’re seeking quiet intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—arrive early or opt for bar seating where walk-ins are more likely to snag a spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the evening crowd skews adult, though daytime meals can work for older kids with supervision.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-forward dinners and group celebrations with upscale American comfort food.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner or budget-friendly portions—opt for nearby Tony’s or Original Joe’s instead.
Park Tavern
7.9
Reopened North Beach American brasserie on Washington Square with chef-partner Jonathan Waxman steering a California-inflected menu. Expect buzzy energy, strong cocktails, and crowd-pleasers like the JW kale salad, shrimp scampi, and roast chicken in a revived, design-forward room.
Must-Try Dishes:
JW Kale Salad, Roast Chicken, Shrimp Scampi
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A revived North Beach brasserie led by a famed California chef.
Who should go: Cocktail-loving bistro fans
When to visit: Golden hour for lively park views
What to order: JW kale salad; roast chicken; shrimp scampi
Insider tip: Request a booth for better acoustics when the room gets loud.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square can be tricky after 6pm; nearby public garages at Vallejo & Stockton or North Beach Garage usually have spots after 8pm. No valet service currently offered.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and nice tops are fine, but many guests lean dressy for evening outings.
Noise level: Lively and energetic — expect moderate-to-high volume, especially during dinner rush and bar service.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seating may open faster for small parties.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, especially before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several hearty salads, vegetable sides, and meat-free mains like pasta or flatbreads.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 adaptable options if requested, though not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes — some dishes can be made gluten-free on request; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the buzz, cocktails, and park-facing ambiance create a lively yet romantic setting. Opt for a booth or window table for more privacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible at the bar or patio on off-peak nights, but reservations are strongly recommended for dinner and weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings can work for families with older kids, but the scene skews adult and social after 7pm. No kids’ menu provided.
Best For
Better for: Buzzy ambiance, well-executed comfort dishes, and people-watching on Washington Square — great for social dinners and cocktail meetups.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining, extensive vegan options, or budget-friendly pricing; opt for a lower-key neighborhood bistro instead.
Park Tavern
7.9
A polished neighborhood brasserie reborn, now with a steak frites that punches above its weight for date night. The lively bar, patio tables facing the park, and a concise menu from a veteran SF team make it a flexible, modern alternative to the classic steakhouse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites (au poivre), PT Fries with soft-egg & caviar, Black Cod (for a lighter split)
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Reopened with a refined steak frites and park-view date-night setting.
Who should go: Couples wanting lively, modern steakhouse vibes
When to visit: Golden hour for patio; dinner after 7 for energy
What to order: Steak frites au poivre; PT Fries; martini or spritz
Insider tip: Ask for a park-facing two-top; the bar holds a few walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square can be challenging after 6pm; limited metered spots nearby. No valet service currently offered.
Dress code: Smart casual — think dark denim, boots, or a dressy top. A touch of polish fits the crowd.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversations are doable indoors early; the bar and patio get energetic later.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — salads, sides, and a few mains like the roasted vegetable plate.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 adaptable options; best to request modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several dishes can be made gluten-free upon request; fries are cooked separately.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — park views, warm lighting, and energetic but not overwhelming ambiance make it a strong first-date pick. The bar area also works for a lower-pressure drink-first setup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes — early arrivals or bar seating help. Walk-ins can grab patio tables before 6:30pm, but prime hours fill quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — better suited for adults or teens. The brasserie vibe and later hours lean more date-night than family dining.
Best For
Better for: A more relaxed, modern vibe than old-school steakhouses — with outdoor seating and lighter menu options for mixed groups.
Skip if: You’re after a classic, dark-wood steakhouse experience or large-format cuts; this leans contemporary and portion-conscious.
Park Tavern
8.5
A polished North Beach landmark serving luxe brunch plates in a handsome, buzzed-about room. Signature fries topped with truffle, soft-cooked egg, and caviar turn brunch into an occasion.
Must-Try Dishes:
PT Fries (truffle, egg, caviar), Dungeness Crab Benedict, Shoestring Fries with Aioli
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Upscale brunch with a signature fries program built for sharing.
Who should go: Design-minded diners seeking a polished brunch
When to visit: Early brunch or happy hour window for easiest seats
What to order: PT fries; crab benedict; shoestring fries + aioli
Insider tip: Order the PT fries first at the bar—they arrive hottest.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available evenings; limited metered street parking nearby—arrive early on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean dressy—think upscale brunch attire.
Noise level: Moderate; brunch hours are lively but still easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:30pm; reservations still recommended for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian entrées and sides, including truffle fries and egg-based dishes.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify salads or sides upon request but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options clearly marked; cross-contact possible in shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The moody lighting, stylish décor, and elevated menu make it an ideal first-date spot—comfortable yet impressive without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins can sometimes score a bar seat or patio table early in the day, but reservations are essential for weekend brunch or prime dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. While children are welcome, there’s no kids’ menu and the ambiance leans adult, best suited for teens and up during daytime hours.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for polished brunches and celebratory meals where presentation and ambiance matter as much as the food.
Skip if: You’re seeking casual café pricing or a quick grab-and-go breakfast—this is a sit-down, upscale experience.
Park Tavern
8.7
Reopened North Beach landmark serving luxe takes like PT fries topped with truffle, soft-cooked egg, and caviar. Execution is precise, and the room suits a polished night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
PT Fries with truffle, egg & caviar, Loaded fries (happy hour), Shoestring fries with aioli
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Signature PT fries elevate the category with premium toppings.
Who should go: Date-night diners seeking luxe fries
When to visit: Happy hour or early dinner for easiest tables
What to order: PT fries; loaded fries; shoestring fries + aioli
Insider tip: At the bar, PT fries arrive hottest—order first and share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available in the evening ($15); limited metered street parking nearby on Washington Square and Stockton after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual to upscale—jackets or heels fit right in, jeans ok if styled cleanly.
Noise level: Moderate—conversational during early evening, louder after 8pm when bar crowds swell.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially on Fridays.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before noon; reservations still suggested for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several composed salads and side vegetables, including vegetarian versions of truffle fries.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for off-menu modifications; fries and select starters can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Yes—clearly marked options and staff trained on gluten sensitivities.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—romantic lighting, polished service, and shareable plates make it ideal for a first or second date, especially at the bar or patio.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly for bar seating or early dinner (before 6pm); prime hours are heavily booked online.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—better suited for adults or teens; no children’s menu and a more formal vibe.
Best For
Better for: Upscale fries and polished ambiance—few competitors match the caviar-truffle execution or refined date-night setting.
Skip if: You’re after casual or late-night fries; the menu and price point lean fine dining over fast comfort.