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STEM Kitchen & Garden
Master Critic Review
STEM Kitchen & Garden
7.9
Californian–Mediterranean plates served on a sprawling heated terrace with bocce, fire pits, and bay views. Lunch-focused hours and a social-hour menu make it a reliable outdoor meet-up in Mission Bay.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita pizza, Seasonal grilled vegetables, Garden bowl with roasted chicken
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Expansive garden terrace with bay views and bocce.
Who should go: Teams and friends seeking casual outdoor lunch
When to visit: Weekdays 11–3 or Wed–Thu social hour
What to order: Margherita; seasonal veg; garden bowl
Insider tip: Ask for terrace tables near the fire pits on breezy days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated garage parking is available in the adjacent UCSF Mission Bay structure on Owens Street; limited metered street spots on Illinois fill quickly during lunch hours.
Dress code: Smart casual — tech-office attire fits in; light layers recommended for breezy waterfront weather.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during lunch and social hour but conversational at most terrace tables.
Weekend wait: Closed for dinner service; last seating around 3pm on most days.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait before noon; fills by 12:15pm with biotech and UCSF crowds.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple salads, flatbreads, and vegetable mains designed around seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 solid options such as garden bowls and modified mezze plates.
Gluten-free options: Yes — marked on the menu; staff accommodates substitutions easily.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual daytime meet-up or post-walk lunch than an intimate dinner; bright terrace and bay backdrop keep it relaxed yet scenic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for lunch; walk-ins are fine if you arrive before noon. Groups of 6+ should reserve ahead for terrace seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — open space, outdoor seating, and bocce area make it suitable for families with school-age kids; less ideal for toddlers due to terrace layout near planters and fire pits.
Best For
Better for: Casual outdoor lunches and team gatherings with easy bay views — fewer crowds and calmer vibe than Thrive City patios.
Skip if: You’re seeking dinner service, late-night cocktails, or a high-energy social scene — head to Via Aurelia or Spark Social instead.