Any insider tips for ABSteak by Chef Akira Back?

Ask for guidance on grill timing to nail ideal doneness.

What should I order at ABSteak by Chef Akira Back?

Dry-aged ribeye, galbi short rib, kimchi fried rice

When should I visit ABSteak by Chef Akira Back?

Fri–Sat evenings; reserve ahead for prime times

Who should go to ABSteak by Chef Akira Back?

Steak lovers seeking a polished, modern experience

Any insider tips for John's Grill?

Request a table upstairs near the Maltese Falcon memorabilia.

What should I order at John's Grill?

NY strip, Sam Spade’s chops, wedge salad

When should I visit John's Grill?

6–8 pm pre-theater or late after 9

Who should go to John's Grill?

Traditionalists who love history

Any insider tips for Tad’s Steakhouse?

Line moves quickest at the counter; grab window seats for people-watching.

What should I order at Tad’s Steakhouse?

Famous steak dinner, ribeye & eggs, creamed spinach

When should I visit Tad’s Steakhouse?

Early evening before showtime rush

Who should go to Tad’s Steakhouse?

Casual, wallet-watching couples

Best Steakhouse Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)

3 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 ABSteak by Chef Akira Back

8.4

$$$$ Union Square / Downtown

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Trendy Table Hotspots Date Night Magic Group Dining Gatherings

Modern Korean steakhouse from Akira Back with in-house dry-aging and smokeless tabletop grills. Cuts are seared over live fire and paired with banchan and polished cocktails in a sleek Union Square room.

Must-Try Dishes: Dry-Aged Ribeye (tabletop grill), Marinated Galbi Short Rib, Kimchi Fried Rice

What makes it special: Korean-style steakhouse with in-house dry-aging and smokeless grills.

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Worthy Picks

#2 John's Grill

7.9

$$$ Union Square

Vibes: Date Night Magic Business Lunch Power Players Live Music Showtime Comfort Food Classics

Historic steak-and-seafood house (since 1908) serving classic cuts, chops, and martinis steps from Powell Street. White-tablecloth service, nightly live jazz, and a bustling, old-SF atmosphere.

Must-Try Dishes: New York Strip Steak, Sam Spade’s Lamb Chops, Petrale Sole Almondine

What makes it special: Century-plus legacy with nightly jazz and classic steakhouse fare.

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#3 Tad’s Steakhouse

7.6

$ Theater District

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Comfort Food Classics

Casual, longtime Union Square standby known for budget-friendly steak plates with garlic bread and sides. Counter-friendly pace and all-day hours make it a practical downtown option.

Must-Try Dishes: Tad’s Famous Steak Dinner, Ribeye & Eggs, Baked Potato with Garlic Bread

What makes it special: Budget-friendly steaks with vintage SF lineage near Powell.

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