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Brickhouse Cafe & Bar
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Brickhouse Cafe & Bar
7.8
Casual SoMa hang for classic and loaded burgers with a full bar and friendly service. Kitchen runs into the evening on weekdays, making it an easy downtown-adjacent pick before or after events.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mexican Burger (avocado, pico, jalapeño), Classic Cheeseburger, Mushroom Swiss Burger
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Neighborhood bar-and-grill burgers with hearty portions.
Who should go: Teams and small groups nearby
When to visit: Tue–Fri evenings to avoid lunch rush
What to order: Mexican Burger; Classic Cheeseburger; tots
Insider tip: Bar seats turn over quicker than tables during peak hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tough during peak hours; nearby paid lots on Townsend and 2nd are more reliable.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are fine, no formal dress required.
Noise level: Moderate – lively bar energy but still possible to hold conversations at tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for a table without reservation; bar seats move faster.
Weekday lunch: 10–15 minutes at most, often immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burger plus customizable salads and sides.
Vegan options: Limited – can request modifications, but no dedicated vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Partial – bun substitutions available, though fries and shared fryer may be cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual meet-up than a romantic date. The bar vibe is relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – most nights you can walk in, though groups of 4+ should plan for some wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for younger kids due to the bar atmosphere, but older teens can be comfortable earlier in the evening.
Best For
Better for: More laid-back than nearby upscale burger spots, with larger portions and a stronger bar program.
Skip if: If you want fine dining service, quieter ambiance, or dedicated vegan options, look elsewhere.
Brickhouse Cafe & Bar
7.9
Neighborhood standby (since 2000) serving comfort-forward plates, a long bar, and a daily happy hour with discounted wings. It’s casual and reliable—good portions, fair prices, and easy seating for small groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Picante chicken wings with blue cheese, Fried pickles with ranch, Wagyu burger
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Long-running SoMa spot with HH wings and comfort classics.
Who should go: Casual groups and after-work crews
When to visit: Tue–Sat 3–6pm happy hour
What to order: Picante wings; fried pickles; burger and a draft
Insider tip: Grab the dog-friendly patio on mild evenings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is metered and can be tough during peak hours; garages available within a 2–3 block walk.
Dress code: Casual; jeans, tees, and work attire are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate; bar area can be lively during happy hour but booths remain conversational.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes without a reservation; usually manageable.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – salads, fried pickles, and veggie-forward comfort plates available.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of sides and salads can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Some options (like wings without breading), but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More casual than romantic; good if you want a laid-back, low-pressure meet-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, most weeknights and lunches are walk-in friendly; weekends benefit from calling ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes; high chairs and a relaxed vibe make it fine for families, though evenings are more bar-heavy.
Best For
Better for: Reliable comfort food portions, long-running consistency, and easy group seating.
Skip if: You’re looking for trendy cocktails, upscale vibes, or a quieter fine-dining atmosphere.