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ZipPicks Awards

Best Hidden Gems Thai in Russian Hill Best Thai in Russian Hill

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Fin Thai SF 8.6
Russian Hill
Contemporary Thai on the Russian Hill stretch of Polk with a polished room and seafood lean. Elevated takes on classics and a cocktail list make it a low-key date choice that stays neighborhood at heart.
Must-Try Dishes: Steamed Sea Bass with Lime & Chili, Crab Fried Rice, Tom Yum Seafood Noodle Soup
Scores:
Value: 7.7 Service: 8.5 Consistency: 8.3 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 8.6 Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Seafood-forward Thai plates in a refined, intimate space.
Who should go: Date-night diners and seafood fans
When to visit: Reserve for weekend evenings; walk in early weekdays
What to order: Steamed sea bass, crab fried rice, tom yum seafood noodles
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seafood specials—availability changes nightly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally available within a few blocks on Polk or Union after 7pm but tight during peak hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual — stylish but relaxed. Most guests wear jeans with a nice top or light jacket.
Noise level: Moderate — lively buzz with music but still easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady but not packed.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several curries, stir-fries, and appetizers can be made vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Limited — about 2–3 dishes can be adapted by removing fish sauce or egg.
Gluten-free options: Yes — rice-based dishes and some curries are naturally gluten-free; staff can advise clearly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — intimate lighting, elegant plating, and a polished vibe make it a relaxed but elevated first-date pick.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early on weekdays or before 6:30pm on weekends; after that, expect a short wait or bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — better suited for adults and older teens; no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Refined plating, seafood execution, and balanced spice levels make it stronger than most nearby Thai spots for date nights or small group dinners.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-spicy street-style Thai or quick takeout — nearby joints like House of Thai suit that better.

Hours

Monday5pm - 10pm
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sunday11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm