Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Business Lunch American in SoMa Best BBQ Ribs in SoMa Best Wings in SoMa Best BBQ in SoMa

Vibe Check this spot

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

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Hardwood Bar & Smokery 8.1
SOMA
Casual smokehouse with St. Louis–style ribs, brisket, and a full bar—good for team lunches that want hearty plates and TVs for daytime games. Portions are generous and service is efficient enough for a one-hour break.
Must-Try Dishes: St. Louis Ribs, Brisket & Ribs Combo, Cornbread with Honey Butter
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8 Consistency: 8.1 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 7.4 Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Reliable smoked-meat plates with plenty of seating.
Who should go: Teams craving hearty BBQ
When to visit: Weekdays 12–1pm for fresh racks
What to order: Ribs; brisket combo; cornbread
Insider tip: Ask for sauce on the side to taste the rub.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking is available in the Design District, but it can be tight during weekday lunch hours; nearby paid lots are a safer bet.
Dress code: Casual to business casual; teams often come straight from the office in shirts and slacks, but jeans and polos are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours with TVs on; conversation is possible for groups, but it’s not ideal for quiet one-on-one chats.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak game nights; otherwise little to no wait.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though larger groups may want to call ahead.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available—think sides like mac & cheese, cornbread, or salads.
Vegan options: Very limited; options are mostly side dishes without cheese or butter.
Gluten-free options: Some meats and sides are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not the best choice—it’s louder, casual, and geared toward groups or sports fans. Better for team lunches or friends catching a game.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are usually fine at lunch and early evenings, though calling ahead for large parties is smart.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy BBQ; high chairs are available, but the sports-bar vibe and noise may not suit toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Group lunches, hearty BBQ plates, and catching a midday game with colleagues.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate setting or need extensive vegetarian/vegan options.

Hours

Monday12pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday12pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday12pm - 9:30pm
Thursday12pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 9:30pm