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Vibe Check this spot

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

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Marlowe 8.3
SOMA
A New American bistro (since 2010; refreshed 2014) famous for the Marlowe Burger, brussels sprout chips, and polished service. It balances neighborhood ease with a buzzy bar crowd.
Must-Try Dishes: Marlowe Burger, Brussels sprout chips, Steak tartare
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 8 Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Beloved bistro with one of SF’s standout burgers.
Who should go: Burger lovers and cocktail fans
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Marlowe Burger; brussels chips; bone marrow
Insider tip: Ask for the burger cooked mid-rare for peak juiciness.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Townsend and Brannan can be tight during game nights or peak hours; nearby paid garages on 4th Street are the best bet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a blazer fit the vibe; business-casual regulars from nearby offices are common.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during dinner; calm enough for conversation during lunch but buzzy at happy hour.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially around Giants home games.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15pm; fills quickly after noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple composed salads, roasted veggie sides, and the option to modify mains.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 adaptable items, though not a dedicated vegan spot.
Gluten-free options: Yes – burger can be served on a lettuce wrap; staff knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s stylish without being stuffy, with a comfortable bistro layout and strong cocktails that help break the ice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes for early lunch or pre-5:30pm dinners; bar seating is a dependable walk-in option.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids at lunch; less so during dinner when the crowd skews adult and the bar energy picks up.
Best For
Better for: One of SoMa’s best casual-business spots—excellent service and a refined yet relaxed space that beats nearby pubs and chains for polish.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic meal—try nearby Twenty Five Lusk or Boulevard instead.

Hours

Monday5pm - 9pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9pm
Thursday11:30am - 9pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday10:30am - 10pm
Sunday10:30am - 9pm