0 Followers
Orphan Andy's
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Orphan Andy's
8.1
Retro Castro diner turning out griddled burgers, patty melts, and fries alongside breakfast-all-day comforts. Open late (24 hours on weekends) and beloved since the late ’70s, it’s the reliable post-bar burger fix with no pretense.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ortega Burger, Patty Melt, Chili Burger
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Long-running Castro diner serving late-night burgers and breakfasts.
Who should go: Night owls craving classic diner burgers
When to visit: Thu–Sat after 11pm for true late-night energy
What to order: Ortega Burger, Patty Melt, Chili Burger
Insider tip: Counter seats turn fast—order a milkshake while you wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots open up after 10pm but can be tight near Castro & Market.
Dress code: Casual and come-as-you-are—post-bar crowd fits right in with hoodies and jeans.
Noise level: Moderate to lively depending on hour; jukebox hum and late-night chatter add to the diner vibe.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for booths after midnight; counter seats usually available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during lunch rush (noon–1:30pm).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burger, grilled cheese, and breakfast plates available.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify the veggie burger or breakfast sides, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited – fries and breakfast items can work, but no GF buns or bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for nostalgic fun—it's more post-date comfort food than romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it's walk-in only; even late-night hours have quick turnover thanks to the counter setup.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evening—booths, milkshakes, and breakfast plates appeal to families; avoid very late hours when the crowd skews post-bar.
Best For
Better for: Classic diner burgers, late-night comfort, and all-day breakfasts with a friendly, nostalgic atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re after gourmet ingredients, craft cocktails, or a quiet date-night vibe.
Orphan Andy's
7.8
Classic Castro diner serving all-day breakfasts since the late ’70s. Expect cheerful service, generous plates, and a timeless booth-and-counter setup built for pancakes and omelets.
Must-Try Dishes:
Banana hotcakes, Denver omelet, Corned beef hash & eggs
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Decades-running Castro diner with true community roots.
Who should go: Classic diner breakfast fans
When to visit: Mornings before weekend parade traffic builds
What to order: Banana hotcakes, omelet, hash browns
Insider tip: Counter seats are fastest during peak brunch hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited spaces along Market and 17th—arrive early or use nearby garage at Castro & 18th.
Dress code: Ultra casual—jeans, tees, and weekend wear all welcome.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch rush; quieter on weekday mornings.
Weekend wait: Usually no wait—crowds taper after brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait; fast seat turnaround at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, pancakes, and classic sides fit well.
Vegan options: Limited—some items can be customized but not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated menu, though certain scrambles or sides can be adjusted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual or nostalgic breakfast date than a romantic one—fun if your date appreciates diner charm and Castro history.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Always—no reservations taken; counter seating opens quickly even during busy times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—friendly staff, booth seating, and classic breakfast plates make it easy for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Late-night breakfast runs and old-school diner energy—something few Castro spots still offer.
Skip if: You want health-focused, trendy brunch fare or sleek decor—this is about comfort and nostalgia, not refinement.
Orphan Andy's
7.7
Retro diner at Castro & 17th serving shoestring and chili-cheese fries alongside all-day breakfasts and late-night classics. Friendly, fast pacing and bar-counter seating make it an easy fries stop any hour they’re open.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chili cheese fries, Shoestring fries, Patty melt + fries
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Old-school diner fries with a proper chili-cheese option.
Who should go: Late-night comfort seekers
When to visit: Post-theater and post-bar hours
What to order: Chili cheese fries, patty melt + fries, milkshake
Insider tip: Counter seats move quickest when lines form.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, typically tight after 6pm near Castro and Market intersections. Best to use public transit or nearby garages like Castro/18th Street lot.
Dress code: Ultra casual—come as you are, whether post-bar or weekend brunch mode.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially late at night; conversation possible but expect jukebox and diner chatter.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during late-night rush hours, faster for counter seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk right in and grab a booth or counter stool.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—fries, pancakes, omelets, and grilled cheese are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—plain fries and some sides work, but most mains include dairy or eggs.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep area; cross-contact likely in fryer and kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates diner nostalgia and casual comfort. It’s more of a late-night comfort stop than a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Orphan Andy’s doesn’t take reservations. Counter and booth turnover is steady, even on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, during daytime hours. Classic diner menu, milkshakes, and fries are hits with families, though late-night crowd skews adult.
Best For
Better for: Late-night cravings, chili cheese fries, and nostalgic diner comfort with fast service.
Skip if: You’re seeking gourmet fries, quiet ambiance, or gluten-free assurance—opt for Starbelly or Beit Rima instead.
Orphan Andy's
7.7
Retro diner at Castro & 17th slinging all-day breakfasts, burgers, and shakes. Quick, friendly service and late hours make it a reliable comfort stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monte Cristo, Patty Melt, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.3
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Classic diner energy at the heart of the Castro.
Who should go: Late-night comfort seekers
When to visit: Post-theater or post-bar hours
What to order: Monte Cristo, patty melt, shake
Insider tip: Counter seats are fastest when lines build.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots are limited near Castro and 17th, especially late evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed — jeans, hoodies, and post-night-out attire all welcome.
Noise level: Lively but manageable — classic diner bustle with background chatter and jukebox tunes.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak late-night hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — omelets, pancakes, and veggie burgers available.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify some breakfast items or order fries/salads.
Gluten-free options: Minimal — no dedicated gluten-free bread or prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for a fun, no-pressure vibe — it’s more playful and nostalgic than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations, and counter seating often opens up quickly even when full.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly during daytime hours; late-night crowd can skew adult after midnight.
Best For
Better for: Late-night breakfasts, burgers, and classic diner nostalgia in the heart of the Castro.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet fine dining or extensive dietary accommodations.
Orphan Andy's
7.7
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Classic Castro diner (since the late 1970s) turning out hefty burgers, patty melts, and rings in red-booth comfort. It’s the neighborhood standby for no-nonsense griddled burgers and friendly service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Patty melt on rye, Mushroom-Swiss burger, Onion rings
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Old-school diner burger experience with decades of community roots.
Who should go: Diner-style burger traditionalists
When to visit: Mid-afternoon or late evening lull
What to order: Patty melt, mushroom-Swiss, vanilla shake
Insider tip: Counter seats get the fastest turn and hottest plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—usually available within a block during off-peak hours, but tight on weekends and late nights.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodies, jeans, or post-bar attire are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate—classic diner soundtrack and conversation buzz, but you can still talk comfortably.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during late-night rush or brunch hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait or minimal—quick turnover from counter seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie burger, salads, and breakfast items are available.
Vegan options: Limited—basic veggie burger can be modified; fries are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated prep area, but some options like salads and omelets can be made gluten-conscious.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of a date is nostalgic, casual, and low-pressure—it’s more comfort than candlelight.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—first-come, first-served. Counter seats open fastest; late nights and afternoons are easiest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—friendly staff, quick service, and familiar food make it a relaxed spot for families with kids 6+.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burger cravings, casual solo meals, or nostalgic diner comfort you won’t find at trendier spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft cocktails, farm-to-table ingredients, or a polished date-night setting.
Orphan Andy's
7.7
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Old-school Castro diner where spicy chicken wings share menu space with burgers and shakes. Friendly service and straightforward seasoning make it a reliable, no-frills wing stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Chicken Wings, Patty Melt, Vanilla Shake
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Classic diner wings with dependable heat and fast turn times.
Who should go: Casual wing eaters and diner fans
When to visit: Mid-afternoon or late evening lull
What to order: Spicy wings; patty melt; fries
Insider tip: Counter seats get wings out hotter and faster.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Castro and 17th is limited but typically opens up after 9pm. The nearest public lot is under 5 minutes away at the Castro Theatre Garage on Collingwood Street.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, hoodies, or post-gym attire all fit the diner vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively depending on the hour — generally conversational except during weekend brunch or late-night rushes.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for a table; bar counter seating is usually immediate.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; same-day seating even for groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple omelets, salads, and grilled cheese options available.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify sides and salads but main dishes are egg- or dairy-heavy.
Gluten-free options: Yes — burgers can be served without buns and breakfast items can be customized.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s more of a nostalgic diner hangout than a romantic setting — best for a low-pressure meal or casual late-night bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Always — it’s walk-in only and operates on a first-come basis, even during busy Castro weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — friendly staff, booths, and a familiar menu make it comfortable for families with kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Late-night comfort food, quick diner meals, and wings without the bar scene.
Skip if: You’re seeking craft cocktails, trendy plating, or a quiet dinner setting.
Orphan Andy's
7.8
Castro’s classic diner (since 1977) serving all-day American comfort plates in shiny booths. Families come for quick service, big portions, and nostalgic breakfasts from pancakes to patty melts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Banana Hotcakes, Patty Melt, Chicken-Fried Steak
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: A true neighborhood diner with decades of history and hearty plates.
Who should go: Families craving classic American breakfasts and burgers
When to visit: Early mornings or off-peak dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Banana hotcakes, patty melt, hash browns
Insider tip: Grab a booth along the window for stroller space and faster service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, metered spots along Castro and 17th Street; fills quickly on weekends but early mornings are manageable.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; diners, families, and tourists fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—expect classic diner bustle and sizzling grill sounds but conversation is still possible.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak brunch-to-dinner crossover periods.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except around noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous options like veggie omelets, pancakes, and grilled cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify some breakfast plates, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep area; simple items like eggs and salads are safer choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for nostalgic or playful vibes; it’s more casual than romantic, perfect for comfort and conversation rather than fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Early morning and late evening offer the shortest waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—booths fit families, portions please kids, and staff are accommodating with high chairs and substitutions.
Best For
Better for: Classic diner breakfasts, late-night comfort meals, and nostalgic Castro charm you won’t find at trendier brunch cafés.
Skip if: You’re seeking refined plating, organic sourcing, or a quiet sit-down experience; this is about timeless diner comfort, not culinary experimentation.