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Plow
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Plow
8.7
Since 2010, Joel Bleskacek and Maxine Siu’s Potrero Hill standby draws lines for sunny plates and ultra-photogenic lemon ricotta pancakes. Brunch classics land with care, anchored by those crispy "Plow potatoes" and a bright, minimalist space that flatters every shot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Plow Potatoes, Soft-Scramble & Bacon Plate
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Iconic pancakes and potatoes in light-filled Potrero Hill digs.
Who should go: Brunch diehards and first-time SF visitors
When to visit: Weekdays before 9am; weekends right at open
What to order: Lemon ricotta pancakes; Plow potatoes; bacon & eggs
Insider tip: Join the waitlist early—then walk 18th St. coffee in hand.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 18th Street and Texas Street is limited and competitive—arrive early or rideshare on weekends. No valet service available.
Dress code: Casual chic—think weekend denim, sundresses, and layers for the morning breeze. It’s an Instagram-friendly brunch crowd, so guests tend to look polished.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation-friendly indoors during early seatings but gets buzzy once the rush hits.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—open until early afternoon only.
Weekday lunch: Minimal waits before 9am; 20–30 minutes by mid-morning.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several standout options like lemon ricotta pancakes, avocado toast, and Plow potatoes.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and seasonal specials, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Partial—certain dishes like eggs and potatoes are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for casual daytime dates—bright atmosphere, photogenic plates, and easy conversation energy. Skip if you prefer privacy or evening dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Plow is walk-in only. Join the Yelp waitlist early, arrive right at open, or expect a 60–90 minute wait on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, especially midweek. Limited stroller space indoors, but outdoor tables work well with small children.
Best For
Better for: Iconic brunch staples done perfectly in a bright, minimalist space—ideal for classic breakfast lovers and photo-worthy dishes.
Skip if: You need a fast table, plant-based options, or a quiet setting—consider Neighbor Bakehouse or Kitchen Story instead.
Plow
8.7
Since 2010, Maxine Siu and Joel Bleskacek’s Potrero Hill spot has set the city’s brunch baseline with precise execution and famously crispy potatoes. Expect steady waits and a simple menu done with care from open to close.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon ricotta pancakes, Plow potatoes, Soft-scrambled eggs & bacon
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Benchmark brunch classics anchored by ultra-crispy potatoes.
Who should go: Brunch seekers who value execution
When to visit: Right at open for the shortest wait
What to order: Lemon ricotta pancakes; potatoes; bacon & eggs
Insider tip: Add your name early and request patio seating on clear days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—generally easier before 9 am; fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, tees, and brunch attire all welcome.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are possible, though the room buzzes at peak hours.
Weekend wait: N/A—only open for breakfast and lunch service.
Weekday lunch: 15–30 minutes depending on arrival time; earlier is faster.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—pancakes, avocado toast, eggs, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 modified options (salads, potatoes, fruit).
Gluten-free options: Yes—substitutions available; potatoes and egg plates are safe picks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date enjoys casual, bustling brunch spots with outdoor seating. Not ideal for a quiet or intimate meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Plow does not take reservations. Arrive at open or join the waitlist early for the best shot.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs are available, outdoor space works well for strollers, and the menu has kid-appealing basics like pancakes and eggs.
Best For
Better for: Best for benchmark brunch dishes, especially crispy potatoes and lemon ricotta pancakes.
Skip if: Skip if you want a no-wait meal, a quiet atmosphere, or vegan-forward options.
Plow
8.7
Potrero Hill’s destination breakfast spot for ultra-crispy potatoes, soft-scrambled eggs, and lemon-ricotta pancakes. Lines move steadily and execution stays tight from open to close.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Plow Potatoes, Soft-Scrambled Eggs & Bacon
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Benchmark breakfast classics with precision and consistency.
Who should go: Brunch seekers who’ll wait for quality
When to visit: Right at open for the shortest wait
What to order: Lemon ricotta pancakes; potatoes; bacon & eggs
Insider tip: Join the waitlist early and request patio seats on clear days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available on 18th Street and nearby residential blocks, but it’s limited and competitive during brunch rush. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and weekend wear are all common. Patio diners often dress in layers due to Potrero Hill’s shifting sun and wind.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversations are possible, but the buzz rises during peak brunch hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—Plow closes by early afternoon.
Weekday lunch: Expect 10–20 minutes at most; often shorter if you arrive before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetarian-friendly items such as pancakes, potatoes, avocado toast, and egg dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—options like potatoes, fruit sides, and avocado toast (without egg/cheese), but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some accommodations—certain egg plates and sides are naturally gluten-free, but pancakes and toast are not. No separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date enjoys casual, buzzy brunch vibes. It’s more about great food and a laid-back atmosphere than intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Plow is walk-in only. Join the Yelp waitlist in advance or arrive before 9 am for the shortest wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common. High chairs are available, and the outdoor seating is stroller-friendly.
Best For
Better for: Plow outshines others with consistently crisp potatoes and some of the city’s best lemon ricotta pancakes, making it worth the wait.
Skip if: If you’re in a hurry or dislike waiting in line, opt for a quieter neighborhood café with quicker turnaround.