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Starbelly
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Starbelly
8.1
Sunny neighborhood California kitchen with a popular patio and balanced brunch menu. Efficient service and a mix of comfort and lighter plates keep it in regular rotation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, Breakfast pizza, Cinnamon French toast
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Patio-friendly brunch with California flavors and balanced plates.
Who should go: Patio seekers and casual groups
When to visit: Right at open on weekends for easy seating
What to order: Benedict, breakfast pizza, cinnamon French toast
Insider tip: Request patio shade on warm days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along 16th and Sanchez; limited but typically manageable before 10am. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and sundresses are common; patio diners often bring layers for changing weather.
Noise level: Moderate; the patio is lively but still allows normal conversation, while indoor tables can get louder during peak brunch.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous dishes like the breakfast pizza, French toast, and salads are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—about two to three adaptable dishes, though substitutions (like avocado instead of bacon) are easy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free bread and pizza crust available upon request, with mindful kitchen handling.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio’s greenery and mellow morning vibe create a comfortable setting that feels casual yet intentional—ideal for a first or second brunch date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays or if you arrive right at opening on weekends. Peak brunch hours (10:30am–1pm) often require a 30–45 minute wait for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids; the menu is flexible and staff accommodating, but patio space can be tight for strollers during rush hours.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for relaxed, sunshine brunches with friends—less crowded and more balanced than Kitchen Story’s high-energy vibe.
Skip if: You’re after quiet fine dining or late-night options—this is strictly a daytime and early evening neighborhood spot.
Starbelly
8.1
Sunny neighborhood California kitchen known for patio brunch and dialed-in classics. Service is efficient, portions are fair, and the menu offers both comfort and lighter options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, Breakfast pizza, Chopped salad with poached egg
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Patio-friendly brunch with California flavors and balanced plates.
Who should go: Patio seekers and casual groups
When to visit: Weekend brunch right at open for easiest seating
What to order: Benedict, breakfast pizza, cinnamon French toast
Insider tip: Request patio shade on warm days for the best table.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 16th Street and adjacent residential blocks; metered spots fill quickly on weekends, no valet service available.
Dress code: Casual chic—jeans and sundresses are fine, but many brunch-goers dress for photos on the patio.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy conversation indoors, buzzier energy on the patio during brunch hours.
Weekend wait: Typically 30–45 minutes without a reservation; patio tables book out in advance.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait for walk-ins except during peak sunny days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several mains and sides marked vegetarian, plus customizable plates.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options but staff can adjust dishes on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—clearly marked menu items and gluten-free bread available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially daytime dates. The open-air patio and friendly service keep it relaxed but stylish, ideal for casual conversation over brunch cocktails.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes on weekdays. On weekends, arrive by 10am or expect a 30–45 minute wait, particularly for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—high chairs and friendly staff available, but the space is tighter inside, so strollers are easier to manage outdoors.
Best For
Better for: Starbelly excels at relaxed yet polished brunch dining with quality cocktails and a sunlit patio, outpacing nearby spots for ambiance and service consistency.
Skip if: Skip if you’re after quick counter-style breakfast or very quiet dining; the energy here leans social and upbeat.
Starbelly
8.3
Neighborhood California kitchen serving house-cut fries with a trio of dips—ketchup, basil aioli, and Old Bay aioli. Sunny patio, easygoing service, and an option to upgrade any sandwich or burger with fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
House-cut fries & three dips, Fried chicken sandwich & fries, Burger & fries
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: House-cut fries served with two aiolis plus ketchup.
Who should go: Patio seekers and dip obsessives
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner for easy seating
What to order: Fries & three dips, fried chicken sandwich + fries, burger + fries
Insider tip: Ask for Old Bay on the side if you like extra seasoning.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 16th and surrounding blocks; metered spots fill quickly on weekends, no valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and casual shirts are fine; patio crowd tends to be relaxed but polished.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from the patio and bar but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without a reservation; patio tables fill fastest.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm; brief delay during sunny lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous salads, flatbreads, and sides including the fries and dips.
Vegan options: Limited—fries are fine, but aiolis contain egg; can request ketchup-only setup.
Gluten-free options: Partial—many mains can be adapted; fries are fried separately but not certified GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—sunny patio tables offer a casual but charming setting with shareable plates and friendly service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are accepted, especially for bar or patio seating before 6:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—families are welcome at lunch; no kids’ menu but fries and flatbreads work well for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Relaxed, social meals where you can linger with drinks and fries on a sunny patio.
Skip if: You want a quick grab-and-go fry stop or late-night snacking—this is more a sit-down experience.
Starbelly
8.0
Casual Castro favorite for California comfort—think pizzas, hearty salads, and a standout burger—plus weekend drag brunch. Lively patio and consistent execution keep it in rotation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Starbelly Burger, Wood-Fired Pizza, Chopped Salad
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Lively neighborhood hub with approachable California plates and patio seating.
Who should go: Groups and casual date nights
When to visit: Weekend brunch: arrive before 11am
What to order: Burger, any seasonal pizza, chopped salad
Insider tip: Bar seats turn over quickly for walk-ins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—metered spots on 16th and surrounding residential blocks can fill fast, especially on weekends. No valet or lot nearby.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and casual dresses are common, but weekend brunch crowds lean stylish.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing energy indoors but easier conversation on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple dedicated options including pizzas, salads, and small plates.
Vegan options: Limited—some pizzas and salads can be modified, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pizza crusts available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its lively yet relaxed vibe and solid service make it an easy first-date pick, especially for brunch or early dinner on the patio.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are common for lunch and early dinners, but weekend brunch and prime evenings fill up—bar seats and the communal patio are your best walk-in bets.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for daytime—families with kids are welcome at brunch and lunch; evenings skew more adult with drinks and a louder crowd.
Best For
Better for: Casual group brunches, sun-soaked patio meals, and consistently good comfort food in the Castro.
Skip if: You want a quiet fine-dining experience or fully vegan options.
Starbelly
8.2
Neighborhood patio favorite with a California comfort brunch and cocktails, plus frequent drag-brunch energy. Plates like chilaquiles and challah French toast land as beautifully as they taste.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles, Challah French toast, Ricotta toast with beet-cured salmon
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Sunny patio and inventive California brunch staples.
Who should go: Patio brunchers and cocktail fans
When to visit: Weekend mornings before noon for easiest seating
What to order: Chilaquiles; challah French toast; ricotta toast
Insider tip: Ask about Drag Brunch dates for an extra-festive service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—metered along 16th Street and nearby residential blocks. Spaces can be tight during brunch hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—comfortable but photo-ready. Sundresses, polos, and denim are all common choices.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on weekends. Patio conversation is easy, indoor tables get buzzy mid-morning.
Weekend wait: Usually 30–45 minutes without a reservation; patio requests add another 15 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated within 10 minutes; patio walk-ins often available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple options including ricotta toast, salads, and seasonal veggie plates.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify a few dishes; staff is accommodating with substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several items can be prepared gluten-free upon request, though no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its sunny patio and upbeat energy make for a relaxed, low-pressure brunch date. Not overly intimate but still charming.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes. Arriving before 11am or after 2pm on weekends improves your odds; otherwise, expect a short waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—staff is welcoming and outdoor tables work well for families, but it’s best for ages 8+ due to crowd and cocktail focus.
Best For
Better for: More stylish and social than nearby brunch cafés, with a patio atmosphere and cocktails that elevate the experience.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, fast-service brunches—noise and wait times can make it less ideal for a quick solo meal.
Starbelly
8.0
Lively Castro spot for California comfort—think pizzas, burgers, and seasonal plates—backed by a popular garden patio and cocktails. Locals use it for easy date nights and groups before a neighborhood night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Starbelly Bacon Pizza, Fried Chicken Sandwich & Fries, Ground Beef Chuck Burger
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Seasonal California comfort food with a heated garden patio.
Who should go: Casual date-night and group diners
When to visit: Golden hour for patio; earlier for shorter waits
What to order: Bacon pizza; fried chicken sandwich; house cocktail
Insider tip: Request the back patio for a quieter, more relaxed experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking; can be tough after 6pm on weekends. The nearby Castro/18th Street garage is the best bet.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and casual dresses fit the crowd; no formalwear needed.
Noise level: Moderate—lively indoors, quieter on the back patio; fine for conversation if seated outside.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation; outdoor tables book fast.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even for patio seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pizzas, salads, and small plates are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Some options available; ask for modifications on salads and sides.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crusts and a few entrees available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its buzzy but relaxed vibe and garden patio make it ideal for casual first dates where conversation still flows.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small groups if you arrive early; expect longer waits after 7pm on weekends. Bar seating and patio are first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for daytime meals; the open patio and approachable menu suit families. Evenings skew adult and social, so earlier visits are best with kids.
Best For
Better for: More relaxed and group-friendly than nearby upscale spots; standout patio and comfort-focused menu draw locals for casual nights out.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet fine-dining experience or chef-driven tasting menu—this is more about lively comfort than culinary precision.
Starbelly
8.4
Neighborhood California kitchen with a dialed Ground Chuck Beef Burger and crisp fries with basil/Old Bay aioli. The burger’s classic build and solid sear make it a sleeper favorite on the patio or at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ground Chuck Beef Burger & fries, Fries with basil or Old Bay aioli, Aged white cheddar add-on
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A refined, no-gimmick burger with quality beef and house sauce.
Who should go: Burger fans wanting a sit-down setting
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner for easier seating
What to order: Ground Chuck Burger, fries with basil aioli, cheddar add-on
Insider tip: Happy hour often pairs the burger with a cocktail deal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking in the Castro; paid lots on 16th Street and Market typically available after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual — locals mix jeans with a button-down or casual dress for the patio setting.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational indoors with lively energy during peak hours; patio seating is quieter.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are fine before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple small plates, salads, and seasonal veggie mains.
Vegan options: Limited — a few plant-based options; modifications possible upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free bun available for the burger and clear menu labeling for other dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the airy patio and neighborhood energy strike the right balance between casual and romantic. It’s relaxed yet polished, perfect for a low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes — early arrivals or bar seating work best. Reservations are recommended on weekends or for patio dining during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — the menu skews adult and space is tight indoors, but families with older kids do fine at brunch or earlier dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: A full-service burger experience with craft cocktails and a social setting — ideal when you want comfort food in a stylish, sit-down environment.
Skip if: You’re after a quick grab-and-go burger or a budget meal; counter-service spots nearby are faster and cheaper.
Starbelly
8.3
Neighborhood California-American spot with a sunny patio and a lunch menu built for quick, satisfying meetings. Burgers, sandwiches, and salads are executed with consistent polish in a professional yet relaxed setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried Chicken Sandwich, Ground Chuck Beef Burger, Cornmeal-Fried Fish Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Patio-friendly California comfort built for efficient mid-day meals.
Who should go: Teams that want reliable, polished lunch
When to visit: 11:15–12:00 or 1:30–2:00 to avoid rush
What to order: Fried chicken sandwich, house burger, fish tacos
Insider tip: Ask for a garden patio table for quieter conversation.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 16th and adjacent streets; limited availability during lunch hours. Paid garage nearby at 16th & Hoff.
Dress code: Smart casual; business-casual attire fits the midday crowd, jeans acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation possible inside, quieter on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins; reservations recommended.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait if seated before 12:00 or after 1:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several salads, flatbreads, and pasta options.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 clearly marked dishes; can modify some items upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free buns and pasta available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual or business meetups than romantic dates, though the patio has a relaxed charm for low-pressure first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – lunch walk-ins are fine; evenings and weekends benefit from reservations due to the small dining room.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for daytime meals; staff are accommodating and have kid-appropriate options, though space is tight for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Quick yet high-quality business lunches and outdoor meetings in the Castro; faster service and better patio than nearby full-service spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking a formal dining experience or a quiet, extended meal; seating can feel tight during peak hours.
Starbelly
8.2
California comfort cooking with a neighborhood feel and a heated patio that works for weeknight family dinners. The menu stays approachable—salads, pizzas, burgers—without sacrificing freshness.
Must-Try Dishes:
Starbelly Burger, Margherita Pizza, Baked Mac-and-Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Seasonal California comfort food and a roomy, kid-friendly patio.
Who should go: Families wanting reliable salads, pizzas and burgers
When to visit: Before 6:30pm or weekend brunch to miss peak rush
What to order: Starbelly burger, margherita, fries
Insider tip: Ask for the patio; it’s quieter and easier with small kids.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on 16th Street and nearby residential blocks; fills quickly during dinner rush and weekends. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual—comfortable attire fine, but locals often lean polished for brunch and evening.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing during dinner but still conversational, especially on the patio.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; patio tables go first.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous meat-free salads, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
Vegan options: Limited but flexible—staff can modify salads or pizzas upon request.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust and menu accommodations available; request when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you prefer relaxed and lively—patio seating gives an easy California vibe without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins are possible, especially at lunch or early dinner, but reservations are recommended after 6pm or on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—families are common here. High chairs available, and the patio offers space for strollers and quieter seating.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups and families who want solid comfort food with outdoor seating and a neighborhood feel.
Skip if: You’re seeking a fine-dining experience or a quiet romantic dinner—try Frances or L’Ardoise instead.