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The Bird (Hayes Valley)
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
The Bird (Hayes Valley)
8.1
Fast-casual spot known for fried chicken sandwiches and a strong fry game—hot, well-salted, and ready for dipping. A quick option before shows or while browsing Hayes Street.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasoned Fries, Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich + Fries, Mango Habanero Wings (add fries)
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Piping-hot, well-seasoned fries built for quick, satisfying combos.
Who should go: Hungry show-goers on a tight clock
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to avoid lines
What to order: Seasoned fries; spicy sandwich + fries; add sauces
Insider tip: Order ahead online for near-instant pickup.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—can be tight during peak Hayes Valley dining hours; metered spots nearby fill quickly.
Dress code: Casual; come as you are in jeans, sneakers, or workwear.
Noise level: Moderate—counter-service bustle with steady background chatter, but fine for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak hours, especially pre-show rush.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; food comes out fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—fries and slaw are the main options.
Vegan options: Very limited—plain fries only; sauces may contain dairy/eggs.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free fryer or menu; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups or a quick bite than a first-date setting—bright, informal, and efficient rather than atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—this is a counter-service spot with self-seating; no reservations are taken or needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—fast service, simple fries and chicken dishes appeal to kids, though space is limited and no special amenities are provided.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable fries with consistently hot, well-seasoned execution—ideal for pairing with chicken sandwiches.
Skip if: If you want table service, craft cocktails, or a lingering meal; try nearby brasseries or gastropubs instead.
The Bird (Hayes Valley)
8.1
Known for its berbere-spiced chicken sandwiches, this location also fries crisp, meaty wings in classic and mango-habanero styles. Fast, consistent stop before shows around Civic Center.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Mango Habanero Wings, Whole Wings (gf)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Whole-wing option and quick-turn fry game downtown.
Who should go: Busy diners wanting reliable wings fast
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to dodge lines
What to order: Buffalo 10pc; mango habanero 10pc; add slaw
Insider tip: Order online for pickup; patio seats turn quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking nearby; better to use the Civic Center garages within a 5-minute walk.
Dress code: Casual; office attire or jeans both fine.
Noise level: Moderate—counter service and fast turnover but still fine for conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak hours; moves quickly since most order to-go.
Weekday lunch: Lines form at noon but usually clear in under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Only sides like fries and slaw—no main vegetarian entrees.
Vegan options: Very limited; fries only.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep; wings are breaded with wheat flour.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more counter-service and fast turnover than sit-down. Better for casual hangs before a show.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations needed; patio and inside tables are first-come and turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like fried chicken; casual setting with counter service, but no kid-specific menu.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and lighter price point than trendier sit-down wing spots; reliable for a quick meal downtown.
Skip if: Skip if you want a sit-down, drawn-out dinner with cocktails; atmosphere is more grab-and-go.
The Bird (Hayes Valley)
8.3
Hayes Valley outpost of the fried chicken sandwich specialist known for a berbere-spiced bird and crisp apple slaw on a fresh-baked bun. Fast, consistent, and ideal before shows or between errands.
Must-Try Dishes:
Berbere Fried Chicken Sandwich, Classic Fries, Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Berbere-spiced fried chicken with crunchy apple slaw on a house-baked bun.
Who should go: Sandwich lovers on a tight schedule
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to dodge lines
What to order: Berbere sandwich; spicy version; fries
Insider tip: Ask for extra slaw on the side for added crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking is available but tight during peak hours; closest garage is Performing Arts Garage on Grove.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate – counter-service bustle but still easy for quick conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak rush
Weekday lunch: Usually under 10 minutes, though lines form at noon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited – side salads and fries available, but no dedicated mains
Vegan options: Minimal – fries and slaw without mayo dressing
Gluten-free options: Not reliably – buns and breading contain gluten, though salads and fries can be ordered
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal first date – it’s more counter-service casual. Better for a quick, fun bite with someone you already know.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only with self-service seating. Expect a wait during peak hours, but tables turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the menu is simple and affordable, and kids who like fried chicken sandwiches or fries will be comfortable. No high chairs or play area.
Best For
Better for: Faster and more consistent fried chicken sandwiches than sit-down restaurants nearby.
Skip if: Skip if you want a full-service dinner, alcohol options, or broad menu variety.