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Wayfare Tavern
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Wayfare Tavern
8.5
Vibes:
Brunch Bliss Spots
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Tyler Florence’s revived FiDi flagship runs a lively weekend brunch with house popovers, deviled eggs, and the famous fried chicken. The two-story space fits celebratory groups and power catch-ups alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mary’s fried chicken & waffles, Deviled eggs, Popovers with butter
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Classic San Francisco tavern dishes executed with polish at brunch.
Who should go: Groups and celebratory brunch goers
When to visit: Weekends 11:30–1:00 for best table options
What to order: Chicken & waffles, deviled eggs, popovers
Insider tip: Reserve upstairs early; the fried chicken sells out on peak days.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet. Limited metered street parking nearby; best bet is the 555 California or One Sansome garages within a 3–5 minute walk.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy casual; jeans are acceptable but most diners lean polished for brunch or group outings.
Noise level: Moderate–high; lively buzz with music and group tables, can converse but not intimate-quiet.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait if you book ahead; walk-ins may see 10–20 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple dishes like popovers, deviled eggs, and salads can be ordered meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited – a few modifiable sides and vegetable-based plates, but not a strong focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free bread available, and several mains like roasted meats and salads can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a lively brunch date or second meeting than an intimate first date; the room is celebratory and energetic rather than quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky on weekends – expect a 30–60 minute wait. Reservations strongly recommended for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who can sit through brunch; high chairs available but it’s not designed for toddlers or stroller space.
Best For
Better for: Big-group brunches, celebrations, and anyone chasing Tyler Florence’s fried chicken and San Francisco tavern classics.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate brunch or strictly plant-based dining – the energy and menu lean hearty and celebratory.
Wayfare Tavern
8.6
Tyler Florence’s tavern serves a buttermilk-brined, herb-crisped fried chicken that’s become a FiDi staple. Expect polished hospitality, a lively bar, and a comfort-forward menu that plays well for business meals and downtown dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mary’s Organic Fried Chicken, Fried Chicken Sandwich (bar/lunch menus), Buttermilk biscuits
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Buttermilk-brined, herb-crisped fried chicken in a refined tavern setting.
Who should go: Downtown diners wanting polished comfort food
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:00 or after 7:30 pm
What to order: Fried chicken; deviled eggs; seasonal veggie sides
Insider tip: Bar seats move fastest and often see the chicken first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at nearby garages; street parking is scarce and metered until 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; FiDi diners often lean dressy with jackets or blouses, but nice jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible at tables, bar area can be louder during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Usually 10–15 minutes for walk-ins, but prime times can fill quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—seasonal vegetable mains and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be modified, but not a focus.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several entrees and sides marked gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the polished tavern setting and signature fried chicken make for a lively but comfortable date-night atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible, but risky during peak hours. Bar seating is your best bet for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults; children are welcome, but the menu and atmosphere are more suited to business meals and dates than families.
Best For
Better for: Standout fried chicken in a refined tavern environment, polished service, and strong FiDi crowd appeal.
Skip if: You want a quiet, kid-focused meal or are looking for extensive vegan options.