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ZZAN
Master Critic Review
ZZAN
8.0
Lower Nob Hill’s late-hours Korean spot for soups, fried chicken, rice cakes, and drinks. It’s built for groups, with a menu that leans hearty and shareable.
Must-Try Dishes:
Short rib soup (galbitang), Stir-fried rice cakes (tteokbokki), Kimchi pancake
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Hearty Korean pub fare served late every night.
Who should go: Groups craving soup, snacks, and soju
When to visit: After 9pm for shortest waits
What to order: Galbitang; tteokbokki; kimchi pancake
Insider tip: Ask for noodle or cheese add-ons in tteokbokki.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Lower Nob Hill, especially after 6pm; no valet service offered.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual; most guests come in jeans or relaxed night-out attire.
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours; conversation can be tough in larger groups.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation after 8pm
Weekday lunch: Not typically open for lunch
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Some options like kimchi pancake, vegetable bibimbap, and tofu stews.
Vegan options: Limited; a few vegetable sides and rice dishes can be adjusted if asked.
Gluten-free options: Very limited; soy sauce and batter-heavy items make it difficult, but plain grilled meats or soups may work with modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a quiet first date—it’s more of a lively, group-oriented spot with late-night energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but waits are common on weekends. Walk-ins are possible after 9pm when turnover is faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—ZZAN is built for groups of adults, with late hours and a bar-forward vibe.
Best For
Better for: Late-night Korean comfort dishes and a buzzy group atmosphere you won’t find at more formal spots.
Skip if: You want quiet conversation, family-friendly dining, or broad vegetarian/vegan options.