Menu

San Francisco

The 16 Best Chicken and Waffles in San Francisco

For those craving the iconic combination of savory and sweet, chicken and waffles is a must-try dish. In San Francisco, this classic comfort food has been reinvented by local eateries, offering a unique twist on this Southern favorite.

Whether you're a local looking for a new spot to satisfy your cravings or a visitor wanting to experience the flavors of the city, the diverse range of options for chicken and waffles in San Francisco is sure to impress. From traditional recipes to modern interpretations, there's something for everyone's taste buds.

Explore the list below to discover the top spots serving chicken and waffles in San Francisco and find your new favorite go-to spot for this delicious comfort food.

How we chose and ordered them

This selection of chicken and waffles in San Francisco weighs each business's reputation, which anyone can check online, against how much of its work is devoted to this service. Those that do exactly this, and have done it well for years, come first.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Keith’s Chicken N Waffles
4.5363 reviews
#2
Brenda's Meat & Three
4.62,016 reviews
#3
Blue Plate
4.6532 reviews

All options

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Keith’s Chicken N Waffles, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • Customers rave about the delicious chicken and waffles combo, along with collard greens and mac n cheese.

  • One reviewer from South Florida praised the homemade cooked meal and labeled Keith's Chicken N Waffles as the best spot in San Francisco for this dish.

  • Another customer mentioned the light and tasty waffles, flavorful and juicy chicken, excellent candied yams, and cheesy mac and cheese.

  • Despite some minor issues with order accuracy, customers were overall impressed by the quality and flavors of both the food and the experience.

Keith’s Chicken N Waffles

4.5363 reviews
270 San Pedro Rd, Daly City, CA 94014, United States

Keith’s Chicken N Waffles is a popular restaurant located in Daly City, CA. They offer a variety of dining options such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a great spot for solo dining or family dining. Customers can enjoy comfort food in a casual atmosphere that is both family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly.

For those looking for a memorable dining experience with delicious comfort food, Keith’s Chicken N Waffles is a must-visit destination.

Brenda's Meat & Three, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • One customer mentioned that the brunch at Brenda's Meat & Three is one of the best in the Bay Area. They highly recommended trying the beignets and noted that the atmosphere and service were top-notch.

  • Another visitor described the breakfast plates as perfectly balanced and visually appealing. They expressed their desire to return soon and praised the quality of the dishes.

  • A satisfied diner highlighted the exceptional southern cuisine at Brenda's Meat & Three, stating that every item on the menu is delicious. They particularly enjoyed the johnny cakes and the variety of drinks available.

  • A happy patron emphasized the flavorful food and generous portions at the restaurant, recommending the fried chicken, ribs, and the hurricane mixed drink. They left feeling very satisfied with their meal.

Brenda's Meat & Three

4.62,016 reviews
919 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Brenda's Meat & Three is a renowned Southern restaurant (US) located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its delicious comfort food, this restaurant offers a wide range of Southern classics that customers rave about. With a rating of 4.6, it is evident that patrons are extremely satisfied with their dining experience at Brenda's Meat & Three.

With a combination of identified service options like outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in, along with highlights such as fast service and great coffee, Brenda's Meat & Three ensures that customers have a pleasant dining experience every time they visit. Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this restaurant is an excellent choice for those craving authentic Southern flavors.

Blue Plate, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • This is a hidden gem with reliable and good food, attentive service, and a genuine approach to home-cooked dishes.

  • Customers recommend the back patio for a nicer ambiance and highlight dishes like the smoked trout deviled eggs and the arugula hazelnut salad.

  • Some favorite dishes include the bruschetta, meatloaf, and butterscotch pudding, with outstanding service and a fine selection of beers and wine.

  • Visitors love the charming atmosphere, outstanding octopus, and risotto dishes, as well as the delightful drunken goat cheese Macaroni.

Blue Plate

4.6532 reviews
3218 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Blue Plate is an American restaurant that prides itself on excellent service and delicious home-cooked dishes. With a rating of 4.6 stars based on 532 reviews, customers have raved about their experience. Here are some key points from recent visitors:

Experience a treat at Blue Plate and indulge in their delicious offerings for lunch, dinner, or private dining. Don't miss out on this neighborhood spot's cozy and trendy ambiance that will surely leave you coming back for more.

Brenda's French Soul Food, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • The Muffuletta sandwich was described as one of the best by a customer who loved the combination of flavors.

  • Another patron praised the catfish and the impeccable service, mentioning a desire to fly back just for the food.

  • A long-time customer highly recommended the house watermelon tea, Benedict's, oyster Po Boy, and Beignets, noting that the menu offers a taste of New Orleans on the West Coast.

  • One visitor highlighted the excellent food quality, including cheese grits and pasta, at reasonable prices for the Bay Area.

Brenda's French Soul Food

4.55,651 reviews
652 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Brenda's French Soul Food is a popular southern restaurant in San Francisco known for its delightful menu and excellent service. Customers rave about the Muffuletta sandwich and the bottomless watermelon sweet tea, which is made with real watermelon, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authentic flavors.

Overall, Brenda's French Soul Food receives high praise for its delicious dishes, unique beverages, and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for those craving authentic southern flavors.

Hard Knox Cafe, San Francisco#5

Hard Knox Cafe

4.51,293 reviews
2448 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

Hard Knox Cafe is a beloved Soul food restaurant in San Francisco that continues to impress diners with its delicious offerings and excellent service. Customers rave about the mouth-watering fried chicken, pork chops, and smothered pork chops. The large portions ensure that each meal is satisfying and flavorful.

With fast service, a cozy atmosphere, and a variety of dining options, Hard Knox Cafe is the perfect choice for those seeking a taste of the South in San Francisco.

Orphan Andy's Restaurant, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • Liked the interior and the cleanliness of the diner. The sloppy Joe omelette was good.

  • Old school greasy spoon with great food, excellent service, and unbeatable value.

  • Customers feel welcome with a homey charm, attentive staff, and recommendations for sightseeing.

  • Best little hole in the wall restaurant with amazing menu options, courteous staff, and huge pancakes.

Orphan Andy's Restaurant

4.52,099 reviews
3991 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Orphan Andy's Restaurant is a beloved diner located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it's clear why customers keep coming back for more. Some standout highlights include fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. This diner is perfect for those looking for a delicious breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating make it accessible to all. From cocktails to coffee to comfort food, Orphan Andy's has something for everyone.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Jim's, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Absolutely perfect. The food was delicious, and the staff is incredibly kind and genuinely caring. I'll definitely be coming back!

  • This is an old school diner run by Kim and her husband. If you like mimosas, Kim has a nice large glass for you. The service was top-notch, and the coffee cup was always full.

  • Love Jim's! Been coming here for years and it's low key with great service and tasty, reasonably priced food. Good, solid food and a nice interior decor and vibe.

  • The staff and food here are excellent. The French toast is the best I’ve ever had. Thanks for the great breakfast, Jim’s!

Jim's

4.5415 reviews
2420 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Jim's is an iconic American restaurant located in San Francisco. The spot is known for its fast service and great coffee, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Customers rave about the delicious food and the incredibly kind staff, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Customer Reviews:

Hard Knox Cafe, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • Great food with excellent service. Generous portion sizes and great beer selection.

  • Delicious Southern staples with a highlight on the Stewed Cabbage side. Industrial interior adds to the experience.

  • Consistently good southern food with generous portions. Fried chicken, mac and cheese, and collard greens are highly recommended.

  • Food was awesome, and the service was great. The fried pork chops were described as huge and tasting homemade.

Hard Knox Cafe

4.41,453 reviews
2526 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Hard Knox Cafe is a beloved soul food restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of service options including no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers praise the fast service and the sporty atmosphere of the place, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Among the reviews, patrons rave about the food quality and service. Here are some summarized comments:

The Front Porch, San Francisco#9
What it does well

  • Delicious chicken & waffles and mac and cheese with cheese pulls in every bite

  • Wonderful atmosphere and friendly staff, great Wednesday wing special during happy hour

  • Generous portions of sweet tea brined pork chops and beignets, with exceptional cocktails like Sweet Low Down

  • Top-notch service, extraordinary taste, and wonderful dishes like pork shoulder, fried okra with jalapeño aioli, and chicken and waffles

The Front Porch

4.41,170 reviews
65 29th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

The Front Porch is a beloved Southern restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving for comfort food. Known for its fast service and great desserts, The Front Porch provides a cozy and trendy atmosphere that is perfect for solo dining, families, groups, and LGBTQ+ patrons.

Customer reviews rave about the incredible flavors and friendly staff at The Front Porch. Here are some summarized reviews:

Whether you're looking for a satisfying brunch, lunch, or dinner, The Front Porch is the place to go for an unforgettable dining experience in San Francisco.

Pinecrest Diner, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • Quick seating and a diverse menu selection

  • Delicious meals that leave plates clean

  • Authentic diner atmosphere with friendly staff

  • Reasonable prices and generous portions

Pinecrest Diner

4.33,754 reviews
401 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Pinecrest Diner is a beloved diner located in San Francisco, offering a wide range of services to its customers. They provide delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for all types of diners. Known for their fast service and great coffee, this diner is a favorite spot for many.

Customers rave about their experiences at Pinecrest Diner. Some key points from their reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a comforting dinner, Pinecrest Diner is sure to deliver a memorable dining experience. Visit their website for more information and prepare to enjoy a taste of American diner tradition.

Pollo Campero, San Francisco#11

Pollo Campero

4.22,875 reviews
2740 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Pollo Campero is a popular chicken restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Some of the highlights of this establishment include kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, and delivery, making it convenient for patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes. Known for its fast service, Pollo Campero is a go-to spot for those looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customer reviews rave about the friendly staff and the unique taste of the food. One customer from Guatemala loved the experience despite the challenging parking situation. Another customer was blown away by the amazing food and gave it a 5-star rating. A third customer praised Pollo Campero for its delicious chicken and fast service, comparing it favorably to other popular chains.

Overall, Pollo Campero stands out for its flavorful dishes, quick service, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're craving a tasty lunch or dinner, this restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger for delicious chicken.

Little Skillet, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • The food was good and the staff was friendly and attentive.

  • Fried Chicken is very underrated and the pulled pork sandwich is a 10/10.

  • One customer described the fried chicken as the best they've ever had

  • Great experience with exceptional service and delicious food

Little Skillet

4.21,221 reviews
360 Ritch St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Little Skillet is a beloved soul food restaurant located in San Francisco, CA, known for its delectable comfort food and inviting atmosphere. Offering a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this spot is perfect for individuals dining alone or families looking for a delicious meal.

Customers rave about the friendly and attentive staff at Little Skillet, ensuring a pleasant dining experience that keeps them coming back for more. Here are a few key points summarizing their reviews:

Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a cozy sit-down meal, Little Skillet has you covered. Come in for a taste of their specialty dishes and experience the warmth and soulful vibe that this restaurant exudes.

Mel's Drive-In, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • The food is your typical dinner food. Enjoyed the sandwiches and the burgers here. The shakes are on point and really the reason I went here. Over all would visit again for the shakes.

  • Mel’s drive in is a diner in the modern day with the vibes and atmosphere of another era. The food was overall okay and fast service. The American diner atmosphere is the best part of this restaurant.

  • Visited Mel’s Drive-In late at night, close to closing time, and had a wonderful experience. The curly fries were delicious, and the atmosphere was fantastic with its old-fashioned decor, truly reminiscent of the 50s.

  • Fantastic authentic diner experience with fast service. Unfortunately the meat in the patty melt dried out a bit, but the fries and shake redeemed the meal.

Mel's Drive-In

4.14,817 reviews
801 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Mel's Drive-In is a classic American restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for everyone.

Known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert, Mel's Drive-In has become a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The restaurant provides a cozy and casual atmosphere, perfect for various crowds including groups, tourists, and university students.

Some customer reviews highlight the quality of the food and service at Mel's Drive-In:

These reviews showcase the diverse experiences customers have at Mel's Drive-In, making it a beloved spot for classic American dining.

Mel's Drive-In, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • Quaint atmosphere that takes you back in time

  • Affordable prices for quality food

  • Extensive menu that caters to various tastes

  • Excellent service with attentive staff

Mel's Drive-In

4.12,184 reviews
3355 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Mel's Drive-In is an iconic American restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its nostalgic atmosphere and delicious classic dishes, this spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Some of the Service options available include Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in.

The restaurant is also highlighted for Fast service, Great coffee, and Great dessert, making it an ideal spot for any meal of the day. Customers rave about the diverse menu options and the friendly staff.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a solid rating of 4.1 and over 2000 reviews, Mel's Drive-In continues to be a beloved establishment for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.

Pink Elephant, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • Delicious food and wonderful service

  • Large portions and flavorful dishes

  • Fun bottomless mimosa experience

Pink Elephant

4.0678 reviews
142 Minna St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Pink Elephant is a vibrant restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a range of services to cater to every taste. From Kerbside pickup to Dine-in options, they have you covered. The establishment is known for its fast service, great beer selection, great cocktails, and lively sporting atmosphere.

Customer reviews highlight some key points:

So if you're looking for a place to enjoy a memorable meal with friends or family, Pink Elephant is the perfect spot for you.

Mel's Kitchen, San Francisco#16
What it does well

  • The food was okay, but prices seemed high. The place smelled unpleasant and seemed quite old.

  • Quick bite before a music show, greeted by a humorous staff member, enjoyed healthy options like onion rings and chicken tenders, will definitely return.

  • Tuesday morning visit was delightful with delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service.

  • Good food, excellent shakes, and chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. Convenient location near a hotel entrance.

Mel's Kitchen

3.9928 reviews
1050 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Mel's Kitchen is a beloved diner located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the fast service, great coffee, and great dessert selections.

Here are some summarized customer reviews:

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Keith’s Chicken N Waffles 4.5363
#2Brenda's Meat & Three 4.62,016
#3Blue Plate 4.6532
#4Brenda's French Soul Food 4.55,651
#5Hard Knox Cafe 4.51,293
#6Orphan Andy's Restaurant 4.52,099
#7Jim's 4.5415
#8Hard Knox Cafe 4.41,453
#9The Front Porch 4.41,170
#10Pinecrest Diner 4.33,754
#11Pollo Campero 4.22,875
#12Little Skillet 4.21,221
#13Mel's Drive-In 4.14,817
#14Mel's Drive-In 4.12,184
#15Pink Elephant 4.0678
#16Mel's Kitchen 3.9928

For businesses

Running a local business?

Add or claim my business

On the map

Map of Chicken and Waffles in San Francisco

Get ready to indulge in chicken and waffles heaven in San Francisco! This iconic dish has been a staple in the city for years, with numerous restaurants serving their own take on the classic comfort food. Use this map to discover the best spots in the city to satisfy your cravings for this savory and sweet combination.

How to pick Chicken and Waffles in San Francisco

  1. Locations with outdoor seating for a pleasant meal in the sunshine.
  2. Restaurants offering chicken and waffles for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
  3. Variety of toppings and sides to personalize your dish.
  4. Options for dine-in, takeout, or delivery for convenience.

Common questions

Where can I find the best chicken and waffles in San Francisco?

If you're looking for the ultimate chicken and waffles experience in San Francisco, head to Little Skillet in the popular SOMA neighborhood. Their crispy fried chicken paired with fluffy waffles is a must-try! Another favorite spot among locals is Brenda's French Soul Food in the Tenderloin district. Their buttermilk fried chicken and savory waffles will leave you craving for more. For a unique twist on this classic dish, visit Plow in the Potrero Hill neighborhood. Their organic chicken and perfectly cooked waffles are a match made in heaven.

Are there any vegetarian options available for chicken and waffles in San Francisco?

If you're a vegetarian or looking for a meat-free alternative, fret not! Many restaurants in San Francisco offer a vegetarian or vegan version of chicken and waffles. Check out Chambers Eat + Drink in the Financial District, where you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish. Their innovative take on the recipe will surely impress you. Another great option is Auntie April's Chicken-n-Waffles in the Bayview district. They offer a hearty vegetarian plate that even meat lovers will enjoy.

Can I find gluten-free chicken and waffles in San Francisco?

If you have a gluten intolerance or simply prefer gluten-free options, you're in luck! Several restaurants in San Francisco cater to guests with dietary restrictions. Blackwood in the Marina District is known for their gluten-free chicken and waffles. Indulge in this guilt-free treat without worrying about gluten. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Isa Restaurant in the Inner Sunset neighborhood. Their gluten-free chicken and waffles are a crowd favorite among locals and visitors alike.

What are some recommended sides to complement chicken and waffles in San Francisco?

When enjoying chicken and waffles in San Francisco, don't forget to pair this classic dish with some delicious sides to elevate your dining experience. For a savory option, try adding a side of macaroni and cheese or collard greens to your meal. The combination of these classic Southern sides with chicken and waffles is simply unbeatable. If you have a sweet tooth, consider ordering a side of maple syrup or honey butter to drizzle over your waffles. The added sweetness will take your dish to the next level.

Similar guides

The 16 Best Chinese Bakeries in San FranciscoThe 16 Best Clam Chowder in San FranciscoThe 16 Best Vegetarian Ramen in San Francisco