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The 16 Best Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco

In the bustling city of San Francisco, chicken fried steak enthusiasts are in for a treat. Whether you're a local looking for your go-to comfort food spot or a visitor hoping to taste a classic American dish, the city has a plethora of options to choose from.

From traditional diners to modern eateries, San Francisco offers a diverse range of chicken fried steak experiences. Each restaurant puts its own unique twist on this beloved dish, making it a fun adventure to explore the different flavors and preparations.

Get ready to sink your teeth into some of the best chicken fried steak in San Francisco. Whether you prefer a traditional take or a more innovative approach, the city has something for every palate. Take a look at the list below to discover the top spots serving up this delicious comfort food.

How we chose and ordered them

This selection of chicken fried steak 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
John's Grill
4.43,847 reviews
#2
Brenda's Meat & Three
4.62,016 reviews
#3
Brenda's French Soul Food
4.55,651 reviews

All options

Weigh 16 local options side by side

John's Grill, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • The steak and ravioli were excellent, recommending the restaurant to others.

  • The historical ambiance and delicious steak made for a memorable dining experience.

  • Impeccable service, perfectly cooked ribeye steak, and flavorful desserts impressed customers.

  • Although some dishes were excellent, a few fell below expectations, but the fish and chips were great.

John's Grill

4.43,847 reviews
63 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

John's Grill is a renowned steak house located in San Francisco, offering a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it suitable for solo dining and groups.

This historic establishment is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert. The menu includes offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, comfort food, and wine, catering to a variety of preferences. Customers can choose from different dining options like brunch, lunch, dinner, and catering.

Recent reviews highlight the exceptional quality of the food and service at John's Grill. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Customers praise the ambiance, food quality, and professional service at John's Grill. Visit today to enjoy a delightful dining experience in San Francisco!

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

  • Delicious beignets and unique brunch options

  • Perfectly balanced and pretty breakfast plates

  • Best southern food in SF, especially the johnny cakes and drinks

  • Packed with flavorful food, great drinks, and friendly service

Brenda's Meat & Three

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

Brenda's Meat & Three is a beloved southern restaurant in San Francisco, CA, known for its fantastic food and welcoming atmosphere. Customers rave about their experience, pointing out some key highlights:

Their menu offers a variety of comfort food options like fried chicken, ribs, biscuits, and more, accompanied by a selection of tasty cocktails and beer. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a cozy dinner, Brenda's Meat & Three has something to offer. Visit their website for more information and indulge in a delightful southern dining experience!

Brenda's French Soul Food, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • Impressive catfish dish,

  • Great variety of Southern classics,

  • Excellent service and cozy atmosphere,

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 renowned Southern restaurant in San Francisco that has garnered a rating of 4.5 stars from a whopping 5651 reviews. Known for its exquisitely prepared dishes and cozy atmosphere, Brenda's offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in.

Customers rave about the fast service and the delightful array of dishes such as the cheese grits, pasta, wings, Muffuletta sandwich, and gumbo. The house watermelon tea, oyster Po Boy, Beignets, and catfish and grits are among the fan favorites, leaving patrons craving for more.

Whether you're a fan of Southern cuisine or looking to dive into a culinary adventure, Brenda's French Soul Food is a must-visit destination that promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Hard Knox Cafe, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Large portions and tasty southern dishes like fried chicken and pork chops

  • Warm and welcoming atmosphere with quick seating

  • Great selection of sides and must-try corn muffins

Hard Knox Cafe

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

Hard Knox Cafe is a popular soul food restaurant in San Francisco, known for its delicious southern U.S. cuisine. Customers rave about the generous portions, friendly service, and comfortable atmosphere. Here are some key highlights from recent reviews:

So if you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy authentic southern comfort food in San Francisco, Hard Knox Cafe is the place to be!

Orphan Andy's Restaurant, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • The waiting time for orders can be a bit long, but understandable

  • Home fries could be crispier and more spiced

  • Great coffee and desserts

  • Perfect location for a quick solo dining experience

Orphan Andy's Restaurant

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

Orphan Andy's Restaurant is a cozy diner located in the heart of San Francisco's Castro district. The interior exudes a clean and intimate vibe, perfect for a comforting dining experience. Customers love the sloppy Joe omelette and the variety of burgers offered.

With a rating of 4.5 stars from 2099 reviews, patrons rave about the fast service and friendly staff. The diner is known for its great coffee and comfort food, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The casual and cozy atmosphere appeals to both tourists and university students alike, creating a warm and welcoming environment for all diners.

Jim's, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • "Absolutely perfect. The food was delicious and the staff is incredibly kind and genuinely caring."

  • "This is an old school diner run by Kim and her husband. Kim runs the front of the house and is such a wonderful person."

  • "Love Jim's! Been coming here for years and it's low key with great service and tasty, reasonably priced food."

  • "The staff and food here are excellent. And more than that, the French toast is the best I’ve ever had."

Jim's

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

Jim's is a beloved American restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Some of the highlights of this establishment include Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options, making it convenient for patrons to enjoy their meals however they prefer. Customers rave about the fast service and the great coffee offered at Jim's, adding to the overall dining experience.

Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

With a solid rating of 4.5 stars, Jim's has managed to maintain a loyal customer base who appreciate the casual and cosy atmosphere, as well as the high chairs and kids' menu available for families. If you're looking for a go-to spot in San Francisco for delicious comfort food and great service, be sure to check out Jim's.

Hard Knox Cafe, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Great food with excellent service and generous portion sizes.

  • Delicious dishes like Country Fried Steak, collard greens, and mac n cheese.

  • Consistently good down-to-earth vibe with legit southern food for over 10 years.

  • Awesome food quality, large portions, and friendly service.

Hard Knox Cafe

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

Hard Knox Cafe is a popular Soul food restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Whether you are looking for No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, or Dine-in options, this place has got you covered. With its Fast service and Sporty atmosphere, it's a go-to spot for many.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Hard Knox Cafe, highlighting a few key points:

The Front Porch, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • Fave spot for some southern comfort food.

  • Great atmosphere with very friendly staff.

  • Excellent food with a wide range of flavors.

  • Amazing service, great vibes, and top-notch food.

The Front Porch

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

The Front Porch is a cozy Southern restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. This establishment is known for its fast service and great dessert, making it a favorite spot for many locals and visitors alike.

Customers rave about their dishes like the chicken & waffle and mac and cheese, which are highly recommended. The ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, perfect for solo dining, groups, and family-friendly gatherings. With a rating of 4.4, The Front Porch is a must-visit for those craving authentic Southern flavors.

Tad's Steakhouse, San Francisco#9
What it does well

  • The juicy and flavorful steaks at budget-friendly prices

  • The cozy ambiance and attentive staff

  • The variety of steaks and impressive side dishes

  • The outstanding service and delicious, well-cooked meals

Tad's Steakhouse

4.12,284 reviews
38 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Tad's Steakhouse is a renowned Restaurant located in San Francisco, CA, offering a range of services and features that cater to every customer's needs. They provide Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Known for their Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, and sports viewing, Tad's Steakhouse is a favorite spot for many.

Customers have left positive reviews highlighting key points:

Whether you're looking for a satisfying steak dinner or a quick bite, Tad's Steakhouse promises an enjoyable dining experience that won't disappoint.

Pinecrest Diner, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • Delicious meals with clean plates all around

  • Authentic feel and good selection on the menu

  • Polite staff and free coffee refills during breakfast

  • Reasonable prices for quality food, despite some service hiccups

Pinecrest Diner

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

Pinecrest Diner is a beloved spot in San Francisco where customers can enjoy a variety of dining options. The diner offers services like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for its fast service and great coffee, Pinecrest Diner is a popular choice for those looking to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The diner is wheelchair-accessible and offers a range of amenities to make customers feel comfortable.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious meals and welcoming atmosphere at Pinecrest Diner. Here are some key points from their reviews:

With a rating of 4.3 stars, Pinecrest Diner continues to impress diners with its tasty dishes and cozy ambiance. Visit them today for a memorable dining experience!

Pollo Campero, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • Disappointing experience with dry and unpleasant chicken, left with an undesired feeling to return.

  • Super friendly staff, good overall experience despite challenging parking and restroom situations.

  • First-time visitor amazed by the delicious food, rates the experience 5 stars.

  • Great food with easy customer service, fair prices, fast and friendly service compared to KFC.

Pollo Campero

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

Pollo Campero is a popular Chicken restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services including Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, and Takeaway. The restaurant is known for its Fast service and caters to those looking for a quick bite or Healthy options. Customers love the Comfort food and Small plates offered here.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Little Skillet, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • We popped in for brunch and were pleasantly surprised by the friendly staff and affordable mimosas.

  • The fried chicken is a standout dish, accompanied by delicious buttery biscuits and exceptional service.

  • One customer described the fried chicken as mind-blowing and noted the incredible seafood offerings.

  • Despite some minor critiques, such as unseasoned greens and overcooked shrimp, customers appreciate the great service and ambiance.

Little Skillet

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

Little Skillet is a welcoming soul food restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for its fast service and cozy atmosphere, this establishment offers a variety of dining options ranging from breakfast to dinner. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating or opt for delivery, takeaway, or even dine-in experiences.

The restaurant has received a stellar rating of 4.2 stars from over 1200 reviews. Customers rave about their experiences, highlighting a few key points:

With its authentic soul food offerings and welcoming atmosphere, Little Skillet is a must-visit spot for anyone in search of a delicious meal and a memorable dining experience in San Francisco.

Tennessee Grill, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • Delicious savory breakfast options

  • Reasonably priced with a local feel

  • Quick service with traditional diner atmosphere

  • Old-fashioned neighborhood charm with excellent service

Tennessee Grill

4.2580 reviews
1128 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116, United States

Tennessee Grill is a charming diner located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The restaurant is known for its fast service and great coffee, making it a favorite among locals.

Customers have shared positive experiences at Tennessee Grill. Some of the key points from their reviews are:

If you're looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a tasty meal in San Francisco, Tennessee Grill is the place to be!

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

  • The food is delicious, especially the shakes, sandwiches, and burgers

  • The atmosphere evokes a classic American diner feel with neon lights and a jukebox

  • Service is friendly and efficient, making for an enjoyable dining experience

  • Some customers have noted minor issues with food quality, cleanliness, and pricing

Mel's Drive-In

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

Mel's Drive-In is an iconic American restaurant in San Francisco, offering a nostalgic dining experience with a modern twist. Customers can enjoy a range of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options.

The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert selections. Popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Mel's Drive-In caters to a diverse crowd, including groups, tourists, and university students.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Overall, Mel's Drive-In offers a memorable dining experience that combines retro charm with tasty fare, making it a must-visit establishment in San Francisco.

Mel's Drive-In, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • Delicious food that transports diners back to the 60s with dishes like the original burger, apple pie, and bluffing vegan milkshakes at a good price.

  • A classic feel with excellent service, amazing food like hot turkey sandwiches, mashed potatoes, bacon avocado BLTs, and crunchy fries.

  • Warm and clean ambiance and perfectly prepared dishes like burgers, banana malts, braised ribs, and breakfast burritos that satisfy customers.

  • While some customers found the food to be greasy and lacking in flavor, others appreciated the atmosphere, large milkshakes, and late-night fun vibe.

Mel's Drive-In

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

Mel's Drive-In is a beloved American restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. The restaurant offers a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its fast service, great coffee, and great dessert, Mel's Drive-In is popular for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews highlight the unique experience at Mel's Drive-In. Summarized reviews showcase the following:

Grubstake Diner, San Francisco#16
What it does well

  • Great place with flavorful food and properly seasoned dishes.

  • Cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and timely service.

  • Standout dishes like the burger, loaded wedges, and onion rings.

  • Highly recommended for great food and service.

Grubstake Diner

4.1991 reviews
1525 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Grubstake Diner is a popular spot in San Francisco known for its delicious diner cuisine and fast service. Customers rave about the flavorful food and cozy atmosphere. With a rating of 4.1 stars from 991 reviews, it's clear that this diner is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

If you're looking for a spot to enjoy Lunch or Dinner, Grubstake Diner is the place to be. With a range of offerings from alcohol to comfort food and late-night bites, this diner has something for everyone. So whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, head over to Grubstake Diner for a tasty dining experience.

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1John's Grill 4.43,847
#2Brenda's Meat & Three 4.62,016
#3Brenda's French Soul Food 4.55,651
#4Hard Knox Cafe 4.51,293
#5Orphan Andy's Restaurant 4.52,099
#6Jim's 4.5415
#7Hard Knox Cafe 4.41,453
#8The Front Porch 4.41,170
#9Tad's Steakhouse 4.12,284
#10Pinecrest Diner 4.33,754
#11Pollo Campero 4.22,875
#12Little Skillet 4.21,221
#13Tennessee Grill 4.2580
#14Mel's Drive-In 4.14,817
#15Mel's Drive-In 4.12,184
#16Grubstake Diner 4.1991

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On the map

Map of Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco

If you're craving chicken fried steak in San Francisco, look no further! Below is a map highlighting all the best spots in the city to indulge in this classic comfort food dish. From diners to upscale restaurants, there's a variety of options to satisfy your craving for a crispy, flavorful piece of meat smothered in gravy.

How to pick Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco

  1. Quality of the steak.
  2. Size of the portion.
  3. Crunchiness of the breading.
  4. Flavor of the gravy.
  5. Side dish options.

Common questions

What is Chicken Fried Steak?

Chicken Fried Steak is a popular Southern dish that consists of a breaded and fried piece of tenderized beef steak. It is typically served with gravy and sides such as mashed potatoes and green beans. The name "Chicken Fried Steak" comes from the method of preparation, which is similar to frying chicken. The steak is dredged in seasoned flour, dipped in egg wash, then coated in breadcrumbs before being fried until crispy. While the origins of the dish are unclear, it has become a staple in diners and restaurants across the United States, including in San Francisco.

Where Can I Find Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco?

If you're craving Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco, you're in luck! There are several restaurants in the city that offer this delicious dish on their menus. Some popular spots to enjoy Chicken Fried Steak in San Francisco include Home Plate in the Inner Richmond neighborhood, Kitchen Story in the Castro district, and Hard Knox Cafe in the SoMa area. Whether you're looking for a classic Chicken Fried Steak or a unique twist on the traditional dish, you're sure to find a restaurant in San Francisco that will satisfy your cravings.

What are the Best Sides to Enjoy with Chicken Fried Steak?

When it comes to enjoying Chicken Fried Steak, the sides are just as important as the main dish. Some popular side dishes to pair with Chicken Fried Steak include: These sides provide the perfect balance of flavors and textures to complement the crispy and savory Chicken Fried Steak. Mashed potatoes with gravy. Creamed corn. Green beans. Coleslaw.

Can I Make Chicken Fried Steak at Home?

Yes, you can definitely make Chicken Fried Steak at home! To recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen, you'll need some simple ingredients such as beef cube steaks, flour, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. There are many recipes available online that provide step-by-step instructions on how to make Chicken Fried Steak from scratch. Just be sure to have a good frying pan and plenty of oil for frying to achieve that crispy and golden-brown exterior. With a little practice and patience, you'll be able to enjoy homemade Chicken Fried Steak whenever the craving strikes.

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