Highlights
- Live music
oChef » Chile Lindo – San Francisco
Chile Lindo - San Francisco
Photo from Chile Lindo
Chile Lindo at a glance
San Francisco Mission District
- 🥩 Chilean Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 20 of the guests
#1376 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#1 Chilean Restaurant out of 1 in San Francisco
Good
7.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
213
Reviews
69.5%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic flavors
- Friendly staff
- Cozy atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Limited menu
- Rude service
The restaurant Chile Lindo offers you an authentic Chilean dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District. You can immerse yourself in a casual atmosphere, often enhanced by captivating live music.
This spot is perfect for enjoying delicious small plates and quick bites, whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch or a lively dinner outing.
Overview: Introducting Chile Lindo
Chile Lindo is often celebrated for its truly authentic Chilean empanadas, which many describe as transporting them straight to Chile. The warm and inviting atmosphere, often described as a delightful hole in the wall, adds to the charm, creating a comfortable and unique dining experience.
However, some guests have noted that the overall experience can feel a bit pricey. Additionally, there are occasional remarks about the limited operating hours or specific service interactions, which can sometimes be inconsistent.
Good
7.3
out of 10
213
Reviews
69.5%
Satisfaction
53
negative
12
neutral
148
positive
Looking at the numbers, Chile Lindo garners a solid Restaurant Score of 7.3, indicating a generally positive reception. This is supported by 148 positive remarks out of 213 total customer observations.
The Food (7.8) is clearly a standout, with many praising its authentic flavors and quality. The inviting Ambience (7.8) also contributes significantly to the overall appeal, creating a pleasant setting for your meal.
While the Service (7) is generally good, some experiences vary. However, the Value (3.5) is where opinions diverge most, with a notable number of the 53 negative comments focusing on pricing concerns.
This leads to a Customer Satisfaction of 69.5%, which sits at the higher end of a mixed reception, suggesting that while many are pleased, some find the cost a point of contention.
What people like
- Authentic Chilean flavors
- Welcoming, friendly staff
- Charming, cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Perceived high prices
- Limited menu variety
- Occasional rude service
If you’re seeking genuine Chilean flavors and a warm, inviting setting, Chile Lindo is certainly worth considering. With a Recommendation Score of 7.5, it clearly resonates with many who appreciate its culinary authenticity and the personal touch of its staff.
However, be prepared for prices that some find a bit steep, and note that menu variety might be limited. If these factors align with your expectations, you’ll likely enjoy a unique and satisfying experience.
Otherwise, you might find it a bit disappointing.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Chile Lindo
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
It looks like the food here is generally a hit, with a solid score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at 75.9%, both indicating a good experience for most diners. Based on 137 customer observations, with 104 positive remarks compared to 27 negative ones, many rave about the authentic Chilean empanadas, praising their delicious, varied fillings, and even the perfect crust. The torta de mil hojas and diverse vegan options also get a lot of love for their flavorful soul.
However, not everyone is completely satisfied. Some found the food to be dried out, specifically mentioning a dry, doughy crust and underfilled empanadas. Concerns were also raised about the use of cheddar cheese in some empanadas, questioning authenticity, and a few felt the portion size was too small for the price.
Food
137
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
27
negative
6
neutral
104
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Chilean empanadas
- Delicious, varied fillings
- Perfect crust
What people don't like
- Dry, doughy crust
- Underfilled fillings
- Small portion size
Often praised
- empanadasThe pino (beef) empanada was incredibly similar to those I've had in Chile. I highly recommend trying the empanadas and enjoying a coffee on a warm day.
- foodAfter a two-month trip in Chile, I found this spot to be the perfect place to satisfy my cravings for authentic Merken style empanadas. The food was excellent, and the service and atmosphere were also top-notch.
- Chilean empanadasMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I found the BEST and ONLY true Chilean empanadas in San Francisco. Having an empanada here is like being transported to Chile!
- empanadaIf you are Chilean or want to try an empanada that tastes just like being in Chile, this is the place. As soon as you open the door, you can feel like you are in a Fonda and it’s 18 de Septiembre.
- vegan empanadaSince trying their vegan empanada, I’ve stopped looking
- FoodFood:5
- classic PinoOur favorite is the classic Pino, a very savory seasoned beef
- torta de mil hojasthe torta de mil hojas which was also very delicious
- AlfajoresFollow up with some Alfajores- Sandwich cookie w/ Manjar
- Authentic Chilean empanadasAuthentic Chilean empanadas
Frequently criticized
- empanadasdisappointing to see that they had already ran out of empanadas
- cheese empanadasI wanted half a dozen, but ended up with the 4. However, they were cheese and jalapeño 🤦♂️🤦♂️, disappointing. They should have more items.
- Chilean experienceNot enough Chilean experience
- Chilean foodThey should have more items. In short, it doesn't seem like Chilean food, it seems like Chilean-Mexican food. All that's missing is tacos and burritos 🤦♂️ Bad move.
- Chilean-Mexican foodThey should have more items. In short, it doesn't seem like Chilean food, it seems like Chilean-Mexican food. All that's missing is tacos and burritos 🤦♂️ Bad move.
- alfajoresI was visiting San Francisco and was happy to find a Chilean place. I went for breakfast and they didn't have alfajores. I asked for cheese empanadas and the lady said she had 4.
- artisanal Chilean chicken empanadaartisanal Chilean chicken empanada. Cool. However, the portion size was far too small
- authenticThis place is not truly authentic.
- cheddar cheeseWho uses cheddar cheese to make empanadas?
- cheesedidn’t have enough cheese.
If you're craving authentic Chilean empanadas with delicious, varied fillings and a perfect crust, this spot is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that some experiences mention dry dough or underfilled options, so manage your expectations for consistency.
Service (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 42% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot scores a solid 7, indicating a generally good experience. Many of the 23 positive remarks out of 33 total comments highlight the fantastic owner engagement, describing Paula as a gracious host who's super fun to talk with. Guests frequently praise the delightful service and quick preparation, making for a welcoming and efficient visit.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a 69.7%, suggesting a mixed bag for some. The 9 negative comments point to issues like rude staff and a perceived bad attitude from some employees. Concerns about customer service and a lack of putting the customer first were also noted, indicating areas for improvement.
Service
33
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
23
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Engaging owner
- Gracious host
- Quick preparation
What people don't like
- Rude staff
- Poor customer service
- Bad attitude
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at the restaurant was on a Monday. I placed my order and the service was quick, as I was out within 5 minutes. I had a Chilean empanada (pino) for the first time, and it was a nice treat.
- ownerAs the daughter of Chileans, they make spectacular empanadas, as good as or better than many I've had in Chile. The owner was very attentive and friendly. Happy to see a group of Chileans in San Francisco.
- ServiceService:5
- Gracious hostGracious host
- Paula the ownerPaula the owner is an authentic Chilean host, welcoming, super friendly, and fun.
- attention servicevery nice attention service
- cateringor for catering
- fun to talk withshe’s super fun to talk with
- guys from Chile3 guys from Chile they gave me an empanada
- large groupMy experience at this restaurant was excellent. The owner was incredibly kind to our unexpectedly large group, truly going above and beyond. The food and music were both excellent.
Frequently criticized
- better serviceShe then told me they were from the previous day. Honestly, it was a disappointment in terms of service and quality; I expected much better service.
- customerput the customer first
- customer serviceThe customer service was rude
- extra onewouldn't give me an extra one unless I paid for it
- lady who served meMy experience at the restaurant was very disappointing. The lady who served me was very rude. The empanadas were hard and burnt.
- limited timeonly open a few days a week for limited time
- run a businesslack the ability to run a business
- service and qualityShe then told me they were from the previous day. Honestly, it was a disappointment in terms of service and quality; I expected much better service.
- woman therethe woman there had an attitude
If youre lucky, youll encounter the wonderful owner who makes the experience truly special. But be aware that some guests have reported less-than-stellar interactions with other staff. It's worth a try for the potential for great hospitality, but manage your expectations.
Ambience (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 34% of the guests
Alright, lets talk vibes! This spots ambience is definitely a highlight, scoring a solid 7.8 and boasting a good customer satisfaction of 73.1%. Many of the 19 positive remarks out of 26 total opinions rave about the Atmosphere, music, and how it feels like a hole in the wall spot or a Lovely room with character and comfort.
Guests particularly enjoyed the live jazz music and the inviting, charming interior. However, not everyone was completely swept away, with 4 negative opinions noting some issues. A few felt the atmosphere was a letdown or that the place was resting on its laurels.
The most concrete concern mentioned was the lack of seating, which some found inconvenient, impacting their overall experience.
Ambience
26
Reviews
73%
Satisfaction
4
negative
3
neutral
19
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Live jazz music
- Cozy, authentic atmosphere
- Charming small spot
What people don't like
- Limited seating
Often praised
- atmosphereAfter a two-month trip in Chile, I found this spot to be the perfect place to satisfy my cravings for authentic Merken style empanadas. The food was excellent, and the service and atmosphere were also top-notch.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- musicFood and music was excellent
- placeMy experience at this restaurant was truly wonderful. It's a delightful little hole in the wall, a real gem just off the 16th St. BART.
- Lovely roomLovely room with character and comfort
- Noise levelNoise level:Very quiet
- barstool seatingbarstool seating was really convenient
- character and comfortLovely room with character and comfort
- experienceAs soon as you open the door, you can feel like you are in a Fonda and it’s 18 de Septiembre. The owner is so nice and she makes your experience even more close to Chile 🇨🇱. ¡Viva Chile!
- hole in the wall spotbest hole in the wall spot
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereThe atmosphere was also a letdown
- placenot a trustworthy place to go
- resting on its laurelsThis spot rests on its laurels
- seatingThe service was lacking; the woman working there had an attitude. There is no seating available, which unfortunately led to me dropping the tiny salsa they provided. To make matters worse, they wouldn't give me an extra salsa without charging for it.
If youre looking for a cozy, authentic spot with great music and a unique vibe, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that seating might be limited, so its best for a casual visit where you don't mind standing or a quick bite.
Value (3.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 25% of the guests
While the overall sentiment leans heavily towards the negative, a couple of diners did find some positive aspects regarding value. They felt that the overall price, like a $50 total, was well worth it. These few positive remarks, focusing on the price, are quite rare, especially with a customer satisfaction of only 11.8%.
On the flip side, the overwhelming majority of 13 comments expressed concern, with many finding items like empanadas to be expensive and overpriced. Phrases like $7.50 is a LOT to pay and super overpriced bite size snack were common, leading to a feeling that it's really not worth it at all. The need to pay with cash was also a point of contention, contributing to the poor 3.5 score.
Value
17
Reviews
11%
Satisfaction
13
negative
2
neutral
2
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
What people don't like
- Overpriced items
- Poor value for money
- Cash only payment
Often praised
- $50 total$50 total
- priceit is well worth it
Frequently criticized
- priceFor $7.50 is a little steep
- empanadasEmpanadas are 8 dollars
- $7.50For $7.50 I got an artisanal Chilean chicken empanada
- cashYou have to have cash
- costCost too much
- empanada priceempanada price and tell me if you it’s worth it
- expensivebut expensive
- overpricedsuper overpriced bite size snack
- priceyVery very very pricey
- worth itreally not worth it at all
If you're looking for great value, this spot might disappoint, as many found it quite expensive and not worth the cost. Be prepared for potentially higher prices and the need for cash if you decide to visit.
How are the prices at Chile Lindo?
You’re looking at roughly 12 per person – reported by 20 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Chilean Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, most diners are finding options in the 1 – 20 $ range, with a good chunk even going for the more budget-friendly $1–$10 options. It seems like there’s a nice mix of choices!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 20 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for a Chilean spot in San Francisco. Youve got options whether youre looking for a quick, affordable bite or something a little more substantial.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Chile Lindo
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Authentic Chilean Empanadas
After a two-month trip in Chile, I found this spot to be the perfect place to satisfy my cravings for authentic Merken style empanadas. The food was excellent, and the service and atmosphere were also top-notch.
- Merken style empanadas10
- food10
- service10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Excellent Chilean Culture and Food
Paula vibrantly welcomes everyone who approaches Chile Lindo. All of the empanadas are excellent, but I particularly love the merkén empanada. For anyone in need of a little Chilean culture and food, this is the place to go!
- empanadas9
- merkén empanada10
- Chilean culture and food9
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Delicious Empanadas and Amazing Service!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The empanadas were absolutely delicious, and the service was amazing. I had a lovely conversation with the person working there.
It was really nice to see foods from my family's home country cooked and prepared just how I remember growing up, and they tasted just as good! We got the pinto empanadas right before closing, but we will definitely be coming back for more!
- empanadas10
- service10
- pinto empanadas10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Best Empanadas and Charming Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was exceptional. I had some of the best empanadas I’ve ever tasted, rivaling those I've had in Argentina and Chile. The atmosphere was also a highlight, with an inviting and charming interior.
The service and food were rated a perfect 5, and the noise level was very quiet, contributing to a lovely dining experience.
- empanadas10
- atmosphere10
- Food10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Delicious Empanadas and Sweet Service!
My experience at this restaurant was truly wonderful. It's an incredible and beautiful place. The empanadas were near to perfection, and the service was the sweetest.
I really hope there were more Chile Lindos locations across the bay.
- empanadas9
- service10
- place9
What Chile Lindo offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Lunch
Amenities
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and dining options does Chile Lindo offer?
At Chile Lindo, you can enjoy a casual dining experience complemented by live music. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with delicious desserts. You’ll find comfortable seating, perfect for enjoying small plates or a quick bite.
Does Chile Lindo provide convenient service options and cater to different dietary needs?
Yes, Chile Lindo provides convenient service options like takeout, outdoor seating, dine-in, and delivery. You’ll also find vegetarian options available. The restaurant features an onsite bar, offering alcohol, wine, beer, and coffee for your enjoyment.
How does Chile Lindo generally perform across different aspects?
Chile Lindo holds a solid Restaurant Score of 7.3. Its Food (7.8) and Ambience (7.8) are highly rated, while Service (7) is good. However, Value (3.5) is an area where opinions are more divided.
What do customers love most about Chile Lindo's food?
Customers consistently praise the authentic Chilean empanadas, often describing them as tasting just like those found in Chile. The classic Pino and vegan options are frequently highlighted as favorites.
Are there any common concerns about dining at Chile Lindo?
The most frequent concern among patrons is the pricing, with some finding certain items, particularly the empanadas, to be expensive or overpriced for their portion size.