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oChef » Meski – San Francisco
Meski - San Francisco
Photo from Meski
Meski at a glance
San Francisco Lower Nob Hill
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $71–$80
mentioned by 35 of the guests
#454 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#67 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
279
Reviews
82.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Unique flavors
- Great ambiance
- Attentive staff
Frequently criticized
- Rushed service
- Weak cocktails
- High price
The restaurant Meski, located in San Francisco’s vibrant Lower Nob Hill neighborhood, offers a truly inviting dining experience. You’ll discover a cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, a leisurely brunch, or an elegant dinner, Meski provides a welcoming setting where you can enjoy delicious small plates and expertly crafted cocktails.
Overview: Introducting Meski
Meski offers a vibrant dining experience where the atmosphere often sets a high bar. Guests frequently praise the attentive service and the distinctive culinary offerings, which many find truly unique.
The overall vibe is consistently highlighted as a strong point, drawing in crowds looking for a stylish setting. However, some experiences suggest that the overall value might not always align with expectations, with concerns about portion sizes and additional charges.
There are also instances where the dining pace can feel a bit rushed, impacting the enjoyment of the meal for some patrons.
Excellent
8.2
out of 10
279
Reviews
82.8%
Satisfaction
42
negative
6
neutral
231
positive
Meski achieves a commendable overall score of 8.2, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. This is further supported by a strong Customer Satisfaction rate of 82.8%, indicating that most patrons leave content.
Based on 279 opinions, with 231 positive and 42 negative, the restaurant clearly resonates with many diners. The culinary journey is a clear highlight, with Food scoring an impressive (8.7), complemented by a highly rated Ambience (8.6) that creates a welcoming setting.
While Service (7) is generally good, it’s worth noting that the Value (4.5) aspect receives a more modest assessment, suggesting that some guests find the pricing a bit steep for what’s offered.
What people like
- Unique, flavorful food
- Welcoming, stylish ambiance
- Attentive, friendly service
What people don't like
- Rushed dining experience
- Inconsistent drink quality
- Poor value for money
Meski presents a compelling option for those seeking distinctive flavors and a lively atmosphere. With a strong Recommendation Score of 8.3, it’s certainly a place worth considering if you prioritize a unique culinary experience and a great setting over strict budget concerns.
Be mindful of the potential for a quicker dining pace and manage expectations regarding drink consistency and overall value. If you’re looking for an engaging meal out and don’t mind the occasional premium, Meski could be a delightful discovery.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Meski
Food (8.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 92% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this place truly shines! With a fantastic score of 8.7 and customer satisfaction soaring at 88.9%, its clear guests are loving the unique fusion experience. Many rave about the delicious blend of Ethiopian and Dominican flavors, highlighting dishes like the amazing sambusas, oxtail pasta, and perfectly cooked steaks, all often beautifully presented.
While overwhelmingly positive, a few diners noted some dishes didnt quite hit the mark. Concerns included the NY steak having gristle, some portion sizes feeling small, and occasionally muted flavors in certain Ethiopian dishes. A couple of mentions also pointed to disappointing yuca fries or East African donuts, but these were rare among the 12 negative comments.
Food
153
Reviews
88%
Satisfaction
12
negative
5
neutral
136
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Unique fusion flavors
- Delicious sambusas
- Excellent steak and pasta
What people don't like
- Inconsistent NY steak
- Small portion sizes
- Muted Ethiopian flavors
Often praised
- foodMy experience at Meski for dinner was wonderful. While the food is a bit pricey for the portions, even by San Francisco standards, the dishes are packed with flavor and are truly unique to the SF food scene. I can honestly say I haven't had anything like it in the city.
- cocktailsbidibidi bam bam and later the rosa peruana...both sweet n refreshing
- sambusasorder the sambusas and the donuts for desert, your life will be changed
- arroz con polloarroz con pollo...yum and yum..i loved the flavor!
- drinksMy experience at this restaurant was a mix of excellent food and atmosphere, but a very rushed service. The food was great, the drinks were great, and the vibe was great. However, I have never felt so rushed through a sit-down meal.
- Dominican fooddesperately been needing some Dominican food
- donutsy los donuts
- food and drinksThe food and drinks all had special touches
- oxtail pastaThe oxtail pasta in particular is out of this world
- oystersdon’t sleep on the oysters—they were unbelievably fresh
Frequently criticized
- cocktailsdidn’t have much of a punch basically drinking a $20 glass of Kool-Aid .. the bartender has got actually put Liquor in the cocktails
- East African donutsEast African donuts: hard pass, soggy and empty
- FlavorsHowever, the food didn’t quite live up to the hype. While the injera was fresh and the presentation was nice, the flavors felt a bit muted compared to the bold, vibrant taste I expected from traditional Ethiopian/Eritrean cuisine. The meat and vegetarian combos were solid but not especially memorable, and the spice level was surprisingly mild even with their house hot sauce.
- NY steakThe NY steak was a pretty big disappointment. It was cooked well and also very well seasoned however almost every piece had a ton of gristle.
- Yuca friesYuca fries: skippable, didn’t like how it didn’t have the classic ridge texture
- dessertskip dessert
- dessertsThe desserts missed my palate completely.
- entreesmissed one of the entrees completely
- portion sizenot a lot of food for 3
- specialty or craft cocktailssaid they couldn’t make specialty or craft cocktails
If you're seeking a unique and flavorful culinary adventure, the food here is a definite must-try. Despite a few minor critiques, the overwhelming consensus points to an exciting fusion experience that will likely delight your taste buds.
Service (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 78% of the guests
The service here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a solid 7 score indicating its generally good, but customer satisfaction sitting at 66.2%, suggesting theres still room for improvement. Out of 74 comments, 49 were positive, praising the attentive staff, warm hospitality, and excellent recommendations from waiters and hostesses. Many highlighted individuals like Tyler, Chef Nelson, and Rutha for their exceptional care.
However, 25 negative comments point to some significant issues. Guests occasionally felt rushed, experienced delays in seating or receiving their bill, and noted instances of inattentive or unaccommodating service. Some even mentioned staff sweeping around their table while they were still eating, which definitely detracts from the dining experience.
Service
74
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
25
negative
0
neutral
49
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Warm hospitality
- Excellent recommendations
What people don't like
- Feeling rushed
- Long waiting times
- Inattentive service
Often praised
- serviceThe service was top-notch; friendly, attentive, and efficient
- staffThe food was spectacular, with amazing service and recommendations, especially as this was my first time. The atmosphere was super fun, complemented by knowledgeable and friendly staff. I hope to be back soon; it's definitely a must try!
- customer serviceexceptional quality customer service from several staff members
- ServiceMy experience at Meski in San Francisco was marked by a stylish, welcoming vibe that definitely draws a crowd. The setting is cozy and thoughtfully designed, and the service was friendly and attentive throughout the meal. However, the food didn’t quite live up to the hype.
- waiterTyler, our waiter, was so attentative and very nice
- Chef NelsonChef Nelson came and greeted us at our table which made very welcoming
- Draymond GreenHe was so down to earth, friendly and accommodated guests
- Gentleman up frontGentleman up front that checked us in was very welcoming
- Server IsabelOur server Isabel was pleasant and helped answer all of our questions
- TylerTyler was such a great host.
Frequently criticized
- customer serviceowner came off as appropriating the Habesha culture given his poor customer service
- servicenever felt so rushed through a sit down meal
- staffWhen we asked about dessert, the waitress's hesitation and need to check with her manager about our time made us feel like our celebration was an inconvenience. The management and staff were not accommodating or attentive, and we were hurried out. I hope they improve their customer service to make guests feel more valued, especially on special occasions.
- tableoddly decided to skip our table, the only table where Ethiopians were sitting at
- accommodatingWhen we asked about dessert, the waitress's hesitation and need to check with her manager about our time made us feel like our celebration was an inconvenience. The management and staff were not accommodating or attentive, and we were hurried out. I hope they improve their customer service to make guests feel more valued, especially on special occasions.
- attentiveWhen we asked about dessert, the waitress's hesitation and need to check with her manager about our time made us feel like our celebration was an inconvenience. The management and staff were not accommodating or attentive, and we were hurried out. I hope they improve their customer service to make guests feel more valued, especially on special occasions.
- bartenderthe bartender has got actually put Liquor in the cocktails
- billserver was giving us the bill one hour after we sat down
- birthday greetingOur special evening was not acknowledged with any birthday greeting
- checkserver took the bill away as my partner was still getting out his card to split the check
If youre looking for a place with generally friendly and helpful staff, youll likely have a good experience. Just be prepared for the possibility of feeling a bit rushed or encountering some delays, especially during busy times.
Ambience (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 70% of the guests
When it comes to the overall feel of the place, the ambience at this spot truly shines! With a good score of 8.6 and an excellent customer satisfaction of 93.8%, its clear guests are loving the atmosphere. Out of 48 comments, a whopping 45 rave about the stylish decor, vibrant vibes, and the fantastic music, often highlighting the cozy setting and inviting lounge areas that make for a memorable experience.
However, its not entirely without its minor quirks. While overwhelmingly positive, a couple of voices among the 48 did mention one specific point of contention: the music. Specifically, some found the music to be ridiculously loud, which could detract from an otherwise perfect atmosphere for those seeking a quieter dining experience.
Ambience
48
Reviews
93%
Satisfaction
2
negative
1
neutral
45
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Vibrant, soulful ambiance
- Stylish, cozy decor
- Great music, playlist
What people don't like
- Loud music
Often praised
- atmosphereThe atmosphere was just as impressive, with great vibes
- ambianceMeski is a welcome addition to the neighborhood, offering African and Latin dishes in a more upscale setting. While you could find the same great flavor elsewhere for a cheaper price, Meski provides the ambiance. I'd recommend getting some cocktails but skipping dessert.
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was a mix of excellent food and atmosphere, but a very rushed service. The food was great, the drinks were great, and the vibe was great. However, I have never felt so rushed through a sit-down meal.
- vibesVibes and atmosphere is also a really nice touch
- AtmosphereMy experience at Meski in San Francisco was marked by a stylish, welcoming vibe that definitely draws a crowd. The setting is cozy and thoughtfully designed, and the service was friendly and attentive throughout the meal.
- ambiencethe ambience was great
- lounge downstairsstarted in the chill-axed lounge downstairs.
- musicmusic on pointe...loud but not blasting
- restaurantMy experience at this restaurant was a mix of positive and negative. While the restaurant is beautifully decorated and the chef was attentive and accommodating, the owner's poor customer service significantly detracted from the overall experience. My group, which included Ethiopians, was excited to support this business.
- DJYour own people can make or break your success. Despite this "one bad apple, " I must acknowledge the doorman was a kind gentleman and DJ Flygerian killed it on the set. I wish the business the best and always root for minority-owned businesses, but I won't be spending my money here again if the owner continues to show no interest in having his own people support him.
Frequently criticized
- ParkingParking wasn’t easy
- musicmusic is ridiculously loud
If you're looking for a place with a fantastic atmosphere, great music, and a stylish, vibrant setting, this spot is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that the music can get quite loud, so if you prefer a very quiet meal, you might want to consider visiting during off-peak hours.
Value (4.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 6% of the guests
When it comes to value, some guests found the overall experience, quality, and care to be beyond fair, truly embodying good value. This positive feedback, however, is based on just 1 opinion out of 4 total. While the score for value is an average 4.5, customer satisfaction is quite low at 25%, indicating that this positive view isnt widely shared.
On the flip side, many felt the food was a little pricey for the portions, with some surprised by extra charges, like paying an additional $15 just to cut a steak – something theyd never encountered at a steakhouse before. These concerns about price and additional costs were voiced in 3 opinions, highlighting areas where value could definitely improve.
Value
4
Reviews
25%
Satisfaction
3
negative
0
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fair overall value
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Extra charges
- High prices
Often praised
- valueMeski is beyond fair, especially for the quality, care, and overall experience
Frequently criticized
- portionsfood is a little pricey for the portions
- pricecharge an additional $15 to cut it
- steakhousenever been to a steakhouse and paid extra
If youre heading out, be aware that while some find the overall experience fair, many feel the value is lacking due to small portions and unexpected extra charges. It might not be the best spot if youre looking for a budget-friendly meal or expecting standard steakhouse pricing.
How are the prices at Meski?
You’re looking at roughly 73 per person – reported by 35 diners. That puts it in the $71–$80 category. For a Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average sits here, our data shows a good mix. Many guests spend around the $71–$80 mark, but a significant number also opt for a more premium experience, spending over 101 $.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 35 reviews.
How does this restaurant’s value stack up against similar spots in San Francisco?
Overall, for a Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers options for a comfortable mid-range meal, with room to splurge if you wish.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Meski
Price per Person
- $100+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Steakhouse Charges for Cutting Steak
I am writing this review specifically because the most expensive item on the menu, the $175 steak, has an additional $15 charge to cut it. I have never encountered a steakhouse that charges extra for steak cutting. I will update on the taste of the food later.
- steak5
- steak cutting2
- steakhouse2
- price2
Price per Person
- $61–$70
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Incredible Fusion Experience!
My experience at this restaurant was absolutely awesome! The food, drinks, service, and ambience were all top-notch. I particularly enjoyed the delicious cocktails.
We savored the tartare, sambusas, and oxtail pasta, along with sides of rice and injera. Every single dish was incredible. To finish, we indulged in the East African donuts, which were a unique and memorable treat.
I highly recommend this spot for anyone seeking a fresh, flavorful fusion experience.
- food10
- drinks10
- service10
Price per Person
- $100+
Visit Type
- Romantic Date
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
10
Wonderful Birthday Dinner Date!
I came here for my Fiancé Birthday and the ambience was great, the food was delicious, and the staff is so friendly and welcoming! I highly recommend this place for a great dinner date with your partner!
- ambience10
- food10
- staff10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Loved the Steak Tartar!
I forgot to take a picture of it, but I really loved the steak tartar. It was a fantastic experience.
- steak tartar9
Visit Type
- Romantic Date
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Loved the Ox Tail Pasta and Samboussa!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I absolutely love love love this place. The ox tail pasta and chicken samboussa were my favorites.
I highly recommend it for a date night 😉.
- ox tail pasta10
- chicken samboussa10
- date night9
What Meski offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere will you find at Meski?
At Meski, you can expect a welcoming and inviting ambiance. The restaurant offers both a cozy and trendy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal or a lively evening out in San Francisco’s Lower Nob Hill neighborhood.
What dining services does Meski provide?
Meski offers a comprehensive range of dining services to suit your needs. You can enjoy lunch, dinner, or brunch with table service. They also provide catering options and a delightful dessert menu for a complete culinary experience.
What is the overall verdict on Meski?
Meski earns a 8.2 overall, with Customer Satisfaction at 82.8%. Its Food (8.7) and Ambience (8.6) are highly regarded, while Service (7) is good, but Value (4.5) is a weaker point.
What kind of food can I expect at Meski?
Meski offers unique, flavorful dishes, with highlights like the oxtail pasta, fresh oysters, and delicious sambusas. Many find the flavors distinct and unlike other offerings in the city.
Are there any common issues visitors experience at Meski?
Some guests have noted issues with feeling rushed during their meal and inconsistent quality in cocktails. The value for money, particularly regarding portion sizes and additional charges, is also a frequent concern.