Highlights
- Great beer selection
- Sports
oChef » Fermentation Lab – San Francisco
Fermentation Lab - San Francisco
Photo from Fermentation Lab
Fermentation Lab at a glance
San Francisco Japantown
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 60 of the guests
#605 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#78 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
491
Reviews
82.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Great atmosphere
- Attentive service
Frequently criticized
- Value concerns
- Service inconsistency
The restaurant Fermentation Lab in San Francisco’s vibrant Japantown neighborhood offers you a truly unique experience. You’ll discover a cozy, casual, and trendy spot known for its great beer selection, perfect for unwinding or catching a game.
Whether you’re looking for small plates or a full meal, this restaurant has you covered with its diverse offerings.
Overview: Introducting Fermentation Lab
Fermentation Lab generally earns high marks for its inviting atmosphere and well-crafted offerings. Guests often highlight the friendly service and the quality of their delicious cocktails, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
While many find the overall visit rewarding, some patrons note areas for improvement, particularly concerning pricing transparency and occasional service lapses that can affect the experience.
Good
8
out of 10
491
Reviews
82.9%
Satisfaction
57
negative
27
neutral
407
positive
Fermentation Lab earns a solid 8 for its overall performance, indicating a generally positive experience for most guests. Customer satisfaction stands at a strong 82.9%, reflecting that the majority of patrons leave content.
This positive sentiment is drawn from 491 customer observations, with 407 positive remarks outweighing 57 negative ones. Delving into specifics, the inviting Ambience (8.5) and attentive Service (8.3) are particularly well-regarded, creating a pleasant dining environment.
The Food (8) also receives strong marks for its quality. However, Value (5.4) presents a more mixed picture, suggesting some find the pricing less compelling outside of specific deals.
What people like
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Inviting, stylish ambiance
- Delicious food and drinks
What people don't like
- Inconsistent pricing/billing
- Occasional service issues
- High regular prices
Fermentation Lab offers a compelling experience, particularly if you appreciate a well-crafted drink and a stylish setting with attentive staff. It’s a place that often delivers on its promise of an enjoyable outing.
With a strong recommendation score of 8.3, it’s certainly worth considering. For the best experience, exploring their happy hour options might offer the most satisfying balance, as regular pricing can be a point of contention for some.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Fermentation Lab
Food (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
Alright, lets talk about the food! Overall, its looking pretty good here, with a solid score of 8, indicating a generally positive dining experience. Customer satisfaction is also quite high at 82.3%, suggesting most diners leave happy.
With 228 positive remarks out of 277 total, many guests raved about delicious items like the duck confit porridge, Menchi Katsu burger, deviled eggs, and uni pasta, praising their flavor and unique combinations. However, not every dish hit the mark, as evidenced by 26 negative comments. Some found the pork belly and steak to be disappointing, with mentions of overcooked meat or bland flavors.
There were also a few notes about inconsistent execution and dishes being overly sauced, suggesting that while the menu is creative, some items might need a bit more refinement.
Food
277
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
26
negative
23
neutral
228
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious duck dishes
- Flavorful Asian fusion
- Excellent small plates
What people don't like
- Inconsistent dish execution
- Overcooked meat
- Bland flavors
Often praised
- foodThe drinks were outstanding, all featuring a ‘fermented’ element. The food was delicious and a great value, with dishes like hanger steak, loco moco, and calamari all around $20-30 and served in good portions. I would highly recommend this bar/restaurant for date nights due to its great ambience and excellent drinks and food.
- drinksMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The food was excellent, and the drinks were great. I was particularly impressed with the gorgeous interior.
- cocktailsThe restaurant easily accommodated our reservation on a Friday night. We experienced awesome service, enjoyed beautiful and delicious cocktails, and had some great food. I highly recommend trying the Uni Pasta 😁.
- uni pastauni pasta was creamy and delicious too
- coffeeFinally, a place in the heart of Japan Town where you can sit down and enjoy a good cup of coffee and a great breakfast! They also have a great bar with lots of beer.
- deviled eggsduck fat fries, deviled eggs & vegan gyozas
- oystersMy experience at this restaurant was primarily for happy hour, and the $2 oysters were a highlight. We enjoyed four servings, and the oysters were fresh and a good size, with no sand. While I generally prefer eastern oysters for their sweetness, these Washington oysters were still good.
- BurgerBurger was cooked perfectly, medium and moist
- FoodFood:5
- Happy HourMy experience at the restaurant was 10/10! I highly recommend it, especially for the amazing Happy Hour. The foods and drinks were absolutely delicious.
Frequently criticized
- uni pastait was drenched in an extremely heavy hollandaise-like sauce
- Asian fusion spinAsian fusion spin kinda misses the spot
- Korean kimchi pancakessoggiest pancake we've ever had
- ahi pokeahi poke was fresh and was a bit over seasoned
- beefThey recommended the uni pasta as their most popular dish, but it was drenched in an extremely heavy, hollandaise-like sauce. The beef was also super chewy. The food score was a 1 out of 5.
- beef tenderloin tipsWhat a bland and tasteless dish. There was no flavor to the meet
- coffeeif you want coffee, go to a coffee shop
- craft beer establishmentsWho the hell are these "craft beer" establishments hiring anymore?
- deliverablesthe deliverables need some work
- dishesthe dishes are amateur
If you're looking for creative Asian fusion with some standout dishes, especially those featuring duck or unique small plates, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that a few items might be inconsistent, but the overall experience for food is quite positive.
Service (8.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 78% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place really shines! With a strong score of 8.3 and a customer satisfaction rate of 82.5%, it's clear guests are generally thrilled. Out of 97 comments, a whopping 80 praise the team for their friendly service, attentive servers, and knowledgeable staff, often delivering excellent service that makes for a special night.
However, not every experience is perfect. A smaller number of 14 comments point to occasional issues like long waiting times for food, feeling understaffed, or even instances of rude staff and being unacknowledged at the bar. These seem to be isolated incidents, but worth noting.
Service
97
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
80
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Excellent service
- Knowledgeable bartenders
What people don't like
- Long waiting times
- Understaffed issues
- Unacknowledged at bar
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While it's a nice place to dine with good friendly service and a pleasant atmosphere (rated 4/5), the food quality was disappointing. The dishes felt amateur, with pre-shucked oysters and overly coarse tea leaf salad.
- staffthe staff are incredibly friendly and go out of their way
- ServiceService is great here
- bartenderthe bartender was very accommodating and knowledgeable.
- AdrianWhile the price is a bit high, it's expected in San Francisco and feels justified by the upscale atmosphere. Our server, Adrian, was absolutely fantastic. He made us feel right at home and was very informative about their offerings.
- RileyRiley was a great server/bartender
- bartendersBartenders were super knowledgeable and friendly
- Dolly and TrinityDolly and Trinity are the best team in town
- LorenzoThe food was good and tasty, and the drinks were great too. Lorenzo was warm and friendly, which made for a truly enjoyable dinner. I highly recommend this place and would certainly come back : -)
- Phoebeserved by Phoebe, who was all sorts of friendly and helpful
Frequently criticized
- acknowledgement at the barnearly 10 minutes for me to get acknowledged when sitting at the bar
- bartenderThe bartender there didn't even "drink beer that much".
- blonde girlblonde girl’s name who was rude all night
- close up shopif they close up shop with no notice.
- closing hoursUpdate your closing hours.
- mealreached over during the middle of our meal
- napkinsNapkins were never brought
- phoneI tried calling before I arrived but nobody picked up
- posted hoursthey put up a sign they are closed for a private event as I walked up even though their posted hours were open
- signagetake down/ turn off your signage if you are closed early.
Overall, the service here is a definite highlight, making it well worth a visit for a pleasant dining experience. While there are a few minor hiccups reported, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests you'll likely be in good hands.
Ambience (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 68% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this place truly shines, boasting a fantastic score of 8.5 and an excellent 94.6% customer satisfaction! With 88 positive observations out of 93 total, guests consistently praise the nifty spot, chicly decorated interior, and relaxed vibe, creating a great atmosphere that feels both curated and welcoming. Many love the lounge space and variety of seating options.
However, not every detail hits the mark, with 5 negative comments noted. A few guests found the interior a bit tacky and pointed out the TV at the bar showing content that was definitely not kid appropriate. Additionally, parking can be quite challenging, which might affect your overall experience.
Ambience
93
Reviews
94%
Satisfaction
5
negative
0
neutral
88
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great atmosphere
- Chic, relaxed vibe
- Unique Japantown spot
What people don't like
- Parking is difficult
- Inappropriate TV content
Often praised
- atmosphereAttended Ronnie Reddick's @ronredd Fright Night on Halloween for a truly delightful experience. The staff was very attentive, contributing to a great atmosphere. The culinary delights were fabulous, especially the 4-course dinner with a drink.
- placeit wasn’t busy at all almost felt like we had the place for ourselves
- ambianceThe place itself has a great ambiance
- interiorthe interior was gorgeous
- vibefantastic vibe (cozy and stylish)
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambienceThe ambience is nice too!
- decoreverything was gorgeous and amazing down to the decor
- spaceThe drinks were awesome and the food was great. The bartenders were super knowledgeable and friendly, and they obviously put a lot of work into their space. I will definitely be back!
- ShowShow was the BEST!!!
Frequently criticized
- parkingParking is horrible our dining experience will be contingent upon parking
- TV at the barthe TV at the bar was showing HBO Sex In The City show
- interiorinterior a bit tacky
- kid appropriatenessDefinitely not kid appropriate
If youre looking for a spot with a fantastic atmosphere and a chic, relaxed vibe, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for potential parking challenges and perhaps choose your seating carefully if youre sensitive to TV content.
Value (5.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 21% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot presents a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.4 indicating an average performance. Many guests appreciate the happy hours and affordable options, finding the prices decent and even getting a $4 discount on occasion. Some found the food and drinks to be a great value, especially during happy hour, making it a good option for exploration.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 45.8%, with 12 negative opinions compared to 11 positive ones out of 24 total. Several diners were disappointed by discrepancies between prices on the menu and the final bill, feeling that the entree prices were too high for the quality. The automatic gratuity for what some considered subpar service, and the overall feeling of being in expensive restaurants without a corresponding level of dining, were significant dealbreakers.
Value
24
Reviews
45%
Satisfaction
12
negative
1
neutral
11
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great happy hour deals
- Affordable options available
- Good portions for price
What people don't like
- Menu prices inaccurate
- Automatic gratuity issues
- Too pricey for quality
Often praised
- happy hourlucked out and came during happy hour
- pricesneither were the prices
- $4 discountgot 4$ off our meal
- Happy Hourstill have HH
- affordable optionsone of the more affordable options for brunch at $25.
- billbill was adjusted to the right amount
- happy hoursThey also have happy hours
- priced for explorationdelicious happy hour bites and beverages priced for exploration
- valueThe drinks were outstanding, all featuring a ‘fermented’ element. The food was delicious and a great value, with dishes like hanger steak, loco moco, and calamari all around $20-30 and served in good portions. I would highly recommend this bar/restaurant for date nights due to its great ambience and excellent drinks and food.
Frequently criticized
- billprices that you pay when you finally get the bill
- pricePaid $36 for it. A little too pricey
- Total for 3Total for 3: $220
- automatic gratuityautomatic gratuity is added to subpar service
- entreePrice was $26 for the entree. Not worth it
- expensive restaurantsfor restaurants this expensive i should feel like it was the best food of my life
- level of diningFor the amount of money spent, I expected a higher level of dining. The automatic gratuity added to the bill, coupled with what felt like pampered wait staff rewarded for poor performance, was disappointing.
- prices on the menuprices on the menu are less than the prices that you pay
- tip recommendationcalculate their tip recommendation on top of tax
- update the menushould update the menu with the right prices
If you're looking for a good deal, definitely check out their happy hour for affordable bites and drinks. However, be wary of the regular menu prices and double-check your bill, as some guests found the value lacking for full-price items and experienced pricing discrepancies.
How are the prices at Fermentation Lab?
You’re looking at roughly 46 per person – reported by 60 diners. That puts it in the $41–$50 category. For a Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at the full picture, prices are quite spread out. While the average sits in the middle, you’ll find a good mix of both more budget-friendly and higher-end options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 60 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
All in all, we’d say the pricing here feels pretty fair for a Restaurant. With options spanning from more budget-friendly to a bit more premium, it seems like a good value for what you get.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Fermentation Lab
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Beautiful Bar with Outstanding Drinks and Food
My experience at this beautiful bar/restaurant tucked away in San Francisco’s Japantown was fantastic. I went on a Friday night after the Warriors game with some friends. The location is beautiful, and the environment is quiet and relaxed.
The staff was outstanding; multiple members greeted us and shared updates on new menu items. The drinks were outstanding, all featuring a ‘fermented’ element. The food was delicious and a great value, with dishes like hanger steak, loco moco, and calamari all around $20-30 and served in good portions.
I would highly recommend this bar/restaurant for date nights due to its great ambience and excellent drinks and food.
- bar/restaurant9
- location9
- environment8
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
8
Relaxing spot with great ambiance
My experience at this restaurant was very positive. The decor seemed nice, and it was a good spot to relax and enjoy some refreshing drinks. I particularly liked the chandelier and high ceilings.
Overall, I had a good time there.
- decor8
- spot to relax8
- chandelier8
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Impressive Service and Atmosphere, Food Almost Perfect
My first visit to this establishment was a truly impressive experience. The service and atmosphere were outstanding. While the food was very delicious and well-displayed, the only minor drawback was the temperature of the Pork Belly and Hanger Steak, which could have been a little hotter.
The atmosphere was warm and cozy, creating a genuinely pleasant dining environment. The service was exceptional; our server, Trinity, was courteous, professional, and friendly with a constant pleasant smile. Her genuine personality truly enhanced the entire experience.
We will definitely return to Fermentation Lab in the very near future.
- service10
- atmosphere10
- food8
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Gorgeous Food and Service in Japantown
My experience at this restaurant was absolutely gorgeous and amazing! My sister had recommended it, and I'm so glad she did. From the presentation to the taste, service, and decor, everything was top-notch.
I ordered the Katsu Loco Moco, which was perfectly crunchy with a delightful blend of miso and gorgonzola sauce, topped with a perfectly cooked egg and furikake. My sister's squid ink pasta was creamy with a prominent garlic flavor. I thoroughly enjoyed our dinner and will definitely be back!
- presentation10
- taste10
- service10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Chic Cocktails and Fantastic Service
I visited Fermentation Lab last night for the first time, seeking a place with unique cocktails, and it was perfect for that. The interior is very chicly decorated, and our server was incredibly attentive. The cocktails were some of the best I've ever had; the lychee martini was particularly amazing if you enjoy a sweet, balanced drink.
While the price is a bit high, it's expected in San Francisco and feels justified by the upscale atmosphere. Our server, Adrian, was absolutely fantastic. He made us feel right at home and was very informative about their offerings.
He recommended a sake that I loved after I explained my preferences, and I appreciated that he didn't seem to be trying to upsell. I would absolutely return for the lovely drinks, the perfect and convenient location (surrounded by cheaper karaoke bars for a fun night out), and the excellent service.
- unique cocktails9
- chicly decorated8
- attentive server9
- price4
What Fermentation Lab offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Has changing table(s)
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Paid parking garage
- Usually plenty of parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and dining options can you expect at Fermentation Lab Japantown?
At Fermentation Lab Japantown, you’ll find a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy a wide range of dining options, from a hearty breakfast or brunch to a satisfying lunch or dinner, and even delicious desserts, all with comfortable seating and table service.
What payment methods and accessibility features are available at Fermentation Lab Japantown?
Fermentation Lab Japantown makes it easy for you to pay, accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. The restaurant is also fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Fermentation Lab?
Fermentation Lab generally receives good feedback, with a Restaurant Score of 8 and Customer Satisfaction at 82.9%. Most guests appreciate the experience.
What are the standout features of Fermentation Lab?
Customers frequently praise the inviting Ambience (8.5), the attentive Service (8.3), and the quality of the Food (8), especially the drinks and happy hour offerings.
Are there any common concerns about dining at Fermentation Lab?
Some patrons express concerns regarding Value (5.4), citing high regular prices and occasional issues with billing accuracy or automatic gratuity. Service can also be inconsistent at times.