ABSteak - Reviews

My experience at ABSteak by Chef Akira Back was a fun surprise! The modern and stylish space created an exciting atmosphere. The Korean-inspired twist on steak made everything feel fresh, and the meat quality was top-notch—super tender and flavorful. The sauces and sides provided the perfect balance. The staff were attentive without being over the top, and the vibe was lively yet comfortable. It's a great spot if you're looking for something upscale with a little edge.

My experience at this fantastic KBBQ spot, hidden near Union Square, was truly memorable. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the service was top-notch. Most importantly, the food was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend checking this place out!

My experience at this restaurant was absolutely fantastic! The interior was very modern and swanky. The quality of meat was off the charts, and the service was impeccable. While it is definitely more expensive than your typical Korean BBQ experience, it was SO worth it!

My experience at this restaurant was absolutely amazing. Hidden down in a basement, it felt like a discovery, far from the usual San Francisco vibe. While I didn't get to try everything, every dish we had was outstanding. From the mushroom & asparagus starter to the bulgogi and wagyu ribeye on the grill, and the kimchi pork belly fried rice, the food was a highlight. I will definitely be back soon!

I called to inquire about the farm where the Australian Wagyu was sourced to determine if someone in my party who is Halal observant could eat there. The host initially didn't know but offered to check with the kitchen, which I agreed to. However, after a hold, I was met by another staff member who lectured me, stating it was "extremely inappropriate" to ask the Front of House that question, especially given how busy they were. I was scolded multiple times for my question being "extremely inappropriate" because the restaurant was packed. While I understand being busy, a simple request to call back later would have sufficed. Instead, after obliging to check, the staff member returned to rant at a potential customer. As a premium steakhouse, staff should be knowledgeable about meat sourcing; most other steakhouses readily provide this information. Ironically, despite the lecture, I was told the meat is from Westholme farms, which is Halal. Unfortunately, this interaction prevented me from pursuing a reservation.

My experience at the restaurant involved enjoying the good quality meat. However, I felt the portion size for the meat package could have been larger. I also didn't appreciate the additional $6 charge for more lettuce to wrap the meat. The desserts were ultimately disappointing.

Our anniversary dinner at ABSteak was an unforgettable experience that exceeded all expectations. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was a vibe, and the restaurant was impeccably clean and tidy. Peter warmly greeted us and led us to our table. Our server, Gino, was incredibly friendly and helpful, expertly guiding us through the menu and offering excellent recommendations. We opted for Set A (small size), adding pork belly and boneless short rib, and also ordered the beef tongue and Jap A5 Ribeye à la carte. Set A was a perfect portion for two. Gino skillfully cooked all the meats at our table, ensuring they were perfect, and consistently checked on us, engaging in pleasant conversation. The Jap A5 Ribeye was the absolute highlight – incredibly soft, tender, and seasoned to perfection, melting in our mouths. For those not heavy eaters, ordering à la carte is a great option. The side dishes were also a fantastic complement to the meal. Overall, we rate our dining experience 5 stars for both service and food. We will definitely return to ABSteak for another special occasion. A special thank you to Peter and Gino for their outstanding hospitality and service, making our anniversary date night truly special.

My experience at ABSteak has been consistently excellent, making it my gold standard for monthly large dinner parties of 8-15 guests. The staff truly makes these long dinner parties the talk of the group. I regret not experiencing AB sooner due to a subpar review I read elsewhere. Special thanks to our patient server David, our wonderful bartender Daniel, Angel for always remembering us, and the events manager, Steven. FOOD (9/10): While most dishes were outstanding, the AB Wagyu Pizza (6/10) was just not as impressive as other offerings. I'd much rather have the Korean Beef Tartare (10/10), which I order every time for its freshness and perfect bite. The Seafood Pajeon (8/10) was surprisingly good, even for someone who isn't typically a fan. The Egg Soufflé (5/10) had mixed reviews; it was a perfect 10/10 with cheese initially, but a later experience without cheese and a burnt bottom led to it being sent back. The Prime Galbi Rice (10/10) is rich, fatty, and incredibly flavorful, requiring little to share due to its intensity. The Kimchi Fried Rice (5/10) was forgettable, with the Galbi Rice being the clear winner. The Soft Tofu Jjigae (8/10) boasts a super umami broth, likely anchovy-based, offering great flavor depth, though it could be skipped if focusing on other dishes. For meat lovers, the Snow Flower Kkottsal (100/10) and Woo Sul (Tongue) (100/10) are absolute must-tries. The tongue, paired with the yuzu, is a personal favorite. The Marinated Galbi (6/10) was not memorable, likely overshadowed by the superior meat options. The A5 Satsuma Deung Shim (10/10) is a pricier but worthwhile addition for variety in larger groups. DRINK (10/10): The cocktails are expertly made, with the AB Old-Fashion, featuring wagyu-washed rum smoked tableside, being a standout showstopper. AMBIENCE (100/10): The atmosphere is elevated and sexy without being stuffy, allowing for comfortable yet lively gatherings. It's the perfect place to dress up and still laugh loudly with friends, which explains why our dinners often last five hours. Plus, I always leave smelling the same way I arrived. SERVICE/STAFF (1000000/10): The staff is exceptional, a refreshing change from the sometimes disinterested servers at other high-end establishments. From the front of house to the food runners and servers, everyone is cheerful and genuinely happy to have you. They never made us feel like a burden or that we were too loud. The claim of being 'checked on too much' is amusing; they cook your meat without interrupting conversations.

My experience at the restaurant was good, albeit pricey. My favorites were the beef tartare, marinated galbi, and beef tongue. I also loved the egg soufflé and the yuzu lotus root and melon banchan dishes. The snow flower kkotsal was a bit too fatty for me, though fans of richer cuts might enjoy it.

My experience at this restaurant was exceptional. I found the Korean food to be the best I've had outside of Korea. The service was also excellent, contributing to a wonderful dining experience.