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oChef » Buster’s Cheese Steak – San Francisco
Buster's Cheese Steak - San Francisco
Photo from Buster’s Cheese Steak
Buster's Cheese Steak at a glance
San Francisco North Beach
- 🍔 American Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 97 of the guests
#1486 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#77 American Restaurant out of 121 in San Francisco
Good
7.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
402
Reviews
70.4%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Flavorful food
- Budget-friendly
Frequently criticized
- Health concerns
- Service issues
The American restaurant Buster’s Cheese Steak in San Francisco’s vibrant North Beach neighborhood offers a truly authentic experience. You’ll find yourself drawn to its casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal.
Whether you’re craving lunch, dinner, or even late-night food, this spot has you covered. With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, enjoying their delicious offerings is always convenient.
It’s a go-to for satisfying your cravings in the city.
Overview: Introducting Buster's Cheese Steak
Buster’s Cheese Steak offers a mixed experience, where the core product shines brightly. Many patrons praise the cheesesteaks and other menu items for their flavor and quality, often noting a decent price that makes it an appealing option.
However, some concerns arise regarding aspects like customer service and, notably, serious health and safety violations that have been reported. While the food often receives high marks for taste and value, the overall dining experience can be inconsistent.
Issues with order accuracy and staff accountability occasionally surface, contrasting with reports of friendly and fast service. This creates a varied picture for potential diners.
Good
7.2
out of 10
402
Reviews
70.4%
Satisfaction
89
negative
30
neutral
283
positive
Buster’s Cheese Steak achieves a respectable overall score of 7.2, indicating a generally positive reception, with customer satisfaction also landing at a good 70.4%. These figures, drawn from 402 customer observations, including 283 positive and 89 negative remarks, suggest that most diners leave content.
The strong performance in key areas contributes significantly to this favorable standing. Delving into specifics, the Food (7.5) is clearly a highlight, consistently satisfying palates.
Service (7.4) and Value (7.4) also perform well, suggesting efficient operations and fair pricing. However, the Ambience (5.4) score is notably lower, falling into the average range, which points to an area that could benefit from attention to enhance the overall dining environment.
What people like
- Flavorful cheesesteaks
- Good value
- Prompt service
What people don't like
- Health code issues
- Service accountability
- Price discrepancies
Buster’s Cheese Steak presents a compelling option for those prioritizing taste and value in their cheesesteak experience. With a solid recommendation score of 7.5, it suggests that for many, the culinary offerings outweigh any potential drawbacks.
If you’re seeking a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank, it’s certainly worth considering. However, be mindful of the reported inconsistencies in service and the lower ambience score, which might affect your overall visit.
While the food often hits the mark, setting expectations for a no-frills environment and potentially varied customer interaction could lead to a more enjoyable experience.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Buster's Cheese Steak
Food (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 95% of the guests
When it comes to the food, things are looking pretty good! With a solid score of 7.5 and customer satisfaction at 74.1%, many folks are enjoying their meals. Out of 247 comments, 183 rave about the delicious cheesesteak and garlic fries, often described as flavorful and hot and fresh, truly hitting the spot.
However, not everyone had a perfect experience, with 43 negative comments surfacing. Some found the food bland, mentioning soggy bread or that it was overly salty. A few even reported stomach pain, suggesting some inconsistencies in quality.
Food
247
Reviews
74%
Satisfaction
43
negative
21
neutral
183
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious cheesesteaks
- Flavorful garlic fries
- Hot and fresh
What people don't like
- Inconsistent quality
- Soggy bread
- Overly salty
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was quick and delicious. I enjoyed it so much that I scarfed it down before I could even take a picture.
- cheesesteaksMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had the best cheesesteaks west of Philly. It's definitely a must go.
- cheesesteakthe best cheesesteak shop is usually just the one in the corner nearest to you
- meatI had the cheesesteak and fries, and they were excellent. The meat was well cooked, and they didn't skimp on the meat or cheese. It was a great lunch experience.
- garlic friesI had a tasty cheesesteak at a decent price. I ordered the standard Philly with garlic fries, and it was superior to any chain restaurant I've tried for a sub. The meat was nice and juicy, the bacon I requested was crispy and tasty, and the melted cheese was awesome.
- Philly cheesesteakPhilly cheesesteak that was a 6 star great quality
- burgerBesides pearls deluxe, this is hands down the best burger in town. No questions asked, full stop, send it.
- friesThe fries were crispy on the outside and salted well
- Philly Cheese Steak SandwichThe Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich was a standout dish
- Foodgood if your dining by yourself or with one other person - Food:5
Frequently criticized
- breadit helped the bread get super soggy
- FoodFood:1
- Philly cheesesteakordered a Philly cheesesteak expecting beef, but what I got was a sandwich mixed with pork
- blandWhen I asked for a small cup of water to help me eat my sandwich, I was told, "we only sell water we don't give out water. " The standard cheese steak sandwich I ordered was overly salty and very bland, lacking any real flavor beyond saltiness. I believe there are numerous better places to eat in the area, and I do not recommend wasting your money at this grease pit.
- cheeseI purchased two Philly steaks for the price of 4. The bread was old and the cheese was sheep cheese. I do not recommend anyone waste their money here because it's not tasty.
- cheesesteakThe cheesesteak was definitely very oily
- meatI found the meat to be a bit too much salty.
- portion sizeI was also disappointed by the portion size: I ordered a large sandwich, but it came out to be a regular size sandwich.
- CheesesteakTHE worst Cheesesteak and fries I have ever had
- Philly steakDoesn’t look like Philly steak
If youre craving a classic cheesesteak or garlic fries, this spot seems to deliver a generally flavorful and satisfying experience. Just be aware that some diners have encountered bland or overly salty' dishes, so consistency might be a slight gamble.
Service (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 50% of the guests
Alright, lets talk service! This spot generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.4 and customer satisfaction sitting pretty at 75.7%. Many of the 53 positive remarks praise the friendly and fast team, often highlighting quick service and how theyre even open late for your convenience.
Sounds like a smooth operation! However, its not all sunshine and rainbows, as 16 negative comments point to some bumps in the road. Concerns pop up around customer service, especially regarding delivery orders and instances where staff seemed dismissive or had an attitude.
Theres definitely room for improvement in consistency and accountability.
Service
70
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
16
negative
1
neutral
53
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, kind staff
- Fast service
- Open late, holidays
What people don't like
- Poor customer service
- Staff dismiss concerns
- Lacks accountability
Often praised
- servicethe service was excellent with a perfect score of 5
- ServiceService:5
- staffstaff is friendly and just doing their job
- fastFriendly, Fast, Flavorful
- peopleThe people are nice
- service speedMy experience at the restaurant was excellent. They made my food very fast, and the food itself was good. I give it 5 stars!
- Fati"Fati" was very friendly
- cooksthe cooks were very friendly and hospitable
- deliverycheesesteak sandwiches delivered
- experienceI tried the mushroom cheesesteaks and other varieties, and they were all great tasting. While the place is tiny with very limited seating, it didn't detract from the wonderful experience. I will surely be visiting here again for a bite.
Frequently criticized
- customer serviceexpect basic customer service, avoid this place
- ServiceService:2
- accountabilityThey don’t take accountability and clearly don’t respect their customers
- add tomatoespaid $1 to add tomatoes and they didn’t add tomatoes
- care and respecttreat delivery orders with less care and respect for customers
- cupsThey don't have plastic utensils or cups available.
- delivery ordersmost businesses, in the city anyway, treat delivery orders with less care
- disclosureyou should disclose that
- plastic utensilsThey don't have plastic utensils or cups available.
- responsibilitythe person I spoke with tried to play games and avoid taking responsibility
If you're looking for a quick, friendly meal, especially late at night, this place often delivers. Just be aware that some experiences with customer service, particularly for delivery, might not always hit the same high notes.
Ambience (5.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 38% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot offers a mixed bag, with a score of 5.4 and customer satisfaction sitting at 48.3%. Many appreciate it as a convenient late-night spot with good vibes, often highlighting the outdoor atmosphere, clean environment, and great location. Based on 29 positive remarks out of 60 total, guests enjoy the unique experience and pleasant views.
However, the ambience also faces significant criticism from 24 negative remarks. Concerns include very limited seating space, difficult parking, and vulgar music. More alarmingly, there are serious mentions of health and safety violations, including cockroaches and rodents, which understandably create a very unpleasant experience.
Ambience
60
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
24
negative
7
neutral
29
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Outdoor seating available
- Convenient location
- Good vibes
What people don't like
- Cockroaches and rodents
- Vulgar music
- Limited seating
Often praised
- atmosphereThe atmosphere was also enjoyable, rated at 4
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- cleanlimpio
- locationGreat location with some outdoor seating
- outdoor seatingthere is outdoor seating
- convenient locationin a convenient location
- experienceMy experience at this restaurant was for a raw, almost street kitchen type of experience. The Cheesesteaks were the best in town.
- goodIt was a unique experience to watch my meal being cooked right in front of me. The restaurant was clean and overall a good experience.
- good vibesAlways good vibes
- late-night spotBuster's is a great late night spot
Frequently criticized
- parkingFYI parking sucks 🙃
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:2
- atmosphereit all felt... Empty. Less lively. Less spirited.
- cockroachesforced to close immediately due to cockroaches, rodents, and other health and safety violations
- cockroaches and rodentsMy experience at this restaurant was extremely negative due to severe health code violations. The kitchen was found to be teeming with cockroaches and rodents. I strongly advise everyone to search the news and avoid this place at all costs.
- experiencesuch a super unpleasant and incredibly disappointing experience
- foul languageThe foul language when simply trying to order your favorite cheesesteak EVERRR
- grease pitthis grease pit
- health and safety violationsforced to close immediately due to cockroaches, rodents, and other health and safety violations
- health departmenthealth department shut them down for live roaches
If youre looking for a no-frills, late-night spot with outdoor seating and dont mind potential issues, it might be worth a try. However, be aware of the serious health and safety concerns and limited amenities that could significantly impact your experience.
Value (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a good score of 7.4 and a solid customer satisfaction of 72%. Many diners find it quite economical and a great option if youre on a budget, often praising the priced right items and excellent rapport qualité prix. Out of 25 overall comments, 18 were positive, highlighting the generous portions for the cost.
However, not everyone agrees, with 6 negative remarks pointing out that some items can feel a bit pricey or even expensive. A few customers noted discrepancies between online and in-store prices, which can make it seem less like an affordable meal option than expected. Its something to keep in mind before you order.
Value
25
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
6
negative
1
neutral
18
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great value for money
- Affordable, large portions
- Budget-friendly meals
What people don't like
- Can be pricey
- Inconsistent pricing
- Not always affordable
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was delightful! I had a tasty cheesesteak at a decent price. I ordered the standard Philly with garlic fries, and it was superior to any chain restaurant I've tried for a sub.
- pricesprices lower than most burger joints
- budgetGreat place if you’re on a budget
- burger jointsprices lower than most burger joints
- costit’ll cost you less that $20
- economicalmuy económico
- half pound burgershalf pound burgers cost less than what most places would charge
- largeorder a large. Why a large? Cause why wouldn't you when it's literally like a $1.00 - $1.50 more?
- price/leistungPreis/ Leistung auch Top.
- priced rightPriced right,too.
Frequently criticized
- pricethe price is expensive
- $1paid $1 to add tomatoes and they didn’t add tomatoes
- affordable meal optionHowever, I'm only giving 4 stars for service because the prices were substantially higher than what was listed on the website. This discrepancy needs to be updated as it makes it not really an affordable meal option.
- pricesprices are substantially higher than those listed on the website
- priceyits pricey
If youre looking for a meal that generally offers good bang for your buck, especially for hearty portions, this place is worth checking out. Just be aware that a few items might feel a bit expensive, and its always a good idea to confirm current pricing.
How are the prices at Buster's Cheese Steak?
You’re looking at roughly 17 per person – reported by 97 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For an American Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, most diners stick right within that $11–$20 sweet spot, showing prices are quite consistent around the average.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 97 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for an American spot in San Francisco. Its a solid choice if youre looking for good value without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Buster's Cheese Steak
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Delivery
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Fantastic Cheesesteaks Delivered!
We received a few cheesesteak sandwiches via delivery the other night, and WOW! They were fantastic! They were just as good as getting one in Philly.
They were also priced right. We will definitely be regulars from now on.
- cheesesteak sandwiches10
- delivery9
- priced right9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Burger is the Star!
My experience at this restaurant was centered around their exceptional food. While the cheesesteaks are great, I personally come here for the burger. It's truly hard to beat.
- cheesesteaks7
- burger9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Great East Coast Feed, Friendly Service
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed a great East Coast feed in San Francisco. The lovely staff made a fast and tasty meal and offered great customer service.
- East Coast feed9
- lovely staff10
- fast and tasty meal9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Fast, Good Food, Great Experience
My experience at the restaurant was excellent. They made my food very fast, and the food itself was good. I give it 5 stars!
- food10
- service speed10
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
8
Tasty Cheesesteaks on a Budget
My experience at this restaurant was a bit of a dive, but it delivered on tasty cheesesteak sandwiches. The portions were substantial enough to fill you up, and the cost was less than $20. The people were nice, and there's outdoor seating available for pleasant weather.
Inside, there's a small amount of counter seating. It's a great place if you're on a budget and need some heavy protein after drinks at nearby bars in North Beach.
- cheesesteak sandwiches8
- portions8
- people7
What Buster's Cheese Steak offers
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Quick bite
- Late-night food
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What dining and service options can you expect at Buster's Cheese Steak?
At Buster’s Cheese Steak, you have various convenient options. Enjoy a casual dine-in experience for lunch or dinner, with seating provided. For those on the go, takeout, delivery, and no-contact delivery are all available. It’s also a perfect spot for a quick bite or satisfying your late-night cravings.
Does Buster's Cheese Steak accommodate families and pets?
Yes, Buster’s Cheese Steak is family-friendly, offering high chairs for children to ensure a comfortable dining experience. If you’re visiting with your furry friends, you’ll be pleased to know that dogs are allowed outside, making it a welcoming spot for pet owners in North Beach.
How does Buster's Cheese Steak generally perform according to customer feedback?
Buster’s Cheese Steak holds an overall score of **7.2** with **70.4%** customer satisfaction. Its **Food** (7.5), **Service** (7.4), and **Value** (7.4) are rated well, though **Ambience** (5.4) is considered average.
What do customers appreciate most about Buster's Cheese Steak?
Customers frequently praise the flavorful **cheesesteaks** and other food items, often highlighting the quality of the meat and fries. Many also find the restaurant to offer good **value** for money, with prices often considered decent or budget-friendly.
Are there any significant concerns or drawbacks mentioned by diners at Buster's Cheese Steak?
Some diners have raised concerns about **service** accountability, such as missing items or issues with delivery orders. Additionally, there have been serious reports of **health and safety violations**, including mentions of cockroaches and rodents, which are significant dealbreakers for some.