Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
oChef » Mel’s Kitchen – San Francisco
Mel's Kitchen - San Francisco
Photo from Mel’s Kitchen
Mel's Kitchen at a glance
San Francisco Polk Gulch
- 🍔 American Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 123 of the guests
#1929 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#97 American Restaurant out of 121 in San Francisco
Good
6.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
621
Reviews
63.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Classic ambiance
- Satisfying food
- Friendly service
Frequently criticized
- Poor value
- Inattentive service
- Unpleasant smell
The American restaurant Mel’s Kitchen in San Francisco’s vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood offers you a truly classic dining experience. You’ll discover a historic and cozy atmosphere perfect for any meal, from a quick bite to a leisurely dinner.
Known for its great dessert, this spot invites you to indulge your sweet tooth after enjoying a delicious meal. Whether you’re craving late-night food or a hearty breakfast, Mel’s Kitchen has you covered.
Overview: Introducting Mel's Kitchen
Mel’s Kitchen offers a distinct diner experience, often praised for its friendly service and a classic diner atmosphere that many find appealing. Guests frequently enjoy the well-prepared breakfast items and generous portion size, contributing to a generally pleasant visit.
However, some patrons have noted concerns regarding the overall value, with opinions suggesting that certain items can be overpriced for the quality received. There have also been occasional remarks about slow or inattentive service, and some found the overall ambiance to have an unpleasant smell.
Good
6.6
out of 10
621
Reviews
63.8%
Satisfaction
173
negative
52
neutral
396
positive
Mel’s Kitchen holds an overall Restaurant Score of 6.6, placing it in the average category, with Customer Satisfaction at a mixed 63.8%. This assessment is drawn from 621 customer opinions, comprising 396 positive and 173 negative remarks.
While not outstanding, these figures suggest a generally acceptable experience for many, though there’s certainly room for improvement. Diving deeper, the Ambience (7.6) stands out as a strong point, often praised for its classic diner feel.
Food (6.8) also performs well, indicating that many find the dishes satisfying. However, Service (6.4) is more of an average performer, and Value (3.5) clearly lags, suggesting that pricing is a significant concern for a notable portion of guests.
What people like
- Classic diner ambiance
- Satisfying food options
- Attentive, friendly service
What people don't like
- Poor value for money
- Inattentive service
- Unpleasant restaurant smell
With a Recommendation Score of 6.6, Mel’s Kitchen presents itself as a decent option, particularly if you appreciate a classic diner setting and generally satisfying food. It’s a place that delivers on a nostalgic experience, making it a solid choice for certain occasions.
However, be mindful of the pricing, as some find the value proposition lacking. If you prioritize an authentic atmosphere and don’t mind potentially higher costs or occasional service hiccups, it could be worth a visit.
Otherwise, you might find better alternatives for your budget.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Mel's Kitchen
Food (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
The food here generally hits the spot, with many customers enjoying their meals. With a score of 6.8 and 67.3% customer satisfaction, its a mixed bag but leans positive. Out of 312 total opinions, 210 were positive, praising delicious burgers, crispy fries, and comforting breakfast options like eggs and pancakes.
Many found the portions generous and the taste satisfying. However, not all experiences were stellar, with 70 negative opinions. Some found the food bland or overpriced for the quality, mentioning issues like burnt chicken, small meat patties, or flavorless sauces.
While the overall sentiment is mixed, theres room for improvement in consistency, especially with items like chilaquiles and certain burgers.
Food
312
Reviews
67%
Satisfaction
70
negative
32
neutral
210
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious comfort food
- Generous portions
- Great breakfast options
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Sometimes overpriced
- Bland flavor issues
Often praised
- foodWhile the service was a bit slow initially, it improved significantly once the dishes were delivered. Overall, the food was excellent and the atmosphere was fantastic.
- breakfastJ'ai testé le petit déjeuner (oeuf, bacon, pancake) et tout était bon
- French toastThe food was very good. My friend had French toast and I had grilled cheese sandwich with tomato bisque. I asked for a refill for iced tea but the waiter said I couldn't get another refill without having to pay the $6 full price (nothing was noted on the menu).
- pancakespancakes and ommettes were all fine
- eggsThe eggs were done just right
- friesThe Smashburger and fries are my favorites
- FoodFood:5
- orange juiceThe service was on point, and the food was prepared exactly how I asked. I enjoyed the fresh squeezed orange juice and apple. The music was good, and the location was fabulous.
- portion sizeboth were good sized portions and we were pleasantly surprised
- baconoeuf, bacon, pancake et tout était bon
Frequently criticized
- foodHowever, from my personal opinion, I feel they are overpriced for the quality and type of food they serve. The atmosphere was rated a 3, and the service a 5, but the food received a low score of 1.
- breakfastMy experience at this restaurant was that it was too expensive for what it is. I was charged 27 dollars for 2 eggs, hashbrowns, toast, and orange juice. While the food was decent (rated 3/5), the price point for this breakfast was definitely a letdown.
- food qualityThe service was terrible; the lady, who I believe was the manager, was unpleasant, and the guy who brought our food was also not friendly. Finally, the food was WAY overpriced for the quality. Honestly, you're better off eating fast food for the service and food quality we received.
- friesthe fries are always stale
- portion sizeOne piece was the size of baseball the other the size was the size of a gumball
- potatoesthe potatoes were chewy and undercooked.
- steakreceived a cold, overcooked steak
- amount of foodAfter paying, including an 18% tip, the total was $30. I wasn't even partially full; the amount of food was so small. There were only 4 people eating there, and I can see why.
- burgerThe burger was unmemorable
- eggsOver cooked "over medium" eggs
If youre looking for classic American comfort food with generous portions, youll likely find something to enjoy here. However, be aware that consistency can be a bit of a gamble, so manage your expectations for every dish. It's worth a try for the popular items, but some might find it a bit pricey for the quality.
Service (6.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 82% of the guests
The service here seems to be a bit of a mixed bag, with plenty of positive experiences alongside some areas for improvement. Many guests rave about the friendly staff and attentive servers who often provide quick service, making for a welcoming experience. Specific shout-outs to individuals like Antonia, Javier, and Felipe highlight a personal touch, contributing to 105 positive remarks out of 176 total.
However, some diners have encountered slow service and frustrating waiting times, with a few unfortunate instances of rude or unattentive staff. These 62 negative comments contribute to an overall score of 6.4, placing it in the average range, and a customer satisfaction of 59.7%, indicating a mixed experience for many.
Service
176
Reviews
59%
Satisfaction
62
negative
9
neutral
105
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick service
- Personalized attention
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Rude interactions
- Unattentive staff
Often praised
- serviceIf you’re looking for that classic old-school diner feel, this is the place to go. From the vintage decor to the friendly service, Mel’s delivers a nostalgic yet solid breakfast experience that hits the spot. I ordered an omelet with home fries and toast, and it did not disappoint.
- staffThe service is amazing. The staff actually takes time to stop and chat with you. Every time I came in at least one person would ask about my hospitalized family member.
- ServiceWhat I love about Mel’s is the retro diner ambiance – it really transports you back in time with its old-school decor, jukebox vibes, and cozy booths. Service was friendly and quick, making for a relaxed and enjoyable breakfast experience. If you’re craving a classic diner breakfast with generous portions and a nostalgic feel, Mel’s on Van Ness is a solid choice.
- waitressfavorite waitress who always makes us feel welcome
- serverMy server was Primitivo MV. He is on top of things and personable.
- AntoniaWe popped in for a quick bite before a music show at the Regency Ballroom, which is just a couple of blocks up the street. We were greeted by Antonia, who has a good sense of humor and uses it. We ordered some onion rings, chicken tenders, and mozzarella sticks.
- serversThe servers are very attentive, always asking customers for refills
- service staffservice staff is always prompt and attentive
- waiterThe waiter at the beginning was nice. He smiled
- Antonia, Ricardo, and StevensAntonia, Ricardo, and Stevens are awesome!
Frequently criticized
- serviceThey serve typical American cuisine, ranging from eggs and spicy chicken wings to spaghetti and meatballs. While the service was a bit slow initially, it improved significantly once the dishes were delivered. Overall, the food was excellent and the atmosphere was fantastic.
- staffThe updated restaurant looks modern. Due to post pandemic lows in tourists, patrons are few and staff seem stretched. I hope this changes soon.
- waiterrude waiter.. got very upset because I left a low tip..And wanted more..
- waiting timeThe restaurant was nearly empty, with maybe three people at the counter already eating and one or two other tables, also already eating. After being seated, we waited at least ten minutes without anyone checking with us or bringing us water. When we gestured that we'd like some service, the host/server impolitely told us to wait.
- billasked for the bill about five times and was ignored
- waitressThe waitress didn't like my choice of table
- answerMy experience at this restaurant was marred by the worst service ever. When I inquired about the spiciness of the food, I received an outrageously unfriendly answer. The overall experience with service, atmosphere, and food was rated as 1.
- cellularsVisibly on their cellulars the whole visit.
- closing timetold q cerraban en 10 minutos pero en su horario de Google maps sale q cierra alas 11
- computer glitchcomputer glitch that required them to retake the order
If youre hoping for a consistently smooth experience, be prepared for some variability. While many praise the friendly and quick service, theres a chance you might encounter slower moments or less attentive staff. It's a bit of a gamble, but often worth it for the personal touches.
Ambience (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 50% of the guests
The atmosphere at this spot really hits the mark, earning a 7.6 score, which is definitely good, and a solid 85.6% customer satisfaction. With 77 positive remarks out of 90, guests frequently rave about the charming retro diner ambiance, the overall cleanliness, and the relaxed, welcoming vibe, often highlighting the pleasant music. However, a handful of the 10 negative comments did point out a few areas for improvement.
Some guests encountered an unpleasant smell, found the booths uncomfortable, or were inconvenienced by needing a code for the bathrooms, suggesting a few minor snags in an otherwise positive experience.
Ambience
90
Reviews
85%
Satisfaction
10
negative
3
neutral
77
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Charming retro ambiance
- Spotless clean environment
- Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
What people don't like
- Unpleasant lingering smells
- Uncomfortable seating booths
- Bathroom code inconvenience
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was pleasant. It's a good breakfast spot with a calm atmosphere and no lines, frequented by many regulars. While the food seemed geared towards an older demographic, with scarce salt and nonexistent spice on the chilaquiles, I would definitely come back for the shakes.
- musicoldie but goodies playing throughout the restaurant
- placethe place was nice and cozy on the inside
- AtmosphereMy experience at this classic 50's themed diner, located in the heart of the city, was a delightful one. It's one of my go-to spots for a good Patty Melt, and I can attest to their juicy burgers and crispy fries.
- bathroomThe bathroom was spotless like the restaurant.
- bathroomsThe bathrooms are clean
- classic dinerGreat classic diner
- decordecorado igual que los demás restaurantes de la cadena, aunque un poco más sobrio
- dining roomThe dining room is clean
- locationThe location across the street from the hospital is a definite plus
Frequently criticized
- ambienceatmosphere:2
- atmospherethe place smells awful
- bathrooms codeI ordered a patty melt and liked it, but my wife ordered Chilaquiles and did not like it. The bathrooms are clean, but you need to get a code to use them.
- boothsthe booths are uncomfortable
- menu photographsmenu photographs are un readable on the phone
- placeIt was the worst espresso martini ever, and I never received my water. This place is a joke, and I wouldn't recommend anyone to go there.
- renovationseems like it was renovated last around that time
- smellthere was a smell that almost took my appetite away
- smell of a burnt panthere was a smell of a burnt pan or something stinking up the restaurant
- someone shoutingsee someone shouting directly at us from the sidewalk
If youre seeking a spot with a charming retro diner feel, good music, and a generally clean, relaxed vibe, youll likely enjoy the atmosphere here. While a rare unpleasant smell or uncomfortable booth might occur, the overall ambiance is a strong reason to visit.
Value (3.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 27% of the guests
While a few guests found the prices to be reasonable or as good as any place else, suggesting a decent value for the quality and experience, these sentiments are in the minority. Interestingly, overall customer satisfaction for the restaurant is quite high at 9.3, indicating other aspects are well-received. However, the value aspect itself receives a poor score of 3.5, with a significant 31 negative remarks out of 43 total comments.
Many felt the food was overpriced, expensive, or on the pricey side, leading to concerns about inflated cost and not being worth the money for the quality or quantity received.
Value
43
Reviews
9%
Satisfaction
31
negative
8
neutral
4
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
What people don't like
- Overpriced food
- Too expensive
- Poor value
Often praised
- PricesPrices seem very reasonable.
- better optionsYou have to many better options close by.
- priceIf you’re craving a classic diner breakfast with generous portions and a nostalgic feel, Mel’s on Van Ness is a solid choice. It’s a little on the pricey side, but for the quality and experience, I’d definitely come back.
- pricesthe prices were as good as any place else around there
Frequently criticized
- priceThe service was terrible; the lady, who I believe was the manager, was unpleasant, and the guy who brought our food was also not friendly. Finally, the food was WAY overpriced for the quality. Honestly, you're better off eating fast food for the service and food quality we received.
- moneyWhat a wate of good meat and money
- pricesIf they can't afford to stay in business in this decaying city, then close your doors. It's not fair to make paying customers pay ridiculous prices for food that's below average.
- Price per personToo expensive for the amount of food
- black beansHowever, my sister loves their vegan chili and orders it every time she visits San Francisco. A point of contention arose when they wanted to charge her $8 for an extra scoop of black beans, which I found ridiculous. On the service front, Fillippe and Javier were very nice, and we enjoyed being waited on by them.
- expensiveExpensive, like much of San Fran
- inflated costat inflated cost
- lunch tabthe $89 tab for lunch
- mealthis isn’t exactly a cheap meal
- overpriced dinerThink of Mel's as an overpriced diner.
If you're considering this spot, be prepared for potentially higher costs, as many found the value to be a sticking point. While other aspects of the experience might be excellent, the price-to-quality ratio for the food often disappointed. It might be worth it if you prioritize other factors over strict budget adherence.
How are the prices at Mel's Kitchen?
You’re looking at roughly 27 per person – reported by 123 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For an American Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most diners spend in the 11 – 30 $ range, showing a clear sweet spot around the average, though a few folks do splurge a bit more.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 123 reviews.
Comparing this restaurant’s value for money against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for an American spot in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels pretty fair. Its a solid mid-range option that wont break the bank for a good meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Mel's Kitchen
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Amazing Food and Service at Mel's!
My experience at Mel's was fantastic! The staff is always amazing, and the food is consistently hot, fresh, and delicious. I often visit Mel's for meals when my husband is in the hospital across the street.
Their tomato soup and grilled cheese is excellent, and the short rib nachos are another favorite. While everything is good, these two items are my go-to choices. The fresh vegetables that accompanied my steak dinner were incredibly good, and the steak itself was cooked to perfection 👌🏻.
For dessert, their chocolate cake was very moist and yummy! If you haven't been to Mel's, you're missing out!
- staff10
- food10
- tomato soup and grilled cheese10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Great Food and Atmosphere, Confusing Service
My experience at the restaurant was a bit of a mix. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was fantastic, rated 5/5. However, the service was a bit confusing, rated 1/5.
The manager was looking for someone, thinking they were causing issues in the kitchen. It turned out to be their niece who had dyed her hair blue, and the manager realized it wasn't the staff member they were looking for. Despite the service hiccup, the food and atmosphere made it a memorable visit.
- food10
- atmosphere10
- service1
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Great Burgers from Years Ago
I visited this restaurant a few years ago when I first moved to San Francisco. My experience was centered around the food, specifically the great burgers. The service and atmosphere were also highly rated.
- burgers10
- food10
- service10
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Great Old-Fashioned Breakfast Spot
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed a great breakfast with great service. It's refreshing to visit an old establishment and get a real breakfast.
The homemade corned beef hash was particularly good. This is now my new go-to when I'm staying at the Holiday Inn up the street.
- breakfast9
- service9
- old establishment8
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
8
Solid Breakfast Spot with Great Vibe
I stopped by this spot for breakfast and had a good experience. The place has a really nice vibe and the ambiance is great. The staff was friendly and polite, which made the visit even better.
The food was tasty — nothing over the top, but well prepared and it definitely hit the spot. Overall, it was a positive experience and a solid choice if you’re looking for a nice breakfast in the area. (Little bit expensive)
- vibe8
- ambiance8
- staff9
- price3
What Mel's Kitchen offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Offerings
- Late-night food
- Happy hour drinks
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Counter service
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Historic
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Mel's Kitchen?
At Mel’s Kitchen, you can enjoy a casual, cozy, and historic atmosphere. You have various dining options, including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, with both counter and table service available. It’s also a great spot for dessert or a quick bite.
Does Mel's Kitchen offer options for different dietary needs or times of day?
Yes, Mel’s Kitchen caters to various preferences. You’ll find vegetarian options and organic dishes on the menu. For your convenience, they offer late-night food, happy hour drinks and food, and are open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
What do customers enjoy most about the atmosphere at Mel's Kitchen?
Many customers praise Mel’s Kitchen for its classic diner atmosphere, often describing it as cozy with a nostalgic feel and playing “oldie but goodies” music. The cleanliness of the facilities, including the bathrooms, is also frequently noted.
Are there any common complaints regarding the pricing or service at Mel's Kitchen?
Yes, Value is a significant concern, with many finding the prices to be too high for the quality and portion sizes. While service can be friendly, some experiences mention slow or inattentive staff, and even occasional rudeness.