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oChef » Punjab Kabab House – San Francisco
Punjab Kabab House - San Francisco
Photo from Punjab Kabab House
Punjab Kabab House at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🍛 Indian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 10 of the guests
#938 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#33 Indian Restaurant out of 63 in San Francisco
Good
7.7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
239
Reviews
79.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Authentic cuisine
- Good value
Frequently criticized
- Small portions
- Dated ambiance
The restaurant Punjab Kabab House invites you to experience authentic Indian cuisine right in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square. If you’re searching for delicious late-night food or a satisfying meal any time of day, this spot has you covered.
You’ll discover a menu rich with traditional flavors, making it a perfect destination whether you’re dining in or grabbing a quick bite. It’s a true taste of India.
Overview: Introducting Punjab Kabab House
Punjab Kabab House offers a culinary experience where the food truly shines, often described as authentic and flavorful. Guests frequently commend the friendly staff and efficient operations, making for a generally pleasant visit.
It’s a place where the focus is clearly on delivering satisfying meals with attentive care. While the dining experience is largely positive, some aspects of the ambiance could use attention, with mentions of the cleanliness and overall interior needing improvement.
Additionally, a few patrons noted concerns regarding portions relative to cost, suggesting a mixed perception of overall value.
Good
7.7
out of 10
239
Reviews
79.1%
Satisfaction
40
negative
10
neutral
189
positive
Punjab Kabab House holds a solid overall score of 7.7, indicating a generally good performance across the board. Customer satisfaction stands at a healthy 79.1%, reflecting that most diners leave content.
This positive sentiment is drawn from a substantial 239 customer remarks, with 189 positive observations outweighing 40 negative ones, painting a clear picture of its strengths. Delving into specifics, the Service (8.1) receives the highest marks, closely followed by the Food (7.8), which is frequently praised.
Value (7.3) also scores well, though some comments suggest a desire for larger portions. The Ambience (6.4) is where there’s room for growth, scoring in the average range and indicating it’s an area that could benefit from some refinement.
What people like
- Authentic, flavorful cuisine
- Friendly, efficient service
- Affordable pricing
What people don't like
- Inconsistent portion sizes
- Ambience needs refinement
- Challenging neighborhood area
If you’re seeking genuine Indian and Pakistani flavors and appreciate attentive service, Punjab Kabab House is certainly worth considering. With a strong recommendation score of 8, it clearly delivers on its culinary promise, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing taste and hospitality over other factors.
However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies in portion sizes and manage expectations regarding the dining environment. While the food and service are commendable, a visit here is best approached with a focus on the cuisine rather than a polished setting.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Punjab Kabab House
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot truly delivers! With a solid score of 7.8 and a customer satisfaction rate of 79.3%, its clear most diners are leaving happy. Out of 150 comments, a whopping 119 rave about the amazing flavours, authentic dishes like chicken tikka masala, and generous portions, making it a go-to for Indian and Pakistani cuisine.
However, not every bite is perfect. Around 24 comments point to some inconsistencies, particularly with portion sizes sometimes being too small, spiciness levels being unpredictable, or a few dishes lacking the expected flavor. While these are minor hiccups, theyre worth noting for a truly exceptional meal.
Food
150
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
24
negative
7
neutral
119
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Amazing flavours
- Authentic dishes
- Delicious food
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Lack of flavor
- Inconsistent spice
Often praised
- foodMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great food and taste. I would definitely recommend it for people who want to have good Indian food in the region.
- chicken tikka masalathe meal was fabulous - chicken tikka masala
- naandoordashed naan and palak paneer 👌🏼👌🏼 YUMM!!
- Chicken Tikka MasalaTry the Chicken Tikka Masala
- HalalIt’s Halal
- Indian and Pakistani foodserves one of the best Indian and Pakistani food
- Indian foodI enjoyed the great food and taste. I would definitely recommend it for people who want to have good Indian food in the region.
- authenticSuper authentic
- flavoryou could taste the flavor without being overwhelmed
- lunch specialLunch special comes as a thali with one curry and one veg of the day with some rice and a naan, which is perfect quantity
Frequently criticized
- portionsAbsolutely disappointing portions.
- chickenYou get little chicken for the cost
- naannaan. The fish tandoori was very flavourful
- BiriyaniBiriyani doesn’t have any flavor
- Lamb BiryaniLamb briyani could have more meat
- RaitaRaita is not included with biriyani and it charged extra
- aloo gobiThe Alo gobi has absolutely zero flavour or seasoning whatsoever.
- authentic Punjabi foodBut not authentic Punjabi food
- chicken Tika comboAbsolutely disappointing portions. They served me less than 2 ounces of chicken.
- chicken karahiEverything was good except the karahi
Overall, if you're craving delicious and authentic Indian and Pakistani food, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be mindful that while the flavors are generally amazing, there might be slight variations in portion sizes or spice levels depending on your order.
Service (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 55% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot really shines! With a fantastic score of 8.1 and an excellent customer satisfaction rate of 90.2%, its clear guests are generally thrilled. Out of 41 remarks, 37 rave about the friendly staff, fast service, and the owners personal touch, making for an impeccable and welcoming experience.
However, its not entirely without a few bumps, with 3 negative comments among the 41. Some experiences mentioned slow replacement service for food issues and a few instances of inattentive staff. While these are minor, theyre worth noting for a complete picture of the service.
Service
41
Reviews
90%
Satisfaction
3
negative
1
neutral
37
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, efficient staff
- Fast, attentive service
- Owner's personal touch
What people don't like
- Inattentive staff
- Slow replacement service
Often praised
- serviceIt's one of the best Indian restaurants we've tried. Their food tastes really good, and both the service and presentation were the icing on the cake.
- staffThe staff is very efficient
- friendly staffFriendly Staff
- ownerowner, Waseem Saab is also the nicest person
- ArejesArejes was amazing waiter
- ServiceService:4
- app-based deliveryand app based delivery
- convenientSo affordable and convenient for me!
- customer serviceGood customer service
- dine-inIt’s open for dine in
Frequently criticized
- business hoursadjust your business hours on google if you are temporarily closed
- replacement vegetableI ordered the mix vegetable, which arrived uncooked. The replacement vegetable took too long to arrive, by which time my naan had become cold.
- staffLe personnel est peu attentif et pas très aimable
Overall, the service here is a major highlight, with most guests praising the friendly and efficient team. If you value a welcoming atmosphere and quick attention, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that a rare hiccup in speed or attentiveness could occur.
Ambience (6.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 31% of the guests
The restaurants vibe has definitely charmed many, with 15 positive remarks highlighting its atmosphere, decor, and ambiance. Guests frequently praise the authentic decor, wonderful ambiance, and cozy feel, noting how the interiors beautifully reflect 1980s India, creating a warm and welcoming space. However, there are 9 negative comments suggesting room for improvement, leading to an overall average score of 6.4 and mixed customer satisfaction at 60%.
Some found the surroundings less than desirable, mentioning issues with cleanliness and the inside of the restaurant looking untidy. A few also felt the lighting needed an upgrade and were startled by the neighborhood condition' outside.
Ambience
25
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
15
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic decor
- Cozy atmosphere
- Warm welcome
What people don't like
- Untidy appearance
- Poor lighting
- Rough neighborhood
Often praised
- ambiancemore taken by the ambiance of the place
- atmosphereThe food is awesome in taste; I particularly enjoyed the lamb curry and aloo spinach. Most importantly, they have a warm and welcoming atmosphere and look when you walk in.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- Indian ambianceAmbiance indienne qui dépayse
- Union SquareVery close to Union Square
- best placesone of the best places I've ever been
- cozy placeMy experience at this restaurant was wonderful. It's a nice cozy place with interiors that beautifully reflect India from the 1980s. The food is awesome in taste; I particularly enjoyed the lamb curry and aloo spinach.
- decorThe decor is nice and authentic
- downtownEverything was absolutely scrumptious! Plus, they are open late, located downtown, and offer such good prices. I definitely recommend trying this place!
- family own Restaurantfamily own Restaurant
Frequently criticized
- betterand better
- cleanerThe place could be cleaner
- cleanlinessLa propreté laisse a désiré
- inside of the restaurantinside of the restaurant was lacking too
- lightingneeds more lighting
- neighborhood conditionthe condition of the neighborhood (and 🥺the street people, a few of them screaming at the noises in their own head) It was startling
- placeplace looked bit untidy
- safe havendid not have the safe haven of your establishment to duck into
- surroundingsDespite being in less than desirable surroundings, the food was a treat, and the service was fast and pleasant!
If youre looking for a cozy, authentically decorated spot with a warm feel, this place could be a great fit. Just be aware that the immediate surroundings and some aspects of cleanliness might not be up to everyones standards.
Value (7.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 40% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.3 and customer satisfaction at a healthy 78.3%, most folks find the pricing quite appealing. Out of 23 total remarks, 18 rave about the good pricing, affordable options, and how super inexpensive things are, especially with the bring your own alcohol perk.
However, its not all sunshine and rainbows. A few of the 4 critical comments point out concerns around portion vs cost, noting that rice is an extra charge, and even yogurt chutney (raita)' comes with a fee. So, while the base prices are good, watch out for those add-ons.
Value
23
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
4
negative
1
neutral
18
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great pricing
- Very affordable
- BYOB option
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Extra charges for sides
Often praised
- pricesPrix abordables 13USD pour les 2 cuisses tandoori + du riz
- affordableSo affordable and convenient for me!
- priceThe price is great for a place like SF
- $20The chicken pieces were breast pieces, not the cheap cuts I often encounter elsewhere. This meal truly hit the spot and was only $20. I thoroughly recommend it.
- PricesThe prices are reasonable
- bring your own alcoholit is bring your own alcohol
- costvery reasonable cost
- good pricessuch good prices
- good pricingGood pricing
- great pricesgreat prices to match
Frequently criticized
- portion vs costportion vs cost will get you
- priceTerrible portions for the price
- ricerice is a side order at $4.
- yogurt chutney (raita)they charged for yogurt chutney (raita)
If youre looking for generally affordable prices and dont mind potentially paying extra for sides, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be mindful of the portion vs cost balance, especially if you're on a tight budget for add-ons.
How are the prices at Punjab Kabab House?
Youre looking at roughly 34 per person here, based on what 10 diners reported. That puts it squarely in the $31–$40 category. For an Indian Restaurant, wed call that comfortably mid-range – not a steal, but definitely not bank-breaking either!
What’s neat is the actual spending is quite varied: most guests (8 out of 10) found great value, spending under 30 $. But a couple of folks clearly went all out, enjoying a more premium experience and nudging that average up.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 10 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
We think the pricing here feels pretty fair. With options for both budget-conscious diners and those looking to splurge a bit, it offers good flexibility for an Indian restaurant in San Francisco.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Punjab Kabab House
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
6
Closed Again, Disappointing Visit
Sadly, I found the restaurant boarded up yesterday afternoon. I had previously read some reviews indicating they were renovating, then closed a few months ago ☹️, and then someone mentioned they were open again 😃. However, upon my visit yesterday, they were closed 😩.
As a fellow business owner, I understand that delays and unforeseen issues can happen, sometimes requiring another closure right after renovations. I plan to try again next year during my next visit to SF. I kindly request that you please update your business hours on Google if you are temporarily closed.
This is important, especially for solo female travelers like myself. I had walked from my Union Square hotel to your location, and the condition of the neighborhood, including some people screaming, was startling 🥺. Finding you closed left me concerned, as I had hoped for a safe haven to duck into.
I had to turn around and walk back past some agitated individuals. By the way, when I return next year, please consider having Lamb Korma and Lamb Rogan Josh on your menu; those are my very favorite comfort foods 🥰.
- Lamb Korma9
- Lamb Rogan Josh9
- business hours2
- neighborhood condition3
- safe haven3
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Incredibly Kind and Inexpensive Gem!
I honestly have to say this is one of the best places I've ever been. They're super inexpensive. I was homeless and used to come here a lot when I was able to with my service animal, and they treated me with such kindness and generosity.
I moved away two years ago but will be moving back, and this will be the first restaurant I go and visit when I move back at the end of April 2024! Super excited to see the new renovations!
- best places10
- super inexpensive10
- kindness and generosity10
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Happy to See Punjab Open Again!
I live in the same building as Punjab, and I'm happy to say they're open again! My experience at the restaurant was excellent, with Service: 4, Atmosphere: 5, and Food: 5. It's great to have them back and serving their delicious food.
- Service7
- Atmosphere8
- Food8
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Disappointing Portions for the Price
My experience at the restaurant was absolutely disappointing. I ordered the chicken Tika combo and was served less than 2 ounces of chicken. The portions were terrible for the price I paid.
- chicken Tika combo2
- portions1
- price2
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Absolutely delightful food!
What a delight to eat this food! You can taste the seasoning that they put on it. Thanks for serving the best of the best.
- seasoning10
- food10
What Punjab Kabab House offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Family-friendly
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Late-night food
- Halal food
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Catering
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
FAQs
Does Punjab Kabab House offer options for specific dietary needs?
Yes, Punjab Kabab House caters to various dietary preferences. You can find a wide array of delicious vegan options, ensuring plant-based diners have plenty to choose from. Additionally, the menu features halal food and numerous vegetarian options, making it a welcoming place for everyone.
What service and dining options are available at Punjab Kabab House?
Punjab Kabab House provides a comprehensive range of service and dining options for your convenience. You can enjoy no-contact delivery, traditional delivery, or takeout. For those who prefer to dine in, table service is available for lunch, dinner, and dessert, with comfortable seating. Catering services are also offered for your events.
What is the overall rating for Punjab Kabab House and what aspects contribute to it?
Punjab Kabab House has a good overall score of **7.7**. This is primarily driven by strong **Service** (8.1) and **Food** (7.8) scores, with **Value** (7.3) also performing well. The **Ambience** (6.4) is noted as an area for potential improvement.
Is Punjab Kabab House known for authentic Indian and Pakistani food?
Yes, many customers describe the food at Punjab Kabab House as **authentic** and flavorful, offering a good selection of Indian and Pakistani dishes, including popular items like chicken tikka masala and naan.
What are some common concerns customers have about Punjab Kabab House?
Some customers have noted concerns regarding **inconsistent portion sizes** for certain dishes and feel that the **ambience** could be cleaner or better lit. There are also mentions of the surrounding neighborhood conditions.