Highlights
- Live music
- Great wine list
- Live performances
oChef » Sheba Jazz – San Francisco
Sheba Jazz - San Francisco
Photo from Sheba Jazz
Sheba Jazz at a glance
San Francisco Fillmore District
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 47 of the guests
#370 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#22 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
437
Reviews
86.5%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Jazz Atmosphere
- Ethiopian Food
- Great Cocktails
Frequently criticized
- Food Inconsistency
- Crowded Seating
- Hidden Fees
The bar Sheba Jazz Lounge invites you to experience the vibrant energy of San Francisco’s Fillmore District. As a premier Bar & Pub, you’ll discover a captivating atmosphere where live music takes center stage.
Whether you’re looking for a casual evening, an upscale night out, or a cozy and romantic spot, this trendy venue offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy live performances and a great wine list in a setting designed for dancing and enjoyment.
Overview: Introducting Sheba Jazz
Sheba Jazz offers a distinctive experience, largely celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and engaging live music that sets a lively backdrop. Guests frequently praise the quality of the cocktails and the unique Ethiopian food offerings, making it a memorable spot for many.
While the attentive service generally receives high marks, some patrons have noted occasional concerns regarding food handling and the overall comfort of the space. Despite these minor points, the establishment maintains a welcoming vibe that keeps many returning.
Excellent
8.3
out of 10
437
Reviews
86.5%
Satisfaction
47
negative
12
neutral
378
positive
Sheba Jazz earns a solid Restaurant Score of 8.3, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. This is further supported by a strong Customer Satisfaction rating of 86.5%, indicating that most visitors leave pleased with their time here.
These figures are drawn from a substantial body of feedback, with 437 customer observations. The Ambience (8.6) stands out as a particular strength, closely followed by the Food (8.3), which consistently impresses.
Service (8.1) also performs well, with staff often described as friendly and attentive. While Value (6.7) is considered good, it’s a bit more moderate compared to the other highly-rated aspects, based on 378 positive remarks against 47 negative ones.
What people like
- Vibrant Jazz Atmosphere
- Delicious Ethiopian Food
- Excellent Cocktails
What people don't like
- Inconsistent Food Quality
- Cramped, Noisy Seating
- Hidden Charges
If you’re seeking a lively spot with great music and distinctive cuisine, Sheba Jazz is certainly worth considering. Its strong Recommendation Score of 8.5 suggests that for many, the vibrant setting and unique food offerings create a highly enjoyable outing.
However, be mindful that the space can sometimes feel a bit snug, and there have been isolated reports of food inconsistencies. For those prioritizing a dynamic atmosphere and flavorful Ethiopian dishes, it’s a compelling choice, but manage expectations regarding potential crowding.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Sheba Jazz
Food (8.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food, diners are generally thrilled, with a good score of 8.3 and a good customer satisfaction of 87.4%. Based on 180 positive remarks out of 206 total comments, many rave about the delicious Ethiopian food, flavorful dishes like doro wat and vegetarian samplers, and unique craft cocktails. Guests often leave feeling full, appreciating the generous portions.
However, there are some areas for improvement, noted in 20 negative remarks. A few experiences mention inconsistent quality, with some veggie dishes described as stale or dripping with bad-smelling oil. Crucially, there was a serious concern about food safety and handling, including a report of severe food poisoning, which is definitely something to consider.
Food
206
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
20
negative
6
neutral
180
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious Ethiopian food
- Unique craft cocktails
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Food safety concerns
- Inconsistent food quality
- Disappointing desserts
Often praised
- foodI visited this establishment during the Fillmore jazz fest and had an awesome experience. The atmosphere was fantastic, and I highly recommend stopping in for a drink and some food.
- Ethiopian foodMy experience at this restaurant was very positive. It's a nice bar that offers Ethiopian food and features live music most nights. The staff were consistently very friendly and accommodating.
- drinksIt’s a black-owned establishment with a distinct hood vibe, perfect for enjoying jazz, drinks, and food. The owner is very dedicated and works hard to keep the space thriving, which always makes me happy to come down for a drink.
- cocktailsthe cocktails!!!!! The cocktails are on a different level
- Vegetarian SamplerVegetarian Sampler Also Known as Beyaynetu
- vegetarian optionsLots of vegetarian options
- Ethiopian dishesEthiopian dishes were interesting
- FoodFood:5
- delicious foodIt was the most delicious food I've had in a while
- doro watand the doro wat and one of the sambusas which I super recommend
Frequently criticized
- Atakilt KilikilThis was actually the most boring item I had tonight
- Bourbonshe forgot that I had asked for a Bourbon
- Ethiopian foodWorst Ethiopian food i’ve had in a while
- bad-smelling oildripping with bad smelling oil
- baklavaUnfortunately, the dessert missed the mark. The tiramisu had a strange, sweet liquor on top that made it taste funky, and the baklava tasted as if it were made with high fructose corn syrup instead of real honey. While dessert is not their strong point, the African mains were spectacular.
- cross-contaminationlikely cause was either cross-contamination
- curriesWe ordered most of the veggie dishes on the menu, and except for the salad, all of them were consistently bad. Some of the curries were stale, with lots of spice added to mask the staleness. Others were dripping with bad-smelling oil, and some were just inedible.
- customer healthI held off on writing this review in the hopes that the restaurant would take responsibility or at least acknowledge the issue. Unfortunately, they’ve proven that they don’t value their customers' health or concerns. This incident happened on a hot day, which makes proper food storage and handling even more critical.
- foodFood:2
- food handlingUnfortunately, they’ve proven that they don’t value their customers' health or concerns. This incident happened on a hot day, which makes proper food storage and handling even more critical. The fact that such negligence could occur—and then be completely dismissed—should be a red flag for anyone considering dining here.
If you're looking for flavorful Ethiopian cuisine and creative cocktails, this spot generally delivers a good experience. However, be aware of the occasional reports of inconsistent food quality and, more seriously, past food safety concerns, which might give you pause.
Service (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 55% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot really shines! With a solid score of 8.1 and a customer satisfaction rate of 80.3%, its clear guests are generally well taken care of. Based on 53 positive remarks, many rave about the friendly staff, attentive service, and welcoming owners/hostesses who prioritize customer satisfaction.
However, its not all smooth sailing. Out of 13 negative comments, some experiences mention slow service and noticeable waiting times. A few guests also pointed out issues with professionalism, including a lack of follow-up from management regarding concerns, which can be a bit frustrating.
Service
66
Reviews
80%
Satisfaction
13
negative
0
neutral
53
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Attentive service
- Welcoming owners
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Lack of follow-up
- Unprofessional conduct
Often praised
- serviceOutstanding Service The staff was warm, welcoming, and incredibly hospitable, making sure we had a great time from start to finish.
- staffThe staff was attentive, friendly, and made sure we were well taken care of
- ServiceService:5
- customer servicegave amazing customer service!
- friendly staffVery friendly staff
- ownerThe owner works a lot to keep the space going
- LiyaLiya is just amazing
- The SistersWhat a quaint place, nestled in the Filmore District, that offers great nightly jazz entertainment, reasonably priced drinks, and American and African cuisine. The Sisters that operate this lounge are so welcoming. I tried the Injera for the first time, which is an Ethiopian-style sponge flatbread.
- attentionthe attention from the staff was excellent
- barmangreat barman
Frequently criticized
- servicethe service was a little slow
- band left earlyThe atmosphere and vibe were amazing, enhanced by live jazz music, which I really enjoyed. However, I was disappointed that the band left very early, with a couple of hours left before closing, just as we arrived. The highlight of the evening was the Hakim cocktail; it was strong and tasty.
- customer serviceWhen I finally got through to someone, they assured me a manager would call back—but no one ever did. Their utter lack of accountability and professionalism is appalling. I ultimately reported Sheba Jazz Lounge to the health department, and that investigation is still ongoing.
- foodwhen we got out food
- manager callbackmanager would call back—but no one ever did
- restaurant responsecalled daily, only to be ignored
- serversThe servers could have been more accommodating and smiled more
- start lateit did start about 40 min late
- unprofessionalismOthers were dripping with bad-smelling oil, and some were just inedible. The service was pretentious, but you could sense the underlying unprofessionalism. I don’t understand the high ratings; people perhaps go here for the music and don’t realize how bad the food and service is.
- waitwaited like 40 min
If youre looking for a place with genuinely friendly and attentive staff, youll likely have a great experience here. Just be prepared that service can occasionally be slow, and follow-up on issues might not always be prompt. It's worth a visit for the warm welcome, but manage your expectations regarding speed.
Ambience (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
The ambiance here truly shines, earning a strong 8.6 out of 10 and delighting customers with an impressive 89.5% satisfaction rate. With 137 positive remarks out of 153 total, guests consistently rave about the live jazz music, cozy, inviting ambiance, and warm atmosphere, creating a fantastic good vibes experience that makes every visit special. However, a few of the 12 negative comments point to potential downsides.
Some found the communal space a bit noisy or crowded, with cramped seating and dim lighting occasionally impacting the comfort. While the music is a highlight, it can sometimes be too loud for conversation, so keep that in mind.
Ambience
153
Reviews
89%
Satisfaction
12
negative
4
neutral
137
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Live jazz music
- Cozy, inviting ambiance
- Warm atmosphere
What people don't like
- Can be noisy
- Crowded seating
- Dim lighting
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at the restaurant was INCREDIBLE! The phrase "Eat - Drink - Be Marry" perfectly encapsulates the joyous and celebratory atmosphere. It was an absolutely fantastic time.
- live musicThe original cocktails were also a highlight. The atmosphere was enhanced by gorgeous live music in a small lounge setting. The staff was very friendly, and the prices were not expensive.
- musicMy experience at this restaurant was positive, with affordable drinks and nice music creating a pleasant atmosphere. The food was good, making it an enjoyable visit.
- ambianceAmazing Ambiance The entire atmosphere was elegant yet cozy—perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks or a romantic date night.
- live jazzWe ordered a variety platter which fed four people for only $55, and everything was delicious! The ambiance is also very nice, with live jazz at night.
- jazz musiclistening to some soothing jazz music
- vibesI tried the Injera for the first time, which is an Ethiopian-style sponge flatbread. I encourage everyone to stop by and experience the vibes for yourself. Wonderful atmosphere.
- jazzhood vibe for jazz drinks and food
- live jazz musiclive jazz music and friendly ambiance
- placeThe food was phenomenal, and the owner was a sweetheart. I've loved this place for years and am NEVER let down. It's a place you want to support as a local business.
Frequently criticized
- live musicwe ended up with a somewhat mediocre blues band instead
- atmosphereAtmosphere:2
- communal spacecommunal space got a bit noisy and overwhelming
- crowdeda little crowded with tables very close by
- dim lightingthe lighting is a bit on the dim side
- homeyWasn’t very homey
- loudit's a little too loud
- noisycommunal space got a bit noisy and overwhelming
- plastic glassesthey use plastic glasses to serve water
- seatingSeating is quite cramped
If you're looking for a vibrant spot with incredible live jazz and a cozy, inviting atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared that it can get a bit lively and crowded, which might not be ideal if you prefer a very quiet, brightly lit setting.
Value (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 12% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 6.7. Many guests rave about the affordable drinks and the excellent value for quality you get. You'll often find reasonable prices and even generous portions that make your wallet happy, based on 8 positive remarks out of 12 total opinions.
However, the customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 66.7%, indicating some bumps in the road. A couple of guests were quite surprised by hidden fees, specifically charges for sitting and eating, which definitely left a sour taste. It seems these unexpected costs can turn an otherwise good deal into a bit of a head-scratcher.
Value
12
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
2
negative
2
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable drinks
- Great food value
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Hidden sitting fees
- Unexpected charges
Often praised
- drinksWhat a quaint place, nestled in the Filmore District, that offers great nightly jazz entertainment, reasonably priced drinks, and American and African cuisine. The Sisters that operate this lounge are so welcoming.
- Not expensiveNot expensive
- affordableAffordable with generous portions
- pricehonestly really not bad $ for it all
- pricesThe prices were fair
- value for qualitythe value for the quality of the food is good
- variety plattervariety platter which fed four people for only 55$
Frequently criticized
- hidden feesHidden fees like charges for sitting and eating
- sitting and eating$40 charge to sit and eat sounds like a hustle
If you're looking for a place with generally affordable food and drinks, this spot could be a good pick. Just be sure to clarify any potential sitting and eating charges upfront to avoid an unpleasant surprise.
How are the prices at Sheba Jazz?
You’re looking at roughly 37 per person – reported by 47 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Bar & Pub, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 37, a good chunk of guests find options in the $21–$30 range, showing theres flexibility. But dont be surprised to see some folks spending a bit more, too!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 47 reviews.
How this Bar & Pub stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco when it comes to value for your money.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for a Bar & Pub, especially considering its in San Francisco. You get a good balance of options, whether youre looking for something quick and affordable or a bit more substantial.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Sheba Jazz
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Amazing Birthday Celebration!
My experience at this restaurant was absolutely amazing, especially as I was celebrating my 40th birthday and visiting San Francisco for the first time from Chicago. The entire staff, including the owners Netsanet and her sister Israel, made sure my friends and I were well taken care of. Everyone was pleasant and attentive, providing amazing customer service.
The food and drinks were also amazing and top tier! The staff and other guests even sang "Happy Birthday" to me, which made me feel incredibly special. I will definitely be back on my next visit.
Thank you all for making my experience so wonderful!
- host10
- owners10
- staff10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Quaint Jazz Lounge with Great Vibes
What a quaint place, nestled in the Filmore District, that offers great nightly jazz entertainment, reasonably priced drinks, and American and African cuisine. The Sisters that operate this lounge are so welcoming. I tried the Injera for the first time, which is an Ethiopian-style sponge flatbread.
I encourage everyone to stop by and experience the vibes for yourself. Wonderful atmosphere.
- nightly jazz entertainment9
- drinks8
- Injera7
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
9
Delicious Ethiopian with Live Jazz!
My experience at the restaurant was absolutely wonderful! We ordered the veggie sampler and the mushroom and spicy lentils sambusas, and everything was DELICIOUS! The food was so, so flavorful, some of the best Ethiopian I’ve had in the Bay.
The live jazz was the icing on the cake, although it did start about 40 minutes late.
- veggie sampler10
- mushroom and spicy lentils sambusas10
- flavorful10
- start late4
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Fab drinks, snacks, and service!
I stopped in this place before a concert and had some drinks and tried some snacks. It was fab and 100% delicious. The hostess was awesome, and the waitresses and barman were great.
I can see myself going back here.
- drinks9
- snacks9
- hostess10
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Incredible Experience at Sheba Jazz Lounge
My experience at Sheba Jazz Lounge was incredible. The atmosphere was amazing, the food was incredible, and the music was incredible. I really enjoyed the overall experience.
- atmosphere10
- food10
- music10
What Sheba Jazz offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Dancing
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Seating
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
What kind of entertainment and atmosphere can you expect at Sheba Jazz Lounge?
At Sheba Jazz Lounge, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere with live music and captivating live performances. The venue offers opportunities for dancing and boasts a great wine list. You’ll find a mix of casual, upscale, cozy, and trendy vibes, making it a romantic spot for an evening out.
What food and drink options are available at Sheba Jazz Lounge?
Sheba Jazz Lounge provides a diverse selection of beverages, including wine, beer, cocktails, and hard liquor, with happy hour drinks also available. You can also enjoy food at the bar, ensuring you have something delicious to pair with your drinks and the lively entertainment.
How does Sheba Jazz generally rate with customers?
Sheba Jazz receives a strong overall score of 8.3, with Customer Satisfaction at 86.5%. Ambience (8.6) and Food (8.3) are particularly well-regarded, followed by Service (8.1) and Value (6.7).
What kind of atmosphere can I expect at Sheba Jazz?
Expect a vibrant and cozy atmosphere, often enhanced by live music, especially jazz. Many guests appreciate the celebratory atmosphere and vibes for a relaxed evening or date night.
Are there any common concerns about the dining experience?
Some guests have noted that the seating can feel crowded or noisy , and there have been isolated concerns regarding food handling and hidden fees .