Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Sweet Maple – San Francisco
Sweet Maple - San Francisco
Photo from Sweet Maple
Sweet Maple at a glance
San Francisco Lower Pacific Heights
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 165 of the guests
#1776 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#215 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
6.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
776
Reviews
63.3%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Breakfast excellence
- Prompt service
- Inviting atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Parking challenges
- Service inconsistencies
The restaurant Sweet Maple in San Francisco’s vibrant Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood offers a delightful culinary experience. You’ll find a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for starting your day with a fantastic breakfast or enjoying a leisurely brunch.
Known for its great coffee, this spot also provides healthy and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s something delicious for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, Sweet Maple welcomes you.
Overview: Introducting Sweet Maple
Sweet Maple offers a breakfast experience that often hits the mark, with many guests praising its distinct food offerings. While the atmosphere is generally seen as pleasant and the service efficient, some visitors have noted concerns regarding the overall value for money.
It’s a spot where you’ll find both strong positives and areas for improvement. The restaurant is particularly known for its unique dishes, like the celebrated millionaire bacon, which consistently receives high marks.
However, a few patrons have expressed reservations about the prices and occasional inconsistencies in the dining experience, suggesting it might be best for a special treat rather than a regular haunt.
Good
6.8
out of 10
776
Reviews
63.3%
Satisfaction
222
negative
63
neutral
491
positive
Sweet Maple earns a respectable 6.8 out of 10 for its overall performance, indicating a generally positive experience for many. However, customer satisfaction sits at 63.3%, placing it in the mixed category.
This suggests that while many find it agreeable, a notable portion of diners leave with reservations, highlighting a slight divergence between the overall score and individual contentment. This assessment is drawn from 776 customer opinions, with 491 positive remarks and 222 negative ones.
Delving into specifics, the Food (7.6) stands out as a strong point, frequently lauded for its quality and unique offerings. Service (6.8) also performs well, often described as efficient and friendly.
The Ambience (6.1) is considered average, offering a generally pleasant setting despite some minor drawbacks. The primary area for improvement appears to be Value (3.7), which many find to be a significant concern due to pricing.
What people like
- Exceptional breakfast items
- Efficient, friendly service
- Pleasant, clean ambiance
What people don't like
- Steep pricing
- Parking difficulties
- Occasional service issues
Sweet Maple presents a compelling option for those seeking a distinctive breakfast or brunch, particularly if you’re keen on trying their signature dishes. With a recommendation score of 7.2, it suggests that many visitors would encourage others to try it, especially for its culinary strengths and generally pleasant atmosphere.
However, be prepared for the cost, as the value proposition is a common point of contention. If you prioritize unique food and efficient service over budget-friendly options, Sweet Maple could be a worthwhile visit.
Otherwise, you might find more economical alternatives elsewhere.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Sweet Maple
Food (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to the food, its clear theres a lot to love! With a solid score of 7.6 and customer satisfaction at 75.3%, diners are generally happy. Many of the 290 positive comments rave about the delicious millionaire bacon, the perfectly made French toast, and the generous portions, highlighting the overall quality of the dishes.
However, not every bite is perfect. Among the 69 negative remarks, some guests felt the portions could be inconsistent, or that the bacon wasnt always crispy. There were also comments about the hollandaise sauce being too heavy or sour, and a few concerns about the overall food quality' not always meeting expectations.
Food
385
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
69
negative
26
neutral
290
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Millionaire bacon shines
- Delicious French toast
- Generous food portions
What people don't like
- Inconsistent portion sizes
- Bacon texture varies
- Hollandaise sauce issues
Often praised
- foodThe food is great, and I highly recommend the millionaire bacon 🥓 😋 👌, which was personally my favorite. The staff were super nice, the food was awesome, and they were super quick for a big meal. Personally, this was the best breakfast I've ever had, and I think you should come here.
- baconEverything was good, and nothing was disappointing. You have to try the bacon at the very least because, wow, that taste! We arrived around 9: 30 on a Sunday and there was a huge line, but the wait wasn’t long.
- millionaire baconI would have ordered it on its own, but it was marked as spicy, and I cannot handle spice. I ended up trying a piece from my boyfriend's meal after he assured me it wasn't spicy, and it was absolutely the most delicious part of the meal. He enjoyed his breakfast tacos, describing them as very good.
- French toastFrench toast with Millionaire’s bacon and over easy double eggs was fantastic!
- FoodAbsolutely everything was perfect!
- Millionaire Baconthe best bacon I’ve ever had in my life— rich, slightly spicy, sweet, and just insanely flavorful.
- menuThe atmosphere is both modern and comfortable. Their menu offers traditional breakfast favorites alongside unique, signature creations. The service is fast, efficient, and friendly.
- millionaire's baconthe test kitchen special ramen and fried rice with the millionaire's bacon was on point
- millionaires baconIf you don’t get the millionaires bacon
- breakfastThe staff were super nice, the food was awesome, and they were super quick for a big meal. Personally, this was the best breakfast I've ever had, and I think you should come here.
Frequently criticized
- foodThe restaurant was overcrowded, leading to a long wait at the door and a rude receptionist. The service felt rushed, and the food was surprisingly bad. To make matters worse, the bill for two orders came to $70, which is at least double the previous cost.
- food qualityFood tasted and smelled like it had been cooked on dirty pans
- coffeeThe eggs were runny and not fully cooked, and the potatoes were just 'meh'. The portion of toast was also small, and even the coffee was off. Considering the cost, there are so many better, cheaper breakfasts available elsewhere in San Francisco.
- potatoeshave just potatoes on a clean pan - they said no way
- baconI prefer a crispy bacon and its more of a thick ham texture
- dishThe food was only average, and to make matters worse, they got our order wrong. We had to send our dish back for correction, which was a definite dealbreaker for me.
- eggs2 eggs... all of which are mediocre at best
- souffléone of the worst egg dishes I’d ever tasted
- Benedictfound the Benedict to be a little too heavy on the hollandaise sauce
- Benedict eggBenedict egg are not fluffy
If you're looking for a spot with generally delicious food, especially their famous millionaire bacon and French toast, this place is definitely worth a try. While some dishes might occasionally miss the mark, the high satisfaction suggests most diners leave happy. Just be prepared for potential inconsistencies in certain items.
Service (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 81% of the guests
The service here generally hits a good note, with a score of 6.8. Many guests, accounting for 129 positive remarks out of 207 total, frequently praise the friendly service, attentive staff, and impressive speed of service. Youll often find welcoming staff, quick food arrival, and servers who genuinely care, making for a pleasant dining experience.
However, its a bit of a mixed bag with customer satisfaction at 62.3%. Some of the 59 negative comments point to long waits and occasional rude staff. There are also mentions of rushed service and poor communication skills, suggesting that while many have great experiences, some encounters can be less than ideal, especially during busy times.
Service
207
Reviews
62%
Satisfaction
59
negative
19
neutral
129
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick food arrival
- Efficient service speed
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Rude staff
- Rushed service
Often praised
- serviceTheir menu offers traditional breakfast favorites alongside unique, signature creations. The service is fast, efficient, and friendly. Prices are honest and fair, reflecting the quality delivered.
- staffThe food was consistently excellent, with generous portions and a focus on quality ingredients. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring a great dining experience. Whether dining in, taking out, or ordering for delivery, Sweet Maple is a must-visit for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
- ServiceService was fast and with a smile
- wait timeMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The service here is super friendly and efficient, with orders collected and fresh food brought out in record time. It’s constantly bustling with people coming in and out.
- customer servicethey all had great customer service
- foodand the food quickly too.
- food arrivalThe food arrived promptly
- lineThere was a line but it moved fast
- seatingMy friend and I visited Sweet Maple on a Thursday morning around 9: 00 am, and we were seated immediately, a welcome change from what I imagine weekend mornings are like. We shared the Millionaire Bacon platter, and I can honestly say that if you love bacon, you will be completely delighted.
- serversservers are extremely pleasant and efficient
Frequently criticized
- servicewaitress have no manner she is speaking too much roodly
- ordermy order still hadnt arrived over 20 minutes after everyone got theirs
- staffAll tables were set up outside with ketchup baskets. The hostess turned us away and said she didn’t have staff to serve to us outside. Update: we went to a different place nearby to have breakfast, as we were walking back to the car 40 minutes later the street tables were full of people.
- hostessAll tables were set up outside with ketchup baskets. The hostess turned us away and said she didn’t have staff to serve to us outside. Update: we went to a different place nearby to have breakfast, as we were walking back to the car 40 minutes later the street tables were full of people.
- long waitThis was my 4th or 5th visit over the past decade, but sadly, the experience has significantly declined. The restaurant was overcrowded, leading to a long wait at the door and a rude receptionist. The service felt rushed, and the food was surprisingly bad.
- rude staffrude staff who harassed a man
- serverI kindly ask her, "Could I change my table? I have noticed that my server has not come to me yet. It does not make sense that the young ladies at the bar have been served, and the family that just came in have ordered.
- Apple Paywe don’t take Apple wallet only physical and also cash
- ServiceService:1
- communicationBad communication
If youre looking for generally friendly and efficient service, youll likely be pleased, as many guests are. However, be prepared for potential long waits or occasional inconsistencies, especially during peak hours, which might dampen your experience.
Ambience (6.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 53% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this spot offers a mixed bag, landing an average score of 6.1 with 54.5% customer satisfaction. Many guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere, cool decor, and clean environment, often describing it as having great vibes and being a cute, modern, and comfortable place. With 60 positive sentiments out of 110 total, theres definitely a lot to like about the look and feel.
However, 41 negative sentiments point to some notable drawbacks. Issues like the place feeling crowded, high noise levels, and tight table spacing can detract from a relaxing experience. Parking can also be a challenge, and some find the entry experience less than seamless, suggesting theres room for improvement in managing the flow and comfort of guests.
Ambience
110
Reviews
54%
Satisfaction
41
negative
9
neutral
60
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Inviting atmosphere
- Cool decor
- Clean environment
What people don't like
- Loud and crowded
- Tight table spacing
- Difficult parking
Often praised
- atmosphereHowever, the service was rated a 3, indicating room for improvement. While the atmosphere was also highly rated at 5, the core issue revolved around the expectation of how tips should be handled. I believe a tip should be a discretionary, additional amount given as a gratuity for good work, separate from the agreed-upon payment.
- AtmosphereAbsolutely everything was perfect!
- ambienceThe ambience is warm and inviting
- parking optionsFree street parking
- DecorWystrój jasny, nowoczesny
- ambiancevery nice ambiance
- brunch experiencetruly fun and unique brunch experience
- busyReally busy but in a good way.
- cleanClean and great service !
- clean restaurantThey keep an eye on coffee levels and refill them very often, and the server even offered to give us a cup of coffee to go, which was new to us. Great service, clean restaurant, and very nice ambiance even during peak hours.
Frequently criticized
- atmospherethe atmosphere also received a low score of 2
- bathroomsfor a large place there’s just two bathrooms and the line can be over 10 minutes
- noise levelWhile this place isn't cheap and can be quite loud, operating on a "first come, first serve" basis, I understand its popularity. We were among the first groups in line and were seated within 10 minutes.
- parkingParking can be a pain to find, since it is street parking only
- parking spaceParking space:Somewhat difficult to find parking
- Fox News on TVIt was weird having Fox News on the big TV
- Noise levelNoise level is on the louder side
- ParkingParking is difficult to find
- accessibilityfor anyone dealing with mobility issues or injuries, it can be unnecessarily challenging.
- bathroomThe bathroom is covered with signs that say if you vomit there’s a $50 charge
If youre looking for a lively spot with good decor and dont mind a bustling atmosphere, this place could be a hit. But if you prefer a quiet, spacious, and easy-to-access dining experience, you might find it a bit overwhelming.
Value (3.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 35% of the guests
Despite a generally challenging perception, some diners found pockets of value. Out of 74 total remarks, 12 positive comments highlighted cheaper alternatives and Happy Hour deals. A few felt the price was fair or that the experience was worth it for an occasional treat, especially when considering the price per person for certain offerings.
However, the overall sentiment leans heavily negative, with a poor score of 3.7 and customer satisfaction at a low 16.2%. A significant 53 negative remarks frequently cited pricey, expensive, and overpriced menu items. Many were frustrated by hidden fees and felt the portion sizes did not justify the cost, making it feel ridiculous.
Value
74
Reviews
16%
Satisfaction
53
negative
9
neutral
12
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Happy Hour deals
- Fair prices (some)
- Worth the splurge
What people don't like
- Hidden fees
- Overpriced menu
- Not worth cost
Often praised
- pricesThe prices are a bit steep for sure, but totally worth it.
- priceThe food was excellent; the brunch I had was so good that I ended up cancelling my lunch plans for another day to come back here again before flying back home. It is quite pricey, but it's great for an occasional treat or if you're visiting the city and know you won't be back for a while. I spent $100 including tip for two people.
- Happy HourWe did not know that we walked into Happy Hour!!
- PricePricey but trust me when I say it's worth it
- cheaper alternativesthey had cheaper alternatives available for under $20
- price per personThe staff was very friendly and engaging, making the overall experience even better. There's plenty of free street parking available, and the price per person is reasonable at $20–30.
- valueThe bacon was the best I've had. While it was fairly expensive, with the usual extra fees common in San Francisco, I found it was definitely worth it.
Frequently criticized
- priceThe ambience was warm and inviting, and dishes like pancakes, mango sausage, and freshly squeezed orange juice truly shone with quality and care. However, the price reflects the city’s steep cost of living; breakfast for three came to $137, making this spot best suited for those comfortable with luxury dining. The contrast between Sweet Maple’s refined experience and the struggles visible outside its doors is striking.
- priceyit’s pricey because for all we got was total of over $50
- pricesWe visited for breakfast on a Saturday and encountered a line that moved quite quickly. The food was delicious, but the experience was marred by the super expensive prices. My French toast, priced at $17 for three halves, left me still hungry.
- 20% gratuitythey added a 20% gratuity to the bill without informing us or asking for permission
- ExpensiveExpensive though...
- Price$30 for 2 eggs, 2 potatoes, and a slice of bread
- SF health feeI found it to be expensive for the area, and the service was mediocre. There was an auto gratuity, an SF health fee, and very expensive menu prices. I would suggest going elsewhere.
- auto gratuityAuto gratuity
- billadded a 20% gratuity to the bill without informing us or asking for permission, which felt dishonest
- breakfastSo many better, cheaper breakfasts elsewhere
If you're seeking a bargain, this might not be your spot, as the value proposition is generally poor. However, if you catch them during Happy Hour or are prepared to splurge for a specific experience, some found it worth it. Otherwise, be wary of the pricey menu and potential hidden fees.
How are the prices at Sweet Maple?
On average, you’ll spend around 44 per person – from 165 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $41–$50 category. For a Restaurant, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Most diners cluster comfortably in the 21 – 50 $ range, showing a consistent mid-tier experience, though there are options for those looking to splurge a bit more.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 165 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
For a Restaurant in San Francisco, we think this pricing feels quite fair. It offers a solid mid-range experience without breaking the bank, and the spread of prices suggests there’s something for different budgets.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Sweet Maple
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Worth the Price for Amazing French Toast!
My experience at this restaurant was definitely pricey, but I can confidently say it was worth it. I ordered the big hip deep fried French toast, and it was incredibly delicious, tasting like a donut or funnel cake. Despite a "newer" host facing some difficulty with rude customers, he was amazing and super friendly, handling the situation like a champ.
The entire staff showed amazing coordination, even though they were extremely busy with a line wrapping around the building. They provided great customer service, and my food arrived about 5 minutes after ordering. I would definitely come here again.
- French toast10
- host10
- staff9
Price per Person
- $71–$80
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
2
Tasty but Ridiculously Overpriced Breakfast
My experience at this restaurant was that the food was tasty enough. However, the price for breakfast for two was $123, which I found to be the most ridiculously overpriced meal of my life. I'm sure there are diners serving equivalent food at a third of the cost.
- food7
- price2
- meal2
Visit Type
- Family Dinner
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Wonderful food and fast service!
My family and I had a wonderful experience at this restaurant. We all loved the food, and the service was really fast. We'll definitely keep up the good work!
- food10
- service10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
7
Great Food, Service Needs Improvement
My experience at the restaurant was a mixed bag. The food was very good, and I especially loved the Rosemary bacon. Wow!
However, the service could have been better. I had to ask other waiters for help, which was a bit inconvenient.
- food8
- Rosemary bacon10
- service3
- waiters3
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Loud
9
Phenomenal Brunch, Worth the Wait
My experience at this restaurant was largely positive, especially regarding the food. The brunch was phenomenal, and I've never been let down by the food quality. The vibes are great, though be prepared for a potential line, so it's advisable to go earlier.
The noise level is on the louder side, which might not be ideal for everyone. Service was rated a 4, and food a 5, indicating a strong preference for the culinary offerings.
- vibes8
- line6
- Brunch10
- Noise level4
What Sweet Maple offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Solo dining
- Breakfast
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Dessert
- Table service
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Delivery
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Outdoor seating
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What dining options and accessibility features does Sweet Maple offer?
At Sweet Maple, you can enjoy breakfast, brunch, and lunch with comfortable seating and table service. The restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible, including the entrance, seating areas, and restrooms, ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests.
Can I get Sweet Maple's food to go, and are pets allowed?
Yes, Sweet Maple provides convenient service options like delivery, no-contact delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup. If you prefer to dine in, outdoor seating is available, and your dogs are welcome to join you in the outdoor areas.
What are the standout dishes at Sweet Maple?
Many customers frequently praise Sweet Maple’s unique breakfast items, with the ‘millionaire bacon’ and French toast often highlighted as particularly delicious and memorable.
Is Sweet Maple considered good value for money?
While the food quality is often appreciated, many patrons find Sweet Maple to be on the pricier side, with some mentioning steep prices and additional fees. It’s generally seen as a spot for an occasional treat rather than everyday dining.
How does Sweet Maple generally score across different aspects?
Sweet Maple achieves an overall score of 6.8 out of 10. Its Food (7.6) and Service (6.8) are rated well, while Ambience (6.1) is considered average. Value (3.7) is noted as an area where customers express significant concerns.