Highlights
- Sports
- Great beer selection
oChef » Tad’s – San Francisco
Tad's - San Francisco
Photo from Tad’s
Tad's at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🍽️ Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 161 of the guests
#1319 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#163 Restaurant out of 254 in San Francisco
Good
7.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
673
Reviews
72.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Generous portions
- Affordable steaks
- Friendly service
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent food
- Cafeteria style
- Hygiene concerns
The restaurant Tad’s, a popular Restaurant in San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood, offers you a fantastic spot to catch the game. You’ll find yourself immersed in a lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a great beer selection while watching your favorite sports.
This casual yet trendy establishment ensures a cozy experience for every visitor looking for a quick bite or a full meal.
Overview: Introducting Tad's
Tad’s offers a straightforward dining experience where generous portions and satisfying steaks are often noted. Many appreciate the friendly staff and the overall welcoming atmosphere.
It’s a place where you can expect a decent meal without much fuss. However, some experiences point to inconsistencies, particularly with food preparation and occasional unsanitary aspects.
The cafeteria style service and upfront payment system might not appeal to everyone, suggesting it’s not a traditional sit-down restaurant.
Good
7.3
out of 10
673
Reviews
72.2%
Satisfaction
127
negative
60
neutral
486
positive
Tad’s generally holds a good standing, reflected in its overall score of 7.3 and a 72.2% customer satisfaction rate. This indicates a largely positive experience for many diners.
The Food (7.2) receives solid marks, with many appreciating the generous servings, while Service (7.4) also performs well, often described as friendly and efficient. The Ambience (7.7) is a particular strength, often noted for its clean and modern feel, making it a comfortable spot.
Value (6.8), while still good, is slightly lower, with some finding certain items a bit pricey despite overall affordability. These insights are drawn from a substantial 673 customer remarks, comprising 486 positive observations against 127 negative ones.
What people like
- Generous food portions
- Affordable steak options
- Welcoming, friendly service
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food preparation
- Cafeteria-like dining
- Occasional hygiene issues
Tad’s presents a compelling option if you’re seeking substantial meals, particularly steaks, at a reasonable price point. With a Recommendation Score of 7.5, it generally delivers a satisfying experience, especially for those prioritizing quantity and value over a refined dining setting.
However, be prepared for a more casual, sometimes cafeteria-like approach to service and potential inconsistencies in food preparation. If you value a traditional restaurant experience and meticulous hygiene above all else, you might find it falls short of expectations.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Tad's
Food (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
The food here generally receives a warm welcome, boasting a good score of 7.2 and a solid customer satisfaction of 71.6%. Many diners rave about the delicious steak and flavorful burgers, often highlighting the generous portions and overall great food quality. With 278 positive sentiments, its clear many find their meals satisfying.
However, not every culinary experience is perfect. Some guests noted inconsistencies in steak quality, occasionally finding it overcooked or greasy. Mentions of dry pilaf and even horrible pancakes also surfaced.
These 74 negative remarks suggest theres still room for improvement in certain dishes and preparation.
Food
388
Reviews
71%
Satisfaction
74
negative
36
neutral
278
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious steaks
- Generous portions
- Good cooking skill
What people don't like
- Inconsistent steak quality
- Overcooked dishes
- Dry pilaf
Often praised
- foodWe ate there multiple times while staying in Downtown, experiencing their breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We didn’t have a single bad thing! For breakfast, we highly recommend ordering the pancakes, especially if you plan on sharing or eating something else.
- steakI enjoyed a value-for-money steak here. While the meat quality wasn't top-tier, the owner's grilling skills were excellent, resulting in a surprisingly delicious steak. However, I'd advise against choosing the pilaf as a side; it was disappointingly bland.
- meatI appreciated the counter ordering, which is rare in American restaurants. The meat was cooked well, and the baked potatoes and salad were also delicious. However, the wings were unfortunately too oily.
- saladMy experience at this restaurant was great. I had a descent steak, potato, salad, and garlic toast. The staff were friendly and the service was fast.
- portionsWhile the meat in the middle of the meal was just okay, the initial servings were incredibly delicious. The portions were very large, which made me feel like I was eating in America. Additionally, the staff was extremely friendly.
- friesHowever, the steak itself was good, as was the garlic bread and my baked potato with butter. My friend really enjoyed The PJ Fat Burger and the fries.
- food qualityThe steaks were huge and scrumptious! I visited for lunch and the food quality was rated a 5 out of 5. The atmosphere was also great, rated a 4 out of 5, and the service was excellent, rated a 5 out of 5.
- steakssteaks served here you'll be glad you did We both had steaks and they were fantastic
- breadThe quality of the meat and the cooking were quite good, especially for my preference of rare to medium-rare. The potatoes served as a side were also delicious, and the bread, a simple buttered and grilled bread, was also tasty. I think it's a restaurant worth visiting if you are staying nearby.
- breakfastWe went for breakfast and it was good and sufficient. It was very expensive for breakfast, but that seems to be normal for San Francisco.
Frequently criticized
- steakI ordered the "San Francisco" as a side dish, and I was more satisfied with it than the steak itself. However, there were some unsanitary aspects that made me feel uncomfortable even before eating, and the steak I ordered medium came out almost raw. What was your experience at the restaurant?
- foodmost importantly not a good food at all
- breadwasnt asked about the bread i wanted
- butterthe butter just looked like an afterthought
- meatConsidering the price in the US, this place seems to offer great value. There were some tough parts of the meat, though. While I enjoyed the meal, I don't think I'll revisit.
- saladthe salad(wich was drenched in dressing and made it hard to eat/enjoy
- Bloody MaryAvoid the Bloody Mary unless you like it strong and weird tasting
- FriesFries were not crisp and were on the cold side
- Garlic Toastit was SOGGY and BURNT. IT TASTED HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
- Tad's New York Stripthe steak, even though I made the picture looks good, the taste and texture were not.
If you're looking for a generally satisfying meal, especially a hearty steak or burger, this spot is worth a try. While some dishes might be a hit or miss, the overall positive feedback suggests a good chance of a tasty experience.
Service (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 64% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.4 and customer satisfaction at 73.2%, its clear that most folks have a good experience. Out of 123 comments, a whopping 90 praised the staff, often highlighting the friendly staff, attentive staff, and fast response for quick, efficient service.
However, its not all smooth sailing. The 26 negative remarks frequently mentioned the order at the counter system, which some found akin to cafeteria style service. A few also noted issues with attention to detail or specific wait staff being less than stellar, occasionally leading to forgotten requests or a less welcoming vibe.
Service
123
Reviews
73%
Satisfaction
26
negative
7
neutral
90
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick, efficient service
- Excellent customer care
What people don't like
- Order at counter
- Cafeteria style
- Inattentive wait staff
Often praised
- serviceI visited for lunch and the food quality was rated a 5 out of 5. The atmosphere was also great, rated a 4 out of 5, and the service was excellent, rated a 5 out of 5. The price per person was between $30–50.
- staffHowever, the ample provision of salt and pepper on the table allowed for easy adjustment. The staff’s demeanor struck a fine balance between professional and welcoming, not overly friendly but still making me feel at home. I would recommend Tad’s to anyone looking for a quality meal at a reasonable price in San Francisco.
- ServiceService was super friendly and pleasant.
- friendly staffThe meat was very substantial for the price, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. I also want to thank the friendly staff. It seems like a good option for those who are up early and appreciate good value and service.
- welcomeAccueil sympathique
- Service Animal Welcomehe was very welcomed into the restaurant
- WaitressWaitress was very kind and offered to replace it
- attentive staffThe food was absolutely amazing. The service was equally impressive, with attentive staff ensuring a delightful dining experience. Highly recommended!
- bus our own tablesglad we don't buss our own tables
- cashierCashier is nice
Frequently criticized
- serviceThe sprite tasted strongly of tap water, making it undrinkable. Service was also lacking; the staff delivered menus without greeting or introducing themselves and then left abruptly. While it's a cost-effective option, it wasn't quite to my taste.
- Silviashe might as well not even be there
- approach the counterThe portions were large and the staff were friendly. However, there was a strange and unnecessary request to approach the counter to order after being shown to our seats. Additionally, the price for a small cup of orange juice was a small fortune, yet they still expected a standard tip.
- attention to detailHowever, the baked potato was a bit disappointing; it wasn't as hot as I would have liked, and the butter seemed like an afterthought. While I would definitely come back for their steak, I do wish there was a bit more attention to detail regarding the smaller elements on the plate.
- bartender/serverthe worst bartender/server I’ve ever had
- blue glassin a blue glass.. different for everyone
- cafeteria style servicetaken aback by the cafeteria style service
- closing timedon't go at closing time, they want to close
- coffee15 minutes pour un café ???
- coffee refillsnever received coffee refills
If youre looking for a place with generally quick and friendly service, especially if you dont mind ordering at the counter, this spot is worth a try. Just be aware that the self-service ordering style might not be for everyone, and occasional lapses in attention can occur.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 49% of the guests
Diners generally find the atmosphere here quite pleasing, with a strong 7.7 score and a solid 78.4% customer satisfaction. Many appreciate the clean and comfortable vibe, often describing it as spacious and modern. With 69 positive remarks out of 88 total, terms like clean, comfortable, vibe, and spacious frequently pop up, highlighting a welcoming environment perfect for people-watching or enjoying live sports.
However, not everyone is entirely charmed. A few of the 7 negative remarks mention a cafeteria-like feel or a flat atmosphere, with some missing an old school style. Concerns about wheelchair accessibility and even an atrocious atmosphere were also noted, suggesting there might be inconsistencies or specific areas needing attention.
Ambience
88
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
7
negative
12
neutral
69
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean, comfortable vibe
- Spacious, modern setting
- Good for sports/kids
What people don't like
- Cafeteria-like feel
- Limited wheelchair access
- Flat atmosphere
Often praised
- atmosphereThe staff was very friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even more enjoyable. Overall, I was very satisfied and would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great steak in a welcoming atmosphere.
- placeThe scoop could have been instant potatoes, and the gravy was surprisingly not horrible. Despite the food's inconsistencies, the staff were nice and the place was clean. However, it felt overpriced for what you get.
- restaurantthe restaurant was clean and well cared for.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere is very modern-ish
- TVsThe place is filled with TVs that have different programs running, everyone finds something of interest here.
- spaceMy experience at this diner was largely positive, with a lovely little diner that offered plenty of space and sports on TV screens. The portions were large and the staff were friendly.
- vibeThe vibe is good
- Korean musicIn the US, where prices are outrageous, this place offers great value steak. The staff member who took our order was incredibly friendly and even sensibly switched to playing Korean music for us❤️. We really enjoyed our meal!
- ToiletsToilets are clean
- ambianceThe ambiance was cozy
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereservice and atmosphere was atrocious
- hygieneI ordered the "San Francisco" as a side dish, and I was more satisfied with it than the steak itself. However, there were some unsanitary aspects that made me feel uncomfortable even before eating, and the steak I ordered medium came out almost raw. What was your experience at the restaurant?
- old school styleI miss the old school style
- restaurant atmosphereUpon arrival, I didn’t receive the warm welcome I usually expect; I was just told to pick a seat. It felt more like a cafeteria than a restaurant, as you have to order and pay at the register before eating. I ordered Dad's Famous Steak with a baked potato, side salad, bread, and a drink.
- steakhouse ambiance스테이크집 기대하면 안됌
- wheelchair accessibilitywheelchair accessibility is tight, you can barely get a wheelchair in
If you're looking for a clean, comfortable spot with a good vibe and plenty of space, especially for families or sports fans, this place is generally a hit. Just be aware that a few find the ambiance a bit too casual or have noted accessibility challenges, so manage your expectations if those are key for you.
Value (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 48% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot presents a bit of a mixed bag, though leaning positive. With 49 positive remarks out of 74 total, many diners appreciate the affordable steaks, noting the value for money and reasonable prices, especially compared to other city options. The overall score sits at 6.8, indicating an average to good experience.
However, not everyone is convinced, with 20 negative comments highlighting concerns like feeling overpriced for what you get. Some found the process of having to pay in advance and being asked to tip before eating a bit odd, suggesting it might not always feel like the best value for the price. Customer satisfaction is at 66.2%, which is a mixed result.
Value
74
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
20
negative
5
neutral
49
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable steak options
- Good value for money
- Reasonable prices
What people don't like
- Can be overpriced
- Pay upfront awkward
- Tip before eating
Often praised
- priceDining at Tad’s in San Francisco was a pleasant surprise. For $28, the steak, accompanied by an array of sides including fries, salad, mashed potatoes, and bread, represents significant value, especially in a city known for its pricey fare. The service was notably efficient, aligning well with the bustling vibe of San Francisco.
- pricesThe highlight was the steak, which was perfectly cooked, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The menu provided a variety of cuts at reasonable prices, making it a fantastic choice for steak enthusiasts on a budget. The sides were equally impressive, complementing the main course beautifully.
- valueThis is a popular spot for Koreans, with about half the patrons being Korean. Don't expect too much from the steak; it's best enjoyed for its value. I think I might have had my expectations too high after seeing blog posts.
- value for moneyThe food was very delicious. The place offers good value for money. When I accidentally spilled my beer on the floor, the staff immediately moved us to another table, cleaned up the mess, and brought a new beer instantly, even though it was entirely my fault.
- affordabilitythey are all more affordable than most steakhouse
- affordableMy experience at this restaurant was very positive. I found the food to be good and the prices to be affordable, especially for a downtown location. I would definitely recommend this place and plan on coming back.
- affordable priceall for such an affordable price
- affordable pricesI had a great experience at this steakhouse, which offers relatively affordable prices. The meat portions were very generous, and the sauce was delicious, making for a very satisfying meal.
- affordable steaksThis is a place where you can eat relatively affordable steaks. For a family of four (2 adults, 1 middle schooler, 1 elementary schooler), ordering just two dishes is more than enough.
- cheap steakskids wanted to have cheap steaks
Frequently criticized
- priceWe went for breakfast and it was good and sufficient. It was very expensive for breakfast, but that seems to be normal for San Francisco. The staff was super friendly, and the restaurant was clean and tidy.
- pricesthe prices made them a much more logical choice
- Pay up frontPay up front was odd.
- cup of OJcharged a small fortune for the smallest cup of OJ
- overpricedthought it was overpriced for what we got
- pay in advanceyou have to pay in advance
- payment upfrontthe fact you pay upfront and tip them says it all
- quality priceTrop dommage parce que j’adore ça. Je me suis forcée mais j’ai pas réussi Rapport qualité prix nase Mais enfin, après avoir reçu notre commande il manquait le café. On l’a demandé une fois, puis deux, puis 3 … 15 minutes pour un café ?
- receive what you payLiterally, you receive what you pay …
- standard tipstill want a standard tip
If you're looking for a steak without breaking the bank, especially in a pricey city, this place is worth considering for its affordability. Just be prepared for a potentially unique payment process and manage your expectations regarding the overall experience.
How are the prices at Tad's?
You’re looking at roughly 34 per person – reported by 161 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Restaurant in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Digging into the details, we see that while many guests enjoy meals in the $21–$30 range, a good number also opt for something a bit more premium, spending in the $41–$50 bracket. So, while the average sits at 34$, there’s a nice spread, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 161 reviews.
A peek at how this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Restaurant in San Francisco. It offers a good balance, catering to both those looking for a solid mid-range meal and those willing to splurge a little more.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Tad's
Price per Person
- $71–$80
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Delicious Food, Great Service & Vibe!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The cashier and server were both very nice, contributing to a great atmosphere. The food was also delicious, and I especially loved the rib eye steak.
The overall vibe was good, making it a place I'd recommend and encourage others to visit.
- cashier9
- server9
- food10
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Tad's: Exceptional Food and Service!
My experience at Tad's has been consistently wonderful. We go there regularly and are absolutely in love with their food, which is truly exceptional. The hamburger steak breakfast, in particular, has a deep flavor, enhanced by their glorious beef gravy – I always get extra!
The service perfectly complements the food, with a positive and upbeat vibe. It's clear the kitchen staff are enjoying themselves, as they're regularly singing away. These elements are key reasons for Tad's enduring success since the 1950s.
I highly recommend going there!
- food10
- hamburger steak breakfast10
- beef gravy10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Delicious Steak and Great Service!
The restaurant is open from 7 AM to 9 PM, which is great. The staff were friendly, and they offered free sauce refills. Drinks are refillable for $1.
The steak was thick yet tender, and the sides, including mashed potatoes and potato chips, were delicious. The only downside was the rice, which was non-sticky Annam rice and lacked flavor. The salmon steak was also large and tasty, and the prices were reasonable.
I want to eat here every evening! ㅎ
- steak9
- mashed potatoes8
- potato chips8
- rice3
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Excellent Espresso and Service!
My experience at this restaurant was very positive. The food was very tasty, and I highly recommend trying an espresso drink. I ordered the Iced Mocha and found it to be better than those from all the coffee places nearby.
I was told it's because of the double shot of espresso. The service was great. Although you order and pay at the counter first, the staff checks on you often and clears plates as needed.
I noticed a newer employee working hard in the dining room, who still managed to smile and ask if I enjoyed my food while clearing my tray. It's also a good sign that other staff members have been here for a long time, suggesting it's a nice place to work. As I left, the cooks said goodbye and thanked me for coming.
The steak sandwich with fries was well worth the cost of around $20.
- food9
- espresso drink10
- Iced Mocha10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Delicious Steak and Friendly Service
I had an excellent dining experience at Tad’s Steakhouse two days ago. The steak was absolutely delicious, perfectly cooked and full of flavor. The staff was very friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.
Overall, I was very satisfied and would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great steak in a welcoming atmosphere.
- steak10
- staff9
- atmosphere8
What Tad's offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Has changing table(s)
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Late-night food
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Counter service
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Parking
- Paid parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and dining options can you expect at Tad's?
At Tad’s, you’ll discover a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for any occasion. You can enjoy various dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, with both counter and table service available. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
Does Tad's offer convenient service options and amenities for visitors?
Yes, Tad’s provides flexible service options including no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in. You’ll also find amenities like a bar onsite, free Wi-Fi, and wheelchair accessibility for entrance, seating, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
How is Tad's generally rated by customers?
Tad’s holds a good overall score of 7.3 with 72.2% customer satisfaction. Its Ambience (7.7) and Service (7.4) are particularly well-regarded, while Food (7.2) and Value (6.8) also receive good marks.
Is Tad's considered good value for money?
Many customers find Tad’s offers good value (6.8), especially for its affordable steaks and generous portions, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious diners.
What are some common criticisms or drawbacks at Tad's?
Some diners have noted inconsistent food quality, including issues with steak doneness and side dishes. The cafeteria-style service and occasional unsanitary aspects have also been mentioned as areas for improvement.