Highlights
- Live music
- Bar games
- Live performances
- Great beer selection
oChef » Woods Polk Station – San Francisco
Woods Polk Station - San Francisco
Photo from Woods Polk Station
Woods Polk Station at a glance
San Francisco Polk Gulch
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 7 of the guests
#1253 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#97 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Good
7.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
161
Reviews
75.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Friendly service
- Tasty empanadas
- Craft beers
Frequently criticized
- Small space
- Crowded quickly
- Limited seating
The bar & pub in San Francisco’s vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood offers you a truly engaging experience. At Woods Polk Station, you’ll discover a lively atmosphere where live music sets the perfect backdrop for your evening.
This cozy and casual spot is known for its great beer selection and bar games, inviting you to unwind and enjoy the local scene. You can find this trendy establishment at 2255 Polk St, ready to welcome you.
Overview: Introducting Woods Polk Station
Woods Polk Station offers a cozy spot known for its inviting atmosphere and a selection of unique brews. Many appreciate the friendly people and great service that make each visit enjoyable, creating a welcoming neighborhood feel.
However, its intimate size can be a challenge, with some finding the small size makes it difficult to secure a spot, especially when it gets crowded quickly. This can impact the overall comfort, despite the generally positive vibes.
Good
7.4
out of 10
161
Reviews
75.8%
Satisfaction
26
negative
13
neutral
122
positive
Woods Polk Station earns a respectable overall score of 7.4, reflecting a generally positive experience for patrons. Customer satisfaction stands at a solid 75.8%, indicating that most visitors leave content.
This feedback is drawn from 161 customer opinions, with 122 positive remarks outweighing 26 negative ones. Delving into specifics, the Service shines brightly with an 8.1, often highlighted for its attentive and knowledgeable staff.
The Food also performs well at 7.8, particularly praised for its unique offerings. While the Ambience scores a good 6.7, its intimate nature is a double-edged sword, and Value comes in at an average 5, with some mixed views on pricing.
What people like
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff
- Delicious empanadas
- Unique beer selection
What people don't like
- Very small space
- Gets crowded quickly
- Limited seating
Woods Polk Station is a compelling choice if you appreciate a cozy atmosphere and a well-curated beer list, complemented by excellent service. It’s particularly suited for smaller groups or a relaxed solo visit, offering a distinct charm that many find appealing.
With a solid recommendation score of 7.8, it’s certainly worth considering. Just be mindful of its compact size, especially during peak hours, as seating can be limited.
If you prioritize a lively, intimate setting with good drinks and snacks over spaciousness, this spot could be a great fit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Woods Polk Station
Food (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 88% of the guests
Alright, lets talk about the food and drinks here! With a solid score of 7.8 and customer satisfaction at a great 79.7%, its clear most folks are leaving happy. Out of 79 total comments, a whopping 63 rave about the delicious empanadas , craft beers , and beer flights .
Many found the food and beer selection to be excellent, with unique and high-quality brews pairing perfectly with tasty small bites. However, its not all perfect, with 8 negative comments pointing out a few areas for improvement. Some found certain herbal varieties or honey beer to be a bit too intense, and a couple of spiced ones didnt hit the mark.
There were also mentions of empanadas being warmed up a little too long, suggesting some inconsistency in preparation.
Food
79
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
8
negative
8
neutral
63
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Excellent craft beers
- Delicious empanadas
- Wide beer selection
What people don't like
- Some beers intense
- Empanadas warmed too long
Often praised
- beersMy experience at this restaurant was in a small place with a couple of tables. The beers rotate with regularity and are good. They also have empanadas, which were ok.
- empanadasThis is one of my favorite local bars, offering AMAZING empanadas and an interesting selection of beers. I highly recommend trying the mushroom empanada!
- beerGreat small place for a beer and a empanada.
- foodgreat beers and food
- mushroom empanadamushroom empanada, which took 20 minutes and came out sizzling hot and delicious
- mushroom empanadasmushroom empanadas are my favorites
- Brew-Ski-Do and BeerfoilThe flight, which included all five beers paired with their corresponding cookies for $20, also came with a cute little pin and was well worth the price. The Brew-Ski-Do and Beerfoil were both light and refreshing. My absolute favorite was the Hopalong; a stout porter with chocolate notes and peanut butter!
- El Porteno empanadasThey sell El Porteno empanadas of all kinds.
- EmpanadaMy experience at the restaurant was magical, especially at 10 pm when hunger struck. I was saved by a delicious Empanada. It felt truly special to find good quality snacks at that late hour of the night 🤌.
- FoodFood:5
Frequently criticized
- beer selectionbeer selection is lacking
- beersMediocre beers in a cool, compact space.
- herbal varietiesherbal varieties were a bit intense
- honey beerwatch out for the honey beer
- honey smoothnessmissed that honey smoothness of a good one
- pilsnerI didn't care for the "spiced" ones. The pilsner had too strong of a flavor and lacked the honey smoothness of a good one. The IPAs were also just okay.
- spiced onesDon't like the "spiced" ones
- warmed upmine got warmed up a little too long
If youre looking for a spot with a fantastic selection of craft beers and seriously good empanadas , this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some of the more adventurous beer styles might not be for everyone, and occasionally an empanada might be a tad over-warmed. Overall, its a solid choice for a tasty experience.
Service (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 48% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot really shines! Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and great service, often highlighting the knowledgeable staff and specific shout-outs to people like Connor. With 21 positive remarks out of 25 total, its clear why the service scores a solid 8.1, indicating a good experience, and boasts a strong 84% customer satisfaction.
However, its not entirely without its hiccups. A few experiences mention a rude bartender and feeling pressured during the ordering process, especially concerning the closing process. These 4 negative comments suggest that while rare, some interactions could use a bit more polish, particularly around closing time.
Service
25
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
4
negative
0
neutral
21
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Excellent service
- Knowledgeable team
What people don't like
- Rude bartender
- Pressured ordering
- Rushed closing
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. I enjoyed the good beers and the nice ambience, complemented by nice service. However, the primary drawback was the very small size of the establishment, making it impossible to find a spot.
- staffWhat a nice pub! I experienced a super cool vibe with great local beer and good staff. I visited once while traveling, and if I lived in this area, I would visit them every day.
- ConnorGo see Connor when you drop by. Dude is the vibe.
- ServiceService:5
- bartenderThe bartender had great detailed recommendations and was very friendly.
- extremely friendly staffExtremely friend staff
- friendly peopleThey offer a unique beer selection that caters to everyone's needs. The overall vibes were great, complemented by good beer and friendly people, making it a place that truly hits the mark.
- good timeyou're in for a good time
- great serviceMy experience at this restaurant was excellent. I enjoyed the excellent beer and the great service. The establishment offers a wide selection of drinks.
- knowledgeable staffThe staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
Frequently criticized
- Girl Scout cookie programfor the Girl Scout cookie program, they need to give all five at one time.
- bartenderMy experience at this restaurant was far from enjoyable. While the drinks were okay, the bartender was rude, and the atmosphere wasn't cozy. We arrived at 11: 40 PM and were immediately pressured to order or leave.
- closing processstarted putting chairs on the bar top, switching lights to max brightness
- orderingasked to immediately order drinks or leave
Overall, if youre looking for a place with genuinely friendly and helpful staff, youre likely in for a treat. While there might be an occasional hiccup with a bartender or closing procedures, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests a great experience awaits. It's definitely worth checking out for the good vibes and attentive team.
Ambience (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 85% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits a sweet spot, with a score of 6.7 and customer satisfaction at 68.5%, indicating a mixed but leaning positive experience. Many of the 37 positive remarks highlight a unique ski lodge theme and a cozy spot with great music and intimate atmosphere, perfect for meaningful conversations or just good vibes. However, some of the 12 negative comments point to challenges with the small size and limited seating, which can make it feel crowded quickly.
A few also mentioned a lack of ventilation, suggesting it can get a bit stuffy when busy.
Ambience
54
Reviews
68%
Satisfaction
12
negative
5
neutral
37
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy ski lodge vibe
- Intimate atmosphere
- Great music
What people don't like
- Very small size
- Limited seating
- Gets crowded quickly
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at Woods was that it's an intimate place for a drink and small bites of good food. There are only a few tables, so expect to stand, but that's okay as the atmosphere is tight and friendly.
- vibesIncredible vibes all night
- spaceYou can also get Woods Beer to go. The space is small and quaint, but most weeknights it's not too busy, and I've never really had a problem finding a seat.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- TV for gamesthey have a TV for games
- WoodsHe makes Woods the neighborhood staple.
- ambienceMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. I enjoyed the good beers and the nice ambience, complemented by nice service. However, the primary drawback was the very small size of the establishment, making it impossible to find a spot.
- avoid packed barsavoid the packed bars
- barverry small, but verry nice Bar
- busynessYou can also get Woods Beer to go. The space is small and quaint, but most weeknights it's not too busy, and I've never really had a problem finding a seat.
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereplace isn't cozy
- barwhen it's crowded and the bar is TINY
- capacityMy experience at this restaurant was that it's a comfy spot with sparse seating. It's not ideal for a group of people due to capacity limitations, but it's well-worth the journey if you're looking for a place to unwind for two.
- crowded quicklyGets very crowded quickly
- dog friendlyEverything else I tried was quite good and fresh. The brewery is NOT dog friendly, but there's a chance to sit outside with a pup on a swing if you don't mind road construction. The staff was really helpful throughout my visit.
- find a spotI enjoyed the good beers and the nice ambience, complemented by nice service. However, the primary drawback was the very small size of the establishment, making it impossible to find a spot. I would recommend the beer flight for $13.
- indoor seatingLimited indoor seating
- new layoutI highly recommend trying the mushroom empanada! However, I'm not a fan of their new layout. It's a difficult space to stand in, and if you don't secure a seat at the bar, it can feel quite tight.
- seatingMy experience at this restaurant was that it's a comfy spot with sparse seating. It's not ideal for a group of people due to capacity limitations, but it's well-worth the journey if you're looking for a place to unwind for two.
- small sizeit's very small
If youre looking for a cozy, intimate spot with a unique ski lodge vibe and dont mind a smaller space, this place is worth checking out. However, if you prefer spacious venues or are with a large group, you might find it a bit too cramped, especially during peak times.
Value (5 out of 10)
mentioned by 8% of the guests
Lets talk value! Youll be happy to hear that some folks really appreciate the below average prices for quality brews, which is always a great find. Despite an overall score of an average 5 and a poor customer satisfaction of 33.3%, this positive note, based on 1 positive opinion, offers a glimpse of good value.
However, the value proposition isn't entirely smooth sailing. Based on 2 negative opinions, some find the Beer prices to be higher, noting the cost of ferrying hops. Additionally, the empanadas are considered overpriced, which can certainly impact the overall perception of value.
Value
3
Reviews
33%
Satisfaction
2
negative
0
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Below average brew prices
What people don't like
- High beer prices
- Overpriced empanadas
Often praised
- below average pricesbelow average prices for quality brews
Frequently criticized
- Beer pricesBeer prices are higher - costly to ferry hops
- empanadasEmpanadas are overpriced
If you're looking for good deals on quality brews, you might find some value here. However, be prepared for potentially higher beer prices and overpriced empanadas, which could make it a mixed bag for your wallet.
How are the prices at Woods Polk Station?
On average, you’ll spend around 23 per person – from 7 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $21–$30 category. For a Bar & Pub, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Interestingly, while the average is 23, most of the reported prices actually cluster in the $11–$20 range, with a few higher spends pulling up the overall average. This means you’ll find a mix of options. With only 7 reviews, this is a good indication, but the data is still a bit limited.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 7 reviews. With limited data, it gives us a good indication of the spending habits.
How this spot’s value stacks up against similar places in San Francisco.
For a Bar & Pub in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels pretty fair. It offers a good balance, especially with options that cater to different budgets, making it a solid choice for a casual outing.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Woods Polk Station
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Loud
9
Great Vibe and Empanadas!
My experience here was fantastic! I highly recommend seeing Connor when you visit; he truly embodies the vibe of this place and is the after-hours king of this bar. I absolutely loved it.
They offer a great selection of El Porteno empanadas, and I was impressed by the variety. The atmosphere is a perfect slit and hole-in-the-wall vibe, situated right at the corner of Polk and Green. The food received a perfect score of 5, and the atmosphere was also a 5.
Service was rated 5 as well.
- Connor10
- El Porteno empanadas9
- hole-in-the-wall vibe8
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Woods: Best Beer in the City!
My experience at Woods was fantastic! The beer is hands down the best in the city. If you don't agree, well, you can find a new city!
The service, atmosphere, and food all received a perfect 5/5 rating.
- beer10
- service10
- atmosphere10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Incredible Vibes with Wade at the Bar
We stumbled upon this spot and ended up staying for a few hours on a Friday night with Wade. The vibes were incredible all night. It's such a special spot that I almost didn't want to bring attention to it.
But if you're lucky enough to get a spot at the bar with Wade, you're in for a good time.
- vibes10
- special spot9
- good time9
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Best Pilsner and Lager in SF!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I drank the best Pilsner and Lager I've had during my stay in San Francisco. They were crisp and very refreshing, exactly as described.
I highly recommend buying a few cans to take with you for a small supply. The great service was also a highlight. Thank you very much!
- Pilsner and Lager10
- service10
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Connor Makes Woods a Neighborhood Gem
My experience at Woods was fantastic, largely thanks to Connor, who was incredibly welcoming and lovely. He truly makes Woods the neighborhood staple. 🍻 🍻🍻
- Connor10
- Woods9
What Woods Polk Station offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Offerings
- Food
- Wine
- Food at bar
- Beer
Dining options
- Seating
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of entertainment can you expect at Woods Polk Station?
At Woods Polk Station, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere featuring live music and engaging live performances. You can also challenge your friends to a round of bar games, ensuring there’s always something fun to do while you enjoy your visit.
Are there accessible options and is Woods Polk Station pet-friendly?
Yes, Woods Polk Station is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom for your convenience. Additionally, you’ll be pleased to know that dogs are allowed, making it a great spot to visit with your furry companion in Polk Gulch.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Woods Polk Station?
Woods Polk Station generally receives positive feedback, with a customer satisfaction rate of 75.8% and an overall restaurant score of 7.4. This indicates a good experience for most visitors.
What are the standout features and potential drawbacks of Woods Polk Station?
Customers frequently praise the excellent Service (8.1) and the quality of the Food (7.8), especially the empanadas and diverse beer options. However, the intimate Ambience (6.7) is often noted for its very small size and tendency to get crowded, which can limit seating.
Is Woods Polk Station a good place for a casual drink and snack?
Yes, Woods Polk Station is often described as a great spot for good beers and delicious empanadas. Its unique selection of brews and tasty small bites make it a popular choice for a relaxed outing, provided you don’t mind a potentially cozy, bustling environment.