Best of 20 lunch restaurants in Bernal Heights
Bernal Heights, a charming neighborhood in San Francisco, is home to a variety of delicious lunch restaurants. Whether you're in the mood for classic American fare, international cuisine, or vegetarian and vegan options, Bernal Heights has something for everyone. From cozy cafes to bustling eateries, lunch restaurants in Bernal Heights are sure to satisfy your midday cravings. Come and explore the diverse food scene in this eclectic neighborhood!
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- 1. Blue Plate
- 2. Piqueo's
- 3. Moonlight Cafe
- 4. Nute's in Bernal Heights
- 5. Vega
- 6. El Buen Comer
- 7. United Dumplings
- 8. Cellarmaker House of Pizza - SF
- 9. Charlie's Cafe
- 10. Taco Los Altos
- 11. Cocina Mamá Cholita
- 12. Baby Blues BBQ
- 13. Emmy's Spaghetti Shack
- 14. Cuisine of Nepal Restaurant in Bernal Heights
- 15. 3rd Cousin
- 16. Al's Super Cafe
- 17. El Jacal Mexican grill
- 18. Bac Lieu Restaurant
- 19. Four Chairs in Bernal Heights
- 20. Cafe Seventy8
1. Blue Plate
Voted Best Comfort Food, retro vibe, family-owned
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Vegan diners were delighted at the special attention they received at Blue Plate. The chef personally brought out their entrees and explained the ingredients used. The meal consisted of three courses, including two diverse starters. The dessert, a sorbet, although a simple vegan option, was of excellent quality.
Meatloaf was also served during the dinner, which was described as "very good" by one diner. Although the meatloaf could have been cooked a bit more, it was exceptionally moist and flavorful. The dish was accompanied by mashed potatoes and Blue Lake Green Beans, which complemented the meatloaf well. Overall, the meal was a satisfying experience for both vegan and non-vegan diners.
Vegan diners were delighted at the special attention they received at Blue Plate. The chef personally brought out their entrees and explained the ingredients used. The meal consisted of three courses, including two diverse starters. The dessert, a sorbet, although a simple vegan option, was of excellent quality.
Meatloaf was also served during the dinner, which was described as "very good" by one diner. Although the meatloaf could have been cooked a bit more, it was exceptionally moist and flavorful. The dish was accompanied by mashed potatoes and Blue Lake Green Beans, which complemented the meatloaf well. Overall, the meal was a satisfying experience for both vegan and non-vegan diners.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
2. Piqueo's
Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist
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Piqueo's is a wonderful lunch destination that provides a wide selection of Peruvian dishes. The staff is known for their friendliness and attentiveness to customers. A must-try is the Hibiscus Spritzer, which complements the meals well.
The lunch menu at Piqueo's is especially noteworthy, with popular dishes like Aji De Gallina and Cebiche Mixto. However, it's important to note that service can be slower during peak hours due to the high volume of customers. Despite this, the delicious food makes up for any wait time.
Piqueo's is a wonderful lunch destination that provides a wide selection of Peruvian dishes. The staff is known for their friendliness and attentiveness to customers. A must-try is the Hibiscus Spritzer, which complements the meals well.
The lunch menu at Piqueo's is especially noteworthy, with popular dishes like Aji De Gallina and Cebiche Mixto. However, it's important to note that service can be slower during peak hours due to the high volume of customers. Despite this, the delicious food makes up for any wait time.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
3. Moonlight Cafe
Offers outdoor seating and a variety of healthy dishes.
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This casual cafe, located on Cortland Street in Bernal Heights, is a regular spot for many visitors. Known for its wide variety of options on the menu, the cafe offers tasty omelets and crepes, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices available. The staff is friendly, especially to regular customers, and orders are placed at the counter before being brought to tables.
The cafe's ambiance is basic, but it provides a charming and comfortable setting. Prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable dining option in pricey San Francisco. With a focus on providing quality food and service, this cafe is a great spot to enjoy a meal, regardless of dietary restrictions. Its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice for both regulars and newcomers alike.
This casual cafe, located on Cortland Street in Bernal Heights, is a regular spot for many visitors. Known for its wide variety of options on the menu, the cafe offers tasty omelets and crepes, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices available. The staff is friendly, especially to regular customers, and orders are placed at the counter before being brought to tables.
The cafe's ambiance is basic, but it provides a charming and comfortable setting. Prices are very reasonable, making it an affordable dining option in pricey San Francisco. With a focus on providing quality food and service, this cafe is a great spot to enjoy a meal, regardless of dietary restrictions. Its convenient location and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice for both regulars and newcomers alike.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Breakfast
4. Nute's in Bernal Heights
Uses high-quality ingredients and offers catering services
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A small restaurant located on Cortland Ave in Bernal Heights, known for its delicious bowls of Japanese ramen noodles, has gained a reputation for its excellent offerings. The spicy ramen option, in particular, has won the taste test among patrons. This cozy eatery also boasts an impressive list of Japanese craft beers from three different brewers, which complements the flavorful ramen selection.
The Japanese beer menu is a standout feature of this establishment, offering a great selection of beers for customers to try. The Matcha IPA is a popular choice and adds to the unique dining experience. The spicy ramen's taste is exceptional, making it a satisfying meal. With its remarkable food and beverage offerings, this unassuming restaurant is worth visiting again.
A small restaurant located on Cortland Ave in Bernal Heights, known for its delicious bowls of Japanese ramen noodles, has gained a reputation for its excellent offerings. The spicy ramen option, in particular, has won the taste test among patrons. This cozy eatery also boasts an impressive list of Japanese craft beers from three different brewers, which complements the flavorful ramen selection.
The Japanese beer menu is a standout feature of this establishment, offering a great selection of beers for customers to try. The Matcha IPA is a popular choice and adds to the unique dining experience. The spicy ramen's taste is exceptional, making it a satisfying meal. With its remarkable food and beverage offerings, this unassuming restaurant is worth visiting again.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
- Weekend Dining
5. Vega
Eco-friendly packaging, supports local farmers, and offers gluten-free choices.
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Vega is an Italian restaurant located in Bernal Heights, recognized for its delicious Italian dishes and welcoming service. The menu features a variety of options, including popular choices such as pizza, squid ink pasta, butternut squash soup, and tiramisu. The restaurant also offers a smaller but well-selected wine list and a cozy outdoor patio with heaters.
A meal at Vega is a delightful experience, with the standout pizza al funghi being a must-try. The service and ambiance are both top-notch, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner with friends or a date. The waitstaff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable dining experience.
Vega is an Italian restaurant located in Bernal Heights, recognized for its delicious Italian dishes and welcoming service. The menu features a variety of options, including popular choices such as pizza, squid ink pasta, butternut squash soup, and tiramisu. The restaurant also offers a smaller but well-selected wine list and a cozy outdoor patio with heaters.
A meal at Vega is a delightful experience, with the standout pizza al funghi being a must-try. The service and ambiance are both top-notch, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner with friends or a date. The waitstaff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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6. El Buen Comer
Mexican fine dining with a modern twist
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For lunch, I enjoyed the chicken tinga which was a delightful dish. The portion size was ideal, providing a satisfying meal without being overwhelming. The service during my visit was also commendable, as the staff was friendly and attentive to my needs.
In addition to the chicken tinga, I must highlight the fantastic mole. It is a perfect choice for a hearty lunch, bursting with rich and authentic flavors that truly tantalize the taste buds.
For lunch, I enjoyed the chicken tinga which was a delightful dish. The portion size was ideal, providing a satisfying meal without being overwhelming. The service during my visit was also commendable, as the staff was friendly and attentive to my needs.
In addition to the chicken tinga, I must highlight the fantastic mole. It is a perfect choice for a hearty lunch, bursting with rich and authentic flavors that truly tantalize the taste buds.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
7. United Dumplings
Handmade dumplings, Wide variety of fillings, Noodle and rice dishes also available
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Bernal Heights is home to a casual eatery known for its delicious dumplings. The menu features an array of options, including bulgogi, chicken and truffle oil, corn and mozzarella, and the ever-popular shrimp toast. The parklet is a popular spot to enjoy these offerings, often filled with families and groups sharing dishes.
The dumplings are a standout menu item, consistently well-made with a juicy meat filling and a thin, traditional skin. Diners also rave about the shrimp toast, which is crispy and golden-brown, and the dan dan noodles, which are packed with flavor. This spot is a must-visit for anyone in the area seeking authentic and delicious dumplings.
Bernal Heights is home to a casual eatery known for its delicious dumplings. The menu features an array of options, including bulgogi, chicken and truffle oil, corn and mozzarella, and the ever-popular shrimp toast. The parklet is a popular spot to enjoy these offerings, often filled with families and groups sharing dishes.
The dumplings are a standout menu item, consistently well-made with a juicy meat filling and a thin, traditional skin. Diners also rave about the shrimp toast, which is crispy and golden-brown, and the dan dan noodles, which are packed with flavor. This spot is a must-visit for anyone in the area seeking authentic and delicious dumplings.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
8. Cellarmaker House of Pizza - SF
In-house brewed beer and gourmet pizza combinations
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The pizza place in question is actually open, despite being listed as closed on TripAdvisor. The establishment was visited in July 2023 and was found to be impressive, particularly the pizza. Two types were ordered, including a pepperoni and a rotating option with broccoli, heirloom tomatoes, and goat cheese. The dough was a standout feature, and overall, the Detroit-style pizza was a hit.
However, the price of the pepperoni pizza was a drawback. At $25 plus tip, it seemed expensive, especially when compared to a New York style pizza twice the size for $12 in Mauritius. Although San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, the comparison highlights the challenge of finding affordable dining in the area.
The pizza place in question is actually open, despite being listed as closed on TripAdvisor. The establishment was visited in July 2023 and was found to be impressive, particularly the pizza. Two types were ordered, including a pepperoni and a rotating option with broccoli, heirloom tomatoes, and goat cheese. The dough was a standout feature, and overall, the Detroit-style pizza was a hit.
However, the price of the pepperoni pizza was a drawback. At $25 plus tip, it seemed expensive, especially when compared to a New York style pizza twice the size for $12 in Mauritius. Although San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, the comparison highlights the challenge of finding affordable dining in the area.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
9. Charlie's Cafe
Friendly staff, cozy atmosphere, and community-oriented.
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Charlie's Cafe is a cozy and welcoming spot that undergoes a transformation on Friday evenings, serving as a hub for the neighborhood by hosting a variety of events such as concerts, art galleries, and social activism events. During the day, it is an excellent place to work or study, with a comfortable atmosphere, good coffee, and tasty bagels. The cafe is conveniently located across from Precita Park, making it easy to grab a sandwich and coffee to enjoy while relaxing in the park.
In addition to its role as a great workspace, Charlie's Cafe is also known for its proximity to Precita Park, providing a convenient option for park-goers to pick up a sandwich and coffee. The cafe's comfortable and inviting atmosphere, combined with its offerings of coffee and food, make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. The Friday evening events are a testament to the cafe's commitment to serving as a community space, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to enjoy music, art, and activism.
Charlie's Cafe is a cozy and welcoming spot that undergoes a transformation on Friday evenings, serving as a hub for the neighborhood by hosting a variety of events such as concerts, art galleries, and social activism events. During the day, it is an excellent place to work or study, with a comfortable atmosphere, good coffee, and tasty bagels. The cafe is conveniently located across from Precita Park, making it easy to grab a sandwich and coffee to enjoy while relaxing in the park.
In addition to its role as a great workspace, Charlie's Cafe is also known for its proximity to Precita Park, providing a convenient option for park-goers to pick up a sandwich and coffee. The cafe's comfortable and inviting atmosphere, combined with its offerings of coffee and food, make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike. The Friday evening events are a testament to the cafe's commitment to serving as a community space, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to enjoy music, art, and activism.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
10. Taco Los Altos
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
11. Cocina Mamá Cholita
Authentic Bolivian cuisine, Homemade recipes, Warm and welcoming atmosphere
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This restaurant offers great service and amazing food. The quesadillas birria are a must-try, and their empanadas with rice and mole sauce are also delicious. The environment is friendly and clean, making it a pleasant dining experience.
This restaurant offers great service and amazing food. The quesadillas birria are a must-try, and their empanadas with rice and mole sauce are also delicious. The environment is friendly and clean, making it a pleasant dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Baby Blues BBQ
Authentic Southern BBQ in the heart of San Francisco.
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For lunch, I dined at a restaurant that served delicious mac-n-cheese and collard greens. However, the meats were a little dry. The restaurant is a good spot for a lunchtime meal, and I particularly enjoyed their pulled pork and beef brisket. Unfortunately, the portion sizes were a bit small, and I felt they were a bit overpriced for what I received.
In summary, my lunch experience was a mix of hits and misses. On the one hand, the mac-n-cheese and collard greens were tasty, and the pulled pork and beef brisket were also enjoyable. But, the dryness of the meats was a letdown, and the small portions were disappointing given the cost. Nonetheless, I would still consider returning to try some of their other dishes.
For lunch, I dined at a restaurant that served delicious mac-n-cheese and collard greens. However, the meats were a little dry. The restaurant is a good spot for a lunchtime meal, and I particularly enjoyed their pulled pork and beef brisket. Unfortunately, the portion sizes were a bit small, and I felt they were a bit overpriced for what I received.
In summary, my lunch experience was a mix of hits and misses. On the one hand, the mac-n-cheese and collard greens were tasty, and the pulled pork and beef brisket were also enjoyable. But, the dryness of the meats was a letdown, and the small portions were disappointing given the cost. Nonetheless, I would still consider returning to try some of their other dishes.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
13. Emmy's Spaghetti Shack
Cash-only, quirky decor, lively atmosphere
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The pasta dish at this establishment is a favorite among customers, known for its delicious and tasty flavors. Its popularity can be attributed to the care and attention put into crafting each plate, resulting in a truly satisfying dining experience.
The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, providing a sophisticated and warm atmosphere for patrons. Dark and cozy, the ambiance created by the extensive wine selection is perfect for wine lovers and those looking for a memorable dining experience. The wine list is a standout feature of this establishment, making it a great choice for wine enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
The pasta dish at this establishment is a favorite among customers, known for its delicious and tasty flavors. Its popularity can be attributed to the care and attention put into crafting each plate, resulting in a truly satisfying dining experience.
The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, providing a sophisticated and warm atmosphere for patrons. Dark and cozy, the ambiance created by the extensive wine selection is perfect for wine lovers and those looking for a memorable dining experience. The wine list is a standout feature of this establishment, making it a great choice for wine enthusiasts and casual diners alike.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
14. Cuisine of Nepal Restaurant in Bernal Heights
Family-owned restaurant offering authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine
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The establishment is open for patrons to visit during lunch hours and offers full-service dinner options. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike can enjoy the offerings, with a particular highlight being the vegetable momo dumplings. These dumplings are filled with chopped leeks and greens, providing a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option. The outside of the dumplings is light and not too doughy, and is served with a spicy dipping sauce that adds an extra kick of flavor.
Overall, the restaurant is a great addition to the local food scene, with its delicious and unique offerings. The momo dumplings are a standout item, and the spicy dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment. Both vegetarians and meat-eaters will be able to find something to enjoy on the menu. Whether stopping in for a quick lunch or enjoying a full dinner service, this new establishment is sure to be a hit.
The establishment is open for patrons to visit during lunch hours and offers full-service dinner options. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike can enjoy the offerings, with a particular highlight being the vegetable momo dumplings. These dumplings are filled with chopped leeks and greens, providing a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option. The outside of the dumplings is light and not too doughy, and is served with a spicy dipping sauce that adds an extra kick of flavor.
Overall, the restaurant is a great addition to the local food scene, with its delicious and unique offerings. The momo dumplings are a standout item, and the spicy dipping sauce is the perfect accompaniment. Both vegetarians and meat-eaters will be able to find something to enjoy on the menu. Whether stopping in for a quick lunch or enjoying a full dinner service, this new establishment is sure to be a hit.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
15. 3rd Cousin
Cozy atmosphere, artisan toasts, locally sourced ingredients
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Third Cousin is a restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and stellar quality food, making it a hidden gem in the city. The lobster risotto is a standout dish, and the chef/proprietor, Greg, is known for his welcoming and friendly demeanor. Reservations are easily obtainable, and the 5-course tasting menu provides excellent options, such as Thai yellow curry crab pappardelle and filet mignon. The attentive and accommodating staff ensure an enjoyable dining experience. The menu is well-curated, including vegan options, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. Overall, it offers a delightful and unique dining experience worth revisiting.
However, despite the hype, I found the food at Third Cousin to be overrated. While the atmosphere is cute, the flavors and value did not meet my expectations. Although it can be a fun date night spot, it is not the place to expect mind-blowing flavors. Therefore, while Third Cousin has its merits, it is essential to manage one's expectations when dining there.
Third Cousin is a restaurant that offers a cozy atmosphere and stellar quality food, making it a hidden gem in the city. The lobster risotto is a standout dish, and the chef/proprietor, Greg, is known for his welcoming and friendly demeanor. Reservations are easily obtainable, and the 5-course tasting menu provides excellent options, such as Thai yellow curry crab pappardelle and filet mignon. The attentive and accommodating staff ensure an enjoyable dining experience. The menu is well-curated, including vegan options, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. Overall, it offers a delightful and unique dining experience worth revisiting.
However, despite the hype, I found the food at Third Cousin to be overrated. While the atmosphere is cute, the flavors and value did not meet my expectations. Although it can be a fun date night spot, it is not the place to expect mind-blowing flavors. Therefore, while Third Cousin has its merits, it is essential to manage one's expectations when dining there.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
16. Al's Super Cafe
Locally sourced ingredients, vegan and gluten-free options
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The service at this establishment is friendly, fast, and excellent. The staff are attentive and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. This place is a great option for those looking for a quality breakfast.
The prices are affordable and reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other breakfast spots. The food served is delicious and satisfies guests' cravings for a good meal. This establishment combines affordability with great taste, making it a popular choice.
The service at this establishment is friendly, fast, and excellent. The staff are attentive and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. This place is a great option for those looking for a quality breakfast.
The prices are affordable and reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other breakfast spots. The food served is delicious and satisfies guests' cravings for a good meal. This establishment combines affordability with great taste, making it a popular choice.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
17. El Jacal Mexican grill
Family-owned and operated since 1996, using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
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This Mexican restaurant on Cortland is a frequent destination of mine, and I highly recommend it. I am particularly fond of their burritos, which I have often ordered. The carne asada burrito is a favorite of mine, and I also enjoy the carne asada plate. Both options come with chips and salsa, which I always look forward to. The salsa has just the right amount of spice, making it a perfect complement to the meal.
In summary, this restaurant is a great spot for Mexican food, especially their burritos and plates. I am a fan of the carne asada burrito and plate, which come with delicious chips and salsa. The salsa has the perfect level of spiciness, enhancing the flavors of the meal. I highly recommend giving this place a try if you're in the area and looking for some tasty Mexican cuisine.
This Mexican restaurant on Cortland is a frequent destination of mine, and I highly recommend it. I am particularly fond of their burritos, which I have often ordered. The carne asada burrito is a favorite of mine, and I also enjoy the carne asada plate. Both options come with chips and salsa, which I always look forward to. The salsa has just the right amount of spice, making it a perfect complement to the meal.
In summary, this restaurant is a great spot for Mexican food, especially their burritos and plates. I am a fan of the carne asada burrito and plate, which come with delicious chips and salsa. The salsa has the perfect level of spiciness, enhancing the flavors of the meal. I highly recommend giving this place a try if you're in the area and looking for some tasty Mexican cuisine.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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18. Bac Lieu Restaurant
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine, family-owned, generous portions, and fresh ingredients.
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The lunch options at this location are truly exceptional. The grilled pork rice plate is a standout dish, with its generous portion and authentic flavors. Highly recommended for those who love savory and hearty meals.
If you're in the mood for something soupy and comforting, the bun rieu is an excellent choice. This tomato crab paste and pork noodle soup is a delicious and satisfying option that will not disappoint. It's perfect for a hearty meal that will warm you up from the inside.
The lunch options at this location are truly exceptional. The grilled pork rice plate is a standout dish, with its generous portion and authentic flavors. Highly recommended for those who love savory and hearty meals.
If you're in the mood for something soupy and comforting, the bun rieu is an excellent choice. This tomato crab paste and pork noodle soup is a delicious and satisfying option that will not disappoint. It's perfect for a hearty meal that will warm you up from the inside.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
19. Four Chairs in Bernal Heights
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
20. Cafe Seventy8
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
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