Seemor
Lime TreeB+Worth Trying
450 Irving St A, San Francisco, CA 94122
· Southeast Asian restaurant, Asian restaurant, Malaysian restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (358 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Neighborhood Southeast Asian spot with standout roti, laksa, and rendang at fair prices; small room, occasional menu outages, and variable execution.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Lime Tree earns its grade through strong food quality anchored by exceptional roti and laksa, paired with friendly, attentive service and excellent value for San Francisco. However, inconsistent execution on rendang and occasional item unavailability prevents higher standing, while the modest basement setting limits destination appeal. A reliable neighborhood gem worth visiting if nearby, but not a must-seek destination.
Restaurant Summary
Down a few steps on Irving, Lime Tree feels low key and cozy, the kind of neighborhood spot where one cook and one server keep things moving. Service reads as friendly and fast, and plates land hot with the house sambal on standby. A guest summed it up: "Simple room, bold flavors, and I left happy." The cooking leans classic Malaysian-Singaporean with Indonesian comforts rather than theatrics, led by roti with curry and a warming laksa. Rendang can be excellent when tender, while nasi goreng and some tofu dishes split opinion. Expect a small menu where favorites shine, though items occasionally run out. For families, the menu has several kid-friendly anchors like chicken satay, fried rice, and roti. Spice levels are adjustable, and portions are manageable, but note occasional unavailability and limited vegetable-centric choices. If picky eaters prefer plain fare, steer them toward satay or chicken-and-noodles.
At a Glance
- Standout roti with curry and comforting laksa
- Good value for San Francisco with combos and generous bowls
- Items sometimes unavailable; occasional closure without notice
- Inconsistent execution on rendang and tofu dishes
- Steps from N Judah; extremely transit-friendly
What Sets It Apart
- house_sambal_heat
- roti_and_laksa_specialists
- value_combos_with_drink
What People Love
- Flaky roti dipped in rich curry
- House sambal that lifts every dish
- Large, steaming bowls of curry noodles
- Neighborhood warmth and fast, friendly service
- Value-minded combo plates
Points of Concern
- Intermittent menu outages; laksa occasionally unavailable
- Protein-to-carb balance can feel light in some dishes
- A few reports of bland or tough rendang and basic fried rice
- Parking is tough; rely on the N Judah outside
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$22-32 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Build a combo: satay combo ($13.99) plus roti starter for hearty value.
- For vegetarians: basil tofu combo ($12.99) plus corn fritters; confirm no fish sauce.
Perfect For
- Casual pre- or post-park meal
- Solo weeknight comfort-food fix
- Low-key date on a budget
- Spice lovers chasing sambal heat
Location Insights
Area: Lively Inner Sunset corridor near UCSF and Golden Gate Park; casual, student and neighborhood focused.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic and transit; typical urban cautions at night.
Nearby: Steps from N Judah Muni stop; close to Golden Gate Park attractions, cafes, and small shops.
Inner SunsetThe dining scene in Inner Sunset is casual and neighborhood-focused, featuring a mix of family-run eateries, cafes, and some trendy spots catering to locals. The area is known for its approachable, diverse food options and a friendly, laid-back social atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
Friday11:00–14:00, 17:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–15:00, 17:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–15:00, 17:00–20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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