Seemor
The WillowsBWorth Trying
1582 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94103
· Sports bar, Gastropub, New American restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (937 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively SoMa gastropub with standout burgers, games, and events; value is fair for SF, but service can swing from friendly to frustrating and food wait times vary.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Willows delivers solid neighborhood gastropub quality with above-average food execution—burgers and fries that exceed typical bar standards—and a warm, game-filled atmosphere that builds genuine loyalty. However, inconsistent food quality and notably variable service attentiveness (friendly staff mixed with occasional curt encounters) prevent a higher grade. Fair pricing and fun events make it worth a visit, though expect occasional service friction at peak times.
Restaurant Summary
The Willows is a SoMa spot where the room feels warm and bustling without losing its laid-back bar charm. Think pinball, pool, multiple TVs, and a split space that swings from lively to mellow. One guest put it simply: "A perfect hangout with friendly faces and solid drinks." Service warmth is often noted, though a few encounters with a grumpy bartender stand out. The cooking leans elevated bar fare—juicy burgers, crispy brussels, and cheese curds—delivering comfort food with care. The Wagyu-based options and house twists (like goat cheese and arugula) win frequent praise, while the Reuben inspires both fans and skeptics. Expect straightforward, satisfying plates over culinary theatrics; great for game days, casual dates, and groups that value good vibes and hearty plates. Families can make this work earlier in the evening. The menu includes kid-friendly picks like nuggets, fries, quesadillas, and simple burgers, plus a black bean patty for veg-forward eaters. There is no explicit kids menu, but the casual setup and familiar options make it easy for picky eaters if you avoid peak late-night hours.
At a Glance
- Standout burgers and fries for a bar setting
- Fun atmosphere with trivia, karaoke, pool, and pinball
- Fair prices for SoMa with drink specials
- Service can be curt or inconsistent at the bar
- Food wait times range from quick to 60+ minutes at peak
What Sets It Apart
- two_distinct_bar_areas
- game_nights_trivia_karaoke
- hearty_burgers_with_vegan_alternatives
What People Love
- Burgers that punch above bar-food expectations
- Reasonably priced drinks and rotating specials
- Event nights that keep the room lively
- A second bar area that offers breathing room
Points of Concern
- Intermittent reports of rude or dismissive bartenders impact experience for some guests
- Food pacing can be slow during busy periods; parties served in staggered waves
- Reuben quality varies from excellent to greasy depending on visit
- Review patterns show broad authenticity with mixed sentiments; interpret polarizing service reports as situational
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$30-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For vegetarians: Black Bean burger or buffalo cauliflower with a Greek or Caesar salad
- For vegans: Impossible sloppy joe and asada fries in vegan style
- Bundle seekers: The Drunk and Happy Meal at $26.95
Perfect For
- Game days with friends and shareable snacks
- Casual date night with cocktails and pinball
- Group hangs post-event near SoMa
- Solo bar visit with a burger and a quiet corner
Location Insights
Area: Mixed-use SoMa corridor with bars, venues, and light industrial; draws locals and event-goers.
Safety: Generally busy on nights; urban feel with typical SoMa caution late night.
Nearby: Near nightlife, live music, and Mission Street; good for pre/post-event hangs.
Mission BayMission Bay is a modern, planned neighborhood with a mix of residential, commercial, and biotech industry spaces. The dining scene is vibrant, featuring trendy cafes, upscale restaurants, and casual eateries catering to a tech-savvy and health-conscious crowd. The area is generally safe, accessible, and popular for after-work socializing and weekend brunches.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:30–01:00
Tuesday11:30–01:00
Wednesday11:30–01:00
Thursday11:30–02:00
Friday11:30–02:00
Saturday11:00–02:00
Sunday11:00–00:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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