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Jay’s GrillB+Worth Trying

Name: Jay’s Grill
Address: 1400 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, San Francisco, United States
Rating: 4.8

1400 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102 · Restaurant · 4.8/5 Google (248 reviews)

Delivery · Takeout

Casual Mediterranean grill near SF theaters serving flavorful shawarma, kebabs, and burgers with friendly counter service and solid value for the area.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Jay's Grill delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by excellent shawarma and lentil soup, paired with attentive counter service that feels personal despite the casual format. Consistency shows occasional variation in meat preparation, and service speed can lag during peak times, preventing a higher grade. The convenient Market Street location and generous portions make it a worthwhile neighborhood pick, especially for theater-district visitors.

Restaurant Summary

Steps from the Orpheum, this counter-service spot feels warm and welcoming with staff who help you navigate the toppings bar and check in like it is full service. One diner said the lentil soup "turned a cold evening around," while others rave about the garlic sauce and juicy shawarma. The cooking leans traditional Middle Eastern plates with a casual American twist—shawarma, kebabs, and falafel share menu space with burgers that get playful (fig jam, goat cheese, jalapeno aioli). Portions are generous for San Francisco, and value is strong, though a few guests noted the meat can run dry or skimpy on off days. It is approachable, flavorful food rather than high-concept dining. Families do well here: kids can stick to burgers and fries, chicken tenders, or simple shawarma wraps, and there are plenty of mild toppings. Vegetarians and vegans have real choices like falafel, grape leaves, salads, and lentil soup. No formal kids menu, but the lineup is kid-friendly by design.

At a Glance

Juicy chicken shawarma and excellent lentil soup
Friendly counter team and helpful guidance
Strong value for the area with generous plates
Occasional dry meat or small portions reported
Waits can stretch during post-show rushes

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

Garlic sauce that people dream about
Juicy, well-spiced chicken shawarma
Comforting crushed lentil soup
Kind staff who explain and recommend

Points of Concern

Occasional dryness in meats or thin burger toppings on busy or off days
Ticket times can be slow when only a couple staff are on
A few reports of smaller meat portions relative to the rice base
Pricing is moderate but add-ons and sides can nudge totals higher

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$27-36 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Choose dinner plates ($17.99-$20.99) for best value-to-portion ratio
Vegetarians: Falafel burger or Vegetarian Combo ($17.99) deliver substance
Add the $3.99 drink-and-side upgrade to make wraps into full meals

Perfect For

Pre- or post-theater dinner near the Orpheum
Casual weeknight shawarma and fries
Mixed groups with vegans and meat eaters
Quick solo meal with a smoothie

Location Insights

Area: Busy Civic Center/Mid-Market corridor serving theatergoers, office workers, and neighborhood residents; casual, convenience-focused dining.

Safety: Mixed urban feel with active foot traffic around performance venues; standard downtown precautions apply, generally fine before/after shows.

Nearby: Near Orpheum Theatre, SF Jazz, Opera, Symphony; gyms and offices nearby; convenient for pre/post-show meals.

Mid-MarketThe dining scene in Mid-Market is diverse, featuring a blend of casual eateries, trendy cafes, and some upscale restaurants catering to the tech crowd and local workers. The area is undergoing revitalization, attracting a mix of long-time residents and newcomers, with a lively urban atmosphere that balances business and nightlife.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–23:00 Tuesday11:00–23:00 Wednesday11:00–23:00 Thursday11:00–23:00 Friday11:00–00:00 Saturday12:00–00:00 Sunday13:00–22:00

Available: Delivery, Takeout

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