Creative Thai-Vietnamese brunch spot with generous portions, friendly service, and standout drinks; expect lively energy and a few inconsistencies on seasoning and speed.
Mr. East Kitchen earns its A- grade through exceptional food quality anchored by signature dishes like tom yum omelette and Saigon steak, paired with strong service attentiveness and loyal repeat clientele. Consistency shows occasional variation in seasoning and texture that prevents grade A territory, while the cozy SoMa setting delivers comfortable brunch appeal without destination-level distinction.
A cozy SoMa spot where brunch leans bold and colorful, Mr. East Kitchen pairs Thai and Vietnamese flavors with American staples. Plates land fast, portions are big, and staff feel warm and attentive. One diner summed it up: "Vibrant drinks, generous plates, and friendly service made our morning." Expect a bustling brunch rush and lively room. The cooking favors playful fusion over strict tradition: curry hollandaise over benedicts, a tom yum omelette with crispy potatoes, pandan waffles with apple mustard, and Thai tea French toast. When it hits, it really sings; a few dishes can run mild on seasoning, but favorites like Saigon steak, pad see ew, and pumpkin curry draw repeat visits. Ideal for diners who enjoy creative comfort with Southeast Asian cues. Families should do well here. Kids can gravitate to garlic fries, egg and cheese sandwiches, pandan or chicken waffles, and fried rice, while adventurous teens might sample pad thai or pho. There is no explicit kids menu, but options are accessible; just note weekend peak times and choose gentler flavors if spice is a concern.
Area vibe: Lively SoMa corridor with tech offices, nightlife, and weekend brunch traffic; mixed casual and creative venues.
Safety: Generally busy by day; standard urban precautions at night; mixed street conditions common in SoMa.
What's nearby: Near offices, hotels, and nightlife; attracts conference visitors and neighborhood diners.
Tom Yum Omelette and Saigon Steak are signature savory must-tries, while Thai Tea French Toast and the weekend Crunch Berry French Toast cover the sweet side.
It’s casual but gets noisy and busy at weekend brunch; reservations are recommended and portions are big.
A cozy, colorful fusion cafe that gets lively and energetic during brunch service.