Seemor
Red TavernBWorth Trying
2229 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94121
· Russian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (473 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Classic Russian comfort cooking with standout stroganoff and dumplings, good for groups, but pricing, occasional service lapses, and inconsistent hours temper the experience.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Red Tavern delivers solid neighborhood dining anchored by strong food quality—stroganoff and pelmeni earn consistent praise—but quality variation across dishes and uneven service prevent higher performance. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere suits casual family meals and pre-theater dinners, though pricing concerns and occasional operational inconsistencies temper the experience for some diners.
Restaurant Summary
A neighborhood Russian spot with cozy, old‑school charm where dumplings and stews anchor the table. Reviewers praise staples, especially the stroganoff, and one diner noted, "the room felt like a welcoming living room." Service ranges from warm to a bit slow, so plan accordingly. The cooking leans traditional and satisfying, not showy. Expect elevated comfort classics like pelmeni, borscht, and cabbage rolls, with the stroganoff drawing the loudest raves. The culinary approach is classic and produce-driven: technique favors hearty textures and rich sauces over flash. Families do well here. Kids can reliably eat dumplings, schnitzel, and chicken, plus simple sides like rice or potatoes. There is no explicit kids menu, but the menu has multiple familiar options; just note portions can run small on some appetizers.
At a Glance
- Stroganoff and dumplings earn consistent praise
- Cozy, welcoming vibe suited to pre-theater dinners
- Pricing feels high to some for portion sizes
- Parking is difficult; allow extra time
- Hours and reservation handling occasionally inconsistent
What Sets It Apart
- classic_russian_comfort_menu
- pre_theater_location
- group_sharing_plates
What People Love
- Rich, tender stroganoff with memorable sauce
- Hearty soups that feel homemade
- Pelmeni and vareniki with satisfying bite
- A cozy room that feels personal
Points of Concern
- Some diners report slow pacing and occasional brusque interactions
- Value debates: a few items feel pricey for size
- Parking challenges on Clement add arrival stress
- Reports of early closure and a double-booked event create reliability concerns
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-62 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a shareable meal: borscht + pelmeni + beef stroganoff for two
- For lighter fare, pair cucumber salad with Bulgarian salad and cherry vareniki for a sweet finish
Perfect For
- Pre-show dinner at the 4 Star Theater
- Comfort-food cravings on a foggy night
- Family-style sharing with traditional dishes
- Introducing friends to Russian cuisine
Location Insights
Area: Residential Outer Richmond corridor with local shops; relaxed, neighborhood dining rather than downtown polish.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical SF urban caution at night.
Nearby: Near Balboa/4 Star Theater, bakeries, Asian eateries, and Russian markets along Clement St.
Outer RichmondOuter Richmond is a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood with a strong local dining scene featuring many Asian and seafood restaurants. The area is known for its casual, neighborhood-friendly atmosphere with a focus on affordable, authentic eateries and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Clement Street CorridorThe Clement Street Corridor is a vibrant stretch known for its dense concentration of diverse restaurants, cafes, and markets, offering a mix of Asian cuisines and casual dining options. It serves as a community hub with a welcoming, unpretentious vibe popular among locals.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday14:00–21:00
Sunday14:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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