Seemor
The Grove Restaurant & BarBWorth Trying
690 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105
· American restaurant, Bar, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (4831 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Bustling counter-service spot with memorable ambiance and an extensive comfort-food menu; great for casual meals, but expect lines, added fees, and occasional inconsistency.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Grove delivers solid neighborhood dining with exceptional ambiance and well-executed comfort classics like breakfast burritos and Reubens, but inconsistent execution—particularly cold plates and temperature issues during peak times—prevents a higher grade. The counter-service model and upfront tipping add friction to the experience. Worth visiting for the distinctive setting and reliable menu highlights, though expect occasional quality variation.
Restaurant Summary
Inside, the space feels warm and lively with towering indoor trees, twinkle lights, and fireside corners that many compare to a movie set. The counter-first flow creates a buzz, and runners keep tables turning; one diner summed it up as "order, sit, and enjoy while the room hums." However, expect lines at peak times and a casual service rhythm. The cooking leans classic American comfort with a modern pantry—think a hefty breakfast burrito, Benedict variations, mac and cheese, Reubens, and a well-liked pot pie. The approach is elevated traditional rather than chefly theatrics: hearty, familiar plates with occasional global accents. Most praise flavor and portions, though a minority report inconsistent temperatures or overdone eggs, especially at rush. Families do well here thanks to many kid-friendly staples like French toast, mac and cheese, burgers, and tomato soup. There is gluten-free bread and several vegetarian choices, but vegan options are limited; parents of strict eaters should scan the menu for suitable picks before lining up.
At a Glance
- Distinctive ambiance with indoor trees and cozy fireplace vibe
- Extensive all-day menu with crowd-pleasing comfort dishes
- Counter service with added fees and upfront tipping surprises some diners
- Inconsistent execution reported (cold plates, overcooked eggs) during peak times
- A few isolated food safety/pest complaints despite refunds issued
What Sets It Apart
- distinctive_forest_decor
- all_day_breakfast
- central_convention_location
- counter_service_with_full_bar
What People Love
- Atmosphere that feels transportive
- Hearty portions that satisfy
- All-day breakfast flexibility
- Friendly runners and quick table cleaning
Points of Concern
- Lines to order and self-serve model with tips requested upfront
- Reports of cold or overcooked items, especially in breakfast rush
- Limited vegan options despite otherwise broad menu
- Isolated pest and mold complaints; management refunded but incidents noted
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$38-$58 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Vegetarians: Berkeley Bowl or Portobello burger; Gluten-sensitive: ask for GF bread on tuna melt; Vegan: hummus and some salads, but options are limited
Perfect For
- Pre- or post-convention casual meals
- Laid-back brunch with friends
- Solo coffee and a hearty breakfast
- Mixed-diet groups who like familiar comfort food
Location Insights
Area: Central, busy cultural-business district near MoMA and convention center; caters to office workers and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with heavy foot traffic; occasional urban nuisances typical of downtown.
Nearby: Near Moscone Center, hotels, museums, and shopping; strong daytime and event traffic.
South of Market (SoMa)SoMa offers a vibrant dining scene with a mix of upscale restaurants, casual eateries, and trendy bars. The area is bustling on weekdays with office workers and tech employees, while evenings and weekends attract a diverse crowd seeking nightlife and cultural experiences. The neighborhood is generally safe and highly accessible by public transit.
South BeachSouth Beach is a sub-area within SoMa characterized by luxury condos, waterfront views, and high-end dining options. It tends to attract a more upscale crowd and offers a quieter, more polished atmosphere compared to the busier parts of SoMa.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:30–22:00
Tuesday07:30–22:00
Wednesday07:30–22:00
Thursday07:30–22:00
Friday07:30–22:00
Saturday07:30–22:00
Sunday07:30–22:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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