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Central Kitchen Reviews List

Central Kitchen

Central Kitchen is an extension of northern California regional cuisine through simplicity and sophistication. We are entering the dialogue of what northern California cuisine is and we aspire to make our mark. Central Kitchen has its roots in the community but its reach goes far beyond with emphasis on refined food in a warm setting with casual and friendly service.
See more Central Kitchen details
313 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(313 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 313 reviews
5 stars
(146)
4 stars
(110)
3 stars
(34)
2 stars
(20)
1 star
(3)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Ambiance 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Noise Level
2.5 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(236)
  • neighborhood gem(176)
  • hot spot(128)
  • special occasion(103)
  • notable wine list(72)
  • great for brunch(65)
Central Kitchen Reviews List
Review 1 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

CEO loves this place

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Beautifully presented food and great service. My CEO loves this place and will return!"
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Absolutely wonderful

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The whole experience at Central Kitchen was wonderful. We were mesmerized by the cozy, yet hip decor upon arrival. Once seated, our waiter was absolutely wonderful - knowledgable and opinionated in the best possible way. Every dish was an explosion of flavor and the wine we chose was incredible. I would definitely recommend Central Kitchen!"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Creative food, but music too loud

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The seared squid was delicious, pork dish well done, and servers friendly and efficient. I just don't understand why the music has to be that loud, especially early in the evening when the restaurant had only a few couples."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 4 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of our Favorite Meals in SF

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We've eaten at a number of great restaurants in SF, and in this city, good is easy to find. But Central Kitchen was excellent. The flavors were complex and full of flavor; the ingredients were unique (not only focused on food trends), and the servings were surprisingly plentiful. And not only that, but the service was incredible. My water was always refilled, half the time without me even noticing; the food was brought out slowly - they weren't concerned with getting us in and out as quickly as possible, but instead were nicely pacing our courses. I'm sad to be leaving SF and not have another opportunity to return."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 5 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Noisy & Delicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/09/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Great food & phenomenal service. The music was good, but way too loud for normal conversation. I was there to have brunch and catch up with an old friend. We had to use raised voices so didn't get to catch up as we had hoped."
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 6 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love, Love, Love this place II

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"(continued)
Noise can be really low early in the eve, thus suggested. Later it gets a little much for my late 40-something ears. This place is really lovely, it's the combination of things. Some of the food is unbelievably great--rabbit with kumquat small dish they were doing a while,--like the Mona Lisa of SF Cuisine, and all of it is very, very good, but it's the whole package that makes it a really enjoyable place
"
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 7 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Central Kitchen never dissapoints! They're always on their game and is absolutely beautiful all around. One word...#Deliciousness"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, kid-friendly, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 8 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Loved it!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband and I had a few hours one Sunday morning while we had a babysitter watching our five month old and decided we wanted to have brunch at a new place and I discovered Central Kitchen in an article about new restaurants in SF in Travel + Leisure. Great space - love the high ceilings, windows and open space. The food was fantastic too. Glad we discovered it!"
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Overrated

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We tried Central Jitchen despite hearing mixed reviews. Sadly we were disappointed. Our hipster waiter was very slow and didn't pay attention to us, although another server who came later was better. The food was overpriced for what you get and the atmosphere was sadly the typical hipster environment. We paid $120 for two people which could have been spent much better at one of the hundreds of other good restaurants in SF."
Dined on 5/29/2013
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Review 10 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fun fun fun

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is the first time I've been to central kitchen and I must say the food is great. Did the course tasting and it was phenomenal! If you appreciate vegetables, you'll love the creativity of the chef's dishes. Also, they're not stingy and give a good quantity of food for a great price. Very casual atmosphere too."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 11 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/28/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Don't know if I wold recommend to anyone, mostly because the music/noise level is outrageously loud, making conversation difficult. And then there's the choice of "music" which has nothing whatever to do with providing a pleasant dining environment."
Dined on 5/28/2013
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Review 12 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Unusual and delicious!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"In the 20th and Mission area, this restaurant is small and cozy and very noisy. They play loud thumping music, which then makes the patrons raise their voices. Within 10 minutes, I had a headache. To their benefit, they were able and willing to turn the music down a bit, but they were kind of scolding while they did it. Anyway, the food was really fantastic. Though we ordered pork loin and halibut, which were good, the real standouts were the vegetable accompaniments. I had large white beans with a delicious flavor, artichoke hearts, and other nice bits, and my husband had the most incredible kale flavored with bacon and mushrooms. I could be a vegetarian in this restaurant."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 13 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"the food was very creative and very good. The only downer was the noise level. As the tables avre very cllose together but because of all the hard surfaces the noise in very loud and everyone has to pretty much shout to be heard. In addition to that, the music is very loud. If you are a large group this might be ok, but not good for a twosome."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fantastic place. The food was great and the service good. The tasting menu is on par with some of the best in the country. We will be back."
Dined on 5/27/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 15 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Creative and delicious food. Great service as well! Overall a great experience - only complaint was the music was too loud, although a good playlist"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 16 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Different and delicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Centra Kitchen prepares both interesting and unique food combinations. The menu is small but there seems to be something for everyone from fish to poultry to vegetarian choices. The wine list offers selections from around the world."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 17 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Best brunch ever

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great service, great food. Just turn down the heat it was like a sauna in there when we first arrived but the heat was turned down after we requested it."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, hot spot
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Review 18 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Neighborhood Spot

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I went to Central Kitchen for the first time last week with my wife, and my mom (she was visiting). The space is simply beautiful, with a open air feeling that gives the impression that you are dining outside even when you are not. The menu was well priced and everything that we ate was really great. BTW... get the french toast. It is amazing.
I just made reservations to go back for dinner. My recommendation is to get reservations now before this place becomes much tougher to get into."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 19 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious food

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was amazing... had the mousse and salmon for apps and the gnocci (think they call it ricotta ravioli) and halibut. Everything perfectly prepared and seasonal. Great price too, dinner for two with two glasses of wine and two non-alco bevs was $100. Can't beat that for a top price restaurant. I thought it was better than flour + water (but admittedly am not a pizza fan, although if I could have the pizza at flour + water every day I would probably turn into one)."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 20 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Simply delicious

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was my first visit to Central Kitchen, and I left far from disappointed. Both the food and its presentation were stellar. The fava beens and peas with smoked salmon looked like a piece of art. I am looking forward to my next visit."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Hit or miss food, a bit pricey

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went for brunch. The sticky bun was great. super sweet so share among the table. I had a scrambled egg dish which was bland, though the eggs were perfectly cooked. The olive tapanade toast it came with was absolutely wonderful. Among the table we also had brisket and eggs (the meat was amazing, but portion of meat in the dish was tiny), trotters (ok), sausage which was nice, and potatoes which were great. The menu doesnt seem overly pricey, but once you get a main which is ~$15, you add a side of toast or potato which is another $5 and before you get coffee its a $20 brunch. After a plate and a side each, we still went out for ice cream because we were far from full. Nothing was bad, some food was very good so worth a try."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 22 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Vibrant food scene tucked away

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"In a quiet neighborhood , Central Kitchen has an unassuming prescence.
Half open roof it is a modern space. Delicious , creative dishes with farm to table philosophy
"
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot, kid-friendly
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Review 23 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

interesting food but too noisy

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our food was interesting with a couple of the dishes just be fantastic (the mushroom custard and the cheese dumplings were standouts). Our other dishes were good and the service was fine.
The real downer was the loud driving beat of the music which was an overpowering element.
I'd definitely go for the food and stay away for the sound level."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delicious food; distracted service

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This out of the way place in an up and coming neighbourhood provided great food, but slightly distracted service. Our server kept looking over our heads at - what? Prettier and younger guests? Perhaps; the average age while we were there was somewhere north of 60. The food however was very good - fresh, delicate veggies with yummy sauces to start on the prix fixe menu. A very Eurocentric wine pairing was interesting (orange wine, anyone?). After a week of very good eating in the Napa valley followed by a couple of nights in SF, the menu is a bit of a blur - but my recollection is one of good food prepared with care and just a hint of eccentricity - in a good way of course!"
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 25 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mission Gem

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've been several times and this was by far the best meal I've had there and one of the best meals I've had in some time - vibrant, fresh ingredients cooked with subtlety and nuance..."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 26 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great tastes - inventive and seasonal dishes. Delicious!"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 27 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Above all, Service.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was not expecting at a restaurant with this level of quality dishware, and ambiance to leave me asking "Where is our server? Why is our host taking our order? Why no greeting or thank you? Why no politeness? No smile?". Along with these questions, there was a level of detail that Central Kitchen was lacking. Two out of three dishes were good but not incredible. The Porcini broth soup was very flavorful, the peas and hearts of palm also very good. However, our halibut entree was almost inedible. The halibut was not seasoned whatsoever despite it being put on a bed of well seasoned beans. Overall, I would say I won't be returning here. I truly believe good service matters when I go out to restaurants like this."
Dined on 5/15/2013
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Review 28 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mother's Day May Have Been Odd

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had our first Mother's Day with our baby and celebrated here. It was fun as I am in the industry and there were several friends (chefs, bartenders and more) that were there as well. The food was outstanding but we had to literally flag someone down every single time we needed something. No one ever came back to check on us. They never asked us how things were, only asking us what else we needed. Maybe the staff was too young and inexperienced, especially for a place with such high acclaim. Maybe it was because of Mother's Day, but whatever the reason, I expected a place like this to not suffer from this amateur mistake. We'll give it another try though, for dinner and on a normal night."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, kid-friendly, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 29 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Mediocre

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Overall, disappointing. The food was not bad. The best I can say is that it was reasonably priced. Service was not good. It was slow (understandable, given it was Mother's Day). What was not acceptable was the piecemeal manner in which it was served. We all got our dishes at different times, with a space of almost ten minutes from first to last. Being polite people of course those who were served first had to wait as their food got cold. The environment of the place was cafeteria-like. The music was far too loud to allow for conversation. I will not be in a hurry to return."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 30 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

fabulous food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"had a great meal, menu fit for foodies. outstanding dishes were duck confit and beef tartare for appetizers and pork with green farro and herb & ricotta dumplings for main. be sure to check out the tasting menu and if you see something you like, ask waiter if that can be made a la carte."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 31 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Greasy food

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/26/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was bland, greasy and had a lot of mayo (e.g., aioli). Was expecting much tastier, higher quality food."
Dined on 4/26/2013
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Review 32 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Amazing food, AWFUL service!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Waited over an hour for our entrees. The waiter did not come over even one time to apologize or explain the delay. Doubt I would go back. Would not recommend this place to anyone."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 33 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"One of San Francisco's best. The food is inovative and amazing."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 34 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great weeknight dinner

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The apps were fantastic - shared the charred snap peas (hard to stop eating!). The flavors were delightful. The marinated squid was also delicious. Delicate, complementary flavors from the orange and elderflower. Don't miss the Ground Effect, Rock Garden red. It's become a new favorite wine."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 35 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Some hits, some misses

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My boyfriend and I came here after hearing that it was the same chef as flour + water, which we love. The ambiance is great - we sat under the retractable awning which is nice on a rare warm evening, the lights add a romantic glow, and the noise level is just right. The food was good, although some dishes were better than others. We loved the snap peas and we couldn't get enough of the herb & ricotta dumplings. The halibut was bland, but the textures were good. We finished with the caramelized honey custard which was fantastic. Others have complained that the portions are too small, but we both left feeling satisfied. Would come here again."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 36 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Eclectic staff makes this a great city find with food to match. Menu options are simply crafted so that you focus on the elements of the dish and don't get lost in a myriad of choices. Wine selection is ok, beer selection could be improved. Noise level is certainly a consideration, but it's energetic and fun. Great meal, great service, really great space."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 37 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

What a great gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Brought a group here for a celebration dinner. Service and meal were excellent. The spring pea salad was amazing."
Dined on 4/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 38 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The cool industrial vibe is just hip enough. The staff are cordial and knowledgeable. The menu is interesting, and the flavors sing. Everything is in perfect balance, with no one ingredient overshadowing another. We are eager to return."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, kid-friendly
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Review 39 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"everything was delicious - what struck us the most is the freshness of all the ingredients - it was almost like they were just picked from the back yard"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 40 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Some of the best food I have ever has but seedy neighborhood nearby. You should take a cab one drive...definitely not the bus."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 41 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fun and delicious, great service;

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Fun and delicious, great service; some dishes amazing, others didn't quite work or were a bit skimpy; main downside was too loud."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 43 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good but hoped for more

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Glad I tried it...all was good...hoped for more"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 44 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The chef is brilliant to begin

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The chef is brilliant to begin with, and so accommodating of preferences. Wait staff is really attentive and knowledgeable (and friendly). Recommend the cheese to start and they know how to pace the food and service and time things right so you don't feel rushed out. Please bring back the juice flight! (I understand they are working on it.) Also, even though 530 may seem like a lame early dinner time, on a sunny day the dining room is soaked in light, the ceiling rolls back and you can enjoy the great food, atmosphere, fresh air, and choices in music."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 45 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was excellent and service

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was excellent and service was good. Our server was helpful without being pushy. He even took note that it was our anniversary!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 46 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Lovely lovely meal. We had

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Lovely lovely meal. We had the tasting menu with cheese plate. Delicious wine list. The service was very attentive and good. My only issue is that the meal itself felt like it took a long time. We started at around 7/7:30 and did not leave the restaurant until closer to 11. I've lived in Europe, and long meals are great. But it felt like it took forever between courses. I'm not sure if this was due to the tasting menu. We had multiple parties around us eat and leave.
All and all, I'd come again. I'd just be prepared about length of meal."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 47 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Everything was excellent and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything was excellent and exquisite! We loved everything we ordered. The service was flawless. We love it!"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 48 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Oasis in the Mission

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We tried the tasking menu -- the variety was great and the portions perfect. The service was excellent, always there when needed and never in the way. We brought 2 bottles so did not dip into the wine list, however they have a number of excellent choices there (including the Skylark Grenache)."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 49 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Unfortunately, I was disappointed

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Unfortunately, I was disappointed in this restaurant as the food did not match my expectations. We have so many good places in San Francisco that i don't think I would go back to this restaurant. Also the place was so smoky that we could hardly bread. THEY NEED BETTER VENTILATION. . They also need to pay attention to the acoustics. I am not looking to be in a super quiet place but a little peace when you eat is good. The service (waitress) was good though.. Overall not a great experience."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2012
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Review 50 for Central Kitchen
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

California Cuisine 2.0

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Tattoo central and wonderful, wonderful food."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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