"I was excited to try Balboa Café, especially since it’s known for having some of the best espresso martinis in the city. The espresso martinis were smooth and well-balanced. Unfortunately, the food didn’t quite match the same standard. I had the salmon, which lacked flavor, and the paella was just average. Another downside was the cleanliness — the table we were seated at had a noticeably dirty tablecloth, which was disappointing and took away from the overall dining experience. Great for drinks, but the food and attention to detail could use some improvement"

"Went here for dinner with my wife and in-laws and loved it the service was impeccable our server Carla was great she was attentive friendly and gave great recommendations even gave us recommendations for cocktail bars to go to. For being really busy the food and drinks came out very quickly and was spectacular. Highly recommend the short rib and the paella if you go on a Thursday night when they make that dish!"

"I had a very disappointing and uncomfortable experience at Balboa Cafe in San Francisco. I went with friends during Santa Con. Initially, we were told Santa hats weren’t allowed, which was fine we decided to go outside and hang out the same way other patrons were. One friend went inside to get drinks while the rest of us waited outside. What was not fine was what happened next. Despite complying, our group (all people of color) was repeatedly harassed by their security team approached at least five separate times while standing outside doing nothing disruptive. At the same time, there were multiple other patrons around us, dressed in similar or even more elaborate Santa outfits, who were white and were drinking and completely ignored by security. The repeated targeting felt like clear profiling. It escalated to the point where one security guard clenched his fists and acted aggressively, making the situation feel unsafe and intimidating for no reason. We were singled out while others around us were left alone, and the difference in treatment was impossible to ignore. This was an obvious case of discriminatory behavior and a horrible experience overall. I would strongly caution people of color before coming here. No one should feel harassed or threatened simply for standing outside a bar while others are treated differently."

"Just like my home... only... with better food... better drinks... better atmosphere... ok... pretty much better everything! The Balboa Café is a San Francisco Classic. It was opened in 1914 and has faithfully served the community ever since. The burger in my favorite but everything is delicious. They have a full bar and an excellent wine selection, and the service is very good. Seating outside or in the back is great for conversation, otherwise it can become a little loud when full inside. We keep coming back. Ask for Server Sid or Server Madeline!"

"Yes, the food is magnificent. The service is absolutely the best - even the busboys are smiling, polite and gracious, the waiters are genuinely nice. We were seated indoors and had caesar with shrimps and grilled salmon. Both were Michelin star restaurant level - in caesar, just enough dressing, plump juicy shrimps (large guys - almost scampi :)), and parmesan was served as a melted crisp - totally delicious :) The salmon was served on the perfectly grilled skin, perfectly deboned and perfectly succulent. Here is my only issue: the noise level. It's literally unbearable if you are seated inside - we finished our meal and talked for an hour in the car. I read a couple reviews and it's not only my issue - many people complain about the noise. So, the food is great, the atmosphere is amiable and friendly - but if you actually want to talk and listen, be seated outside."