Chef Azalina's restaurant in San Francisco's Tenderloin district offers an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just food. It's a testament to passion, perseverance, and community engagement.
The cuisine is remarkable, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Each dish demonstrates craftsmanship, with a harmonious blend of tastes that speaks to the chef's skill. The menu features unique ingredients, including an herb reminiscent of Fruit Loops cereal. I'm not going to write too much about food because I think it's borderline just pointless to describe food in words.
What sets this establishment apart is Chef Azalina's commitment to her craft and community. She maintains close relationships with her suppliers, including fisherwomen from Half Moon Bay, ensuring the highest quality ingredients and supporting local producers. I'm convinced that if there were 1000 more Azalinas in SF, this would be the greatest city on earth.
After my meal, I had the privilege of speaking with Chef Azalina for two hours. She shared fascinating stories about her relationship with food, the inspirations behind each course, and her experience as a restaurant owner in the Tenderloin. Her passion for culinary arts and dedication to her community were obvious.
Chef Azalina also opened up about the challenges of operating in the Tenderloin. Many potential patrons unfairly dismiss her restaurant due to its location, overlooking the exceptional culinary experience it offers. Despite this, she remains committed to her vision and to making a positive impact in the neighborhood. Her presence has contributed to the neighborhood's revitalization, demonstrating how a restaurant can be a force for community improvement.
Azalina offers not just a meal, but an experience that combines culinary excellence with personal passion and community engagement. It's a must-visit for those seeking innovative, thoughtfully prepared cuisine in San Francisco, and a shining example of how food can transcend stereotypes and transform communities.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Salleha C
Highly recommend for a flavorful, fun, dinner experience with friends and family
The food was plated beautifully. A touch many restaurants overlook.
The food was incredibly flavorful with vast ingredients that tasted fresh and the combinations were so unique.
The service was impeccable. Before you needed anything they were already at the table ready to support from water glasses always full to describing the next meal. Our waitress was SO kind. We ended up being the last table at the restaurant and already paid for our bill, and she just came over and gave us fresh chrysanthemum tea. Since we were many chatting away - it was so kind and unexpected.
Also the music is on point.
If you want to be transported out of SF and feel cared for by great food and service - than this is your restaurant
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Berkley Summerlin
The food here is on the cusp of being really good. A few suggestions to elevate the food… 1) deconstructed potato dish: the sauce on this was yummy but the items didn’t match it. Advice is to cut the potato into thick chunks instead of making it into noodles. Ditch the frisée and replace with fresh peas or okra. Make it heartier to match the sauce. 2) ribeye dish: the squash thing was delicious. The spinach was blah. The sauce the meat was in was yummy but the meat lacked flavor. Instead of ribeye consider short rib - a meat that is more tender and works great in a stew.
Slight changes could really elevate the food.
Great service!
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 5
Evan Hall
Phenomenal restaurant and a rare gem. We did the four-course tasting menu and loved every second of it, with each dish showcasing some of the best Malaysian cooking I’ve had in San Francisco. While we didn’t have any dietary restrictions, the staff was proactive and asked us up front, and I noticed each dish had a vegetarian option.
Please note, the restaurant’s in a slightly rougher part of the Tenderloin, so I recommend taking a ride share to and from the spot if you’re arriving solo or not comfortable walking through the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
PJ O'Leary
An incredible experience, the octopus starter was incredible. Azalina herself came out and greeted us at the end of the meal. She’s a real wonder!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amelia Meier
1. The menu structure was weak. It was not clear the price of the 2 course or 4 course tasting menu on the menu itself. Not to mention the wine pairings were there but there was no price for the 2/4 course meal with wine pairing. But that the 20% service charge included was marked on the menu. It seemed a cheap way to guarantee lack of commitment. What’s more annoying is finally when ready to order, my father wanted a two course, and I the four; the waitress said this is impossible. Had I made two single reservations for individuals this would have though? That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.
2. The server was friendly, but I cannot say the same about the waitress with 100% certainty therefore, I will not. I did not find her honest to the core and personal skills in this profession are of high importance. Not to mention her lack of skill in service etiquette. When we got up to leave she walked away as if not to see us and after we were at the door nonchalantly thanked us by calling to us while she was leaving another customer instead of taking a hair of time to give thanks graciously. For these prices I think a little respect is not much to ask. Especially when as tourists we walked to your restaurant where people within almost a one mile radius on the streets we’re shooting up/on drugs, and homeless littered the streets. In addition, after saying I have an aversion to sweet foods the waitress “accommodated” by arranging to serve me the jicama dish which had sugar in it. After asked about how it tasted, I got a laugh.
3. To sell a menu item as ribeye but not to include the bone is highly professional and transparency and honest both miss the mark since we can’t see the cut on our plate as paying customers.
4. On the flip side of the coin the fusion of flavors were delicious. But to be fair I’ve never been to Malaysia so i cant comment on thé authenticity of the Food.
I felt really uncomfortable as a customer: -with the lack of transparency on the menu/pricing; but also lack of transparency in terms of the 2/4 course synchronization with my reservation. That was ridiculous. -the lousy/impoverished neighborhood demonstrating social collapse -the service
This is my opinion and it’s not an attack it’s just meant to be constructive and considered. Positive for the future of your business. All the best
Vegetarian options: Dietary and allergies are respected.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 2
Drew Benson
Went for a dinner with several friends and had an amazing time. Right when you enter you’re greeted with a beautiful mural and authentic pieces of Malaysian culture. I have eaten here twice before and countless times at Azalina’s previous locations and the service staff was friendly and attentive as always, but what really attracts me to frequent this restaurants are the unique flavor styles and combinations. The appetizer with a Dosa waffle and grilled octopus over a curry sauce was a perfect mixture of texture and flavor. The main course was a very balanced and beautifully presented Ribeye in a house made sauce with red rice and broccoli spigarello that made me consider trying to order more to go. I give this experience a 5/5 and will be coming back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Eric Rivkin
My favorite restaurant in SF for a nice night out.
Super creative revolving menu. Some of my recent favorites include: Hamachi collar, chicken roulade with a curry sauce, hibiscus horchata, coconut cream based desserts, lamb in a crispy, gluten free pastry. Azalina is the best chef in SF as far as I'm concerned.
Family run, friendly, impeccable service.
I have gluten and dairy allergies in addition to other sensitivities and they are probably the most accommodating restaurant towards my dietary restrictions that I've ever been to. Just write in ahead of time alongside your reservation.
On a mission to bring all friends and family here.
Only downside is the location in the tenderloin isn't the most comfortable - I recommend taking a rideshare if you're not used to walking in the area.
Dietary restrictions: I have gluten and dairy allergies in addition to other sensitivities and they are probably the most accommodating restaurant towards my dietary restrictions that I've ever been to. Just write in ahead of time alongside your reservation.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Duck Breast, Panna Cotta
Santiago Ferro
Surprisingly unfriendly. We were told everyone in our table had to order the same!!! Either the two or the four dish tasting menu! Why? What is that all about??? Not a word of that in the website. And to top it up a severe cancellation fee, so we had to stay and tasted the two-dish menu, which was just OK. Nothing special.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 4
Service: 1
Mauricio Schrader
We were a party of six. Two things that were not on the website: you can only pick the 2 part or 4 course , AND you will be charged a stiff cancellation fee. We were disappointed with the falafel-style first dish, too dry, and served too cold. Overall intransigent service, not looking to please the diner.
Everything was delicious, the service was friendly. In the TL so be prepared for that but 100% worth the trip.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
Justin Williams
In rather a rough area so we were surprised by the location. Once we walked through the door though we were transported to a different world. The decoration reminded of Peranakan homes I have seen in Singapore. You need to reserve in advance and decide if you are going with fixed 2 or 4 course meal. This is not your typical Malaysian nor Straits style food. Truly amazing and by end of the meal you will be full! Wish I could have had seconds of the trifle desert though!! On the pricey side as with drinks looking at >$120 per person. Great choice for a memorable night out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Jim Oakley
I've been wanting to try Azalina's for a while. I loved her counter at the Market in the Twitter/X building (now closed) and was excited to try her full restaurant format. It definitely did not disappoint. There were four courses -- each delicious. They apparently rotate the menu every month. Wonderful flavors and presentation. Note that the location is very tenderloin (um, "urban") but I like the way Azalina embraces her neighborhood. The check came in a guide book for the neighborhood. Food was 5+. Service and Atmosphere not at the level, but a really great experience all around.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Emily Allen
The vegan tasting menu was incredible. We loved the vegan shorteats, the curry on the Mesak Lamak was so flavorful and smelled amazing as soon as it was poured over the dish. The Sambal on the pumpkin was a strong highlight as well. Everyone was blown away by the layered flavors of dessert, including a vegan meringue! Also I’m obsessed with the book they delivered the check in. Such good sf history.
Also the only pic is at the very end where the table was totally cleared because it was so good we didn’t take any pics.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
N
Just had an amazingly delicious meal here! Never had Malaysian food before, but I already would like to come back. I really liked the lamb shorteats and the spice trifle dessert. Super yummy flavor combinations!
Chef Azalina's restaurant in San Francisco's Tenderloin district offers an exceptional dining experience that goes beyond just food. It's a testament to passion, perseverance, and community engagement.
The cuisine is remarkable, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Each dish demonstrates craftsmanship, with a harmonious blend of tastes that speaks to the chef's skill. The menu features unique ingredients, including an herb reminiscent of Fruit Loops cereal. I'm not going to write too much about food because I think it's borderline just pointless to describe food in words.
What sets this establishment apart is Chef Azalina's commitment to her craft and community. She maintains close relationships with her suppliers, including fisherwomen from Half Moon Bay, ensuring the highest quality ingredients and supporting local producers. I'm convinced that if there were 1000 more Azalinas in SF, this would be the greatest city on earth.
After my meal, I had the privilege of speaking with Chef Azalina for two hours. She shared fascinating stories about her relationship with food, the inspirations behind each course, and her experience as a restaurant owner in the Tenderloin. Her passion for culinary arts and dedication to her community were obvious.
Chef Azalina also opened up about the challenges of operating in the Tenderloin. Many potential patrons unfairly dismiss her restaurant due to its location, overlooking the exceptional culinary experience it offers. Despite this, she remains committed to her vision and to making a positive impact in the neighborhood. Her presence has contributed to the neighborhood's revitalization, demonstrating how a restaurant can be a force for community improvement.
Azalina offers not just a meal, but an experience that combines culinary excellence with personal passion and community engagement. It's a must-visit for those seeking innovative, thoughtfully prepared cuisine in San Francisco, and a shining example of how food can transcend stereotypes and transform communities.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Highly recommend for a flavorful, fun, dinner experience with friends and family
The food was plated beautifully. A touch many restaurants overlook.
The food was incredibly flavorful with vast ingredients that tasted fresh and the combinations were so unique.
The service was impeccable. Before you needed anything they were already at the table ready to support from water glasses always full to describing the next meal. Our waitress was SO kind. We ended up being the last table at the restaurant and already paid for our bill, and she just came over and gave us fresh chrysanthemum tea. Since we were many chatting away - it was so kind and unexpected.
Also the music is on point.
If you want to be transported out of SF and feel cared for by great food and service - than this is your restaurant
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food here is on the cusp of being really good. A few suggestions to elevate the food…
1) deconstructed potato dish: the sauce on this was yummy but the items didn’t match it. Advice is to cut the potato into thick chunks instead of making it into noodles. Ditch the frisée and replace with fresh peas or okra. Make it heartier to match the sauce.
2) ribeye dish: the squash thing was delicious. The spinach was blah. The sauce the meat was in was yummy but the meat lacked flavor. Instead of ribeye consider short rib - a meat that is more tender and works great in a stew.
Slight changes could really elevate the food.
Great service!
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 5
Phenomenal restaurant and a rare gem. We did the four-course tasting menu and loved every second of it, with each dish showcasing some of the best Malaysian cooking I’ve had in San Francisco. While we didn’t have any dietary restrictions, the staff was proactive and asked us up front, and I noticed each dish had a vegetarian option.
Please note, the restaurant’s in a slightly rougher part of the Tenderloin, so I recommend taking a ride share to and from the spot if you’re arriving solo or not comfortable walking through the area.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
An incredible experience, the octopus starter was incredible. Azalina herself came out and greeted us at the end of the meal. She’s a real wonder!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
1. The menu structure was weak. It was not clear the price of the 2 course or 4 course tasting menu on the menu itself. Not to mention the wine pairings were there but there was no price for the 2/4 course meal with wine pairing. But that the 20% service charge included was marked on the menu. It seemed a cheap way to guarantee lack of commitment. What’s more annoying is finally when ready to order, my father wanted a two course, and I the four; the waitress said this is impossible. Had I made two single reservations for individuals this would have though? That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.
2. The server was friendly, but I cannot say the same about the waitress with 100% certainty therefore, I will not. I did not find her honest to the core and personal skills in this profession are of high importance. Not to mention her lack of skill in service etiquette. When we got up to leave she walked away as if not to see us and after we were at the door nonchalantly thanked us by calling to us while she was leaving another customer instead of taking a hair of time to give thanks graciously. For these prices I think a little respect is not much to ask. Especially when as tourists we walked to your restaurant where people within almost a one mile radius on the streets we’re shooting up/on drugs, and homeless littered the streets. In addition, after saying I have an aversion to sweet foods the waitress “accommodated” by arranging to serve me the jicama dish which had sugar in it. After asked about how it tasted, I got a laugh.
3. To sell a menu item as ribeye but not to include the bone is highly professional and transparency and honest both miss the mark since we can’t see the cut on our plate as paying customers.
4. On the flip side of the coin the fusion of flavors were delicious. But to be fair I’ve never been to Malaysia so i cant comment on thé authenticity of the Food.
I felt really uncomfortable as a customer:
-with the lack of transparency on the menu/pricing; but also lack of transparency in terms of the 2/4 course synchronization with my reservation. That was ridiculous.
-the lousy/impoverished neighborhood demonstrating social collapse
-the service
This is my opinion and it’s not an attack it’s just meant to be constructive and considered. Positive for the future of your business. All the best
Vegetarian options: Dietary and allergies are respected.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 3
Service: 2
Went for a dinner with several friends and had an amazing time. Right when you enter you’re greeted with a beautiful mural and authentic pieces of Malaysian culture. I have eaten here twice before and countless times at Azalina’s previous locations and the service staff was friendly and attentive as always, but what really attracts me to frequent this restaurants are the unique flavor styles and combinations. The appetizer with a Dosa waffle and grilled octopus over a curry sauce was a perfect mixture of texture and flavor. The main course was a very balanced and beautifully presented Ribeye in a house made sauce with red rice and broccoli spigarello that made me consider trying to order more to go. I give this experience a 5/5 and will be coming back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My favorite restaurant in SF for a nice night out.
Super creative revolving menu. Some of my recent favorites include: Hamachi collar, chicken roulade with a curry sauce, hibiscus horchata, coconut cream based desserts, lamb in a crispy, gluten free pastry.
Azalina is the best chef in SF as far as I'm concerned.
Family run, friendly, impeccable service.
I have gluten and dairy allergies in addition to other sensitivities and they are probably the most accommodating restaurant towards my dietary restrictions that I've ever been to. Just write in ahead of time alongside your reservation.
On a mission to bring all friends and family here.
Only downside is the location in the tenderloin isn't the most comfortable - I recommend taking a rideshare if you're not used to walking in the area.
Dietary restrictions: I have gluten and dairy allergies in addition to other sensitivities and they are probably the most accommodating restaurant towards my dietary restrictions that I've ever been to. Just write in ahead of time alongside your reservation.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Duck Breast, Panna Cotta
Surprisingly unfriendly. We were told everyone in our table had to order the same!!! Either the two or the four dish tasting menu! Why? What is that all about??? Not a word of that in the website. And to top it up a severe cancellation fee, so we had to stay and tasted the two-dish menu, which was just OK. Nothing special.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 4
Service: 1
We were a party of six. Two things that were not on the website: you can only pick the 2 part or 4 course , AND you will be charged a stiff cancellation fee. We were disappointed with the falafel-style first dish, too dry, and served too cold. Overall intransigent service, not looking to please the diner.
Atmosphere: 2
Food: 3
Service: 1
Restaurantji Recommends
Everything was delicious, the service was friendly. In the TL so be prepared for that but 100% worth the trip.
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 5
Service: 4
In rather a rough area so we were surprised by the location. Once we walked through the door though we were transported to a different world. The decoration reminded of Peranakan homes I have seen in Singapore.
You need to reserve in advance and decide if you are going with fixed 2 or 4 course meal. This is not your typical Malaysian nor Straits style food. Truly amazing and by end of the meal you will be full!
Wish I could have had seconds of the trifle desert though!!
On the pricey side as with drinks looking at >$120 per person.
Great choice for a memorable night out.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I've been wanting to try Azalina's for a while. I loved her counter at the Market in the Twitter/X building (now closed) and was excited to try her full restaurant format. It definitely did not disappoint. There were four courses -- each delicious. They apparently rotate the menu every month. Wonderful flavors and presentation. Note that the location is very tenderloin (um, "urban") but I like the way Azalina embraces her neighborhood. The check came in a guide book for the neighborhood. Food was 5+. Service and Atmosphere not at the level, but a really great experience all around.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
The vegan tasting menu was incredible. We loved the vegan shorteats, the curry on the Mesak Lamak was so flavorful and smelled amazing as soon as it was poured over the dish. The Sambal on the pumpkin was a strong highlight as well. Everyone was blown away by the layered flavors of dessert, including a vegan meringue! Also I’m obsessed with the book they delivered the check in. Such good sf history.
Also the only pic is at the very end where the table was totally cleared because it was so good we didn’t take any pics.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Just had an amazingly delicious meal here! Never had Malaysian food before, but I already would like to come back. I really liked the lamb shorteats and the spice trifle dessert. Super yummy flavor combinations!
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