Old Skool Cafe

1429 Mendell St, San Francisco
(415) 822-8531

Recent Reviews

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Laura

This is the first time I've been to Old Skool and have some complaints. They mainly consist of 3 issues: 1- I wanted to surprise my two friends with candles in their desserts for their birthdays. I sent an e-mail about this after I had also requested this in my reservation. They got it exactly backwards but they called me and I thought it was straightened out. AS I found out, when they brought dessert, they got it wrong. 2- Not only did they get the desserts wrong - they brought it while we were still eating our main course. 3- Our service was lacking: - our server didn't come check on us during out meal; - they kept trying to clear our plates even though some of us were still eating - although we were 3 people, we were only brought 2 desserts and as I said, they got my instructions wrong on that. - a 20% tip is mandatory. Tips are supposed to me at the discretion of the customer and are supposed to represent a thanks for good service, Between our server not checking on us, dishes being taken from the table and the complete fiasco with the desserts, I would not have left a 20% tip. None of this will keep from going again but staff needs better training on how to handle a table.

Betty

Fantastic! The food, the service and live music were all great. Check out their membership program and have a great experience and support this wonderful establishment.

sheila

This was an awesome dining experience! The young people were professional, charming and knowledgeable. The food was absoluetly delicious and the ambience was awesome!

Karen

Absolutely the best. Great food. Excellent service. The jazz was great. Can't wait to go back!

Jennifer

everything was amazing - the service felt like care and attention. The food was so good - the fried chicken had a lovely crispy outside (not greasy) - the inside was juicy. The collard greens were perfect and that is not always easy to do. I had the persimmon Horchata cocktail - ohhhh my it was delicious! There was a trio of young jazz players and the music created a wam feel in the air - it was perfect. They add gratuity on to the tab but we added more because it was all amazing. Thank you

Donna

This was a superb way to celebrate a special occasion! Food, service and atmosphere were all top notch. What stood out the most was the positive attitude and hospitality of the staff, well done!!

Makoto

Amazing everything. The experience from start to finish was a tasteful journey. My mom always said, “Happy tummy, happy face!”. My face was happy the whole time.

A Google User

The food here was overall fantastic, with the peanut butter stew easily stealing the show—it was rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The brussels sprouts were another pleasant surprise, crispy on the outside and full of flavor. The restaurant has a cozy, lively atmosphere that’s made even better by the addition of live music, which really sets the mood. However, the seating arrangement could use a little adjustment since most tables face away from the performers, making it tricky to fully enjoy the show. Still, between the great food, friendly service, and upbeat energy, it’s a spot I’d happily visit again.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Mac \u0026 Cheese, Daniel's Gumbo, Jordan's Fried Chicken, Catfish Fingers, Ceviche, Brownie, Sweet Potato Biscuits

ling Chen

i love this place and will definitely be back!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Mac \u0026 Cheese, Jordan's Fried Chicken, Catfish Fingers, Sweet Potato Biscuits

Andre

First and foremost, the food was outstanding. Our waiter was less than average. Ignored us all night. Luckily, another employee stopped by to check on us periodically. The outside atmosphere is a little sketchy but don't let that sway you. If waiter had been better, would have given at least a 4-star.

ty L.

Great experience at Old Skool Cafe!
Matthew, thank you for your passion and insight into the mission/purpose behind this speakeasy. We will be back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Mac \u0026 Cheese, Catfish Fingers

Kayla Fong

Exceptional food and service. I especially enjoyed the live jazz band. I hope everyone gets to experience Old Skool Cafe. Highly recommend the Tongan Oto appetizer. Gumbo was also fire. The last time I came, I had the fried chicken. The food does not disappoint! Vibes were 10/10.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jordan's Fried Chicken, Daniel's Gumbo, Ceviche, Abu´S Peanut Butter Stew

Lauren

A wonderful cause in a very cool space. Servers were lovely and food was very tasty (albeit definitely salty). Had an excellent Sazerac, as well. Don't be put off by the area or parking lot action - everyone was great, and you will enjoy it!!!

Matt Dowis

Yes. Everything about this place. The vibe. The jazz music. The incredible food. The Zoot-suited staff. The story behind it. It’s all exceptional.

Do NOT sleep on this place. Seriously, do not.

For drinks, I highly recommend their French 75 and the Sidecar.

For starters, the flaky catfish and the brussel sprouts.

For Mains, the pork chop or the fried chicken.

And for dessert, either the date cake or the lavender cheesecake.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jordan's Fried Chicken, Catfish Fingers, Ceviche, Date Cake, Lavender Cheesecake with a Strawberries Coulis

M. Powell

Treat yourself and take a trip to Old Skool Café. Not only will you be doing some good for others… you’ll be doing yourself some good because the food is fantastic! The starter biscuit appetizer is amazing. I always order the fried chicken… And my husband says it’s as good as his “Mammaw’s”… which is more than a compliment. He loves the gumbo… and he knows gumbo coming, from Texas. Highly recommend this place. The servers are young so give them a break… They’re learning to be professionals and it’s so awesome when we get to hear their stories about how they are changing their lives. If you like soul food give this place a try… you will not regret it!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Shrimp and Grits, Mac \u0026 Cheese, Jordan's Fried Chicken, Daniel's Gumbo, Sweet Potato Biscuits, Braised Collard Greens, Beef Ribs

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