Wayfare Tavern
American restaurant · Financial District ·
Iconic American eatery serving fried chicken & burgers
Iconic American eatery serving fried chicken & burgers
"The newest big-hitter entry in the FiDi restaurant game is none other than one of its mainstay tenants, just revamped and reborn a few blocks away. Chef Tyler Florence’s two-story palace is worth its weight in gold. Few dishes are misses — the oysters come chef-picked from both coasts — and the tavern burger is a mighty solid option for both lunch and dinner. There are multiple rooms within the restaurant, each its own nod to Northern California. Head here for the ever-important vibes." - Paolo Bicchieri
"In the summer of 2025, Wayfare Tavern moved from its original location, bringing its slightly vintage feel and full-wall nautical murals just a few blocks away. Now it’s closer to downtown offices, BART, and several Muni lines. Use this American restaurant for a satisfying power lunch or to wrangle together a group for a low-stress get-together. They still give out fantastic free popovers to start the meal off right, and the fried chicken and Tavern Burger ensure things stay that way. Weekdays are usually easy for walk-ins, but be sure to check at least a day out for weekend reservations. Weekdays are typically easy for walk-ins, but try to plan at least a day ahead for weekend lunch or dinner. And for those looking to host an event or a private group gathering, this newer version of Wayfare Tavern has a stellar second-floor space for it." - patrick wong, julia chen 1, lani conway
"At Wayfare Tavern in the Financial District, the warm popover that kicks off every meal is an exercise in restraint, sort of like the adult version of the marshmallow experiment. It’s a steam-emitting beauty with a one-per-person limit. The outside has a crispy crust, and the inside has a hybrid custard-croissant texture. As tempting as it may be to deplete the ramekin of swirled butter via a few bites of this thing, try to savor your time together. Weekdays are typically easy for walk-ins, but try to plan at least a day ahead for weekend lunch or dinner. And for those looking to host an event or a private group gathering, this newer version of Wayfare Tavern has a stellar second-floor space for it." - julia chen 1, patrick wong
"Wayfare Tavern in the FiDi nails the casual power lunch formula. The dining room and tie-clad staff make this place feel upscale without requiring anything more than the usual t-shirt-and-jeans combo, the American food is familiar and well-executed, and you can usually get a table without much planning. Go for the deviled eggs, fried chicken, and Tavern Burger, and prepare to start off the meal with a free, warm popover that will easily grease the wheels of any upcoming dealings. Weekdays are typically easy for walk-ins, but try to plan at least a day ahead for weekend lunch or dinner. And for those looking to host an event or a private group gathering, this newer version of Wayfare Tavern has a stellar second-floor space for it." - ricky rodriguez, julia chen 1, patrick wong
"Relocated to Pine Street, bringing chef Tyler Florence’s flagship a bit closer to Market Street; menu offerings are the same while the restaurant itself is way bigger." - Dianne de Guzman