Hi Dive – SoMa
Pier 28 1/2
San Francisco , CA
(415) 977-0170
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VdV Rating: 4
Food: Ca/american
Ambiance: Pub
PRO: Great vibe, surprisingly good food and an awesome outdoor patio
CON: Nothing, really
“Hey, we were just talkin’ about you.” If ya know that line, you have been to Hi Dive and greeted by the owner, John Cain. If you haven’t been, get over to this place!
Contrary to the name, this isn’t a dive bar. Why not? What constitutes a dive bar to VdV? Dunno, we just know a dive bar when we see one. And we’ve seen plenty, people! I mean, this isn’t some fancy-shmancy white napkin place either. But here’s why it’s not a dive: It has copious amounts of natural light. None of the upholstery is torn or tattered. They have a really nice outdoor deck with decent furniture. The glasses don’t have lipstick or other schmutz on them. Oh yeah…and they do crazy shit like serve Niman Ranch beef and Acme Bread. What self-respecting dive bar would do that? 
OK, now that that is settled, let’s proceed. We like this spot, big time. It’s got that cool neighborhood hangout, kinda old school casual vibe. All sortsa characters for patrons, but everybody gets along. And whether it’s John Cain, Brett (co-owner), Nick, Angela, Jessica (wow this almost starting sounding like that song Mambo No. 5 from Lou Bega) that you’re dealing with, you’re gonna get treated right and have an absolute blast.
There’s a bar on the left-hand side that seats about 15, and indoor table seating for about 40. Great views across the bay too. And just this summer, they opened up an awesome outdoor patio that easily seats a couple dozen. Great views, and on a sunny day one of the best outdoor spots in SF.
OK, I think you’ve got the picture. Let’s talk grub. First off, food is not a passing thought here, just meant as soakage for all the booze you’re drinking. No sirree Bob. They serve up a great brunch, some of our faves include the Mission Huevos San Francisco ($8.95) – Huevos with eggs made to order, with pepper jack cheese and salsa on two flour tortillas, and the Veggie Omelet ($8.50) with Zucchini, Mushrooms, Onion, Tomato and Cheddar.
For the main menu, these guys have a serious menu, about a dozen appys, 10 burgers/sandos, tacos, quesadillas, and a handful of entreés including Baby Back Ribs ($21.95) and Grilled Sea Bass ($17.95).
Our absolute fave is the Steak Tacos ($12.95), (rare!), Niman Ranch Steak, with a side of excellent Veggie Chili, Sour Cream, Hot and Mild salsas, etc. etc. Listen up! You need these tacos. Other standouts include The Downtown Burger w/ Cheddar ($10.95) made with Niman Ranch Beef and an awesome bun, Cajun Chicken Quesadilla ($9.95), and the ever popular and heart-healthy Chili & Cheese Fries ($8.95). You will not leave hungry.
VdV Rating: 4
Hours:
Mon-Wed 11:30a-11:30p
Thu-Fri 11:30a-1a
Sat 10a-1a
Sun 10a-11:30p
Hi Dive
Pier 28 1/2 (Embarcadero @ Brannan)
San Francisco, CA
(415) 977-0170
