No-Reservation Restaurants

2501 Mariposa St, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

The 30-something bar crowd does tend to keep this industrial Potrero New American restaurant full, but wait times are usually unexpectedly short.

306 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94117 (map)

Nopa's little sister (and neighbor in the eponymous 'hood) offers a menu focused on authentic Mexican fare--more upscale cocina than Mission taqueria. You can't make reservations, but they will allow you to call during busy times and put your name on the waiting list. And there's a heated patio and server taking drink orders while you wait.

995 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

This hip South Indian spot in the Mission only accepts reservations for parties of five or more. Look for the opening of the much larger Fillmore location, which is slated to seat 200.

309 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118 (map)

While this Clement Street gem does not take reservations, they will give you a call when your table is ready, and nearby sister restaurant B Star Bar makes a good place to hang out while you wait.

1911 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115 (map)

The food-and-wine talent behind A16 bring a walk-in-only Roman-osteria concept and seasonal menu to Fillmore's dining strip.

18 Virginia Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

It's first come, first served at this quirky Mission hangout for red wine and red sauce at reasonable prices.

601 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

Generous portions of traditional German cuisine and brews draw the crowds to this popular Hayes Valley restaurant, but only parties of six or more can reserve a table.

1042 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94133 (map)

Walk-ins only (and likely long weekend waits) at this neighborhood landmark offering a throwback North Beach ambiance and classic pizzas.

1801 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117 (map)

The Haight Street location of this lively spot for tapas and sangria doesn't accept reservations for parties of any size, but if you've got a crowd and don't want to wait, the Mission location will reserve a spot for eight or more.

652 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

Even when the diners spill out the door (as they often do) of this Creole-influenced breakfast haven, the beignets and oyster po' boys are worth the wait.

1001 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

Word's gotten out that these expertly cooked, reasonably priced Peruvian small plates are where it's at, but don't expect to have to wait to get them.

511 Laguna St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

Everyone's got the same chance to get one of the few tables and bar seats at this Hayes Valley destination for innovative sushi with a little Hawaiian influence.

1199 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

Late-night Mission locals flock to this upscale Italian comfort food joint that keeps serving until 1am, but only parties of six or more can secure a spot in advance.

517 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

A hidden no-reservations gem in stylish Hayes Valley, where sushi purists line up for the fresh nigiri and simple maki.

139 Eighth St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (map)

Have a caipirinha while you wait at this first-come, first-served festive Brazilian restaurant that's perfect for a date, after-work drinks or dinner with friends.

2193 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110 (map)

The friendly folks at this casual, sustainable seafood place with a huge vegetarian and vegan menu will call you when your table's ready, and there are plenty of places in the Mission to get a drink while you wait.

3141 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (map)

This Mission district pub serving artisan brews and elevated pub grub doesn't accept reservations (or large parties, usually) due to its teeny-tiny size.