here's the complete dining guide.
Grab'n go Food & drinks
golden chariot bakery
3308 Balboa St
(btwn 34th/35th ave)
Chinese bakery with an array of pastries.
Also great to-go Chinese food to take to the park on foggy cold days, such as wonton soup and noodles.
*Cash Only
Chino's Taqueria
3416 Balboa St
(btwn 35th/36th ave)
Super burritos are extremely popular at this long time 'hood favorite. Great for vegetarians and gluten free guests.
*Cash Only
Simple pleasures cafe
3434 Balboa St
(btwn 35th/36th ave)
Features house roasted beans, local artisan baked goods from Bitchin' Baklava and House of Bagels, local brews on tap.
*Cash Only
the sweet house
3512 Balboa St
(btwn 36th/37th ave)
One house by one lady that does it all: crepes, ice creams, candies, shakes and boba teas.
Savory crepes and sandwiches on the menu as well.
*Cash Only
Balboa Liquor & Deli
3524 Balboa St
(btwn 36th/37th ave)
Everything you could want in a corner store with a notably great selection of wine and ice cream!
Grab a bottle of wine or a 6-pack before heading to a picnic in the park.
Mr. Bahn Mi
3605 Balboa St
(btwn 37th/38th ave)
A sister restaurant of the popular Vietnamese spot across the street, this place focuses solely on the bahn mi. A few bar seats inside for eat-in as well.
Balboa produce market
3635 Balboa St
(btwn 37th/38th ave)
A corner market with a wide selection of fruits, cold drinks to go and beers.
Not to miss here is the $2 tamales. Ask for them at the cashier.
la promenade cafe
3643 Balboa St
(btwn 37th/38th ave)
Parisian inspired all day cafe with a huge menu of great sandwiches, coffee drinks and strong wifi. Check out the bookshelf in the back with $5 books from Green Apple Books.
Butter Love Bake Shop
3717 Balboa St
(btwn 38th/39th ave)
Known for the pies, but does amazing doughnuts and scones. Sandwiches and coffees are also on the menu. Backyard patio is open for seating.
sit down brunch & dinner restaurants
eat americana
3532 Balboa St
(btwn 36th/37th ave)
Casual Americana fare with all day breakfast. Pulled pork waffle fries, "burger time" with bacon in the patty, Philly cheese steak sandwich and goat cheese risotto cake to name a few of the crowd favorites.
Takes reservations for dinner, but for the popular brunch, put your name on the wait list. Dogs are welcome in their sidewalk seating.
cassava
3519 Balboa St
(btwn 36th/37th ave)
Modern California cooking of breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner place known for 4 course tasting menu for $42/guest during dinner, Japanese breakfast and Liege waffle during brunch.
Some breakfast/lunch items and Ritual Roasters coffee are available for take-out during the weekdays.
Takes reservations for dinner and weekend brunch. Dogs are welcome in the sidewalk seating.
Miki Japanese restaurant
3639 Balboa St
(btwn 37th/38th ave)
Izakaya fares with the most amazing ramen menu on this side of town. Some sushi rolls are available but the standouts here are the chicken karaage, ramen (3 different broths, one vegetarian), and the quality of the fish and rice is noteworthy.
The chef goes back to Japan often, so make sure to call ahead to see if they are open. You are in for a treat.
Marla bakery restaurant
3619 Balboa St
(btwn 37th/38th ave)
Bakery and restaurant all in one and open between lunch and dinner. Not only is their bread and pastry stellar, but the homemade charcuterie, the burger on English muffin and seasonal soups are what locals line up for.
Reservations are available for weekend brunch.