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Rooster & Rice has received a mix of positive and negative reviews. Many patrons praise the delicious and tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and good service at certain locations. However, some customers have criticized the quality of food, small portions for the price, and issues with customer service. The restaurant's focus on a simple menu and healthy options appeals to those seeking a quick, nutritious meal, but experiences can vary depending on location and individual expectations.

Rooster & Rice: Flavorful Chicken & Rice in San Francisco's Union Square District 

Nestled in the bustling heart of San Francisco's Union Square neighborhood, Rooster & Rice is a cozy counter-service gem serving up authentic khao mun gai — Thai-style chicken and rice that has become a local favorite. Located at 125 Kearny St, this snug eatery offers both dine-in and takeout options, making it a perfect pit stop for foodies, office workers, and travelers seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.

At Rooster & Rice, it's all about simplicity and bold flavors. Their signature dish features tender, perfectly poached chicken resting atop fragrant rice infused with chicken broth and turmeric, accompanied by crisp cucumbers and a vibrant chili-ginger sauce that delivers a delightful kick. Guests rave about the savory sauces that elevate every bite, while the accompanying chicken broth adds a comforting touch.

ordering ahead is highly recommended, especially during lunch hours when the place gets packed with professionals seeking a fast, wholesome meal.

Rooster & Rice maintains a clean, no-frills environment where the focus stays on the food. The ambiance is calm and inviting, ideal for solo diners or small groups. While the space may not boast elaborate decor, the friendly staff and efficient service create a welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating is limited but available at the Union Square location for those who prefer to dine al fresco.

 – Tender chicken breast over steamed rice with chili-ginger sauce and broth.

 – Brown rice variant served with chicken breast and fresh cucumbers.

 – A unique option featuring poached white chicken with cucumbers, cilantro, chili-ginger sauce and chicken broth, ideal for vegans or lighter eaters.

What are the operating hours of Rooster & Rice?

 Operating hours vary by location. For the Union Square spot at 125 Kearny St, it’s open Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed Sundays.

Is Rooster & Rice a vegan-friendly restaurant?

 While chicken dishes dominate, vegan options like "The Riceless" provide flavorful choices. Always check with staff for the latest vegan offerings.

Does Rooster & Rice offer takeout services?

 Yes, takeout is available so you can enjoy their delicious chicken and rice meals on the go.

Are there gluten-free options available at Rooster & Rice?

 The menu focuses mainly on chicken and rice. For gluten-free needs, contact the restaurant directly for the most accurate info.

Does Rooster & Rice have outdoor seating?

 Some locations, including the Union Square spot, offer limited outdoor seating for those who prefer dining under the open sky.

The buzz around Rooster & Rice is a blend of praise and critique. Many enjoy the flavorful, tender chicken paired with their signature sauces and broth, praising the friendly service and quick turnaround. However, some diners have noted that portions can feel modest for the price, and a few have experienced inconsistencies in chicken quality or order accuracy. Despite these mixed reviews, the establishment's commitment to delivering a simple, wholesome, and distinctively flavorful meal keeps customers coming back for more. If you value fresh, fragrant chicken and rice dishes with a Thai twist, Rooster & Rice is worth a visit during your San Francisco adventure.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of Union Square, San Francisco, Rooster & Rice is a cozy counter-service café that specializes in the beloved Thai dish, khao mun gai, or chicken and rice. This vibrant eatery is not just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a culinary experience that transports you to the bustling streets of Thailand with every mouthful. The aroma of perfectly cooked chicken wafts through the air, enticing passersby to step inside and indulge in a comforting meal.

At Rooster & Rice, the star of the menu is undoubtedly the Original khao mun gai. This dish features tender, juicy chicken served atop a bed of fragrant rice, infused with rich chicken broth. Accompanied by a side of fresh cucumber and a zesty sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that leaves a lasting impression. Another must-try is the Marina version, which swaps in brown rice for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. The combination of textures and tastes creates a delightful harmony that keeps diners coming back for more.

One of the unique aspects of Rooster & Rice is its commitment to quality and simplicity. The chicken is poached to perfection, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful. The broth served alongside is a comforting addition that enhances the overall experience. A fun fact about this establishment is that it was inspired by the street food culture of Thailand, where vendors serve this dish with pride and passion. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, making it an ideal spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner.

Rooster & Rice is renowned for its authentic khao mun gai, featuring tender chicken served with fragrant rice and a delicious broth.

This eatery offers a unique taste of Thai street food in a casual setting, perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner.

Rooster & Rice accepts credit and debit cards, making it convenient for all diners.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, Rooster & Rice is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Thai flavors. Stop by for a quick meal that will leave you satisfied and eager to return. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family!

Snug counter-service cafe serving dine-in or take-out khao mun gai (Thai chicken & rice).

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyektleC1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO_3ZqImAhYAROCvoc0HjBbw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyektleC1RRRAB

Picked up lunch during the work week-- if you have the same idea, definitely order ahead. It was so packed and the staff was working hard to get the orders churned out. Not the cutest restaurant but the food is so delicious! Their sauces are really good.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bmJmNkx3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO_3ZqImAhYAROCvoc0HjBbw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2bmJmNkx3EAE

Food is passable, but last time I ordered there, my chicken had no skin on it. It appears that they have taken that and are now selling fried chicken skins for $5. Meal is already almost $20 and taking part of my meal and reselling feels like i just got robbed. Not right.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURXeFBmcjlBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO_3ZqImAhYAROCvoc0HjBbw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURXeFBmcjlBRRAB

Top notch chicken and rice, but prices could be lower.

As you enter and make your way to the kiosk to order, you're hit with an intense chicken aroma, like the smell of opening a container of chicken stock. The place is pretty clean, could be a little bit cleaner; there was some spilled broth on one of the tables furthest from the counter, so maybe they couldn't see it. You'll place your order on the kiosk, and follow the instructions so you get your order.

I ordered the Original, breast only (it normally has thigh and breast, but if I'm paying $16, I don't want the least expensive cut of chicken), (there's also the Marina which has brown rice and breast only) and had to wait about seven minutes to get my order. Someone called my name, and I went to the counter to get my order, which consisted of some cilantro over evenly cut chicken slices spread over rice, with some cucumber on the side and sauce in a container, and a little container of chicken broth. I ate a piece of chicken breast, and it was pretty tender. The rice was slightly wet and had the smell of chicken broth, so I'm guessing they put chicken broth on the rice. I tried a dab of sauce on some of the rice, and it was really really good. I poured the whole container of sauce on the chicken and rice. I took a sip of broth, and it was really really chicken-y. It was bright yellow, so there was probably some turmeric in there. The whole dish was a simple and very delicious combination of flavors, and cost about $16. The portion was enough to be filling. If it's not filling enough, you could order a side like an egg, extra broth, or a cup of rice.

Overall, it's a nice place to go for a quick meal. Most of the people there are coming from work and it was pretty quiet, except for ambient music. My only complaint is that the price was pretty high for something that's mostly rice.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3OWFEYTJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO_3ZqImAhYAROCvoc0HjBbw/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3OWFEYTJRRRAB

Everything looks really good, nice sitting area to enjoy your meal. I ordered The Original... rice is super tasty but the chicken breast is really dry with chalky texture. Very unfortunate... I try to cover up the dryness with the sauce that comes with it but doesn't help much. The broth is super tasty.

Service was very good and fast.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4bnRIUFpREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJO_3ZqImAhYAROCvoc0HjBbw/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR4bnRIUFpREAE

Man nothing beats a bowl of broth, chicken, rice, veggies and great tasting sauce. Why is this not a 5 star? I’ve asked for extra cucumbers every damn time and I never get extra cucumbers. Also if you see a pork dish don’t get it.

Delicious Thai Chicken & Rice at Rooster & Rice SF

Rooster & Rice is a fast-casual Thai restaurant specializing in khao mun gai (Thai chicken and rice). Established in San Francisco, it has expanded to multiple locations, including Union Square, Cow Hollow, SoMa, Castro, FiDi, and Stonestown Galleria. The restaurant focuses on providing a simple yet flavorful menu with quality ingredients and quick service.

Rooster & Rice: A Delicious Journey of Thai Chicken and Rice in San Francisco.

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Rooster & Rice has become a beloved fast-casual dining destination that celebrates the simplicity and rich flavors of traditional Thai cuisine. Since its inception, this restaurant has specialized in khao mun gai, the iconic Thai chicken and rice dish, captivating food enthusiasts with its mouthwatering offerings and quality ingredients.

Rooster & Rice opened its doors in 2015 with a clear vision: to bring authentic, flavorful khao mun gai to San Francisco’s vibrant food scene. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, and by 2016, it had expanded to multiple locations including Union Square, Cow Hollow, SoMa, Castro, FiDi, and Stonestown Galleria. This rapid growth reflected the strong demand for its signature dish and the brand’s dedication to consistent quality and quick service.

In 2018, Rooster & Rice embraced technology by introducing online ordering and takeout services, making it more convenient for busy urbanites and food lovers to enjoy their flavorful meals on the go. The restaurant further adapted during the challenging times of 2020, implementing contactless ordering and delivery options in response to health guidelines, ensuring customers could safely access their delicious offerings without compromise.

Rooster & Rice’s menu remains delightfully simple yet flavorful, focusing on quality ingredients and the perfect balance of textures and spices that define the dish. Diners rave about the tender chicken, aromatic rice cooked with chicken broth, and expertly crafted sauces that elevate each bite. Over the years, the restaurant has maintained a loyal customer base that appreciates its commitment to authenticity and efficient service in a casual setting.

 Rooster & Rice was established in San Francisco, focusing on khao mun gai.

 The restaurant expanded to multiple locations across San Francisco.

 Rooster & Rice introduced online ordering and takeout services to meet modern convenience demands.

 Adapted to health guidelines with contactless ordering and delivery options.

 Continued to serve its signature dishes, maintaining a loyal customer base.

Whether you’re a local craving comfort food or a visitor seeking authentic Thai flavors in San Francisco, Rooster & Rice promises a satisfying and flavorful experience centered on one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes.

Specializing in Thai-inspired chicken and rice dishes, Rooster & Rice offers a simple yet flavorful menu focusing on quality ingredients and authentic flavors.

The Original

The Marina

The Riceless

Chicken Broth

Thai Sriracha

Rooster & Rice Menu

Rooster and rice menu overview in san francisco union square area california usa 

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Union Square, Rooster & Rice brings a fresh take on Thai-inspired chicken and rice dishes. This snug counter-service cafe is beloved for its straightforward yet deeply satisfying menu that highlights premium ingredients and authentic flavors. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or enjoying a cozy dine-in experience, each dish promises a comforting taste of Thailand's culinary charm.

Start your meal with the rich and soothing Chicken Broth, a simple yet flavorful starter that sets the tone for Rooster & Rice's focus on authentic taste. This broth is infused with delicate chicken essence, warming and satisfying on any day.

Rooster & Rice specializes in its signature chicken and rice mains, each crafted with poached white chicken complemented by fresh cilantro and crisp cucumbers. The menu features:

 – Featuring jasmine rice, this classic choice is served with a side of chili-ginger sauce and a container of savory chicken broth for dipping or sipping.

 – Brown rice replaces jasmine for a nuttier texture, accompanied by the same fresh chicken, cucumbers, cilantro, chili-ginger sauce, and chicken broth.

 – For those seeking a lighter option, this dish skips the rice but keeps the poached chicken, fresh cucumbers, cilantro, chili-ginger sauce, and nourishing chicken broth.

Complement your meal with the signature Thai Sriracha, a spicy sauce that adds a zesty kick and enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and rice. This simple condiment elevates the dining experience for those who appreciate authentic Thai heat and aroma.

While Rooster & Rice may not offer desserts or alcoholic beverages, its focus on delivering impeccable chicken and rice dishes with vibrant sauces and broth is what makes it a standout destination in downtown San Francisco.

Discover Rooster & Rice in Union Square, San Francisco, for a flavorful meal takeaway experience. Enjoy Asian-inspired dishes in a vibrant locale.

Rooster & Rice: Flavorful Takeaway in Union Square, SF

San Francisco County

Rooster & Rice

Order your meal to-go for a quick and convenient dining experience.

Takeout

Enjoy your meal in a cozy, counter-service setting with limited indoor and outdoor seating.

Dine-In

Discover Rooster & Rice in San Francisco's Union Square district.

Nestled at 125 Kearny Street, Rooster & Rice offers an authentic taste of Thai comfort food in the heart of San Francisco. This snug counter-service café specializes in 

, the beloved Thai chicken and rice dish that locals and visitors rave about for its tender chicken, flavorful rice infused with chicken broth and turmeric, and signature savory sauces.

Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a comforting dinner, Rooster & Rice caters to your pace with both dine-in and takeout options. Order ahead to skip the lunch rush and enjoy your meal hot and fresh. The intimate counter-service setup invites you to savor your food in a cozy atmosphere, perfect for office workers and travelers alike.

Fans of this spot often highlight the incredibly aromatic chicken broth that infuses the rice, creating a simple yet deeply satisfying flavor profile. Each portion comes with perfectly sliced chicken breast or thigh, fresh cucumbers, and a container of their flavorful sauce, which many diners describe as the real star. For added value, you can customize your meal with extras like an egg, more broth, or extra rice to fill you up.

 Order takeout for a quick and satisfying meal during your busy day.

 Enjoy your meal in a clean, laid-back setting with attentive staff.

 They welcome children and provide vegetarian options to suit diverse dining preferences.

Located in bustling Union Square, Rooster & Rice is an ideal stop for foodies craving authentic Thai comfort food alongside shoppers, business professionals, and tourists exploring downtown San Francisco. The inviting aroma of chicken broth welcomes guests as they approach, promising a meal that's both hearty and satisfying. Payment options are modern and convenient, including NFC and credit cards, making your visit hassle-free.

 Rooster & Rice can get busy during workweek lunch hours, so placing your order in advance saves time.

 Their sauces are highly praised and enhance the flavor of the chicken and rice beautifully.

 Adding an egg or extra broth can make your meal more filling and satisfying.

California

Eòlas ùr-nodha le biadh Thai blas ìre àrd aig Rooster & Rice ann an Union Square, San Francisco. Tòrr de roghainnean cùbhraidh agus seirbheis glice.

Saol nhul uair ri San Francisco, Union Square | Rooster & Rice

Fìor bhlas le biadh Thai iongantach aig Rooster & Rice, Union Square, San Francisco. Àrd-ìrean de sheirbheis agus roghainnean càirdeil airson do thuras.

Turas-ceum gu Rooster & Rice, Union Square SF | Dèan na mìorbhuilean agad

Ionad làidir a tha a' toirt seachad biadh Thai tapaidh agus blasail anns an Union Square, San Francisco. Eòlasan, eachdraidh agus na roghainnean as fheàrr agad.

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