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Above Ground was praised for its creative vegan dishes, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere. Customers highlighted favorites like the Tempeh Sausage Pizza, Buffalo Cauliflower, and the Above Ground Burger. The restaurant was also noted for its gluten-free and nut-free options, catering to various dietary needs. Many appreciated the quick and attentive service, making it a popular spot for both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Discover Above Ground: San Francisco's Beloved Vegan Brewpub Legacy 

Nestled in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Above Ground carved a niche as a standout vegan brewpub that delighted food lovers with its innovative plant-based cuisine and inviting atmosphere. Although it closed its doors in November 2021, its influence and the fond memories it created continue to resonate strongly with the local community and vegan food enthusiasts alike.

A Unique Vegan Dining Experience in the Mission District

Above Ground was renowned for its distinctive approach to plant-based dining, combining the creativity of a brewpub with the freshness and vibrancy of vegan food. Guests were treated to a menu that pushed culinary boundaries with dishes like the Tempeh Sausage & Greens Pizza, Mushroom Pizza, and the iconic Above Ground Burger. These offerings showcased bold flavors and thoughtful ingredients, appealing not only to vegans but to all who appreciate inventive cuisine.

 and a selection of desserts complemented the savory dishes perfectly, making Above Ground a go-to spot for a relaxed yet vibrant night out in San Francisco.

Beyond the delicious food and drinks, Above Ground earned praise for its warm and welcoming service. Diners appreciated the friendly staff who made every visit special, whether dining in or ordering takeout and delivery. The venue's commitment to gluten-free options and thoughtfully crafted small plates added to its appeal, making it an inclusive destination for a variety of dietary needs.

Above Ground's positive community sentiment

 highlights how it became more than just a restaurant— it was a beloved part of the Mission's culinary landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about Above Ground

 Above Ground closed in November 2021 after operating for about a year.

What were some popular dishes at Above Ground?

 Popular dishes included the Tempeh Sausage & Greens Pizza, Mushroom Pizza, Oyster Mushrooms, and the Above Ground Burger.

 Yes, Above Ground was a fully vegan restaurant offering creative plant-based dishes.

North America

United States

Above Ground: A Vegan Delight in the Heart of San Francisco

Nestled in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Above Ground is not just another vegan restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that redefines plant-based dining. With its lively atmosphere and an innovative menu, this spot has quickly become a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted Banh Mi sandwich, bursting with flavors, or savoring their signature Tempeh Sausage Pizza, a dish that has earned rave reviews for its unique twist on a classic favorite.

Above Ground offers a diverse menu that caters to all tastes, featuring standout dishes like the Oyster Mushrooms, which are perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, and the SF Fries, a crispy delight that pairs beautifully with their house-made dipping sauces. The restaurant also boasts a creative cocktail menu, with drinks that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. One sip of their signature cocktail, infused with fresh herbs and fruits, will transport you to a sunny afternoon in the park.

The story of Above Ground is as rich as its menu. Founded by a passionate team of chefs who believe in the power of plant-based cuisine, the restaurant aims to create dishes that are not only delicious but also sustainable. The team often collaborates with local farmers to source fresh ingredients, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of the season’s best offerings.

Above Ground is celebrated for its innovative vegan dishes, particularly the Banh Mi sandwich and Tempeh Sausage Pizza.

It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy delicious, creative vegan cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

The Mission District is known for its vibrant street art, eclectic shops, and a variety of other eateries, making it a perfect area to explore before or after your meal.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just curious about plant-based cuisine, Above Ground is a culinary gem that promises to delight your taste buds. Don’t miss out on this unique dining experience in San Francisco; come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with a full heart and belly.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNxMllIZFZBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxWBFEMF_j4ARoQA-EBAW8Zk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNxMllIZFZBEAE

We decided to try this new vegan spot and boy were we pleasantly surprised. Good service, great cocktails and the best vegan burger I've ever had. My hubby loved it too! We will be back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDbnRibTJBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxWBFEMF_j4ARoQA-EBAW8Zk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNDbnRibTJBRRAB

Very nice people! The pizzas are super creative, not something you will find anywhere else. My favorite was the tempeh pizza. Dessert was good too!

Has good gluten free options (but pizza might be risky for celiacs due to cross contamination in the oven)

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhMUsyZmFBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxWBFEMF_j4ARoQA-EBAW8Zk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNhMUsyZmFBEAE

Wow! Wow! Wow! Basically what we said the entire time we were there. Would have given 5 stars but the service times were a little delayed. The food though…as everyone else has said, can’t tell you are missing anything. The fries for example, so good we ordered a second round. And the dessert just melted in our mouths that one was ordered to go. Definitely would return, and I am not a vegan. Make reservations if you can though as I can tell they probably get packed some days.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURpb0l6MmNnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxWBFEMF_j4ARoQA-EBAW8Zk/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURpb0l6MmNnEAE

We really love their Oyster Mushrooms, SF Fries, Banh Mi Sandwich, Tempeh Sausage Pizza & their Chocolate Mousse. Everything was absolutely delicious, but their sandwich was the real star, incredibly tasty and would love it if they kept it as a regular item on their menu. Their cocktails were pretty good as well!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM4czZXbDJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJxWBFEMF_j4ARoQA-EBAW8Zk/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM4czZXbDJ3RRAB

A fantastic addition with a good selection of offerings and a constantly changing menu; during COVID-19, you can order online and pick up in store.

The service was super quick and the food, super flavorful; definitely worth it.

Above Ground: Top Vegan Restaurant in Mission District, SF

Above Ground was a vegan brewpub in San Francisco's Mission District, known for its creative pizzas and craft beers. It opened in April 2020 but faced challenges during the pandemic and closed in November 2021.

Above Ground: A brief history of San Francisco's vegan brewpub icon in the Mission District.

Nestled in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, 

 emerged in April 2020 as a pioneering vegan brewpub, quickly making a name for itself with its innovative plant-based pizzas and small plates. This establishment became a beloved destination for food lovers seeking creative vegan cuisine paired with a lively atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails.

Located at 2170 Mission Street, Above Ground opened its doors at a challenging time — right as the COVID-19 pandemic was reshaping the restaurant industry. Despite this, it carved out a loyal following thanks to its inventive menu that featured standout items like tempeh sausage pizza, banh mi sandwiches, and indulgent desserts such as chocolate mousse. Reviewers praised the friendly service, excellent cocktails, and the quality of the vegan fare, often highlighting the unique flavors that set Above Ground apart from other spots in San Francisco's competitive culinary scene.

Despite garnering positive reviews and developing a passionate customer base, Above Ground faced significant financial challenges compounded by the pandemic's impact on the hospitality industry. These difficulties ultimately led to the difficult decision to close the doors in November 2021, marking the end of a brief but impactful chapter in the Mission District's evolving food culture.

Above Ground's short lifespan did not diminish its influence as a vegan culinary innovator in San Francisco. Its creative approach to plant-based dining and commitment to quality left a lasting impression on patrons and inspired other establishments to explore vegan options with similar passion and inventiveness. The restaurant's emphasis on flavorful, thoughtfully prepared dishes paired with a welcoming environment exemplifies the Mission District's spirit of diversity and culinary experimentation.

  - Above Ground launched in April 2020, introducing a fresh vegan brewpub concept to the Mission District.

  - Faced financial difficulties amid COVID-19 restrictions and challenges.

  - Closed in November 2021 after a brief but meaningful presence in the San Francisco dining scene.

Takeout

Delivery

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Serves Vegetarian Food

Above Ground is a culinary gem located in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, offering an innovative fusion of flavors with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is lively and creative, making it a perfect spot for food lovers to explore unique dining experiences.

Above Ground

A selection of creative vegan pizzas, starters, and desserts.

Tempeh Sausage Pizza

Mushroom Confit Pizza

Red Potato and Spinach Pizza

Buffalo Cauliflower

Banh Mi Sandwich

Above Ground Burger

San Frandisco Fries

Oyster Mushrooms

Apple Pie Pizza

Chocolate Mousse

Above Ground Menu

Above Ground Menu Overview San Francisco Vegan Dining Experience 

Located in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Above Ground offers a thoughtfully crafted vegan menu that delights both longtime plant-based eaters and curious newcomers. This creative eatery is celebrated for its innovative pizzas, hearty mains, flavorful starters, and decadent desserts — all made from fresh, wholesome ingredients that showcase the diversity of vegan cuisine.

Kick off your meal with crisp and satisfying starters that set the tone for the rest of your culinary journey. The battered Oyster Mushrooms come with a sweet chili jam that perfectly balances smoky and tangy flavors, making it a standout choice for mushroom lovers. Accompanying this is the iconic SF Fries, golden crispy fries served with a luscious vegan aioli that elevates this classic snack to a gourmet level.

Above Ground's mains elevate plant-based dining with inventive flavors and textures. The Tempeh Sausage & Greens Pizza features savory tempeh sausage, vibrant greens, vegan cheese, and rich tomato sauce on a perfectly baked crust. Mushroom Pizza is an earthy delight, topped with mushroom confit, creamy cashew mozzarella, green garlic, lemon zest, herb oil, crispy capers, and nori for an umami-packed bite. For sandwich aficionados, the Banh Mi Sandwich delivers an exciting fusion with tofu, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayo nestled in a crusty baguette. The Above Ground Burger is a hearty, texture-rich patty crafted from mushrooms, sunflower seeds, walnuts, quinoa, and black beans, layered with vegan cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mayo on a soft bun.

desserts and drinks to complete your experience

No meal is complete without a sweet finish or a refreshing cocktail. Above Ground’s luscious Chocolate Mousse is a velvety blend of dark chocolate, coconut milk, vanilla extract, and natural maple syrup — a decadent treat that melts in your mouth. The restaurant is also known for its inventive cocktails that pair wonderfully with the menu’s vibrant flavors, making for an elevated plant-based dining experience in San Francisco.

 Above Ground offers some gluten-free options, though pizza lovers with celiac should be mindful of possible cross-contamination.

 Convenient online ordering and pick-up options make it easy to enjoy Above Ground’s flavorful dishes on the go.

 A fully plant-based menu ensures every dish is 100% vegan, appealing to ethical eaters and those seeking vibrant, healthful fare.

Savor vibrant flavors at Above Ground, a must-visit gem in San Francisco's Mission District. Experience culinary creativity—book your table now!

Above Ground: Vibrant Dining in SF's Mission District

San Francisco County

A variety of plant-based pizzas with unique toppings.

Vegan Pizzas

House-made and local vegan-friendly beers.

Craft Beers

Gluten-Free Options

Takeout and Delivery

Above Ground: Innovative Vegan Dining in San Francisco's Mission District 

Located at 2170 Mission Street in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Above Ground stands out as a beacon for plant-based cuisine lovers and adventurous foodies alike. This charming restaurant offers a creative twist on vegan dining that appeals to both longtime vegans and curious newcomers eager to explore delicious, cruelty-free fare.

Above Ground’s pizza offerings are a true highlight, featuring inventive toppings like tempeh sausage, mushroom confit, and creamy cashew mozzarella. Priced at around $14, these pizzas deliver bold flavors and textures that redefine what plant-based pizza can be. Alongside pizzas, the menu includes small plates such as battered oyster mushrooms served with sweet chili jam and crispy fries paired with vegan aioli, each priced roughly $6. These dishes make perfect starters or casual bites for sharing.

Hearty Vegan Sandwiches and Decadent Desserts

For those craving a satisfying handheld meal, Above Ground offers flavorful vegan sandwiches like the Banh Mi, filled with tofu and tangy pickled vegetables, available for about $12. To round out your dining experience, indulge in desserts such as the luscious chocolate mousse crafted from dark chocolate and coconut milk, a sweet treat priced at $5 that delights even non-vegans.

 — praised for its juicy and flavorful plant-based patty that satisfies even meat-eaters.

 — such as the tempeh sausage pizza, offering flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

 — especially the chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth and perfectly caps off your meal.

Friendly atmosphere and attentive service

 — making every visit welcoming whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout.

Above Ground offers both takeout and delivery services, ideal for San Francisco locals and visitors craving innovative vegan cuisine from the comfort of their home or hotel. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh and dynamic options for every palate. When you want to enjoy creative vegan pizzas, hearty sandwiches, or flavorful small plates in the Mission District, Above Ground is a must-visit destination.

California

Experience innovative vegan cuisine at Above Ground in San Francisco's Mission District. Enjoy creative pizzas, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Vegan Dining in Mission District, San Francisco - Above Ground

Discover delicious plant-based dishes at Above Ground in SF's Mission District. Enjoy gluten-free options, vegan desserts, and outdoor seating.

San Francisco Vegan Eatery - Above Ground in Mission District

Learn about the history of Above Ground, a beloved vegan brewpub in SF's Mission District, known for its inventive pizzas and community focus.

Above Ground: Top Vegan Restaurant in Mission District, SF

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