Chad G.

Kezar Bar & Restaurant

I live just up the street from The Kezar (the one at Cole/Carl, not the one a few blocks away on Stanyan -- very confusing) and this place is the quintessential neighborhood bar/grill.

Burgers are the specialty, fries are maybe the best in the city. Beware, there is a cat that lounges in the bar so those with cat allergies be warned

PROS: Vibe, burgers/fries, location
CONS: Cat, closes early on most nights

ABC automotive

I'm reluctant to let my secret out of the bag but here goes - ABC Automotive (and in particular William) is the last honest mechanic around. I came across him through a referral several years ago and have used him on all sorts of repairs with total satisfaction.

What impresses me most is that he seems motivated to get you out of his shop with minimum - not maximum - charges. Particularly good for hard to diagnose problems where a dishonest mechanic can really take advantage.

Beware that the neighborhood (deep Tenderloin) is not nice at all. The shop is fine however and they keep all cars inside their shop.

PROS: Honesty, friendly service
CONS: Location