SFReview
RT Rotisserie
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The world is full of siblings. And if watching bad TV and celebrity news has taught us anything, it’s that the older ones are usually more polished and grow up to be king, while the younger ones have less pressure on them and end up being more fun. Sure, we might be mainly speaking about William and Harry—but it’s also true of Rich Table and RT Rotisserie.
While Rich Table is a full-on dining experience, RT Rotisserie—owned by the same people—is a great place for a casual dinner in Hayes Valley. The menus at these sibling restaurants are extremely different, but the quality and execution at both places are on the same very high level.
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
RT manages to be both efficient and laid-back, while still making you feel like you’re “going out to dinner.” Their roast chicken is what you’re coming for, but the cauliflower and fried chicken are also fantastic, and you can get any of the above served in sandwich, salad, or stand-alone form. None of that might sound particularly revolutionary, but everything on the menu is as close to the best version of whatever you’re eating that you can find. The chicken has crispy skin and is super tender, the cauliflower is roasted perfectly and served with fresh herbs and a smear of beet hummus, and even the French fries are some of the best in SF. Besides the food, they have one very-well priced (under $30) bottle each of red, white, rosé, and sparkling wine, as well a draft beer on tap.
In addition to all that, RT never gets too crowded, and doesn’t feel like you’re eating in a fast-casual spot. The wood accents and tile floors make it feel homey, as does the classic rock playlist that brings you back to hanging out at your parents’ house. Or your friend whose parents liked classic rock’s house. Point is, it feels pleasantly chill.
It’s very rare that a place is perfect for so many situations, but RT Rotisserie does everything well—from the food, to the service, to the design. Dinner here is a hell of a lot easier (and cheaper) than Rich Table, and also consistently excellent. It helps having good genes.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
Rotisserie Chicken
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
Rotisserie Cauliflower
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
Umami Fries
photo credit: Krescent Carasso