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Welcome to Kusina Ni Tess

Kusina Ni Tess is a heartwarming haven for Filipino cuisine located in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district. Founded by passionate women, it embodies the spirit of home-cooked meals, offering a cozy atmosphere where flavors resonate with tradition. Guests can enjoy a delightful array of dishes, including perfectly fried pork lumpia, tangy sinigang, and savory kare-kare. Renowned for its garlic fried rice and warm service, Kusina Ni Tess is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience that invites you to reconnect with cherished culinary memories. With options for vegans and families alike, it's a community hub serving authentic, hearty meals that nourish both body and soul.

Kusina Ni Tess: Reviews & Ratings

Venessa M.
Venessa M.

This place was only a block away from the hotel we were staying at. The staff were welcoming, friendly and helpful. It was small, yet was able to seat about 20 people total. It was a busy place especially around brunch, as several people starting coming in to order and eat inside or to pick-up/takeout. The food was delicious -- comfort food that definitely reminded me of home. The portions were big and worth the price. I definitely recommend stopping by if you're looking for some good, Filipino breakfast food.

Derrick V.
Derrick V.

Tiny spot in the TL, but one of our favorite Filipino spots anywhere. This place cooks everything perfectly. The garlic rice is the best, fried items are perfectly fried, sinigang is deliciously sour and savory. And now they have beef pares, hard to find outside of the Philippines, super delicious like a Chinese beef stew. Finish off with Turon, fried banana with a candy like coating.

Jolens V.
Jolens V.

Nice Pilipino Restaurant. Simple decor. The service is excellent. Manny is so nice. He is friendly and very attentive. The staff is helpful and happy. There is a lot of choices. The food is authentic and the portions are good. It's like visiting an aunt's house because of the hospitality and warmth. If you're ever considering eating pinoy food this is the place

Rudy H.
Rudy H.

I love this place! Delicious homestyle food with kind and friendly service. Many A la carte selection to choose from different sizes and mix & match combination on rice. I've had the eggplant omelette, chicaron, beef kare kare and laing. They are so delicious and the prices are reasonable. The only thing I don't like is that they closed so early at 2 PM. If you want to open for breakfast and lunch only, please at least make it until 3:00 or 4:00 PM. (2:00 PM is way too early) Manny is working the cashier, very nice and friendly owner. Make sure to say hello and try this place for Filipino food or if you curious about that country's food.

Daniel G.
Daniel G.

Manny, you are my lumpia and diniguan savior! The food was amazing!! Service was nothing short of making you feel at home. Inside was very simple yet at home feeling, so it was perfect to take back and enjoy. All the food was perfect and comforting. Mahbuhay!

Janine C.
Janine C.

Never have I EVER experienced Filipino food that is THIS close to the flavors and dishes made by the ones I love. You know when people say "no one could beat my mom/grandma's cooking", well this is pretty much as authentic as it can by. I have come here on multiple occasions during lunch and I am always surprised as to how long the line can be. Let's start with the customer service. You are so welcomed and feel at home here. Manong and manangs are so kind and sweet. The food is honestly priced very cheap for the serving and the flavors...all there and more. I ordered the manoksilog and the Chicken skin was perfectly crispy. A nice crunch. And guess what, I still had rice leftover. We also ordered vegetable lumpia, chicken adobo, and fried fish. Best hidden Filipino gem honestly. I wish they had more desserts. We ordered the ube halaya and it wasn't as sweet as I hoped but still the place is great overall. Cannot wait to come back.

Keviee Y.
Keviee Y.

I've gotten takeaway from here multiple times and managed to walk pass this place because it's such a hole in the wall. My go-to orders are the Tosilog and Longsilog. The garlic rice always hits the spot and the portions are huge. Recommend checking this place out if you don't mind falling into a food coma shortly after, these dishes are quite heavy but so delicious.

Hannah C.
Hannah C.

I don't have much experience with Filipino food so I was super stoked to see this place. The restaurant is a cute family owned business. I ordered a chicken adobo and lumpia (again, not too much experience so I got the most basic stuff). And then they sat me at a table with a Filipino couple who were THE LOVELIEST. It really felt like I was at a family gathering, everybody sitting together and just chatting it up. Even though we were strangers, I think this place does a good job of creating an environment where people can get comfortable with each other. Food came around (pretty quickly, I might add). Chicken adobo was incredibly tender but that LUMPIA UGH. I WILL DREAM OF THE LUMPIA. WOULD RECOMMEND THIS PLACE and would love to come back and try all your other stuff. Didn't have room for dessert (ugh heresy, I know) BUT that halo halo was very tempting.

Veronica Y.
Veronica Y.

Hole in the wall Filipino food - so good!!!! Really generous portion. I got the pork adobo -- it was so much meat! Loved the combo of the lean and fattier cuts. The fattier cuts especially just melted in my mouth! Perfect runny egg over the garlic rice. YESSSSSSSS please!

Location

Discover the Heart of Filipino Cuisine at Kusina Ni Tess

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Tenderloin, San Francisco, Kusina Ni Tess is a delightful homage to Filipino culinary traditions. This charming eatery offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for comfort food lovers. Whether you choose to dine in, take out, or have your meal delivered, this restaurant is ready to satisfy your cravings with its extensive menu filled with authentic dishes.

Highlights of the Menu

  • All-Day Breakfast: Indulge in classic Filipino breakfast dishes like the Tosilog - a scrumptious combination of fried cured pork, garlic fried rice, and a perfectly fried egg, or try the Bangsilog, featuring crispy milkfish.
  • Short Orders: Don’t miss the delectable Lechon Kawali, which is deep-fried pork belly, or the flavorful Pork Lumpia, a must-try for anyone craving a snack.
  • Sweet Delights: Cap off your meal with their delicious desserts like Turon, a sweet banana treat, or the rich and creamy Leche Flan.

Kusina Ni Tess not only boasts a mouth-watering menu but also offers a variety of options to cater to all diners, including vegan and vegetarian dishes. This commitment to inclusivity makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to explore Filipino flavors.

Customer Experiences

Beyond the food, patrons frequently rave about the genuine hospitality that fills the space. One reviewer described the experience akin to visiting a caring aunt's home, with friendly service and attentiveness that truly makes you feel welcome. The owner, Manny, is often highlighted for his kindness and hands-on approach, ensuring that every guest feels at home.

Many patrons recommend the garlic fried rice as it pairs beautifully with nearly any dish while adding a layer of richness to the meal. As another reviewer shared, the sinigang — a sour and savory soup — is a testament to the authentic flavors that Kusina Ni Tess delivers.

A Collective Atmosphere

With its casual setting, moderate noise level, and ample seating for groups, Kusina Ni Tess is the perfect spot for family outings, lunches with friends, or a cozy dinner date. This women-owned establishment also prioritizes accessibility with wheelchair-friendly facilities.

In an era of increasing convenience, Kusina Ni Tess stands out by accepting various payment methods including Apple Pay, credit cards, and even cryptocurrency, making it easy for customers to enjoy their meals without hassle.

The next time you're craving Filipino comfort food, venture over to Kusina Ni Tess at 237 Ellis St, or give them a call at (415) 351-1169. With its delicious offerings and warm, welcoming environment, it's sure to become one of your favorite dining spots in San Francisco!