Mason Diner (Cafe Mason)

Mason Diner (Cafe Mason)

320 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

+1 415-544-0320

American restaurant
(2565)
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About This Place

Located in the heart of San Francisco at 320 Mason Street, Mason Diner—also known as Cafe Mason—is a quintessential American restaurant that delivers a deliciously nostalgic diner experience with a contemporary twist. Perfect for breakfast or brunch enthusiasts, this cozy spot delights guests with a menu rich in classic favorites and inventive takes on comfort food.

The culinary offerings at Mason Diner celebrate the best of American diner cuisine, featuring standout dishes like the indulgent Billion Dollar Bacon Benedicts, which combine perfectly poached eggs with rich hollandaise over crispy bacon—truly a decadent start to any morning. Pancake lovers will be drawn to options such as the Banana Pecan Pancakes or the delightfully fruity Eggs Apple Pancakes, each served fluffy and golden, making every bite a comforting treat. For those seeking something savory, the Huevos Rancheros and Smoked Salmon Benedicts offer vibrant, flavorful alternatives that excite the palate.

Mason Diner’s menu is further enriched by hearty choices like the Corned Beef Hash, Bacon & Cheese Omelette, or the savory Pollo Quesadilla, catering to diverse tastes and appetites. Pair your meal with freshly brewed Coffee or a refreshing Café Au Lait, and consider the classic brunch companion, a Mimosa, to elevate your dining experience.

Beyond the food, Mason Diner’s atmosphere warmly invites you into a charmingly retro space where nostalgic orange hues and oldies music set a friendly, upbeat mood. Customers frequently mention the quick, attentive service and the vibrant energy that makes dining here both comfortable and inviting. One diner described the vibe as "classic diner aesthetic" that truly adds to the enjoyment of a great meal.

Whether you arrive craving the crispy perfection of their golden hash browns—praised by many as some of the best around—or the decadent Croque Madame with its luscious French toast layered with ham, cheese, and topped with eggs, Mason Diner balances quality and familiarity in every dish. Regulars also appreciate the thoughtful sides accompanying egg dishes, like your choice of toast or fresh fruit, making each plate feel complete and satisfying.

For those on the go, Mason Diner offers take-out delights such as Swedish Pancakes filled with stewed blueberry and apple and topped with crème fraîche, or the Cheese Blintzes served with homemade fruit sauces—ideal for enjoying a quick yet flavorful meal anywhere.

In essence, Mason Diner stands out as San Francisco’s beloved spot where hearty American classics meet genuine hospitality. Its menu’s depth and attention to detail, combined with a warm, retro environment, guarantee an uplifting dining experience that’s both comforting and memorable. Whether you’re here for a leisurely brunch or a quick, satisfying breakfast fix, Mason Diner promises a flavorful journey that will leave you wanting to return again and again.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Coffee Comfort food Late-night food Organic dishes Quick bite Wine
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Counter service Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Paid multi-storey car park Paid street parking Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Tuesday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Thursday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Friday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Saturday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM
  • Sunday
    06:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • snarkyguy
    1 month ago

    This was a solid breakfast choice. I got the Philadelphia cheesesteak scramble with hash browns. My wife got the mushroom Benedict, and my Mom got the blueberry pancakes. The food arrived amazingly quick and was pretty good. My wife thought hers was a bit bland but otherwise good. The atmosphere is very orange, but nice. Oldies music playing in the background. Overall it was a great experience. I didn’t really like them putting on the menu that 18% tip is “customary”. I’d prefer to tip based on experience rather than guilt. But I guess some people don’t know, so that’s fine. The experience was good, our waiter was entirely too enthusiastic. I would definitely come again.

  • C
    1 month ago

    We tried four brunch spots during our trip to California, and this one was hands down our favorite. The hash browns were perfectly golden and crispy, cooked to absolute perfection! The restaurant has a charming retro atmosphere, and since it partners with our hotel (Handlery), we even got a 10% discount. Everything was just perfect, we’ll definitely come back the next time we’re in San Francisco.

  • J R
    1 month ago

    Food was good and came out quickly. I got a veggie omelette with avocado and hash browns with sourdough toast. The staff really doesn't communicate with each other and are easily overwhelmed if a lot of people come in so get your check quickly if you are in a hurry

  • Zac Fellabaum
    2 month ago

    This is a great little diner in downtown San Francisco. We had the regular eggs Benedict and the billion dollar bacon Benedict. Both were excellent!! We will definitely be back.

  • Jordan Allen
    3 month ago

    I thoroughly enjoyed my breakfast at Mason diner! My pancakes, sausage, bacon and scrambled eggs were so tasty, and it really set me up for the day! The staff were also super friendly, and I felt very welcome. I really enjoyed the classic diner aesthetic!

  • Reynier Moya
    3 month ago

    Excellent service and incredibly tasty food! Alex was phenomenal — he not only recommended the best dishes but also shared great tips about the city. His attention to detail and warm attitude made our experience unforgettable. We would come back just to have Alex as our server again.

  • Christian
    3 month ago

    I would like to acknowledge the outstanding service provided by Aleks, a waiter at Mason’s whose professionalism and warm personality truly stand out. From the very beginning, Aleks was exceptionally kind, maintaining a friendly and respectful attitude that made the entire experience even more enjoyable. His assertive communication reflects an excellent understanding of customer service. Aleks also works with remarkable speed, offered Great recommendations and handeld every request with a constant, genuine smile. Thanks to his exceptional service and the great Eggs Benedikt, I had a highly positive experience. Aleks is, without a doubt, a great asset to the team.

  • Red
    4 month ago

    Mason Diner was a pleasant spot to grab a meal. The staff were friendly and welcoming which made the visit enjoyable. The food was tasty, though the portions were on the smaller side. The atmosphere was cozy and comfortable, perfect for a relaxed meal. If you are staying at HI Hostel next door, you even get a discount — just show them your booking. Overall it was a nice experience and worth a stop if you are in the area.

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