Hard Knox Cafe

Im sorry, but hard knox is a paper copy of Johnson's Barbecue menu. I've been going to johnsons since 1995 and hard knox is just a less seasoned version of johnsons. Get your mind right and go to Johnson's bbq @ 2646 san bruno ave,sf ca 94134 415-467-7655. dont cheat yourself!!

I was very disappointed with my first visit to Hard Knox Cafe!!! My friend raved about how great the food was when she visited in Feb., even she thought that the food had taken a big nose dive since her last visit. Our server was not personable, she dindn't check back on us after our food was served and she had an attitude. The collard greens looked more like spinach and tasteless. I couldn't tell what kind of cheese was used in the Mac. The snapper and catfish were over cooked, but nice portions. The cornbread tasted like Jiffy in the box. I understand that usually the owners are in the kitchen, but they were no where to to be seen and maybe this is the reason for the bad experience. Soul food is not cooked with exact measurements it's to taste and it comes from the love of the food. You have to put your heart into it, you can't teach cooks's that lesson.

Like most reviewers, I saw this place on PBS Check Please. I visited the original 3rd Street location and ordered the fried chicken -- very good. Also, I ate at the new location on Clement and ordered the ox-tail, again very good. I strongly recommend this place. The food is good, and the price is very reasonable. The staff is friendly and high energy. Also, I found both places very comfortable and clean. It's a good change of pace.