Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
The vibrant, retro-inspired visuals of Grand Lake Kitchen’s new Noe Valley location capture the restaurant’s commitment to upscale yet approachable comfort food.Oakland Today
Grand Lake Kitchen, a popular East Bay restaurant known for its upscale diner-style comfort food, has opened a third location in San Francisco’s Noe Valley neighborhood. Co-owner May Seto Wasem says the new space, which opened just a week ago, has already attracted a loyal following, with some customers visiting five times in the first week. The Noe Valley location aims to capture the same casual, neighborhood vibe as the original Grand Lake Kitchen locations in Oakland.
Why it matters
The opening of Grand Lake Kitchen’s third location in Noe Valley marks the continued expansion of an East Bay favorite that has carved out a niche by offering high-quality, nostalgic comfort food in a relaxed, community-focused setting. As larger chains and corporate-owned restaurants continue to dominate the Bay Area dining scene, Grand Lake Kitchen’s growth represents the resilience of independent, mission-driven eateries that prioritize quality, affordability, and a connection to their local communities.
The details
The new Noe Valley restaurant, located on the corner of 24th Street and Church, has a similar menu to the original Grand Lake Kitchen locations, featuring dishes like a slow-roasted porchetta sandwich, fried green tomatoes, and matzoh ball soup. Co-owner May Seto Wasem says the goal is to provide ‘comfort and classics’ in a casual, affordable setting. The Noe Valley space can seat more customers than the original deli-style Grand Lake Kitchen, and also features a full bar and a private dining room upstairs.
Grand Lake Kitchen opened its first location in Oakland’s Grand Lake neighborhood about 7 years ago.The restaurant expanded to a second location in the Dimond District of Oakland around 5 years after the original opening.The new Noe Valley location in San Francisco opened just one week ago, on April 7, 2026.
The players
Grand Lake Kitchen
An independent, East Bay-based restaurant known for its upscale diner-style comfort food and community-focused approach.
May Seto Wasem
The co-owner of Grand Lake Kitchen, who runs the restaurant’s operations alongside her husband, Dave.
Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›
What they’re saying
“In the first seven days of being open, we’ve had people come in five times.”
— May Seto Wasem, Co-owner, Grand Lake Kitchen
“We try to be affordable and casual. I mean, we sell pork sandwiches, right? It’s not super fancy.”
— May Seto Wasem, Co-owner, Grand Lake Kitchen
What’s next
Grand Lake Kitchen plans to continue expanding its reach in the Bay Area, with the Noe Valley location serving as a springboard for potential future openings in other San Francisco neighborhoods or nearby suburbs.
The takeaway
Grand Lake Kitchen’s expansion to Noe Valley demonstrates the enduring appeal of independent, community-focused restaurants that prioritize quality, affordability, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe. As larger chains and corporate-owned eateries continue to dominate the Bay Area dining landscape, Grand Lake Kitchen’s growth represents the resilience of mission-driven local businesses that have cultivated a loyal customer base.