On a cold late February night, I had unloaded the last box at my 'new' condo in Jackson Square. My immediate neighborhood food options had long closed, but the close proximity to North Beach was an easy choice. Instead of poking around Yelp for inspiration, I decided to head out to Columbus Ave on foot around midnight on a Friday; smart move, right? As I sauntered past couple convenience stores, strip joints and pizza shops, I landed on Buster's. The brightly lit exterior and bustling interior piqued my interest. How had I never seen this place before? As soon as I stepped in, the smokey aroma of grilled beef and vegetables gave me hope. Without hesitation, I ordered the mushroom Philly cheesesteak with garlic fries. The to-go order was complete within a couple of minutes, and I didn't hesitate asking for a few square containers. (The sauce selection is admirable) I was seemingly able to walk back home at 3x the speed in which I arrived, and I fully attribute that to the anticipation of my first bite. After my first bite, I knew Busters was legit. The quality ingredients, well seasoned vegetables and crispy fries hit the spot; the portions were very generous as well. Highly recommend this place! (I'm also writing this review homage to National Cheesesteak Day, which is today, March 24th) read more

This little spot gave me the best "local family owned" vibe! The place was on the corner of the block, felt very authentic and the food was actually pretty good. Their garlic fries were a little disappointing tho. I wouldn't recommend them. I definitely recommend getting the California style cheesesteak . I only had the regular beef cheesesteak and it was good but would've been greatt with the fresh tomato and lettuce. Their hotdogs were also good. And was probably the cheapest meal we had on our whole trip! The service was fast but they didn't seem to enthusiastic about serving people. They worked fast and minded their business. We ate inside and weren't really approached or asked if we were missing anything. Felt awkward to be there . read more

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Needed to order a quick lunch to-go for my co workers and I on a Sunday and Busters was able to fulfill our 5 sandwich order within 10 mins! We got the classic Philly cheesesteak with a side of chili cheese fries, mushroom Philly cheesesteak, north beach cheesesteak, and phillapeno cheesesteak. All the cheesesteak sandwiches come in either a small (~$12) or large (~$15) We all enjoyed our cheesesteaks and was very full. It was slightly on the greasy side but probably from handling the grilled onions and meats. The meats were thinly sliced and had a good smokey flavor. Fries were crispy but the ones on the bottom started getting soggy from all the chili and cheese it soaked up Busters is a good choice for anyone that needs a quick sandwich and wants to indulge. Inside is not too big but has some counter seating as well as an outdoor parklet read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Fries - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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We enjoyed Buster's after a night out! Thank yall for being open Christmas Eve! We tried the mushroom philly cheesesteak and the cheesy garlic fries. Wow the fries were spectacular! We loved the cheesy nacho sauce, it coated the fries perfectly!!! The mushroom philly cheesesteak was very well made as well! Shops is pretty small, maybe about 8 seats indoors but there are covered seating options outside as well! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - cheesy garlic fries - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Been here twice, first time i had just the original cheesteak and it was very good. Day service seemed a little less enthusiatic but when i came on my second visit last night. The guy was super inviting and helped me get the philapeno with the special hot honey and maaaan that hit the spot . The night vibes were there and the street was busy with people going to all local shops so its a nice night walk! read more

Everytime I find myself in North Beach, doesn't matter if I'm hungry or not, I stop for a cheesesteak. It's my favorite comfort meal, and the spot I take friends and family who have never had it. What used to be a late night only meal in my younger days, is now an all-day spot for me. I used to always get the California/Whole Sub cheesesteak but I've moved to the Philipeno cheese steak but add mayo. The meat plus the fresh roll always tastes so fresh and comforting. I've had it for takeout but nothing beats eating it there, fresh and hot. They also have some sauces on the counter. The buffalo adds a nice tanginess to each bite but a little goes a long way. Pair that with some garlic fries, and you got yourself a full meal and more. The staff here is always so kind. We always get a large size and split it. They put them in separate trays so it's easily shareable. The prices have gone up a little bit, I think close to $14 for a large, but honestly I don't care what it costs, I'd eat this cheesesteak all day every day. It's the best one I've found on the west coast, and something I crave all the time. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

I'm giving Buster's Cheesesteak four stars, and honestly it was this close to five. I want to be upfront because that's the only way reviews are helpful. I sat where I could see a bit of the prep and noticed some items were frozen and reheated, which immediately knocked it down a notch for me. That said, once the food hit the table, the taste was what pulled it back up. It's not the best cheesesteak I've ever had, but it was solid, satisfying, and definitely hit the spot when we needed it. What really stood out though was the service and the vibe. The guys working there were on it, friendly, efficient, and clearly knew how to handle a late night crowd. We actually thought they closed at 11, only to find out they're open until around 3am, which instantly gave it that classic New York late night spot energy. The environment felt lively but comfortable, and it's exactly the kind of place you want to stumble into after a long night out. Price wise, it felt fair for San Francisco. They have both indoor and outdoor seating, which is a nice bonus. Would I go back again? Yes. Would I go out of my way for it? Probably not. Would I recommend it if you're nearby or craving something late night? Absolutely. It's a dependable, vibey spot with great service, and sometimes that matters just as much as the food itself. read more

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This was so good. The guy was hella nice and the food was really good. They have big burgers and Philly cheesesteaks.

I wound up here because Molinaris was ridiculously busy the ran out of numbers. As I step back out I noticed this place and the banner stating first cheesesteak shop in CA. Was starving and had to pick up the man shortly. It wasn't too busy and the menu item nice a simple. Settled on mushroom philly. Came out quick and decided to eat half at their outside seating area. It was decent and the bread which makes the whole philly thing a thing not bad. However something was missing in flavor for me. I also grew up on the Cheesesteak Shop cheesesteaks and the my trip to Philly and Angelos Pizzeria blew all West Coast Philly joints I've tried out of the water. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Mushroom onion cheesestesk - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cozy little spot with just enough seating to enjoy your food. Inside, there are bar stools facing the windows or the cooking station, so you can watch your cheesesteak being made to order. It's very easy to order, and the staff do a great job keeping everything clean and organized. They also hand you a generous stack of napkins with your order, which really came in handy. I ordered the large Philly cheesesteak with the fries and soda combo. The total came to $19.85 with tax. For San Francisco, that price makes sense considering the area and what similar meals cost nearby. Everything tasted good, but the fries really impressed me the most. They came out extra crispy, clearly fried to order, and had a great portion size. Honestly, without the fries, I probably would have still been hungry and considered getting a second cheesesteak. The bread was soft and airy and held the cheesesteak together well. At first glance, it looked like there was a lot of meat, but once I picked it up and gave it a gentle squeeze, it flattened out to about two inches thick. It still hit the spot, but I would have loved a more stacked cheesesteak like you'd get in Philly or even compared to the chain Jersey Mikes. That said, being able to get a decent cheesesteak in SF at all is something I'm grateful for. I'll definitely be coming back because I love meat, cheese, and bread. Next time I want to try it with Whiz on top for that classic finish. Remember, never skip the bev and fries! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Large Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with side of fries and soda - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I drive by this place almost every time I visit the city and I'm not sure why I haven't been back for 3 years. I always wondered if it was still good. I finally got my chance to check them out again and it didn't disappoint! I ordered the Mushroom Cheesesteak (4 Stars) with White American and sweet cherry peppers on the side. The bread was not your traditional Amoroso roll, but SF is known for their great breads, so the French roll they used was really good, nice crust but not too hard, held up good to the filling. The steak was good quality, however they didn't cook the onions into the chopped meat. The onions are pre-caramelized, then added after the meat is cooked, still good but better when the onions are caramelized during cooking. They used plenty of cheese to hold it all together in the bread. They also have a variety of hot sauces on the counter, I used Louisiana hot sauce on mine. Until next time.. hopefully sooner that 3 years :) read more

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Gotta try a Philly cheesesteak spot, especially when it's withstood the test of time! They whipped it up right in front of me as soon as I ordered it. The classic was good but the California one featured some necessary greens & veggies - made it as guilt-free as possible for me! read more

Stopped by this simple sandwich shop for the first time on Saturday, 11/15/2025, and had a decent experience. They have indoor and outdoor seating, and the employees were friendly. I got the mushroom Philly cheesesteak sandwich, which was good but not mind-blowing. Definitely planning to come back and try something else. It is not the most cleanest spot . They also don't have restroom. read more

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A tiny classic spot with hella chill vibes and a great team from what I saw. A very straight forward menu, we went with the mushroom cheesesteak + jalapeños. Their fries are also good, and they have like 6 different sauces to choose from for dipping lol. Would definitely come here again at anytime! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Amazing flavor. Amazing portions. We are coming back every time we come to town. Small area for inside sitting where you can watch them work. Inside has soul, a small hole in the wall where you will find treasure. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is my first time trying to buster's cheesesteak was very very good. There was jalapeños in it, which were OK with me. My girlfriend is not a really big fan of spicy. I didn't say it on the DoorDash menu, but it's totally OK. Service here was very very friendly and DoorDash was very quick. There was no ambience because we ate this at home. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Sandwich was very soggy upon arrival. Further the cheese was t melted properly into the sandwich. If not for those two issues, it would have been a decent sandwich. Btw Philly adjacent gurl here lol. The garlic fries were pretty good too read more

Fast af service. Bomb food, tastes fresh. They don't skimp on the meat. The guy working was awesome, came and cleaned the table as we sat down outside and also brought the food out. Would come here again read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Phillapeno Cheesesteak Sandwich - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Late night in the city and I'm starving. Just so happened to roll by this place and saw they were open! Place was clean and well lit and staff were friendly. Short line when I got there but the cashier made short work of it and answered my questions with no issue. Ordered a Phillapeño (beef cheesesteak with peppers onions and jalapeño) and North Beach (chicken cheesesteak with grilled onions and zucchini, never had before but it was a great touch). Bread was fresh and soft as well as the meat/bread ratio was on point. All in all, great sandwich's that I would definitely come to get again. read more

A mid cheesesteak! Got the Phillapeno cheesesteak but they forgot the jalapeños :( lol to me the bread meat ratio is super uneven. There's too much bread and barely any meat filling. read more

Best damn cheesecake in SF. My boyfriend freaking loves this place so we frequent it often and I ain't mad about it. This is a must stop while in North Beach. The cheesesteaks are super fresh and cooked to order every time. My favorite is the Phillapeno Cheesecake - grilled onions, a little kick of spice with the jalapenos, and the gooey cheese, it is just perfect. If you want more of a "traditional" sandwich type of cheesesteak with mayo, pickles, tomatoes, the California is the way to go. Service is super efficient. They work fast and are super friendly. This is a no frills spot. Super casual with pretty minimal seating. There are a few bar seats so you can watch your food being cooked, window seats to people watch, and a parklet outside. These also travel really well, if you're looking for delivery or take out. Prices are unbeatable, a large runs under $15 and they're open super late! Win, win! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

You can see how cheesy they come out! Love the many choices of sauces. Kind workers and quick. Small place but convenient! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came here for a philly cheesesteak fix. Ordered the original, no modifications. Man taking the order was nice and hospitable. The sandwich was good, but has the potential to be great next time with the proper modifications. Friends ordered the cheese fries / garlic cheese fries & highly recommend it. Will be back again! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Loved the service here. It's my 2nd time coming here. I stopped by while visiting San Francisco again and received the best service. I wish I would have gotten the guys name at the cash register but he definitely made our visit 10x better. And of course the cheesesteaks were yummy. The weather wasn't too cold so we sat outside and got to see the view of the city read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Outdoor seating - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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The guy behind the counter has a bit of an Irish brogue, was very friendly and helpful. The place is small, kinda of like hole in the wall and busy but not too noisy. I ordered a beef Philly cheesesteak ( beef, onions and cheese) but I always like some bell peppers added in ( sometime jalapeños - but not tonight). It was cooked promptly and I took it back to the car to share as the sandwich was nice and big with a lot of meat - gotta love it! So I sunk my teeth into in and it tasted fantastic. The beef was cooked perfectly and was tender ( had too many over cooked and tough Philly cheesesteaks in my life). Here it was cooked perfectly. If I had any complaint - would be a touch too greasy - but it tasted soooo good I didn't care. Loved every bite of it - very happy and my stomach was filled to the top - life is good at times like this read more

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Pretty damn good! After not visiting this spot for a couple years, I came back with some friends to show it off. My friends were not disappointed and of course neither was I. They have a small sitting area (bar top only) and you can sit as well as watch your sandwich being made fresh in front of you. I typically get the California cheesesteak and it seems to do hit the spot everytime. This is a great late night spot while drinking or just for a quick fix while roaming the city. *They no longer sell beer read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Grill master - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Buster's is a gem in the North Beach neighborhood. One of the best cheesesteak sandwich places in San Francisco and it's been around so you know they had time to perfect the flavors. The restaurant is small with a few bar seating inside but there is a parket with additional outdoor seatings. Service was fast! It was not even 5 minutes when our orders arrived. I got the North Beach cheese steak and added mushrooms. It was delicious and a bit challenging to eat neatly. The sandwiches were piping hot and had a perfect ratio of bread to filling. Make sure you grab some chili garlic and honey garlic sauce. They are the perfect condiments to the sandwich and fries. read more

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It's been awhile since I've been to the City of Brotherly Love. Home of Rocky, the 76ers, Eagles, Phillies, and... wait... Philly cheese steak sandwiches. In my previous job, I was fortunate to visit several East coast cities when exhibiting at trade shows annually for several years. One year, we stayed at the Holiday Inn downtown and looked for a late dinner after flying in after dinner time. We walked into a random fast-food place still open at 10 pm. Boy was I hooked. Fast forward about thirty years and it's been a while since I've been to the right coast. So, having enjoyed versions here, mainly at the old Max's Diner on 3rd and Folsom, l tempered my expectations when finally coming here for a weekday lunch. There was a delivery driver outside waiting for his order when I walked in to study the menu before ordering. I ended up getting the mushroom Philly cheese steak sandwich, large (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=ndTVgfPtcIZ-dq53jqvIqw) and made it a combo for $5.00 which includes fries (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=I4zsJZ580xPeRhJrYH6aKw) and a can of soda. I ordered the sandwich with cheese whiz, the original Philly recipe ingredient. About five minutes later, the cashier brought it to me as I dined-in at the furthest window side stool. I walked back to the counter where a number of sauce bottles sat. There is no shortage of sauce options which include ketchup, BBQ sauce, Louisiana hot, Buffalo, garlic chili sauces, and mustard (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=6E1aXiq-kQeBiUJaqFbqOw). The filling is generous though I probably should have added some veggies to this (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&select=7yyHcUvfRGK9iMHo6iZAyg) for texture and flavor contrast; it would help me feel less guilty as I feasted. The flavors were pretty good as I squirted BBQ and Louisiana hot sauce into my sandwich. I also squirted a good amount of ketchup for the piping hot crinkle fries. I was only able to finish a little more than half of my sandwich, bringing most of my second half home as part of my dinner. I experimented with their garlic chili sauce but found the Louisiana hot sauce tastier. Definitely not your spot if you seek a light lunch. The fries were crinkle cut and served hot (https://www.yelp.com/user_local_photos?userid=saJuyv784apZzH--psHZ3Q&start=24&select=I4zsJZ580xPeRhJrYH6aKw). I finished about half of this, finishing the rest as part of my dinner that night. Overall, I enjoyed my very filling lunch though I must admit to feeling a bit bloated from the heaviness. I will come back and likely get the half sandwich with different toppings. For those Philly locals, this likely doesn't fall within your expectations of being authentic like Pat's or Geno's. read more

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Randomly stopped by on a weekday and the place is really small. Couple seats inside and some outdoor seating. Really solid meal if you want something quick to go. I haven't had my fair share of cheesesteaks other than the Costco frozen ones lol. Was an extra dollar to add all the toppings to make it great and I forgot to add the bell peppers. They also have sauces at the counter you can pour on since it can get repetitive with the simple ingredients. Not an outstanding sandwich but still delicious nonetheless and if you want something new, here ya go. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Garlic Fries - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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You didn't think you could get bang for your buck in San Francisco? Welp you've never been to busters then. Oh you see they are doing regular size portions for regular prices here right? You must think the food isn't good then. You're wrong again. Now you're 0 for 2. Stop making yourself look silly buster and listen to me. This is just good ole fashion Philly, hamburgers and fries. No frills. You can get a hot dog too. Why not? It's not going to be the best you ever have. But it's Just good simple junk food in a super convenient location in North Beach. You can find real value here. Don't question me Buster. I'm telling you the truth. (4.5 Stars) read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich 1/2 lb. Buster's Burger Garlic Cheese Fries - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

Good steak sandwich, made right. Service was fine, store was clean. I would recommend them if you're in the mood for a good cheese steak sandwich read more

Man, support your local favorite food spot! First and foremost this is the best Philly cheese steak sandwich in SF! Worked in SF for 20 plus years and this is the go to spot for me to get that Philly, Burgers, Dogs and fries fix. The taste is on point all the time, service is super fast and the staff are down to earth, the place is just nostalgic for me just gives you that old school food spot. I suggest going here and just taste everything. Hey don't need to take my word for it. just try it! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - Busters Original Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Cool late night by spot in the city food is hit and miss but when it hits it's amazing but most of the time it's a miss that's why the 3 star rating!!! But when it hits it's a 5star but hardly lol read more

I wouldn't recommend coming here if you're on your lunch hour, as the people servicing the establishment seem to not understand the most simple of norms. They let whoever they want go first in ordering and food comes out in no seeming order. On top of which, the food itself leaves much to be desired. If you don't mind the language barrier, the lack of structure, and mediocre food, then come here. Otherwise grab a bag of chips from somewhere close by read more

I love the place, i get to pick any drink when i pay. And good service!! Excellent service he's so nice! read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is by FAR the best cheesesteak in the city. This easily can easily hold its own to any of the local spots in Philly. Even when you get this place delivered, it's super fresh, wrapped with care and arrived smoking hot. When you eat there in person it's just a nice treat. Small place with mainly outdoor seating but in a great area. It's counter service so very quick. Make sure you order wit' wiz!!! read more

Best Philly Cheesesteaks in SF. After a night of celebrating friendship in Chinatown, walk over to Busters. The service, food, atmosphere is exquisite. This is establishment is one of many that make San Francisco truly, the best city in the world. read more

Buster's Cheesesteak - American Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Great food and customer service. Gentleman at the counter was kind and polite. Split food for me and my partner with out asking. The definition of anticipating needs. Will be back. read more

Perfection. Ease. Convenience. Large portions. Chill, kind, friendly and pleasant employees. Binged the mushroom cheese steak in a matter of minutes. Wide selection of tasty sauces on counter if you dare mess with perfection!! Really yum. Not only the staff warm and welcoming, but many of the regulars who sit and are really cool as well. Reminds me of the olden days when people once spoke to one another rather than stared a tiny screens burning their retinas. Thank you! Yum!! read more

Been out late drinking a little too much? Hungry but don't want fast food? Buster's will take care of you. Hearty filling food that'll help the spot when you're craving a little greasy comfort food. A large Phillapeño will put a smile on your face every time. read more