A classic cowgirl bone-in rib eye from STK Steakhouse. Photo courtesy of STK Steakhouse.

Vegan and vegetarian eateries seem to get all the attention this time of year when everyone is focused on those pesky resolutions. But some prefer to stick to a more manageable wellness regimen of moderation and the occasional reward. So, while everyone is dining on the latest faux meat, consider checking out some of our favorite spots for a good steak or burger. When your inner carnivore has a craving, hop on BART and satisfy it!

San Francisco

A juicy steak with classic sides like spinach and mac n' cheese await diners at The Vault. Photo courtesy of The Vault Steakhouse.

The Vault Steakhouse | Montgomery St

Succulent steaks served in an elegant, underground space pretty much sums up this nearly two-year-old steakhouse at the base of the former Bank of America building. It’s dark and sexy with leather banquettes, perfect for a date. And, yes, it actually served as a vault for the former bank. Black Angus and Wagyu options are available. Take BART to Montgomery St and walk six minutes to 555 California St.

Various versions of burgers and tots are on the menu at WesBurger 'N' More. Photo courtesy of WesBurger 'N' More.

WesBurger ‘N’ More | 16th St Mission

The iconic smashburger is the star of the menu at this Mission District burger joint. The streamlined menu includes the smashburger (single or double) and the traditional cheeseburger with a few special toppings. A chicken sandwich, creative tots, and a few killer sides like a jalapeño mac n’ cheese are also offered. Take BART to 16th St Mission and walk five minutes to 2240 Mission St.

Diners will find double decadence with STK Steakhouse's fillet and lobster. Photo courtesy of STK Steakhouse.

STK Steakhouse | Embarcadero

This chain steakhouse is a carnivore’s dream: ginormous cuts of beef served up with decadent sauces and toppings. The nightclub-like atmosphere tends to draw a younger clientele looking to have a few cocktails and a DJ mix with their steak. Take BART to Embarcadero and walk three minutes to 1 Market St.

You can't go wrong with a grilled New York and a baked potato with all the fixins at Tad's. Photo courtesy of Tad's Steak House.

Tad’s Steak House | Powell St

There aren’t many old-school places like Tad’s left, where you can order bacon and eggs and a budget T-bone off the same menu. Originally, Tad’s had locations in other big cities like Chicago and New York, but no longer. San Francisco’s original Tad’s was actually located around the corner on Powell St. but moved to Ellis St. back in 2020. Since the ‘50s, this tourist-friendly spot has provided a solid meal for downtown workers and visitors. Take BART to Powell St and walk two minutes to 38 Ellis St.

East Bay

Some of the skewered meat options at Galeto. Photo courtesy of Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse.

Galeto Brazilian Steakhouse | 12th St/Oakland City Center

You don’t have to travel far to find a Brazilian steakhouse (churrascaria), but we like Galeto due to its hospitality, modern dining room and close proximity to BART. Plan ahead and forego lunch before you visit, since you will be greeted by a never-ending stream of roaming waiters carrying large platters and skewers of meat. Take BART to 12th St/Oakland City Center and walk four minutes to 1019 Clay St.

Chicken and lamb kabobs with traditional afghan rice are served at De Afghanan Kabob House. Photo courtesy of De Afghanan Kabob House.

De Afghanan Kabob House | Walnut Creek

The food of Afghanistan relies heavily on meat, and this kabob house with three locations (Walnut Creek, Fremont and San Francisco) does a super job with kabobs and other meat-focused dishes. Look for the chapli kabob, among other regional specialties. Take BART to Walnut Creek and walk 14 minutes to 1372 Locust St.

House-made steak sauce enhances Acre's rib eye. Photo courtesy of Acre.

Acre | Rockridge

Those mourning the loss of Market Hall’s Oliveto barely had time to shed a tear before Acre moved in. Though the restaurant doesn’t focus on meat, the menu is centered around a wood-fired hearth. A standout item from their opening menu is a grass-fed rib eye. Steak tartare with preserved lemons also satisfies meat lovers. Take BART to Rockridge and walk two minutes to 5655 College Ave.

A classic fillet with Bernaise sauce is on the menu at The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant. Photo courtesy of The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant.

The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant | 12th St/Oakland City Center

Located in the Jack London Square vicinity, The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant serves both tourists and locals. The space was formerly used as a brothel, and there’s definitely a Victorian and early 20th Century vibe as you dine amongst dark woods, ornate mirrors and stained glass. The restaurant accommodates all types of diets, but meat-eaters will be happy with the selection of steaks. Take BART to 12th St/Oakland City Center and walk 13 minutes to 201 Washington St.

Where do you go to satisfy your carnivore craving?

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