Pinecrest Diner

What you need to know

Pinecrest Diner opened on Geary Street in 1969. Greek immigrants Bill and Nikoletta Foundas built it as a 24-hour diner to serve theaters, hotels, and the late-night downtown crowd. Bill died in 2021, Nikoletta in 2019, and their son Peter and his wife Sylvia run it now. Retro booths, warm lighting, and counter seating that haven’t changed much in over fifty years.

The Food

Classic American diner: pancakes, omelets, burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes. Subtle Greek influences run through the menu. Breakfast all day. Pancakes and omelets are the most ordered items, and the burger holds its own against fancier downtown options.

The Space

Cozy booths line the walls, a counter runs the length of the room. The 1950s diner aesthetic has aged into something genuine. Late-night crowds mix theatergoers, hotel guests, and locals.

Practical Info

Price: Most items under $15. Full breakfast or burger with shake around $20.
Reservations: None. Walk in.
Hours: 24 hours Wednesday through Saturday. Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday 7am to 11pm.
Address: 401 Geary Street at Mason, a block from Union Square
Getting there: Powell BART/Muni a 3-minute walk. Garage parking only in this area.

📍 Location: This restaurant is in The Tenderloin. Explore the neighborhood →