Perilla, a celebrated culinary gem in San Francisco, has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination for lovers of Korean cuisine fused with modern flair. Nestled in the heart of the city, Perilla offers an innovative menu that showcases the rich heritage of Korean flavors while embracing fresh, local ingredients and contemporary cooking techniques.
Diners can expect a vibrant atmosphere where tradition meets creativity, making every meal an immersive experience.
The menu at Perilla is thoughtfully curated to appeal to a wide range of palates, from those seeking authentic Korean comfort food to adventurous eaters eager to explore novel taste combinations. The emphasis on seasonal produce and sustainable sourcing reflects the restaurant’s dedication to quality and environmental responsibility.
Whether indulging in a hearty bibimbap or savoring delicate small plates, guests are invited to enjoy a culinary journey that highlights the depth and versatility of Korean cuisine in a distinctly San Francisco style.
From appetizers to desserts and an impressive beverage selection, Perilla’s menu is a testament to the artistry and passion behind every dish. Each element is carefully balanced to create harmonious flavors that resonate well beyond the meal itself.
This exploration of the Perilla San Francisco menu unveils the essence of the restaurant’s vision and the unique offerings that make it a standout dining destination.
Starters and Small Plates
The appetizers and small plates at Perilla serve as an inviting introduction to the menu, presenting bold flavors and meticulous craftsmanship in compact portions. These dishes are designed not only to awaken the appetite but also to showcase a variety of textures and seasonings that prepare diners for the main courses ahead.
Among the standout options are the kimchi pancakes and short rib dumplings, both of which embody the restaurant’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation. The kimchi pancake is crispy yet tender, offering a perfect balance of spicy and savory notes, while the dumplings are filled with richly marinated beef, complemented by a tangy dipping sauce.
In addition to these classics, Perilla introduces creative dishes such as tofu fritters with a miso glaze and a vibrant cucumber salad dressed with gochujang vinaigrette. These plates encourage sharing and conversation, making them ideal for groups or those who enjoy tasting a variety of flavors in a single sitting.
Popular Small Plates
- Kimchi Pancakes: Crispy, tangy, and packed with fermented vegetable goodness
- Short Rib Dumplings: Juicy beef filling with a soy-garlic dipping sauce
- Tofu Fritters: Lightly fried with miso glaze, offering umami depth
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and spicy with gochujang dressing
“The small plates at Perilla are a delightful dance of flavors — familiar yet refreshingly new with every bite.”
Main Courses
Perilla’s main courses are the heart of the dining experience, reflecting both the richness of Korean culinary traditions and the inventive spirit of San Francisco’s food scene. Each entree is crafted with attention to detail, from marination to plating, ensuring a robust and satisfying meal.
Signature dishes include the bulgogi short ribs, slow-cooked to tender perfection, and the spicy pork belly bibimbap, which combines a medley of fresh vegetables, rice, and house-made chili paste. The menu also features grilled fish options, highlighting sustainable seafood choices and vibrant accompaniments.
Vegetarian and vegan guests are well-catered for, with creative entrees such as the mushroom japchae and a hearty vegetable stew that bursts with umami flavors. The thoughtful balance of protein, vegetables, and grains reflects a holistic approach to nourishment and flavor harmony.
Entree Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Bulgogi Short Ribs | Beef, soy, garlic, sesame | Sweet, savory, smoky |
| Spicy Pork Belly Bibimbap | Pork belly, rice, chili paste, vegetables | Spicy, rich, fresh |
| Mushroom Japchae | Glass noodles, assorted mushrooms, soy | Earthy, slightly sweet, chewy |
| Grilled Seasonal Fish | Locally sourced fish, herbs, citrus | Light, bright, delicate |
Soups and Stews
The soup and stew offerings at Perilla provide comforting warmth and rich depth, ideal for cooler days or when seeking satisfying, hearty flavors. These dishes highlight traditional Korean recipes with a contemporary twist, often incorporating seasonal ingredients to enhance freshness.
One notable selection is the kimchi jjigae, a spicy fermented cabbage stew that is both invigorating and deeply flavorful. The broth is slow-simmered to develop complex layers, balancing acidity and heat.
Another favorite is the soft tofu stew, which features silky tofu in a mildly spicy broth with seafood or vegetables.
For those preferring mild flavors, the beef bone broth soup offers a nourishing option, simmered for hours to extract rich collagen and umami. These soups and stews can be paired with side dishes or rice, providing a complete and satisfying meal experience.
- Kimchi Jjigae: Spicy, fermented, and full-bodied stew
- Soft Tofu Stew (Sundubu Jjigae): Creamy tofu with subtle spice and savory broth
- Beef Bone Broth Soup: Rich, collagen-packed, and mild
- Seafood Hot Pot: Assortment of fresh seafood with vegetables and spicy broth
“Soups at Perilla are more than just a dish—they’re a ritual of warmth, healing, and tradition.”
Signature Bowls and Rice Dishes
Rice bowls are a cornerstone of Perilla’s menu, combining wholesome ingredients in thoughtfully layered presentations. These bowls highlight the versatility of rice as a base and the creativity in combining proteins, vegetables, and sauces.
The bibimbap selection is extensive, featuring variations such as the classic with beef and egg, a spicy chicken version, and a vegan-friendly tofu bowl. Each bowl is served with a side of gochujang, allowing guests to adjust the heat to their preference.
Additionally, the stone pot bibimbap offers a unique texture with its crispy rice bottom, adding a delightful crunch to the mix. Beyond bibimbap, Perilla offers savory rice bowls topped with marinated meats or grilled vegetables, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.
Bowl Varieties
- Classic Beef Bibimbap: Marinated beef, vegetables, fried egg
- Spicy Chicken Rice Bowl: Grilled chicken with chili glaze
- Vegan Tofu Bibimbap: Tofu, mushrooms, seasonal greens
- Stone Pot Bibimbap: Crispy rice, assorted toppings, spicy sauce
Desserts
Perilla’s dessert menu provides a delightful conclusion to the meal, balancing traditional Korean sweets with contemporary twists. These desserts are crafted to offer subtle sweetness and complementary textures without overwhelming the palate after a flavorful feast.
One standout is the sweet rice cake platter, featuring chewy textures and delicate flavors often infused with green tea or sesame. The black sesame ice cream is a popular choice, delivering a nutty, rich finish that pairs well with warm teas.
For those seeking something lighter, the seasonal fruit compote with honey and mint offers a refreshing option. The dessert selections emphasize natural ingredients and balance, aligning with the overall menu’s philosophy.
- Sweet Rice Cake Platter: Assorted flavors with traditional textures
- Black Sesame Ice Cream: Creamy, nutty, and aromatic
- Seasonal Fruit Compote: Light, fresh, and naturally sweet
- Honey Ginger Tea: Soothing and perfect for digestion
“Each dessert at Perilla is a subtle celebration of Korean sweetness, crafted to linger in the memory long after the last bite.”
Beverage Selection
The beverage program at Perilla complements the menu with a thoughtfully curated array of options, ranging from traditional Korean drinks to innovative cocktails and local wines. This variety ensures that every guest can find a perfect pairing for their meal.
Classic beverages such as soju and makgeolli are available, offering authentic Korean flavors that are both crisp and refreshing. The cocktail list incorporates Korean ingredients like yuja (citron) and ginger, blended with artisanal spirits for unique tastes.
For those preferring non-alcoholic choices, Perilla offers a range of teas including barley, green, and roasted varieties, as well as house-made sodas infused with traditional flavors. The staff is knowledgeable and ready to recommend pairings based on individual preferences.
Beverage Highlights
| Drink | Type | Flavor Notes |
| Soju | Spirit | Clean, slightly sweet, smooth |
| Makgeolli | Rice Wine | Milky, tangy, mildly sweet |
| Yuja Margarita | Cocktail | Citrus, tart, balanced |
| Barley Tea | Tea | Nutty, roasted, smooth |
Dietary Accommodations and Specials
Perilla is dedicated to inclusivity and flexibility, ensuring that dietary preferences and restrictions are thoughtfully accommodated. The menu clearly identifies vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and staff members are attentive to special requests.
Seasonal specials are frequently introduced, reflecting the freshest ingredients and culinary creativity. These specials often include limited-time dishes that highlight unique Korean flavors or fusion concepts, providing repeat visitors with exciting new experiences.
Guests with allergies or specific dietary needs are encouraged to communicate with the team, who are well-trained to suggest suitable choices or customize dishes to maintain both flavor and safety.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Clearly marked and diverse
- Gluten-Free Choices: Available with careful preparation
- Seasonal Specials: Rotating dishes based on availability
- Allergy Accommodations: Personalized attention and flexibility
“Perilla’s commitment to dietary inclusivity makes it a welcoming space for all food lovers, regardless of their restrictions.”
Conclusion
Perilla San Francisco offers a compelling and authentic Korean dining experience elevated by thoughtful innovation and a deep respect for tradition. The menu is a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality, seasonality, and flavor harmony, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Each dish reflects a balance of boldness and subtlety, inviting diners to discover the richness of Korean cuisine through a modern and sustainable lens.
The diversity of options, from small plates to hearty mains and delicate desserts, ensures a satisfying meal that can be tailored to individual tastes and dietary needs. Paired with an inspired beverage list and attentive service, dining at Perilla is more than just a meal—it is a cultural and sensory journey.
Whether seeking familiar flavors or adventurous combinations, guests leave with a memorable impression of a restaurant that truly celebrates the art of Korean cooking in the vibrant culinary landscape of San Francisco.
Ultimately, Perilla’s menu stands as a vibrant example of how traditional cuisine can be reimagined without losing its soul, making it an essential destination for anyone eager to experience innovative Korean food at its finest.
