In the vibrant heart of San Francisco’s Mission Bernal, a culinary gem named Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack is a testament to Emmy Kaplan’s vision of creating a welcoming space for all. Inspired by the city’s dynamic yet underserved youth culture of the nineties, Kaplan set out to challenge the status quo of the dining scene. Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack emerged from a simple yet profound desire: to offer a haven where punk rockers and service workers alike could enjoy delicious, affordable meals in a setting that felt like home.
This interview dives into the heart and soul behind Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack, exploring Kaplan’s inspirations, the evolution of its beloved menu, and its cherished place within the Mission Bernal community. Kaplan shares insights on how the restaurant has navigated challenges, including the recent pandemic, and remained a beloved fixture in San Francisco’s culinary landscape. From tales of customers who’ve grown up with the restaurant to the signature dishes that keep people coming back, Kaplan’s story celebrates food, community, and resilience.
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack
What inspired you to open Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack, and how did you decide on the concept and location of the restaurant?
My passion for opening Emmys Spaghetti Shack came from the need to create a space for cool young people in the San Francisco food scene. I was in my 20s in the nineties in SF, and the scene was stagnant and fancy. My service worker friends and I felt we deserved a delicious meal even if we were punk rock and had little money. I knew that it was possible to create something fun and accessible, and I went for it in a tiny hole-in-the-wall spot on Virginia and Mission.
Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack has become famous for its cozy ambiance and hearty dishes. How would you describe the dining experience you aim to create for your customers?
When you walk into the front door, you can smell how delicious the food is about to be. You can see people smiling and hear loud laughter and an awesome song playing. I want everyone who walks in the door to feel welcomed and know they are now part of what makes Emmy Spaghetti Shack so special. It’s time to relax and unwind in a comfy booth. Sit at the bar, meet a friend, chat with others, and leave the rest of the world behind. It is the best feeling when you go to a restaurant alone, sit at the bar, and immediately feel safe and warm. That is our vibe.
How has the menu at Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack evolved since its opening? Are there any dishes that have remained unchanged due to customer demand?”
The menu at Emmys has always been consistent in that the portions are huge, and the price is right. Our namesake Spaghetti and Meatball dish has remained unchanged since 2001. The price has risen, but it remains the least expensive plate of spaghetti in SF with three amazing meatballs.
The evolution over the years has changed from chef-driven, exciting new dishes to time-and-tested recipes that my customers demand. Haha. I used to change the menu every season and switch up the pasta constantly, but over the last ten years or so, I have focussed on the quality of the best of the best and kept the menu small and straightforward. Our Steak is one of the best many say they have ever had, and it will always stay the same except for different veggie sides. I listen to my staff and customers and bring back missed dishes or old favorites as specials.
Can you share how Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack engages with the Mission Bernal community? Are there any local events or causes you’re particularly passionate about supporting?
As someone who has been in business in the Mission Bernal Community for almost 24 years, I have always tried to be involved as much as possible with local non-profits, school fundraisers, etc. As a very kid-friendly establishment, we love supporting these events. Since COVID, it has been hard to regroup and make many donations, but hopefully, we can start donating again. We volunteer with Miracle in the Mission twice a year to serve food for mission kids with their toy drives and backpack giveaways. This wonderful event is a direct give to the community around us.
The restaurant industry has faced significant challenges recently, including the pandemic. How has Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack adapted to these challenges to continue serving its customers?
Covid was horrible for the restaurant industry in so many ways. Not only did thousands of young people leave the city, but people stopped going out to eat after COVID-19. Our hours are still greatly reduced while the staff is stretched very thin. While we ask folks to make reservations to let us know they plan on coming, it is difficult to gauge how many employees to keep on a shift, etc. If we have a sudden number of walk-ins, it can become hectic.
Delivery apps are also difficult to manage but have become a mainstay in trying to create income to stay afloat. We continue to do our best, and I try to stay focused on staying positive about the future of Emmys Spaghetti Shack and our city in general.
Running a restaurant is no small feat. Can you share one of your most memorable moments or achievements with Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack?”
Running a restaurant is like having 100 kids who need different things at all times; luckily, I love being a mom to all. One of the funniest things about owning Emmys is when my customers grow up from babies that I used to pick up into wonderful young people, some who have worked for me and others who still hold their birthdays and special occasions at the shack. That is what truly makes me happy. Getting to know my customers is super important to me, and it is the most meaningful thing in the world when they tell me stories of good times at the old shack and in a new location.
Is there a dish at Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack that you consider a must-try for first-time visitors? What makes it special?
Emmys Spaghetti Shack is famous for the classic Spaghetti and Meatballs dish because of its delicious flavor, classic marinara sauce, and golf ball-sized meatballs…We are also known for our signature craft cocktails with the freshest ingredients. Our Margaritas and Mojitos are to die for, and I wouldn’t want anyone to miss our epic Espresso Martini or the Grandma Royale, which comes With an amaretto cookie. The drinks must be tried to be believed. So come for a cocktail, Spaghetti, or a Steak and a glass of Emmy’s signature Sonoma Wine.
One of my customers said the other day that what makes Emmy Spaghetti Shack feel so special is that she feels like she was invited to a party at my house and always has the best time because she feels happy and at home there. What’s special about it is that it is like my home, and I care about the employees and the neighborhood. I have been open for almost 24 years, almost half my life!
What are your plans or dreams for Emmy’s Spaghetti Shack? Are there any new developments or expansions on the horizon?
Since my lease is up this year, I will consider my options. I will probably shoot for another ten years, but that will depend on the landlady and the customers. Because honestly, times are still tough, and if people want us to stay around, they will have to keep showing up!
The bottom line about the shack is that it’s a cool place with yummy food.