“It’s the grandest city I saw in America. If everyone acted as the San Franciscans did, there would be hope for settlement of the world’s difficulties.”
— Frol Zozlov
The Best Places to Eat in San Francisco: A Former Local’s Food Guide
Find The Best Restaurants & Must-Try Spots in and around the bay area
Last updated: July 2026
I lived in the Bay Area for nearly a decade and spent those years eating across San Francisco’s neighborhoods. From dim sum and Vietnamese food in the Richmond to celebratory tasting menus, Mission staples and bakeries, I’m sharing my favorites that are near and dear to my heart.
I never fully understood the meaning of the phrase, “I left my heart in San Francisco”. That is until I left the city after a decade of living there. San Francisco will always have a piece of my heart. In part because it’s where my love affair with food truly began and now, when I return, every corner of this city and its surrounding towns tastes like a memory.
From my first bowl of pho ga at Turtle Tower to happy hours filled with fresh $1 oysters, the Bay Area taught me that every meal is a chance to indulge, learn something and simply enjoy delicious food.
The Bay Area food scene is a beautiful collision of cultures, ideas and ingredients. International flavors mingle freely at neighborhood counters, Michelin restaurants and everything in between. It’s not odd to find lines wrapped around the block for the trendiest pastries of the moment and there’s fresh seafood so good it’ll make you consider moving there. You’ll find local farmers markets buzzing on the weekends and immigrant-rooted dishes that will change the way you think about eating.
Whether you’re craving authentic dim sum in the Richmond (my favorite neighborhood in SF), the best Mission style burritos (IYKYK), or the perfect meal at House of Prime Rib, this guide pulls together my favorite places to eat in the Bay Area.
You’ll find beloved classics to hidden gems I still dream about and miss. Every recommendation here comes from a place of love (and many, many meals).
Let’s eat.
How to use this guide
Think of this as both a shortcut and a love letter. Visitors will find quick, can’t miss recommendations, while locals can dig into cuisine-by-cuisine breakdowns with deeper context, repeat-worthy spots, and personal favorites from my years living in the Bay Area.
You’ll find the following sections on this guide:
Must Eats (by type of food) - and in no particular order
My Top San Francisco Recommendations
After nearly a decade of eating my way through San Francisco, these are the places that have stayed with me. They may not all be the most buzz-worthy hot spots but they are my all-time favorite bites. These are the restaurants I love, crave and recommend without hesitation.
If you’re short on time, this is where I recommend you start.
House of Prime Rib, Polk Gulch
Best for: date night, dinner with friends, celebrations & special occasions
Order: The City Cut with creamed spinach, mashed potatoes with baked potato toppings, a dirty martini and make sure to eat your entire plate. If you do, you'll get seconds for free.
Know before you go: Reservations are hard to come by, if the only reso available is on a Wednesday at 9pm but 3 months out, go early (like 4:45pm) sit at the bar and enjoy an early dinner. Ask for the pink horseradish (off menu).
Turtle Tower, (multiple locations)
Best for: curing a hangover, lunch with family or a late night bowl of pho
Order: The #6, stir fry beef pho - mix some sriracha and plain vinegar in your small sauce bowl. Dip your beef it in.
Know before you go: Turtle Tower is a cult favorite in SF. Everyone has their own opinion about it but I love it. It's open until 3am on the weekends. The pho ga is known to scientifically cure hangover.
b. Patisserie, Pacific Heights
Best for: post yoga pastries, weekend catch-ups with girlfriends, coffee dates and first time visitors
Order: The original Kouign Amann and a banana chocolate croissant
Know before you go: There are countless amazing bakeries in SF. This one is best of the best. No Kouign Aman in the world is better. If you happen to visit on June 20, each year Belinda Leong and team create a special menu of KA flavors to celebrate National Kouign Amann day.
Hong Kong Lounge, Outer Richmond & SoMa
Best for: brunch with family and friends, large groups
Order: Everything! If you can’t, I recommend the baked BBQ buns, har gow (shrimp dumplings, sui mai, zhong zi, shrimp noodle rolls, gai lan or pea shoots, steamed pork ribs and of course some baked egg tarts for dessert.
Know before you go: Hong Kong Lounge in the Richmond is my favorite dim sum. Dragon Beaux is also delicious. And, if you’re closer to SoMa, HK Bistro (an offshoot of Hong Kong Lounge) is also great.
Benu, SoMa
Best for: the most special of occasions, a super fancy date night
Order: Don’t worry about your order, Benu offers a ~15-20 course tasting menu that ebbs and flows with seasonal ingredients and flavors. There are some tried and true staples on the menu like the lobster XLB, abalone stuffed quail and thousand year old egg.
Know before you go: It’s pricey! A dinner here will set you back ~$425 (not including a service fee, taxes and any additional drinks). Are you going to go here more than once? Maybe not - so splurge if you can!
Lunette, The Ferry Building
Best for: lunch with friends, weekend brunch, a very San Francisco first date
Order: The fried chicken! It is to die for. I’d also recommend the pratok ktiss (pork belly) and any of the noodle soups. I’ve tried all of them and they are all equally special in their own right, it just depends on your preference.
Know before you go: Walk in’s only here but the vibe is casual and there is plenty of seating around. If you don’t know much about Nite Yun or Cambodian food; her Netflix episode of Chef’s Table: Noodles is worth the watch before you check out Lunette.
Z&Y Peking Duck, Chinatown
Best for: visitors who might never have tried Peking Duck, meals with friends and family
Order: You’re obviously going here for the Peking Duck! The dim sum is also delicious but bring enough friends with you to order a full duck and all the accoutrements. Those include; fluffy pancakes, thinly sliced green onions, fresh cucumbers and a deliciously sweet hoisin sauce that provides the perfect balance.
Know before you go: This is in the heart of Chinatown so parking can be tricky but there’s actually quite of bit of space once you’re inside the restaurant.
Sasa, Japantown
Best for: a solo meal, lunch or dinner after a day exploring Japantown, satisfying your sushi cravings
Order: Sort of hidden away in the corner of Japantown’s plaza, this is the perfect spot for a solo lunch or lunch with friends. I absolutely loved the mystery chirashi bowl tasting. They specialize in kaiseki techniques so everything is seasonal and fresh. Plus, they have an omakase option if you want to leave it up to the chef.
Know before you go: This restaurant is in the Peace Plaza on the second floor above Daiso. After you’ve filled up on sushi, leave room for THE BEST matcha soft serve downstairs at Matcha Cafe Maiko.
Outta Sight Pizza, Chinatown & Tenderloin
Best for: a quick weekday slice, takeout for pizza night, picnic lunches at Dolores Park
Order: There is so much good pizza in San Francisco right now! Outta Sight is newer and has quickly become one of my favorites. With Chef Eric Ehler at the helm, you can expect unique and savory toppings like peking duck, ikura, chicken shawarma and peaches (not all on the same pie of course).
Know before you go: The Chinatown location is smaller with minimal seating. The Tenderloin location has a little bit more seating and also serves up sandwiches. Be sure to check the menus to find the most current offerings.
Sotto Mare, North Beach
Best for: first time visitors, dinner with friends, a meal with your parents
Order: A trip to San Francisco isn’t complete without Sotto Mare’s “Best Damn Crab Cioppino”. If you still have room (one bowl typically serves 2 people) tack on some fresh oysters (always) and a Crab Louie salad.
Know before you go: It can be hard to get a reservation here as you have to call in (yes, on an actual phone) to get on the list. If you’re unable to make a reservation, Betty Lou’s or Anchor Oyster Bar also have stellar cioppino and seafood menus. Anchor Oyster Bar might be top of my list for seafood in SF.
Rintaro, The Mission
Best for: an authentic izakaya meal, satisfying your Japanese food cravings, date night
Order: Start with the gyoza (pictured here), something from the sashimi menu for fresh bites and then the Kurobuta Tonkatsu. If you’re a cheese lover, go with the Chiizu Tori Katsu which has a luxurious strip of Cowgirl Creamery cheese in the middle. Finish up with some skewers. My personal favorite is always the tsukune (minced chicken with egg yolk dip).
Know before you go: Walk in seating is limited, make a reservation! They also have a seasonal tasting menu if that’s more your speed.
Cotogna, North Beach
Best for: date night, special occasions, lunch when your family is in town
Order: I still think about the brown butter raviolo (pictured here). The menu changes with the seasons but you can’t go wrong with any of the homemade pastas.
Know before you go: If you have a group of 6-12 friends, Cotogna offers a fun private dining experience with a tasting menu. The cocktails here are also top notch!
Narrowing down this list of favorites was hard! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Burma Superstar and Stonemill Matcha. Two additional favorites that I 10/10 recommend you visit. Burma Superstar’s tea leaf salad is one of my all time favorite dishes. The matcha and chicken katsu sandos at Stonemill are unforgettable along with their Japanese Breakfast.
A Neighborhood Guide
Let’s talk neighborhoods!
One of the best (and trickiest) parts of eating in San Francisco is how neighborhood-driven the food scene is. Neighborhoods may be close geographically, but they can feel worlds apart. And, with traffic, they can take you longer than expected to bounce around from place to place.
Each area has its own rhythm, specialties and standouts. Getting from one to another isn’t always quick.
Below is a quick summary of some of my favorite neighborhoods (from west to east) to give you a fast sense of both the food and the vibe, helping you eat well without crisscrossing the city all day.
The rest of the guide is organized by type of food so you can easily find restaurants based on what you are craving!
The Richmond District: I may be biased but this is my favorite neighborhood in San Francisco. Low key, residential and quietly one of the BEST places to eat in the city. Known for excellent Chinese and Asian food, bakeries, casual neighborhood spots, iconic bars and coffee shops. You will find less hype here and more consistency plus one of the best Farmer’s Markets in the city on Clement Street!
The Sunset District: Similar to the Richmond, this area is unfussy and food-focused with some of the city’s best Asian cuisine and dumplings. The Sunset is where locals go for dim sum, the best wings in the city (Santung), pho, noodles and bakeries. Perfect for grabbing lunch and heading to Golden Gate Park.
Mission District: Bold, vibrant and one of the city’s most food-dense neighborhoods, the Mission is famous for its burritos. If you’re short on time the burrito is a must have but you’ll also find incredible cocktail bars, my favorite Japanese cafe (Stonemill Matcha) and amazing restaurants with Mexican and Central American roots.
Castro District: Colorful, historic and lively. The Castro has a fun mix of casual eateries, bakeries, brunch spots, and bars, paired with strong community energy. Come for the people-watching, stay for relaxed meals and classic neighborhood hangouts like my favorite, Anchor Oyster Bar.
Marina District and Cow Hollow: Looking for something a little more trendy? Visit the Marina for brunch spots, popular restaurants and see-and-be-seen energy. Not only will you find fancy cocktail bars and great vibes, you’ll be able to scratch your shopping itch here too! Plus the backdrop is the beautiful bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
North Beach: Old-school charm meets Italian-American classics. North Beach is all about red sauce joints, espresso bars, bakeries and late-night bites. Tourist-friendly, yes but still full of character and places that locals genuinely love. North Beach, where the Beat Generation gathered, is brimming with history including the iconic City Lights bookstore.
Chinatown: Historic, bustling, and essential to the city’s food identity. Chinatown offers everything from iconic bakeries and dim sum to banquet-style meals and hidden favorites. Go with curiosity and an appetite, this is SF food history in real time. For a fun food hall experience check out China Live. And, for a lesson in how fortune cookies are made check out the Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Co.
Pacific Heights: Refined and residential with polished dining options. Pac Heights leans upscale and calm, with neighborhood favorites like b.Patisserie, special-occasion spot like Routier, and some of the city’s prettiest streets. Ideal for a slower, more relaxed dining experience.
Japantown: Compact, cultural and food-forward. Japantown is a must for Japanese comfort food, ramen, sweets, and specialty shops all centered around the Peace Plaza. It’s an easy area to explore in one visit, with lots of quick, satisfying bites and deep-rooted favorites. Treat yourself to a spa day at Pearl Spa and then pop over to the Kabuki Hotel for lunch at Nari for my version of a perfect day.
Noe Valley: Noe Valley is one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods, with a quieter pace than some of the city’s bigger dining hubs. You’ll find great coffee, casual lunches, bakeries, neighborhood restaurants and a relaxed afternoon of wandering along 24th Street. Come here when you want something easy, sunny and local-feeling.
SoMa / Financial District / Downtown: Fast-paced and weekday-driven. This area shines during lunch hours and after-work dinners, with a mix of power lunches, happy hour staples and destination restaurants. Best for convenience, business meals and quick hits between plans.
Mission Bay & Potrero Hill: More spread out and residential, with newer restaurants and neighborhood gems. Mission Bay is modern and growing, while Potrero Hill feels quieter and local. Come here if you want good food without crowds and a slower pace.
Must Eats in San Francisco (By Category)
Now that you’re geographically oriented, let’s talk about what to eat. My top San Francisco restaurants are a great starting point, but they barely scratch the surface of what the city has to offer. During my time living in San Francisco, I ate my way through everything from hole-in-the-wall neighborhood spots to three-Michelin-starred tasting menus.
If you have a longer trip planned, or you’re a local looking to dig a little deeper, here are my must-eat San Francisco recommendations sorted by category.
Mister Jiu's
Moongate Lounge
Dumpling Home
Mamahuhu
Dragon Beaux
Dim Sum & Chinese Food
⭐️ Mister Jiu’s, Chinatown: Brandon Jew’s modern Chinese restaurant in the heart of Chinatown is still one of SF’s most coveted reservations. It’s the perfect blend of Cantonese cuisine with modern California ingredients. If you have time, head upstairs to Moongate Lounge to grab a fancy cocktail. You can’t go wrong with the silken mapo tofu and wagyu steak fried rice. The Liberty Farms peking style roast duck is decadent and absolutely delicious.
Dragon Beaux, Outer Richmond: Dragon Beaux is one of my favorite dim sum spots in San Francisco, second only to Hong Kong Lounge for me. I used to live right nearby, so this was an easy go-to when I wanted really good dumplings without crossing the city. There is almost always a line, but the colorful xiao long bao and wide variety of dumplings are worth the wait.
Yank Sing, SoMa & FiDi: Yank Sing has been around since 1958! It’s one of the OG white tablecloth dim sum restaurants and it happened to be one of my first dim sum experiences. There are over 100 varieties of dim sum served daily on the traditional pushcarts (my favorite way to consume dim sum). Everything is delicious and best for large group so you can order everything!
Dumpling Home, Hayes Valley: The XLB’s are what people come for but my favorite dumpling at Dumpling Home is the Sheng Jian Bao. The menu has them listed as juicy pork/beef/chicken/vegetable bao. They are reminiscent of what you would get in the street markets of Taiwan.
House of Nanking, Chinatown: House of Nanking was one of my first San Francisco Chinatown experiences, so it will always feel especially memorable to me. The best way to order is to give the team a little direction, share what you like, and let the kitchen create the meal for you. It takes the pressure off ordering and usually leads to a fun mix of dishes you may not have chosen yourself. Be sure to order one of their beautiful blooming teas, too.
Mamahuhu, Inner Richmond & Lazy Susan,West Portal: For fast-casual Chinese food that feels like a major upgrade from Panda Express, Mamahuhu (from Brandon Jew) and Lazy Susan both hit the spot. These are easy, satisfying places to grab familiar Chinese American favorites, think orange chicken, noodles, rice bowls and veggie-forward sides but with better ingredients, fresher flavors and a more modern San Francisco feel. Nothing fancy (which is the point)!
Santung, Sunset District: San Tung is a no-frills, hole-in-the-wall neighborhood favorite, but the original dry fried chicken wings are the reason to go. Crispy, sticky, sweet, savory and completely addictive, they are easily the standout dish and one of those San Francisco orders that lives up to the hype.
Good Mong Kok Bakery, Chinatown: My favorite grab-and-go dim sum bakery in Chinatown! There is almost always a line out the door, but it moves quickly and the wait is worth it. Order a mix of steamed buns, dumplings and baked pastries, then find a nearby spot to enjoy everything while it is still warm.
Ryoko's
Mensho Ramen
Komeya no Bento
Nisei
Liholiho
Sushi & Japanese Food
Ryoko’s, Lower Nob Hill: Ryoko’s is the rare late-night sushi spot where the atmosphere is just as memorable as the food. The fish is consistently fresh, the nigiri is excellent and the sake list makes it an easy place to settle in for a long dinner. There is sometimes a DJ, and the whole restaurant has the lively, slightly unpredictable energy I associate with some of my favorite nights in San Francisco.
Mensho, Multiple Locations: This amazing ramen shop is the site of one of my first dates with my now-husband but the ramen is memorable enough to stand on its own. The broths are intensely rich and deeply flavorful and this is one of the closest experiences I have found in San Francisco to the ramen I have eaten in Japan. I especially love the tsukemen and anything featuring lamb.
Sobakatsu, Japantown: Sobakatsu is a teeny tiny, understated shop serving authentic handmade soba in J-town. The menu is simple, the space is intimate (think 11 seats intimate) and the noodles are the reason to go. While Soba Ichi, in Oakland, remains my absolute favorite and will make an appearance in my East Bay guide, this is my go-to San Francisco spot when the craving hits.
Udon Mugizo, Japantown: Udon is my favorite noodle soup and Udon Mugizo is my favorite place to get it in San Francisco. Located in Japantown’s Peace Plaza, the restaurant makes its noodles fresh in-house, giving them the ideal chewy, bouncy texture. It is the kind of comforting meal I could eat again and again.
Shabu Club, Multiple Locations: Shabu Club is one of the best-value hot pot meals in the city. The meat is always fresh, the portions are generous, and the dipping sauces are some of the best I have had at a shabu shabu restaurant. On a cold, foggy Richmond evening, there are few meals more satisfying.
Volcano, Outer Richmond: In my opinion, Volcano serves the best Japanese curry in San Francisco. I used to live across the street and still dream about its deeply savory, comforting flavor. It has become the standard I try to recreate whenever I make Japanese curry at home, which may be the highest compliment I can give.
Komeya No Bento, Marina: Known for its salmon truffle box, it absolutely lives up to the hype. The fish is fresh, the rice is especially memorable and every bite feels simple but incredibly well executed. They also make excellent matcha drinks, making this an easy stop for both a satisfying meal and a little afternoon treat.
⭐️ Niku, Design District: For a polished Japanese steakhouse experience, Niku is the place to splurge. I love starting with a variety of small plates, think oysters, tsukune and chawanmushi before sharing one of the premium wagyu cuts. It feels luxurious without losing sight of the thoughtful Japanese techniques behind the menu.
⭐️ Nisei, Russian Hill: If tasting menus are your thing, Nisei is a wonderful expression of Japanese cuisine through a modern California lens. The menu has evolved over the years, but it continues to highlight seasonal local ingredients with thoughtful Japanese flavors and techniques. Make time for a cocktail at Bar Iris before dinner as the intimate bar is an essential part of the experience.
Liholiho Yacht Club, Lower Nob Hill: Inspired by chef Ravi Kapur’s Hawaiian upbringing, Liholiho blends the flavors of Hawaii with Japanese, Chinese, Korean and California influences. It is another San Francisco restaurant that has truly stood the test of time, with a lively atmosphere and a menu that still feels creative and exciting. I especially love the house made Spam, even Spam skeptics may be converted! This is the kind of place where you should order widely and share everything.
Mandalay (photo from Infatuation)
My Canh
Farmhouse Thai
Funky Elephant
Southeast Asian Food (burmese, Thai & Vietnamese)
Mandalay & Burma Love: It is nearly impossible for me to choose between these two excellent Burmese restaurants, so I’m including them together. Mandalay is one of San Francisco’s original Burmese institutions, while Burma Love offers a more modern take on many of the same flavors. Go with a group, share several curries and samosas and absolutely do not skip the famous tea leaf salad.
Kin Khao, Union Square: Kin Khao is one of the only restaurants on this list I have not personally visited, but it has long been one of San Francisco’s most highly regarded Thai restaurants. The menu takes traditional Thai flavors in creative, modern directions while keeping the food bold, deeply flavorful and unapologetically spicy. It remains at the top of my own San Francisco restaurant wish list.
My Canh, Chinatown: My Canh is a tiny, no frills Chinatown spot that does exactly what the name promises and does it really well. The thick, chewy tapioca-rice noodles are the star, served in a deeply comforting broth that feels especially satisfying on a foggy San Francisco day. It is a great stop when you want something casual, warming and a little different from the usual Chinatown dim sum or noodle soup rotation.
Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine, Mission District: Farmhouse Kitchen is a colorful, energetic restaurant that is especially fun for brunch, celebrations or a meal with friends. The menu puts a playful, inventive spin on Thai cuisine, with vibrant dishes and over-the-top presentations that make the experience feel festive from start to finish.
Funky Elephant, Berkeley: Khao man gai is one of my all-time favorite dishes, and Funky Elephant makes one of the best versions I have had. The only Berkeley listing on this guide, I had to include it until my East Bay guide is ready. Everything on the menu is worth exploring, but when I’m dining alone, the khao man gai is always my must-order: tender chicken, fragrant rice and an intensely flavorful dipping sauce that ties everything together.
Amphawa Thai Noodle House & Khao Soi Thai Cuisine, Richmond District: These are two of my favorite reliable Thai spots when the craving hits. Both serve excellent green curry, but Khao Soi’s tom yum soup is especially memorable, I still have not found another version that rivals its balance of spicy, sour, sweet and deeply savory flavors.
Anh Hong, Tenderloin: Anh Hong is less of a simple Vietnamese meal and more of an experience. You will not find pho here, but you will find their signature seven courses of beef and one of the most interactive meals in the city. Order the build-your-own spring rolls and spend the meal wrapping grilled meats, herbs, vegetables and rice paper at the table.
Pho Phu Quoc (PPQ), Sunset District: Some of my favorite bowls of pho in San Francisco have come from PPQ The classic options are always comforting, but do not overlook the curry pho, it may sound unexpected, but the rich, aromatic broth makes it one of my favorite orders.
Little Vietnam Cafe, Inner Richmond: Little Vietnam Cafe is a tiny neighborhood hidden gem serving my favorite bowl of bún riêu in San Francisco. The space is small and unassuming, but that is part of its charm—it feels like the kind of local favorite you are lucky to stumble across. The tomato-rich crab noodle soup is comforting, flavorful and always worth seeking out. The bánh mìs are also 10/10!
Daeho
San Ho Won
San Ho Wan (fancy banchan)
Korean BBQ & Korean Food
Han Il Kwan, Richmond District: Han Il Kwan is one of the best old-school Korean restaurants in the city and will always be especially meaningful to me—I used to live around the corner, and my now-husband and I went here on our first date. The restaurant is no-frills, comforting and packed with Korean classics. It is the kind of reliable neighborhood spot that never needs to chase trends.
Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup, Japantown: Daeho is one of our favorite places to gather with friends, and the food also travels surprisingly well for larger get-togethers at home. The kalbijjim is the obvious must-order: rich, tender and perfect for sharing. The oxtail soup is also excellent, and the meal is absolutely worth the wait if there is a line.
⭐️ SAN HO WON, Mission District: San Ho Won is a more polished and expensive Korean dining experience, but it is absolutely worth visiting if you are a fan of Corey Lee’s cooking. This is not an everyday meal, it is a special-occasion restaurant where the quality of the meat and the attention to every detail make the experience feel genuinely memorable. Come ready to share several dishes and enjoy the splurge.
My Tofu House, Richmond District: My Tofu House is an old-school San Francisco Korean classic that never disappoints. The menu is comforting, straightforward and exactly what you want when you are craving bubbling tofu soup and a table full of banchan. It is dependable in the very best way.
Surisan, Fisherman’s Wharf: Most San Francisco locals do not spend much time at Fisherman’s Wharf, but Surisan gives you a good reason to make the trip. The brunch menu is playful, indulgent and especially fun with a group. Lean into the tourist experience, explore the waterfront afterward and make a full day of it.
Cocobang, Lower Nob Hill: Let’s just say that when you have been out late and suddenly need Korean food, Cocobang is the place to go. The casual basement setting, late-night energy and satisfying comfort food make it a longtime favorite for post-bar meals.
Little Shucker
Swan Oyster
Water Bar
Anchor Oyster Bar
Seafood
Little Shucker, Pacific Heights: Little Shucker is a newer restaurant on this list, but it gave me one of my most memorable meals the last time I was back in San Francisco. From the oyster shooters to the Japanese Caesar salad, everything felt fresh, thoughtful and very distinctly San Francisco. It is polished without feeling fussy and an easy place to settle in for oysters, wine and a few shared plates.
Waterbar, Embarcadero: Waterbar is a true San Francisco classic, with one of the best views of the Bay Bridge right along the Embarcadero. We used to stop here after work all the time, especially for the excellent happy-hour oyster deals, and the experience somehow never gets old. Come for the oysters, stay for the view and soak up one of the city’s most iconic waterfront settings.
Anchor Oyster Bar, Castro: Anchor Oyster Bar is a beloved neighborhood seafood spot in the Castro, and the quality is consistently excellent. Their oysters are always fresh, but the clam dish served in a buttery white wine sauce is the one I still think about. I could happily drink the sauce straight from the bowl. The restaurant is small and intimate, so make a reservation when you can.
Swan Oyster Depot, Nob Hill: Swan Oyster Depot is another essential San Francisco seafood institution and absolutely worth waiting in line for. The crab backs are rich and delicious and the Sicilian sashimi is a must-order. The counter-only setting is part of the experience, so do not let the line scare you away.
Hog Island Oyster Co., Ferry Building: Hog Island is another San Francisco classic that everyone should experience at least once. The oysters are excellent, the clam chowder is comforting and full of flavor and the Ferry Building location makes it an especially fun stop while exploring the waterfront. Grab a seat overlooking the bay and make a leisurely meal of it.
Bar Sprezzatura
a Mano
Square Pie Guys
Golden Boy
Pizza & Italian Food
Bar Sprezzatura, Financial District: I happened to stumble upon this gorgeous space after wedding dress shopping and had one of the best martinis of my life. The atmosphere is a 10/10, the cocktails are exceptional, and every small bite we tried was delicious. Based on that visit alone, I would happily go back for a full meal.
Flour + Water, Mission District: Flour + Water is one of San Francisco’s essential pasta destinations, known for creative, seasonal dishes made with beautiful handmade pasta. The pizzeria and smaller pasta shop, Penny Roma in the Mission each offer a different experience, and I love having options depending on the occasion. Do not skip the Italian sandwich at the shop, and leave room in your bag for some of the specialty tinned fish and pantry goods.
Itria, Mission District: Itria delivers the ideal combination of fresh crudo and inventive handmade pasta. The menu feels polished without being overly formal, making it equally great for a date night or dinner with friends. The impressive wine list is another reason to settle in and make a full evening of it.
a Mano, Hayes Valley: Located in one of my favorite San Francisco neighborhoods, a Mano is the perfect place to sit outside with an Aperol spritz and people-watch. I especially love the spaghetti and tagliatelle, and the lively patio makes the restaurant feel effortlessly fun. It is an easy choice for a relaxed lunch, happy hour or casual dinner.
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, North Beach: My husband and I once created our own pizza tour through North Beach, and Tony’s came out on top. The classic Neapolitan pizza has everything I want in a great pie: a light, flavorful crust, fresh mozzarella and a perfectly balanced tomato sauce. With so many pizza styles on the menu, it is also a fun place to order several and compare.
Golden Boy Pizza, North Beach: For a quintessential San Francisco pizza experience, spend the evening having drinks in North Beach and end the night at Golden Boy. The thick, focaccia-style slices are perfect late-night food, and the famous clam and garlic pizza is the order you should not miss.
Square Pie Guys: I am usually not a deep-dish or Detroit-style pizza person, but Square Pie Guys completely won me over. I was especially excited when the East Bay favorite opened a San Francisco location, and I love that the menu always includes creative seasonal options. My tried-and-true orders are the spicy pepperoni and the Hawaiian—and yes, I am proudly pro-pineapple on pizza.
Kokkari Estiatorio
Beit Rima
Reems
Aziza
Souvla
Mediterranean Food
Kokkari Estiatorio, Financial District: Kokkari is a San Francisco classic and one of the city’s best spots for a polished Greek dining experience. Start with the watermelon salad and grilled octopus, then order anything featuring lamb. For whatever reason, this also became one of our favorite places to celebrate birthdays, And it always feels worthy of the occasion.
Beit Rima, Multiple Locations: Every dish at Beit Rima feels rooted in Arabic comfort food. The atmosphere is casual and unfussy, but the flavors are deeply satisfying, from crisp falafel platters and hanger steak to tender lamb shanks and a table full of mezze. Go with the sampler if you want to try a little bit of everything.
Reem’s California, Mission District: Reem’s is another standout for Arabic food, with excellent mezze, wraps and signature flatbreads. The Classic and Pali Cali flatbreads are both bright, flavorful and perfect for lunch. This is the kind of casual spot where everything feels fresh, vibrant and easy to share.
Aziza, Richmond District: If Moroccan food is new to you, Aziza is a wonderful place to start. Begin with the spreads and warm flatbread, then move on to classics like the braised lamb shank or shakshuka. The kefta brochette, grilled octopus and burrata are also excellent, making this an especially fun place to order several dishes for the table.
Lokma, Richmond District: Living in the Richmond meant no shortage of great breakfast spots, but Lokma’s traditional Turkish breakfast was always one of my favorites. The spread serves two and comes with eggs, Turkish sausage, feta, olives, fresh fruit, assorted spreads and plenty of warm pita. It is generous, leisurely and one of my favorite neighborhood breakfasts in the city.
Souvla, Multiple Locations: I have eaten at Souvla more times than I would like to admit, but there really is not a better chicken salad around. Add the juicy roasted potatoes or a cup of avgolemono soup for the perfect lunch. And do not skip the frozen Greek yogurt topped with olive oil and flaky sea salt for dessert.
La Mediterranee, Multiple Locations: My girlfriends and I first heard about La Mediterranee from an Uber driver. After looking it up, realizing it was the real deal and trying it for ourselves, we never looked back. The chicken pomegranate is the standout, and the saffron chicken kebabs are another must-order.
Gordo Taqueira
Tacos al Patron
San Jalisco
El Farolito (photo from Infatuation)
Mexican Food
Gordo Taqueria, Multiple Locations: There is nothing fancy about Gordo, but the burritos are big, satisfying and consistently delicious. I lived across the street from one of the San Francisco locations and ate there more times than I can count. The burritos are classic and straightforward, but they remain one of my most memorable everyday meals from living in the city.
La Taqueria, Mission District: If you are looking for a classic Mission-style burrito, famously made without rice, La Taqueria is a must. There is almost always a line, but the carne asada super burrito is absolutely worth the wait. The crisped exterior, juicy meat and generous fillings make it one of the city’s most iconic burritos.
Taqueria El Farolito, Mission District: El Farolito appears on nearly every best-of-San-Francisco list, and for good reason. There are countless taquerias in the Mission, but its enormous, deeply satisfying super burritos continue to stand out. They are excellent after a night out, but just as reliably delicious when you are completely sober. The late-night hours make this an especially valuable neighborhood institution.
Tacos El Patrón, Mission District: We have talked a lot about burritos, but San Francisco’s taco scene deserves attention too. Tacos El Patrón helped bring birria tacos into the city’s broader food spotlight and the rich, cheesy tacos with consommé remain the reason to go. Come hungry and order a few for the table.
Taqueria Cancún, Mission District: San Francisco has no shortage of excellent super burritos, but Taqueria Cancún deserves a place in the conversation. While carne asada may be the default order at many taquerias, the carnitas are the real standout here…rich, savory and packed with flavor. It is a dependable Mission favorite when you want a classic, generously filled burrito.
San Jalisco, Mission District: This family-owned neighborhood restaurant serves some of my favorite Mexican soups in the city. The pozole is rich, comforting and deeply flavorful and the menudo is equally worth ordering. It is the kind of unfussy, welcoming place that feels like a true neighborhood institution.
Hilda & Jesse
Rich Table
The Progress
The Anchovy Bar
American & Modern California Cuisine
⭐️ Hilda and Jesse, North Beach: Hilda and Jesse offers a truly special brunch experience, including a $99 “Choose Your Own Adventure” menu where you let the chef guide the meal. The dishes change often, and you can always add a few à la carte extras. Everything feels playful, whimsical and deeply intentional. The pancakes were the standout for me.
Rich Table, Hayes Valley: Everything at Rich Table feels fresh, thoughtful and delicious, from the first small bite to the final entrée. You can order à la carte but I would recommend letting the chef choose the meal for you. This was one of the last restaurants we visited before moving to Colorado, so it will always hold a special memory for me. The cocktails are also exceptional, especially the milk-washed drinks! If you have never tried one, this is the place to do it.
⭐️The Progress & ⭐️State Bird Provisions, Fillmore: The Progress and State Bird Provisions are both San Francisco staples, each offering a different take on inventive, California-forward dining from the same restaurant team. The duck at The Progress is a standout, while State Bird turns dinner into an experience with small plates presented dim sum-style from carts and trays. Both are consistently fun, creative and worth planning ahead for. The Anchovy Bar, from the same team, is also fantastic.
Wayfare Tavern, Financial District: Dining at Wayfare Tavern feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying thoughtful, modern takes on American classics. I love the deviled eggs, clam chowder and Wayfare Cobb salad. The historic atmosphere makes it an especially great stop when you want a meal that feels distinctly old-school San Francisco.
Foreign Cinema, Mission District: Outdoor dining can be hard to come by in foggy San Francisco, which makes Foreign Cinema’s courtyard feel especially magical. You can enjoy seasonal California and Mediterranean-inspired food while a movie plays against the back wall. I always start with oysters and the cocktails and wine list are excellent. Since the menu changes regularly, order whatever is freshest and in season.
Zuni Café, Hayes Valley: Zuni Café is California cuisine at its finest and one of San Francisco’s most enduring restaurant institutions. If you follow me on Instagram, you know I am always on the hunt for the perfect roast chicken and Zuni Café serves one of the city’s most iconic versions. The famous chicken for two is worth planning ahead for, but the seasonal menu also makes this a wonderful place for a leisurely lunch.
Lazy Bear
Chisai
Birdsong
Kusakabe
American & Modern California Cuisine
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Californios, SoMa: Californios is currently at the very top of my San Francisco restaurant wish list. The FIRST three-Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in the world! It celebrates Mexican cuisine through seasonal California ingredients, imaginative presentations and deeply personal storytelling.
⭐️⭐️ Lazy Bear, Mission District: Lazy Bear is one of the most interactive and playful tasting-menu experiences in San Francisco. The meal is generous (come hungry) and each guest receives a Field Notes notebook to jot down favorite dishes and details throughout the evening. The hyper-seasonal menu changes often but expect creative takes on nostalgic American flavors, beautifully prepared seafood and meats, and whimsical desserts. It is an especially memorable place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or major milestone.
Chīsai Sushi Club, Bernal Heights: Chīsai edges out Ju-Ni for me, just barely. Every course felt inventive while still respecting the simplicity and tradition of great sushi, and the generous amount of uni certainly did not hurt. The intimate setting is stylish and fun without the formality or stuffiness that can sometimes come with high-end omakase.
⭐️⭐️ Birdsong, SoMa: Birdsong is my favorite tasting menu in San Francisco. The space is beautiful, the dishes are creative and thoughtfully rooted in seasonal ingredients, and the desserts bring a playful finish to an otherwise polished experience. When we visited, the meal ended with a miniature ice cream sundae that made the entire evening feel especially fun and memorable.
Mr. Pollo, Mission District: Mr. Pollo proves that a tasting menu does not have to come with an intimidating price tag. The tiny Mission restaurant serves a constantly changing four-course menu for around $50, drawing inspiration from Venezuelan and broader South American flavors. It is intimate, relaxed and one of the city’s best lesser-known options when you want the creativity of a tasting menu without the major splurge.
KUSAKABE, Financial District: Kusakabe is a wonderful choice for a special-occasion omakase and one of the restaurants that helped establish San Francisco’s modern high-end sushi scene. The seasonal experience combines sushi with the progression and philosophy of Japanese kaiseki cuisine. This was also the first place I ever tried shirako, a seasonal Japanese delicacy made from cod milt, and it remains one of my most memorable adventurous bites. The full omakase currently spans approximately 18 courses, so come ready for an elegant and immersive meal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Atelier Crenn & Bar Crenn, Cow Hollow: Chef Dominique Crenn made history as the first woman in the United States to earn three Michelin stars and Atelier Crenn remains one of San Francisco’s ultimate destination dining experiences. The tasting menu is artistic, deeply personal and inspired by Crenn’s idea of “poetic culinaria.” If the price of the full Atelier Crenn experience is outside your budget, head next door to Bar Crenn for inventive cocktails, an exceptional wine list and elevated bites in a more relaxed setting.
Salt & Straw
Butter & Crumble
Breadbelly
Home Cafe
Something Sweet
No San Francisco food guide would be complete without a few sweet stops. These are some of my longtime favorites for pastries, ice cream, Asian desserts and boba.
Favorite Ice Cream: Salt & Straw and Garden Creamery are my top picks, but Bi-Rite Creamery is a San Francisco classic and always delicious.
Favorite Bakeries: b. Patisserie is my go-to, but I also love Tartine and Butter & Crumble…if you are willing to brave the lines. For something more specific, head to Pineapple King Bakery for pineapple buns, Jina Bakes in Japantown for the kalbijjim croissant, or Breadbelly for the kaya toast. And if you have never tried princess cake, do yourself a favor and stop by Schubert’s for a slice.
Favorite Asian Dessert Cafe: Kowloon Tong Dessert Cafe serves a huge variety of Hong Kong-style desserts and stays open late, making it an especially fun stop after dinner.
Favorite Boba: Yi Fang Taiwan Fruit Tea, Purple Kow and Feng Cha are my tried-and-true favorites.
Favorite Coffee: San Francisco has no shortage of great coffee shops, but Home Coffee Roasters on Clement Street is my favorite cafe in the city. With multiple locations, it is an easy place to get your caffeine fix, and the food and snack menu is excellent too. This is also where I first fell in love with lavender lattes, so it will always have a special place in my San Francisco coffee rotation.