San Francisco is a city that truly loves its food. With its rich cultural diversity and vibrant local food scene, this city has some of the most unique and delicious culinary experiences. During my recent trip to San Francisco, I had the opportunity to explore some incredible restaurants, from classic spots serving up quintessential San Francisco flavors to modern eateries showcasing creative fusion dishes. Here, I’ll walk you through some of my favorite restaurants that I believe every foodie must try when visiting this iconic city.
1. Tartine Bakery
Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Tartine Bakery is an absolute must if you’re a fan of baked goods. I arrived early in the morning, around 8 AM, to beat the crowd. The line was already forming, but it moved quickly, and trust me, it was worth the wait! Known for its artisanal bread and pastries, Tartine has perfected the art of flaky, buttery croissants and richly flavored tarts.
I started with their famous morning bun, a beautiful spiral of soft dough with just the right amount of cinnamon and orange zest. I paired it with a cappuccino, which was strong and smooth – a perfect complement to the sweetness of the pastry. The bread pudding, another favorite, was wonderfully creamy and indulgent. If you’re planning a visit, I highly recommend trying their country bread. The thick, crusty slices are divine and pair well with a simple spread of butter or jam.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the long lines, and make sure to order extra to take with you – the pastries make a fantastic breakfast for the next day!
2. Zuni Café
Location: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Zuni Café is a beloved San Francisco institution, known for its roast chicken and oysters. It’s a warm and inviting spot, filled with natural light streaming through large windows. I went there for lunch and was immediately struck by the relaxed yet elegant ambiance. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the experience.
I had to try their famous roasted chicken, which is served with a bread salad. The chicken was perfectly roasted with a golden, crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat. The bread salad was equally impressive – it was soaked in the juices of the chicken, mixed with currants, pine nuts, and greens. It was both comforting and delicious, exactly what I was hoping for. I also tried their oysters, which were fresh and briny, served with a mignonette sauce that added a delightful tang.
Pro Tip: If you’re interested in the roast chicken, call ahead and place an order – it takes about an hour to prepare, but it’s absolutely worth the wait.
3. House of Nanking
Location: 919 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94133
House of Nanking in Chinatown is a bit of a local legend, often with a line outside. When I arrived, the place was bustling, filled with the delicious aroma of garlic, ginger, and spices. This restaurant has been around for decades, serving up authentic Chinese flavors with a twist.
I ordered their sesame chicken and the Nanking noodles. The sesame chicken was crispy and coated in a sweet, tangy sauce with a hint of spice. The Nanking noodles were thick and chewy, tossed in a savory sauce with lots of fresh vegetables. One of my favorite parts of the meal was their eggplant dish – tender eggplant pieces in a rich, garlicky sauce that had a subtle sweetness.
The portions were generous, and the flavors were bold. I left feeling full and satisfied, grateful for the authentic taste of Chinatown.
Pro Tip: The service is quick, and they’re known for their fast-paced environment. If you’re not sure what to order, just ask the staff – they’ll often make recommendations based on what’s fresh.
4. La Taqueria
Location: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
You can’t visit San Francisco without trying some of the best Mexican food the city has to offer, and La Taqueria is the place to do it. This no-frills spot in the Mission District has been serving up some of the city’s most beloved burritos and tacos for decades. I stopped by for a late lunch, and the line was out the door – a good sign, if you ask me!
I went for their classic carne asada burrito, served “dorado” style, which means it’s grilled to give the tortilla a crispy texture. Each bite was packed with flavorful, tender meat, beans, fresh salsa, and creamy avocado. I also tried their tacos, which were loaded with juicy, seasoned meat and topped with fresh cilantro and onions. Everything tasted incredibly fresh, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.
Pro Tip: Go for the burrito, and definitely try it “dorado” style – it adds an amazing crunch that elevates the whole experience.
5. Swan Oyster Depot
Location: 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Swan Oyster Depot is a seafood lover’s paradise. This old-school counter-service spot has been serving up fresh seafood for over a century. I arrived around noon, and the place was buzzing. I managed to grab a seat at the counter and was immediately greeted by friendly staff who made me feel like a regular.
I ordered a crab cocktail, clam chowder, and their famous oysters. The crab cocktail was a perfect start – fresh, sweet crab meat served with a classic cocktail sauce. The clam chowder was creamy and packed with tender clams. But the oysters were the highlight – they were incredibly fresh, with a delicate brininess that paired wonderfully with a splash of lemon and a little hot sauce.
Pro Tip: The line can get long, so be prepared to wait, but once you’re in, you’ll be treated like family. This is a cash-only spot, so make sure to bring some cash!
6. Boudin Bakery
Location: 160 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Boudin Bakery is famous for its sourdough bread, which has been a staple in San Francisco since the Gold Rush. I stopped by their flagship location at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can watch the bakers at work. The smell of fresh bread filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to try their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
The bread was perfectly tangy with a crusty exterior and a soft, chewy interior. The clam chowder was creamy and filled with tender clams, potatoes, and herbs. There’s something incredibly satisfying about tearing off pieces of the bread bowl and soaking up the chowder. I also picked up a few sourdough loaves to take home – they make great gifts for friends and family!
Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of sourdough, consider joining one of their bread-making tours. It’s a fun way to learn more about the history of the bakery and the bread-making process.
7. State Bird Provisions
Location: 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
For a more modern dining experience, I headed to State Bird Provisions, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a creative menu of small plates. The restaurant has a dim sum-style service, where carts filled with various dishes are brought around, and you can pick and choose what you’d like to try.
The star of the show was their signature fried quail, which was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. I also loved the pork belly, served with a tangy sauce that complemented the richness of the meat. Each dish was beautifully presented and filled with unique flavors. This place is a bit more upscale, but it’s a fantastic experience for anyone interested in creative, innovative cuisine.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation well in advance. The restaurant is popular and fills up quickly!
San Francisco’s dining scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Each of these restaurants offers a unique experience and showcases a different aspect of the city’s vibrant food culture. From classic, old-school spots like Swan Oyster Depot to modern, innovative dining at State Bird Provisions, San Francisco is a city that truly has something for every food lover.
