San Francisco has long been celebrated for its iconic landmarks, rolling fog, and picturesque bay views, but anyone who truly wants to experience the city knows that the heart of San Francisco lies on its plates. From bustling food markets to intimate neighborhood bistros, the city’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population. For travelers and locals alike, finding the hidden gems and local favorites can be the key to a memorable experience. Here, I’ve curated a list of San Francisco restaurants that locals swear by—a mix of classic staples and modern culinary hotspots.
Address: 600 Guerrero Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Average Price: $10–$25 per person
Signature Dishes: Country Loaf, Morning Bun, Croissant Sandwich
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Walk-ins are common, but for larger groups, call ahead to check availability.
Tartine Bakery is an institution in the Mission District, famous for its artisan bread and pastries. The moment you walk in, the scent of freshly baked bread envelops you, making it almost impossible to choose just one treat. Locals flock here for the Morning Bun, a perfectly caramelized pastry with a hint of orange zest. For brunch, the croissant sandwich—filled with egg, cheese, and seasonal vegetables—is a fan favorite. If you’re aiming for a more leisurely visit, visiting early in the morning helps beat the lines, especially on weekends. The bakery operates on a largely walk-in basis, but a quick call for larger groups ensures your party can be accommodated.
2. Swan Oyster Depot
Address: 1517 Polk Street, San Francisco, CA 94109
Average Price: $25–$50 per person
Signature Dishes: Oysters, Dungeness Crab, Shrimp Louie Salad
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday–Saturday)
Reservation Method: First-come, first-served
For seafood lovers, Swan Oyster Depot is a must-visit. A counter-style seafood market and restaurant, it has been serving fresh catches since 1912. The menu is simple but exceptional, with oysters shucked to order and crab that is sweet and tender. Don’t miss the Shrimp Louie salad, a classic West Coast dish combining fresh shrimp, lettuce, and a creamy dressing. The small, intimate counter means there’s rarely a long wait for service, but patience is rewarded with a true taste of San Francisco history. Note that reservations aren’t accepted, so arriving early ensures a spot without long waits.
3. Zuni Café
Address: 1658 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Average Price: $40–$70 per person
Signature Dishes: Roast Chicken for Two, Brick-Oven Pizza, Caesar Salad
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Phone reservations recommended, especially for dinner
Zuni Café is a San Francisco classic that combines Mediterranean flavors with Californian ingredients. Its brick oven produces one of the city’s most celebrated pizzas, but it’s the roast chicken for two that has achieved legendary status. Slow-roasted with herbs and served with a side of bread and seasonal vegetables, it’s a dish worth sharing. The warm, ambient dining room attracts both locals and visitors, making reservations advisable. Zuni Café perfectly balances casual dining with fine cuisine, creating an experience that is as memorable as the food itself.
4. Burma Superstar
Address: 309 Clement Street, San Francisco, CA 94118
Average Price: $15–$30 per person
Signature Dishes: Tea Leaf Salad, Samusa Soup, Garlic Noodles
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Call-ahead seating is suggested, walk-ins possible
If you want to dive into the bold flavors of Burmese cuisine, Burma Superstar is the place to be. Known for its tea leaf salad—a unique dish combining fermented tea leaves, peanuts, and crisp vegetables—it’s a flavor experience that has locals returning time and again. The garlic noodles and samusa soup are comforting yet packed with spice. The restaurant is cozy, and during peak hours, it can get crowded. A call to check seating availability can save time, but many locals enjoy the casual wait, chatting and sipping complimentary green tea as they wait for their table.
5. House of Prime Rib
Address: 1906 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94109
Average Price: $45–$80 per person
Signature Dishes: Prime Rib with Yorkshire Pudding, Creamed Spinach, Mashed Potatoes
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Phone reservations recommended for evening dining
For those craving a classic American steakhouse experience, House of Prime Rib is a must. Open since the 1940s, this institution serves thick-cut prime rib carved tableside, accompanied by traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes and rich creamed spinach. The atmosphere is old-world, with polished wood and a sense of timeless elegance. Due to its popularity, especially during dinner, making a reservation by phone ensures a smooth experience. Locals often return for the warm service and consistent quality, making it a beloved choice for special occasions.
6. La Taqueria
Address: 2889 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Average Price: $5–$15 per person
Signature Dishes: Carne Asada Burrito, Crispy Chicken Taco, Guacamole
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Walk-in only
For authentic Mission-style Mexican food, La Taqueria is a legendary destination. Known for its no-frills approach, the burritos here are a perfect example of San Francisco’s street food culture elevated to local fame. The carne asada burrito, stuffed with perfectly seasoned meat, beans, and rice, is simple yet unforgettable. A crisp chicken taco is equally satisfying, with the tortilla offering a slight crunch that complements the juicy filling. La Taqueria operates on a strict walk-in policy, so patience is key. Despite the lines, locals swear it’s always worth the wait.
7. State Bird Provisions
Address: 1529 Fillmore Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
Average Price: $40–$60 per person
Signature Dishes: State Bird with Provisions, Gnocchi, Seasonal Dim Sum
Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Wednesday–Sunday)
Reservation Method: Reservations can be made via phone, often weeks in advance
State Bird Provisions blends innovative American cuisine with dim sum-style service, creating a dining experience that is truly unique. Small plates arrive at your table with delightful presentation and flavor combinations that push the boundaries of traditional American cuisine. The signature “State Bird with Provisions,” a fried quail dish, is often highlighted by locals as an unmissable experience. Due to its popularity and limited seating, calling ahead for reservations is highly recommended. The inventive menu and whimsical approach make each visit an adventure for the palate.
8. Foreign Cinema
Address: 2534 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Average Price: $50–$90 per person
Signature Dishes: Mussels Provencal, Lamb Tagine, House-Smoked Duck
Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (Tuesday–Sunday)
Reservation Method: Phone reservations strongly recommended
Foreign Cinema offers more than just exceptional food; it combines dining with a unique cinematic ambiance. With films projected on the outdoor walls, guests enjoy classic and independent movies while savoring sophisticated cuisine. Locals love the Mussels Provencal and the Lamb Tagine, which are rich in flavor and beautifully presented. The house-smoked duck is another highlight, prepared to perfection with tender meat and crisp skin. Reservations are crucial, especially for outdoor seating, as the restaurant attracts both locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
9. Nopa
Address: 560 Divisadero Street, San Francisco, CA 94117
Average Price: $35–$65 per person
Signature Dishes: Wood-Grilled Chicken, Pork Chop, Seasonal Vegetable Plates
Opening Hours: 5:30 PM – 11:00 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Phone reservations recommended
Nopa, short for North of Panhandle, is renowned for its Californian cuisine with a wood-fired twist. The restaurant’s focus on local and sustainable ingredients makes each dish fresh and flavorful. The wood-grilled chicken, juicy and perfectly seasoned, is a standout, while the pork chop and vegetable plates highlight the restaurant’s commitment to balance and taste. Locals appreciate the modern yet warm ambiance, and reservations are advised, particularly on weekends. The combination of creative dishes and inviting atmosphere makes Nopa a staple for anyone exploring San Francisco’s dining scene.
10. The Slanted Door
Address: 1 Ferry Building, San Francisco, CA 94111
Average Price: $35–$70 per person
Signature Dishes: Shaking Beef, Spring Rolls, Crispy Imperial Rolls
Opening Hours: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Daily)
Reservation Method: Call for dinner reservations; lunch often walk-in
Located in the Ferry Building, The Slanted Door has been redefining modern Vietnamese cuisine for decades. Its Shaking Beef, tender and flavorful, has achieved near-mythical status among locals. Spring rolls and crispy imperial rolls provide perfect starters, highlighting fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The restaurant’s location by the bay offers scenic views alongside exquisite food. While lunch can often accommodate walk-ins, dinner seating is highly recommended to be reserved via phone. The combination of innovative dishes and a beautiful setting ensures a memorable experience for any guest.
San Francisco’s culinary scene is a mosaic of cultures, flavors, and history. From artisanal bakeries to innovative fine dining, these ten restaurants represent the essence of what locals cherish most. Each visit offers more than just a meal—it’s a journey through neighborhoods, traditions, and tastes that define this remarkable city. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, flavorful Mexican cuisine, or inventive American dishes, exploring the city through its food provides insights into San Francisco’s identity that no landmark or museum can replicate.
For travelers seeking to experience the authentic flavors of the city, these restaurants offer a glimpse into daily life, culinary innovation, and time-honored traditions. Planning ahead, knowing signature dishes, and understanding local customs for reservations or walk-ins ensures a smooth, delicious, and unforgettable experience.
San Francisco isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a feast for the senses. And as any local would tell you, the best way to understand the soul of the city is one bite at a time.
