25 Must-Visit Restaurants in San Francisco
San Francisco’s vibrant food scene is world-renowned, with an eclectic mix of flavors that range from street eats to Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you’re exploring fresh seafood, authentic ethnic cuisine, or inventive fusion dishes, the city has something to offer every foodie. Here’s a list of the 25 must-visit restaurants in San Francisco, each celebrated for their unique flavors, stellar reputations, and prime locations within iconic neighborhoods.
Tartine Bakery (Mission District)
Famous For: Baked Goods, Pastries
Tartine Bakery is a local favorite known for its exceptional breads, pastries, and croissants. With long lines every morning, Tartine’s must-try items include the morning bun and croissant. The bakery has earned international acclaim for its artisanal approach to baking.
Awards: James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef
Website: tartinebakery.com
Swan Oyster Depot (Nob Hill)
Famous For: Seafood, Oysters
An institution in San Francisco since 1912, Swan Oyster Depot is known for serving the freshest seafood, including oysters, shrimp cocktail, and Dungeness crab. The no-frills seafood counter is a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Awards: Frequently cited by Anthony Bourdain as a favorite spot
Website: swanoysterdepot.us
House of Prime Rib (Nob Hill)
Famous For: Prime Rib, Steakhouse
House of Prime Rib offers an upscale, old-world dining experience. Known for its perfectly cooked prime rib, served with classic sides, the restaurant has been a landmark since the 1940s.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: houseofprimerib.net
State Bird Provisions (Western Addition)
Famous For: Small Plates, Fusion
This innovative restaurant serves a unique combination of dim sum-style small plates featuring modern American cuisine. The menu changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients, and its signature dish is fried quail.
Awards: Michelin Star, James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant
Website: statebirdsf.com
Zuni Café (Hayes Valley)
Famous For: Roast Chicken, Mediterranean Cuisine
Zuni Café has been a San Francisco staple since 1979. Its wood-fired roast chicken and warm bread salad are legendary, and the restaurant’s airy, sunlit atmosphere makes it perfect for a long lunch or dinner.
Awards: James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant
Website: zunicafe.com
Cotogna (Jackson Square)
Famous For: Italian Cuisine, Pasta
This cozy Italian spot is known for its handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and farm-to-table approach. Cotogna is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates authentic Italian flavors.
Awards: Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
Website: cotognasf.com
Nopa (North Panhandle)
Famous For: Organic, Locally Sourced Dishes
Nopa is beloved for its emphasis on organic ingredients and hearty, California-style dishes. It’s known for wood-fired dishes, including a signature pork chop, and is a popular spot for both brunch and late-night dining.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: nopasf.com
The Slanted Door (Embarcadero)
Famous For: Modern Vietnamese Cuisine
Located in the Ferry Building, The Slanted Door offers a modern take on traditional Vietnamese dishes using local, sustainable ingredients. Its caramelized clay pot chicken and shaking beef are fan favorites.
Awards: James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant
Website: slanteddoor.com
La Taqueria (Mission District)
Famous For: Mexican Street Food
La Taqueria is a Mission District legend known for serving some of the best burritos and tacos in the U.S. Their carnitas burrito is widely praised, and the no-rice rule makes for an authentic Mexican food experience.
Awards: “America’s Best Burrito” by FiveThirtyEight
Website: N/A
Sam’s Chowder House (Embarcadero)
Famous For: Seafood, Lobster Rolls
Sam’s Chowder House delivers fresh seafood with a view of the Bay. Their lobster rolls are iconic, and the clam chowder consistently ranks among the best in the city.
Awards: Named one of the “Top 5 Best Sandwiches in America” by NBC’s Today Show
Website: samschowderhouse.com
Flour + Water (Mission District)
Famous For: Handmade Pasta, Italian
Flour + Water is synonymous with exceptional handmade pasta and locally sourced ingredients. Known for its inventive pasta dishes and pizza, the restaurant has earned a cult following.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: flourandwater.com
Souvla (Hayes Valley)
Famous For: Greek Street Food
Souvla is a fast-casual Greek restaurant known for its spit-roasted meats and Greek salads. Affordable and flavorful, it’s an excellent option for a quick bite.
Awards: Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
Website: souvla.com
Tony’s Pizza Napoletana (North Beach)
Famous For: Pizza
Tony’s is the go-to spot for pizza lovers, offering an array of award-winning pies, from classic Neapolitan to American-style deep dish. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana has won numerous awards for its pizza-making prowess.
Awards: World Pizza Cup in Naples, Italy
Website: tonyspizzanapoletana.com
Liholiho Yacht Club (Tenderloin)
Famous For: Hawaiian-California Fusion
This popular spot offers a fusion of Hawaiian and Californian flavors in a fun, contemporary setting. Known for its poke, beef tongue, and creative cocktails, Liholiho brings the islands to the heart of San Francisco.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: liholihoyachtclub.com
Burma Superstar (Richmond District)
Famous For: Burmese Cuisine
Burma Superstar has been introducing San Franciscans to the flavors of Burma since 1992. The tea leaf salad is a must-try, offering a refreshing, unique taste.
Awards: Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
Website: burmasuperstar.com
Rich Table (Hayes Valley)
Famous For: Californian Cuisine
Rich Table offers creative, modern dishes using the freshest local ingredients. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, and the porcini doughnuts are an iconic dish.
Awards: Michelin Star
Website: richtablesf.com
Kokkari Estiatorio (Financial District)
Famous For: Upscale Greek Cuisine
Kokkari Estiatorio is one of San Francisco’s finest Greek restaurants, offering elevated Mediterranean fare in a luxurious setting. The lamb chops and grilled octopus are standouts.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: kokkari.com
Delfina (Mission District)
Famous For: Italian Cuisine
A neighborhood favorite, Delfina serves simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian dishes. The spaghetti and margarita pizza are crowd-pleasers.
Awards: Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand
Website: delfinasf.com
Taqueria El Farolito (Mission District)
Famous For: Mexican Street Food
El Farolito is another taqueria legend in San Francisco. Known for its massive super burritos and flavorful carne asada tacos, it’s a must for fans of Mexican street food.
Awards: Named one of the best taquerias in the U.S. by Thrillist
Website: N/A
Benu (SoMa)
Famous For: Asian Fusion, Fine Dining
Benu offers an unforgettable dining experience with its tasting menu that blends Asian and Californian flavors. Each dish is meticulously crafted, making it perfect for a special occasion.
Awards: Three Michelin Stars
Website: benusf.com
Gary Danko (Fisherman’s Wharf)
Famous For: Modern American Fine Dining
Gary Danko is known for offering exceptional service and a sophisticated menu that features dishes like lobster risotto and roast rack of lamb.
Awards: Michelin Star, James Beard Award
Website: garydanko.com
Atelier Crenn (Cow Hollow)
Famous For: French-Inspired Fine Dining
Atelier Crenn offers an avant-garde approach to French cuisine with a strong emphasis on artistry and presentation. Chef Dominique Crenn creates a unique culinary experience with her poetic dishes.
Awards: Three Michelin Stars
Website: ateliercrenn.com
Loló (Mission District)
Famous For: Mexican-Californian Fusion
Loló offers playful, vibrant Mexican dishes with a California twist. Known for its creative takes on tacos, ceviche, and empanadas, Loló is a fun and colorful dining experience.
Awards: Michelin Guide Recommended
Website: lolosf.com
Octavia (Pacific Heights)
Famous For: Modern Californian Cuisine
Octavia serves inventive Californian dishes in a sleek, modern setting. Known for its seasonal menu and expertly prepared dishes, it’s a Michelin-recognized spot.
Awards: Michelin Star
Website: octavia-sf.com
Boulevard (Embarcadero)
Famous For: Contemporary American Cuisine
Boulevard offers an elegant dining experience with its elevated American menu and stunning views of the Bay. The restaurant’s sophisticated dishes and beautiful setting make it a top choice for fine dining.
Awards: Michelin Star, James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant
Website: boulevardrestaurant.com
San Francisco’s food scene is a playground for adventurous food lovers, with flavors and experiences that span the globe. From affordable street food to Michelin-starred dining, these 25 must-visit restaurants highlight the city’s diversity and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you won’t want to miss these culinary gems. Happy dining!
