Lunch Spots in San Francisco
1. Ristorante Milano, San Francisco
Homemade pasta and gnocchi lead the charge for this Northern Italian restaurant. All dishes incorporate fresh ingredients, and the wine list offers ample choice. Many patrons finish their visit with a serving of tiramisu.
2. Cha Cha Cha, San Francisco
Caribbean joint serving all the hearty classics: jerk chicken, ceviche, fried potatoes, and rice and beans. Patrons are just as quick to order a pitcher or two of sangria. Wholesome digs with consistent service.
3. Chuy's Fiestas, San Francisco
Family-friendly Mexican restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and a large outdoor patio. Be welcomed by the sombrero-wearing cactus before enjoying dishes such as birria tacos, fiesta bowls, and shrimp quesadillas.
4. Dragon Beaux, San Francisco
High-quality dim sum and hotpot restaurant on Geary Boulevard. Portions are generous and each dish is brought out as soon as it is ready. Visit early for a calm dining experience - the dinner service can get a bit lively and loud.
5. Dumpling Time, San Francisco
Dumplings that taste like a mother's hug - hyperbole perhaps, but the sentiment reigns true. Other Asian dishes are served too. The Design District location is always busy. High-quality food and quick service - just follow the neon sign.
6. As Quoted, San Francisco
Minimalist clean eating cafe that's perfect for people with food restrictions who still want good eats. It's a friendly spot for food for coffee or a meal. Dedicated to staying gluten-, soy-, and nut-free 🙅♀️.
7. Ike's Sandwiches, San Francisco
Not the "original" SF sandwich, but probably it's most successful. Dutch Crunch bread with their secret “Dirty Sauce” is a duo unlike any other. Now a regional chain, but try and check out their first location in the Castro.
8. Good Mong Kok Bakery, San Francisco
Down-to-earth Chinese eatery with a solid reputation. Touted by some as having the best dim sum in the Bay Area. A grab-and-go place for dumplings and baked goods. Cheap prices and kind people - queues are typical.
9. Wayfare Tavern, San Francisco
Elevated takes on classic American fare. First-timers tend to make a beeline for the celebrated fried chicken, but anything on the menu will impress. An intimate space with a pub-like aesthetic.
10. Cafe Zoetrope, San Francisco
Cozy Italian eatery housed within the iconic Colombus Tower - a San Francisco landmark. Visit hungry and dine on pizza and pasta, or refresh with a coffee or Aperol spritz. Sit inside or beneath the streetside awning.
11. Kama Sushi, San Francisco
Relaxed sushi spot in Noe Valley. A more affordable option than others in the Bay Area. Offers a full menu of rolls, sashimi, donburi, and ramen. Visit during happy hour for big portions at even more reasonable prices.
12. La Taqueria, San Francisco
Home to arguably the best burritos in the country. There is usually a line of out the door but the wait is well worth it. Carnitas, always!
13. District Six, San Francisco
Eats, music, and sport. District Six is an alfresco events space and food truck hangout. Dining options rotate and there is a heated outdoor seating area for cold weather days. Parking is limited so take an Uber or Lyft.
14. Hog Island Oyster Company, San Francisco
Located in the Ferry Building, Hog Island serves fresh, sustainably harvested oysters. Tons of variety of oysters and shellfish served. You can enjoy a nice meal overlooking the Bay. Huge beer, cocktail, and wine menu.
15. Il Pollaio, San Francisco
Chicken and beer - a perfect pairing. Il Pollaio is a modest restaurant known for its chargrilled meats. A San Francisco staple since 1984. Expect reasonable prices, friendly staff, and a laid-back atmosphere.
16. House of Nanking, San Francisco
An institution since being opened in the 1980s. Queues are common due to popularity, but the food comes out quickly once seated. Get a couple of plates and some beer. Expect an equal mix of tourists and Chinatown residents.
17. Radhaus, San Francisco
Bavarian beer hall and restaurant in a waterfront location. Offers a huge beer list that compliments a food menu of sausages, döner, and other German staples. Enjoy views of the Golden Gate Bridge from inside, or dine and drink alfresco.
18. Cordon Blue Vietnamese Restaurant, San Francisco
Certified hole in the wall. A compact location but the food served is stellar - from the headline roast chicken to the imperial rolls. Hearty portions all around. Refillable tea is a nice touch too. Cash only.
19. Emmy's Spaghetti Shack, San Francisco
Casual Italian eatery with a big personality. Pasta is king here, as the name would suggest. Super down-to-earth, vibrant decor, friendly staff, and good cocktails. A popular and reliable option on Mission Street.
20. Bar Bocce, San Francisco
Waterfront restaurant with stunning views across Richardson Bay. Serves woodfired pizzas but is equally as popular for alfresco drinks. Get a spot near the firepit if staying late.
21. 4505 Burgers & BBQ, San Francisco
Delicious barbeque and one of the best burgers in San Francisco. High quality ingredients and classic BBQ sides, so probably not the place for a health nut. Plenty of outdoor seating and sunshine ☀️.
22. Blue Barn, San Francisco
With an aesthetic that fits its name, Blue Barn offers fresh food in a rustic setting. In lieu of haybales and livestock, they have sandwiches, salads, and string lights. Ideal for alfresco lunches. Has three locations throughout SF.
23. Prubechu, San Francisco
Leading the charge for Chamorro cuisine in San Francisco - the food of the indigenous peoples of the Mariana Islands and Guam. Helmed by a pair of proud Guaminian natives. Lives up to the hype. Dine inside or out.
24. Phở Huỳnh Hiệp 2 - Kevin & Chris’s Noodle House, San Francisco
Salty pho to cure a Friday night hangover, fresh spring rolls for a lunchtime refuel, or grilled chicken over dinnertime conversation - Kevin's Noodle House is good for all occasions. Fill up then head to Golden Gate Park to digest.
25. Crab House at Pier 39, San Francisco
Wonderful view of the Bay that goes well with seafood right on the pier. Good food, try the crab 🦀 if you're on the fence. Can get busy so try to call ahead 📲.
26. Curry Leaf, San Francisco
Authentic Indian spot in North Beach. Good portion size for a great price. The mango lassi is to die for 🥭 and so are the samosas. As always, when in doubt, grab the chicken tikka masala and dig in.
27. Dancing Yak, San Francisco
More than just a pretty face and a cute name. Great Nepalese food in a trendy spot. If you're not sure what to get, try the momos. Drinks are fun too. It can be pricey, if you want a cheaper option head to Nepal House in Noe.
28. Hawker Fare, San Francisco
Colorful spot offering dishes typical of Northeastern Thailand - from Hainaese-style chicken to Panang curry. Hawker's cocktails, often topped with a small orchid bloom, are also good. Tasty plates in a casual setting.
29. PPQ Dungeness Island, San Francisco
Some of the best crab you will find in the city comes from PPQ - a great Vietnamese spot. The Chili Crab and the Garlic Steamed Crab are favorites of both diners and the staff.
30. Red's Java House, San Francisco
Don't be fooled by the name - Red's deals in hamburgers, not Javan coffee. The bayfront bar is a San Fran landmark enjoyed by locals and tourists - owing to Anthony Bourdain's approval. The food is cheap and tasty.