San Francisco's Best Foods [Updated 2025]

From the iconic sourdough bread to the famous Dungeness crab, San Francisco's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors and influences.

After reviewing 12 of the most beloved dishes and eateries, I’m excited to share hidden gems as well as local favorites that capture the essence of this vibrant city.

Whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, there's something in this guide for everyone—each bite tells a story and reflects the diverse culture we cherish.

Join me as we embark on a delicious journey through the best foods San Francisco has to offer!

Brenda's French Soul Food

Highlights
Fantastic service
Outstanding beignets
Generous portion sizes
Flavorful vegan options
Casual and quaint atmosphere

Brenda's French Soul Food is an experience that dances on the palate and warms the heart. Upon entering, I was greeted with fantastic service that set a positive tone for my meal. The atmosphere exudes a casual charm, inviting diners to relax and immerse themselves in the culinary delights to come.

I couldn't resist starting with their outstanding beignets—light, fluffy morsels dusted with powdered sugar that melted in my mouth. They are without a doubt the highlight of the menu, and one bite transports you straight to New Orleans.

The generous portion sizes further emphasize the spirit of soul food; I couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort and satisfaction with each dish. I was pleasantly surprised to find flavorful vegan options that didn’t skimp on taste, making them a delightful choice for anyone at the table.

Overall, my time at Brenda’s was a joyous escape filled with culinary treasures. If you're ever wandering the streets of San Francisco craving a plate filled with love and soulful flavors, I highly recommend stopping by this quaint gem. Brenda’s is a heartfelt tribute to French-inspired Southern cuisine—one that keeps me smiling long after the last bite!

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Brenda's Meat & Three

Highlights
Exceptional customer service
Flavorful fried chicken
Delicious shrimp etouffee
Moist biscuits and cornbread
Affordable parking

Visiting Brenda's Meat & Three was like stepping into a delightful Southern home—with the added benefit of not having to do the cooking! From the moment I walked in, the exceptional customer service made me feel right at home. The ambiance felt cheerful yet cozy, perfect for enjoying comfort food.

Now, let's talk about the fried chicken—oh, my taste buds! Crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy inside, it truly lived up to the reputation of Southern cuisine. Every bite was an explosion of flavor that had me craving more. I also devoured the shrimp etouffee, and it was a heavenly blend of spices that transported me straight to New Orleans.

Of course, no meal is complete without sides, and the moist biscuits and cornbread were nothing short of stellar. They melted in my mouth and paired perfectly with the rich dishes.

To top it off, the prices were reasonable, and I found affordable parking nearby, which is often a rarity in this bustling city. If you’re looking for an unforgettable meal, Brenda’s Meat & Three is a must-visit destination in San Francisco!

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Prubechu

Highlights
Thrice-cooked Brisket
Crispy Sweet/Sour Pork Belly
Vegetarian-friendly options
Charming outdoor dining
Must-try banana dessert

Prubechu is a delightful culinary gem that took my taste buds on an unforgettable journey through Guamanian flavors. Upon entering, the charming outdoor seating immediately set a relaxed, inviting atmosphere—perfect for enjoying a sunny San Francisco day.

Now, let's talk about the food. The thrice-cooked brisket absolutely stole the show; each bite was a harmonious blend of tenderness and bold flavors that danced in my mouth. But if you think that’s where the magic ends, think again. The crispy sweet and sour pork belly was a revelation, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture that corrals the senses.

While I indulged in these meaty delights, I was pleasantly surprised by the range of vegetarian options too; Prubechu truly caters to all diners! And no visit is complete without tackling the must-try banana dessert. This sweet finale was a playful nod to traditional desserts that left me grinning from ear to ear.

If you’re searching for a place that wraps you in vibrant flavors and a welcoming ambiance, Prubechu is definitely worth a visit. Consider it a culinary adventure right in the heart of San Francisco!

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Sons & Daughters

Highlights
Expertly handled seafood
Ingenious lamb and berries
Gorgeous presentation
Flawless and friendly service
Superbly elevated flavors

Sons & Daughters truly left me enchanted from the moment I stepped through the door. The ambiance is intimate and inviting, setting the stage for a culinary journey worth savoring. One bite of their expertly handled seafood and I was transported to the very ocean it hailed from—each piece a testament to freshness and skill.

Then came the ingenious pairing of lamb and berries; who knew these flavors would dance so harmoniously on the palate? The balance was uncanny, pleasing yet surprising, proving that creativity thrives in this kitchen.

Let’s talk about the presentation—it was nothing short of gorgeous. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing culinary prowess and an eye for detail. It’s often said that we eat with our eyes first, and here they truly understood that sentiment. And I can’t forget to mention the service; the staff was not just friendly but also remarkably knowledgeable, enhancing our experience with their insightful recommendations.

If you're in search of elevated flavors that excite and delight, Sons & Daughters deserves a spot on your foodie bucket list. It’s a symphony of taste, worthy of every nibble!

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The Morris

Highlights
Excellent seasonal flavors
Upscale dining in the Mission
Courteous and knowledgeable staff
Relaxed heated outdoor patio
Varied menu for all diets

The Morris is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of the Mission district, where upscale dining meets a relaxed atmosphere. Upon stepping inside, I was greeted by a courteous staff, well-versed in the seasonal offerings. They guided me through a menu that seemed to dance with seasonal flavors, reflecting the best of what’s fresh in the Bay Area.

The layout features a serene heated outdoor patio, which is the perfect setting for indulging in a culinary experience. Each dish was a delightful surprise, presenting a harmonious blend of creativity and comfort. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find options that cater to every dietary need, making it an inclusive dining destination.

I couldn’t resist trying the mushroom risotto, a creamy treat that was rich yet surprisingly light. I left not just satisfied, but inspired by the marriage of flavors that The Morris effortlessly achieves. It's a place where thoughtful dining and a welcoming atmosphere come together, proving that great food is indeed possible in a relaxed setting. If you’re hunting for an exceptional meal in San Francisco, look no further than this haven of culinary delight!

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Tommy's Joynt

Highlights
Authentic neighborhood vibe
Delicious pastrami sandwiches
Smoky meats & jazz ambiance
Limited sandwich toppings
Old building charm

Review of Tommy’s Joynt

When you step into Tommy’s Joynt, you’re not just entering a restaurant; you’re walking into a slice of San Francisco history. The old building charm envelops you as the rich aroma of smoky meats wafts through the air. Surrounded by locals and a lively atmosphere, it's hard not to feel the authentic neighborhood vibe that this establishment exudes.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the pastrami sandwich. This mouthwatering creation is a true testament to what a sandwich should be—juicy, tender, and packed to perfection. While the choice of sandwich toppings is deliberately limited, it speaks to the purity of the flavors they want to showcase. And trust me, you won’t miss the extra condiments.

While indulging in my meal, I found myself tapping my foot along to the jazzy tunes that echoed through the diner, perfectly complementing the vibrant atmosphere. If you’re seeking a culinary adventure steeped in character, make your way to Tommy’s Joynt. Amid the bustling streets of San Francisco, it serves up a hearty meal that’s both nostalgic and delicious—surely a gem worth visiting again!

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Scoma's Restaurant

Highlights
Fresh, daily-caught seafood
Attentive and professional staff
Great views from the seating
Delicious mixed seafood catch
Established since 1965

Scoma's Restaurant, an iconic gem since 1965, has become somewhat of a culinary institution in San Francisco. As I walked in, the inviting scent of fresh seafood greeted me like an old friend. The daily catch is not just a tagline; it's a promise fulfilled with each dish that arrives at your table. The mixed seafood catch I ordered was a delightful symphony of flavors, showcasing the ocean’s best bounty.

What truly elevated my experience was the attentive and professional staff. They seemed to glide around the restaurant, ensuring that every guest felt like a VIP. Their recommendations were spot-on, perfectly complementing the picturesque views from the seating area, which offered a stunning backdrop of the bay.

Dining at Scoma’s felt like more than just a meal; it was an engaging celebration of San Francisco’s maritime heritage. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Scoma's is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in exceptional seafood while basking in the charm of the bay. Don’t miss the chance to savor such a delightful experience in this bustling city!

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Rintaro

Highlights
Outstanding food craftsmanship
Exceptional desserts
Cute ambiance
Meticulous attention to detail
Izakaya style offerings

Rintaro is a delightful gem tucked away in San Francisco, radiating a unique charm that feels equal parts playful and refined. The minute I stepped inside, I was enveloped by the warm ambiance, reminiscent of a traditional izakaya. The decor blends modern aesthetics with rustic elements, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for savoring a meal.

I was delighted by the outstanding food craftsmanship displayed in every dish. The menu is a captivating tapestry of flavors, showcasing meticulously prepared dishes that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate. The bold yet harmonious flavors transported me straight to Japan. Each bite was a testament to the chef's dedication to perfection.

Now, let’s talk about dessert! I indulged in their exceptional offerings, which was a delightful conclusion to my meal. The balance of sweetness and texture was simply heavenly.

Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a special celebration, Rintaro is a fantastic choice. If you find yourself wandering through San Francisco, don’t miss the chance to experience this culinary treasure. You’ll leave with a happy heart and a contented stomach, eager to return for more!

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Souvla

Highlights
Greek style fries a must
Excellent fast service
Delicious frozen yogurt
Juicy, flavorful gyros
Specialty Greek sodas

Souvla is nothing short of a culinary treasure in the heart of San Francisco. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that exuded a welcoming charm — perfect for those seeking a quick yet delightful bite. Incredibly fast service had me placing my order for their legendary gyros faster than you can say “opa!”

When my plate arrived, the juicy, flavorful gyros immediately attracted my attention. Tender meat, aromatic herbs, and just the right amount of tzatziki made for a harmonious blend that transported me straight to Greece. But let’s not forget about the Greek style fries, which were simply a revelation. Crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they were irresistibly decadent and an absolute must-try!

To round off my meal, I couldn’t resist indulging in their delicious frozen yogurt. With a sumptuous texture and delightful toppings, it provided the perfect sweet ending. Pair that with one of their specialty Greek sodas, and you have yourself a meal worth raving about. At Souvla, every bite feels like a celebration of Greek flavors — a true gem in San Francisco’s diverse food landscape!

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Nopa

Highlights
Quick and gentle service
Insanely good bolognesa
Vibrant atmosphere
Inventive cocktails
Mind-blowing pork chop

Nopa is a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco, where the culinary magic unfolds. As I stepped inside, I was immediately enveloped by a lively atmosphere that radiates warmth and creativity. The service was quick and gentle, striking the perfect balance between attentive and unobtrusive, allowing me to fully indulge in the experience.

Now, let’s talk about the food. The bolognesa served here is nothing short of insane—rich, savory, and comforting, it was a masterpiece on my plate. I could have easily declared it the star of the show, but then the pork chop stole the spotlight. This dish was mind-blowingly delicious, cooked to perfection with a smoky char that practically melted in my mouth.

To wash it all down, I couldn't resist the inventive cocktails on offer, each a delightful concoction that perfectly complemented the flavors of the meal.

Nopa isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience that epitomizes the best of San Francisco’s food scene. If you’re searching for a spot that fuses hearty flavors with an inviting atmosphere, look no further—you’ve found your destination!

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Lazy Bear

At Lazy Bear, dining transforms into an intimate experience brimming with creativity. The multi-course tasting menu is a delightful journey, each dish more exhilarating than the last. Highlights include the smoky crab served with a hint of chili and the decadent duck ragu that dances on your palate. The atmosphere strikes a balance between cozy and refined, enveloping you in an embrace of warmth and cheer. The communal seating fosters a sense of connection, making each meal feel like a celebration. If you seek food that provokes playfulness and sophistication, look no further than this culinary gem!

Rich Table

Rich Table is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of San Francisco, where innovation dances with tradition. The moment I stepped inside, the rustic yet chic ambiance enveloped me, setting the stage for culinary magic. I indulged in the famed wild mushroom toast, a dish that marries earthy flavors with a hint of decadence. The uni pasta was a revelation, with creamy textures that made each bite a celebration. The service was impeccable, attentive without being intrusive. If you're seeking an unforgettable dining experience that tantalizes the senses, Rich Table is a must-visit—a true feast for the soul!