San Francisco is a city that truly lives and breathes food. From Michelin-starred tasting menus to iconic seafood counters and world-famous bakeries, it’s a place where innovation meets tradition on every plate. Whether you’re craving a fresh Crab Louie, a slice of Naples-style pizza, or one of the best morning pastries of your life, this city delivers, and then some.

What makes San Francisco’s food scene so special is its diversity and creativity. You’ll find fine dining restaurants experimenting with global flavors, no-reservations taquerias packed with locals, and neighborhood bakeries where the queue says it all. Many spots embrace shared dining concepts, farm-to-table sourcing, or offer interactive formats that turn a meal into an experience.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the most memorable places I ate at; from iconic institutions and award-winning newcomers to local gems that make SF’s food culture truly unforgettable.

1. Tony’s pizza Napoletana

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Cheap eats 2025: #43
• Taste Atlas: Californian style pizza, Pizza Margherita

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana consistently ranks at the top of nearly every best pizza list in the U.S., so naturally, it was a must-visit on our San Francisco food tour.

We waited in line for about an hour, but the buzzing energy outside Tony’s made the time pass quickly. Once seated at a cozy outdoor table, we dove into the award-winning pizza menu. One immediately stood out; the Margherita, which won the World Pizza Cup in Naples. Only 73 are made per day, adding to its reputation and exclusivity.

Having tried my fair share of authentic pizzas in Naples, I was curious to see how this one compared. Priced at $28.50, the Margherita at Tony’s didn’t disappoint. With its thin, blistered crust, fresh San Marzano tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella, it captured everything I love about true Neapolitan pizza. Honestly, I’d dare to say it was just as good as in Italy.

2. Hog Island Oyster Co

🏅 Recognitions
• Opinionated About Dining Casual 2025: 747
• Taste Atlas: New England Clam Chowder, Cioppino, Grilled Cheese & Po’ Boy
• Michelin Guide: Nomination

While visiting the iconic Hog Island Oyster Co. in San Francisco, I decided to try something a little heartier than oysters: the rustic seafood stew. This beautifully crafted dish included Manila clams, mussels, lingcod, Gulf shrimp, squid, tomato, garlic, oregano, and Calabrian chili, all served with a slice of ACME levain toast. Priced at $32, it instantly reminded me of a classic Cioppino; a beloved local seafood staple.

The flavors were absolutely stunning. The broth was rich and layered, with the perfect amount of heat from the Calabrian chili and depth from the slow-cooked tomato and garlic. The seafood was ultra-fresh and tender, perfectly absorbing the spicy, herby base.

To be honest, this might just be the best seafood stew I’ve ever tasted. If you’re dining at Hog Island Oyster Co. and want something beyond oysters, this dish is an absolute must-try, bold, warming, and unforgettable.

3. B. Patisserie

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Cheap eats 2025 #58

During our pastry tour of San Francisco, B. Patisserie was the rare spot where we did not have to wait in line. The relaxed entry set the tone for a pleasant visit, but the real highlight was the bakery’s celebrated Kouign Amann, priced at 4 USD.

This was my first taste of a Kouign Amann, and it immediately became one of my favorite pastries ever. The caramelized exterior offered a light crunch, while the inside remained wonderfully buttery and layered. Each bite balanced sweetness and rich flavor in a way that showcases the precise technique for which B. Patisserie is known.

4. Swan Oyster Depot

🏅 Recognitions

• OAD Casual 2025: #46
• Featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil
• San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best: Discovery
• Michelin Guide: Nomination
• TasteAtlas: Best Crab Louie in the world, Sashimi, Stout & Raw Oyster, Californian Clam Chowder

I arrived at Swan Oyster Depot around 11:00 AM on a weekday and, as expected, found a line wrapping around the corner. Luckily, the wait was only about twenty minutes, and the anticipation made the experience all the more exciting.

The moment I stepped inside, the atmosphere was bustling and full of energy. The place is counter-only, and the vibe is old-school and authentic with a team of friendly, fast-moving men behind the counter, expertly preparing seafood while chatting with customers. Guests were also interacting among themselves, which created a warm, communal feeling you rarely find in modern dining.

To start, I ordered a half portion of the Sicilian sashimi, a refreshing mix of scallops, salmon, tuna, and a fourth mystery fish, all topped with capers, red onion, and olive oil. The dish was bright, clean, and perfectly seasoned. Next, I went for the famous Crab Louie, served with their signature Thousand Island dressing; and it absolutely lived up to the hype. Fresh, sweet crab meat paired beautifully with the creamy dressing and crisp vegetables.

As a bonus, one of the waiters offered me a taste of their house-smoked salmon, which is one of Swan’s specialties. It was incredibly flavorful, silky, and subtly smoky. A must-order if you’re visiting. If you’re looking for a true San Francisco seafood institution, Swan Oyster Depot is a can’t-miss spot with exceptional freshness and an unforgettable local vibe.

5. Tartine bakery

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Cheap Eats 2025: #84
• Featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil
• Taste Atlas: Best Californian sourdough in the world
• Michelin Guide:

Tartine Bakery was the first bakery in San Francisco where we actually had to queue outside, offering a different experience from what we’re used to in Europe. The line moved fairly quickly, and once inside, we were rewarded with incredible pastries and well-crafted coffee.

One standout was the lemon tart, which was as beautiful as it was flavorful, zesty, creamy, and perfectly balanced. Tartine’s pastry case was filled with tempting options, all made with exceptional technique and fresh ingredients.

Compared to somewhere like B. Patisserie, the vibe at Tartine was noticeably busier and more fast-paced. While it’s not the ideal spot to settle in for a long, quiet coffee break, it’s perfect for a quick bite or grabbing something to go while exploring the city..

6. Sotto Mare

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2024: #6
• Taste Atlas: Chowder, Cioppino & Crab Louie

Sotto Mare is one of the most renowned seafood restaurants in San Francisco, located in the heart of North Beach. Known for its no-frills charm and consistently great food, it’s no surprise that the wait can be long. We waited about an hour, but thankfully were able to grab drinks next door while keeping a buzzer in hand.

Once seated at the bar inside the restaurant, the atmosphere was lively and full of locals and tourists alike. The service was efficient and friendly, and the open kitchen added to the authentic feel of the place.

We started with two classics: the Blue Cheese Wedge Salad for $10 and a generous Crab Louie for $37. Both were fresh and well-prepared, with the Crab Louie especially standing out thanks to its sweet crab meat and creamy dressing. For the main course, I ordered the Lobster Ravioli ($28.95), while my vegetarian mom went for the Fettuccine Alfredo ($16). Both dishes were comforting, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The lobster ravioli was rich without being heavy, and the Alfredo sauce was creamy and well balanced.

7. State Bird Provisions

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2025: #183
• Featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil
• San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best: Discovery
• Michelin Guide: 1 Star

When it comes to interactive dining experiences in San Francisco, State Bird Provisions was easily one of my favorites. The restaurant’s dim sum-style concept, where servers walk around with carts and trays offering a rotating selection of small plates, is perfect for anyone who enjoys shared dining and trying as many creative dishes as possible.

We managed to snag a last-minute reservation for the early dinner slot at 5:30 PM, and when we arrived, the restaurant was already completely full and buzzing with energy. Impressive for a place that had just opened its doors for the evening.

The service was exceptional, especially in regard to my mom’s vegetarian diet. The staff was incredibly attentive, clearly stating whether each dish on offer was suitable for her, which made the experience feel even more thoughtful and inclusive.

Over the course of the evening, we sampled a variety of unique, seasonal small plates, including:
• The wedge salad with red pepper ranch and quinoa crunch ($6) — crisp, creamy, and full of texture
• The smoked trout-allium chip n’ dip ($15) — playful, smoky, and deeply satisfying
• Steamed egg tofu with pickled honshimeji mushrooms and garlic chili oil ($9) — delicate and beautifully balanced
• And a few warm dishes like the beef short ribs and potato-corn dumplings, which rounded out the meal with richness and depth

Each dish arrived at its own rhythm, adding to the sense of discovery that makes dining here so fun. If you’re into creative Californian cuisine served in a non-traditional format, State Bird Provisions is a must-visit.

8. Mama’s on Washingtonsquare

🏅 Recognitions
• Taste Atlas: Best Montechristo Sandwich in the world

Before arriving in San Francisco, I had never even tried a Monte Cristo sandwich, but once I discovered that one of the best versions in the world could be found at Mama’s on Washington Square, it instantly went on the list.

We waited just 15 minutes outside before being welcomed into this charming, bustling brunch spot in North Beach. Guests order at the counter, where the vibe is upbeat and the staff keeps things moving smoothly. After placing our order, we were given a number and headed to our table while soaking in the cozy, nostalgic ambiance. Think walls lined with newspaper reviews and celebrity photos, including one of LeBron James.

Of course, we had to try their famous Monte Cristo sandwich ($19.50) ; a decadent mix of roasted turkey breast, honey baked ham, cheddar and Gruyère cheese, battered in egg, grilled to golden perfection, and served with housemade jam. The result? Absolutely delicious. It leaned toward the sweet side, thanks to the jam and French toast-like exterior, but was perfectly balanced by the richness of the cheese and meat.

Even with the Monte Cristo as the clear standout, the rest of the brunch menu looked incredible, making it hard to stick to just one dish. I’d absolutely return, if not for another Monte Cristo, then to explore more of their homestyle, elevated brunch classics.

9. City view Restaurant

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2023: #58
• Featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil
• San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best: Discovery
• Michelin Guide: Nomination

When locals who lived in Hong Kong recommended City View Restaurant to us, we knew it had to be good. Located in San Francisco’s Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in the United States, City View delivers an authentic dim sum experience that lives up to the hype.

When we arrived, the restaurant was already nearly full, buzzing with energy and classic Chinese banquet-style vibes. The service was efficient, and the menu offered a wide range of dim sum staples.

We ordered a mix of dishes to share:
• Shrimp dumplings (9 USD) — fresh and delicate
• Tofu skin rolls (7.50 USD) — rich and flavorful
• Chili oil wontons (10 USD) — a standout dish with a perfect balance of heat and umami
• Shanghai siu long bao (8 USD) — comforting and juicy
• Sautéed green beans — a great, crunchy side

The chili oil wontons in particular were absolutely incredible; perfectly spiced, silky, and packed with flavor, and definitely worth a return visit on their own.

If you’re craving high-quality dim sum in San Francisco with an authentic Cantonese feel, City View is a spot you shouldn’t miss.

10. La Taqueria

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Cheap Eats 2025: #83
• Taste Atlas: Best burrito in the world & Best Mission-style burrito in the world
• Michelin Guide: Nomination

The Mission District is one of San Francisco’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, known for its street art, energy, and of course incredible Mexican food. Among all the taquerias in the area, La Taqueria is often mentioned as the place to go for the best burrito in San Francisco, and we had to find out for ourselves.

We waited in line for about 15 minutes, which moved quickly, and stepped into a cantina-style eatery full of locals and travelers alike. The vibe was casual and upbeat, with the kitchen working in full swing behind the counter.

I ordered their signature Super Burrito with Carne Asada, beans, pico de gallo, sour cream, and avocado for 14 USD. The verdict? Absolutely one of the best burritos I’ve ever had. The meat was tender and flavorful, the ingredients fresh, and the sour cream added a creamy richness that really appealed to my Western palate, something you don’t always find in traditional Mexican-style burritos.