39 Best Restaurants in San Francisco, CA in 2024
Explore the best of the Bay Area with a comprehensive guide to the most exciting restaurants in San Francisco. Known for its impressive number of Michelin Star restaurants, this city has so much to offer restaurant goers.
From vegan sushi bars to elevated Nordic cuisine there is sure to be a fabulous dining experience awaiting you in San Francisco. Explore fresh West Coast seafood, Chinatown favorites, Mexican-inspired brunch spots and so much more. Restaurants in San Francisco offer something for everyone to enjoy.
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Discover the Best San Francisco Restaurants
It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of restaurants in San Francisco. This sprawling coastal city has an abundance of great food from almost every country imaginable. Don’t miss out on a single experience when you embark on one of the many food tours in San Francisco. These interactive tours explore hidden gems, local favorites, marketplaces, bakeries and so much more. Explore the restaurants in San Francisco while being guided by a knowledgeable local for an unforgettable experience.
The 39 Best Places To Eat in San Francisco, CA
1. Abacá
Indulge in the highest quality Filipino cuisine at Abacá. This Michelin-starred restaurant in San Francisco first splashed onto the culinary scene in 2018 when it won Eater San Francisco’s Pop Up Of The Year Award. This family-owned restaurant offers brunch, lunch and dinner of enticing Filipino-American cuisine and is located in the Kimpton Alton Hotel on the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf.
The Vibe
Vibrant green palm fronds adorn the upper level of the dining room with natural wood elements and plenty of soft sunlight streaming in.
What to Order
For dinner order the Sisig fried rice with chicharrón, poached egg and pickled onion. If you are dining during brunch try the signature Filipino breakfast with pineapple-cured chicken, garlic rice, sunny-side-up eggs and cucumber atchara.
Abacá | 2700 Jones St., San Francisco, CA 94133 | $$$
2. Kin Khao
When Bangkok-born and raised Chef Pim Techamuanvivit set out to establish her own Thai eatery it stemmed from a lack of good quality Thai food in her area. Determined to recreate the vibrant flavors of her youth, she established Kin Khao, which translates to "let’s eat" in Thai. Kin Khao has carved out an impressive reputation for itself among the many Michelin-star restaurants in San Francisco.
The Vibe
This restaurant in San Francisco is simple and clean with none of the stuffy rigidity generally associated with Michelin Star establishments.
What to Order
Order the Plah Pla Muek featuring charred Monterray Bay squid in a spicy and tangy seafood sauce topped with crunchy peanuts and fresh cilantro.
Kin Khao | 55 Cyril Magnin St., San Francisco, CA 94102 | $$$
3. Birdsong
A Michelin-star restaurant in San Francisco serving contemporary American cuisine. The menu at Birdsong focuses on using the entirety of each ingredient which is locally sourced and artfully prepared.
The Vibe
With rustic exposed brick, plush seating and an open dining room Birdsong offers an elegant dinner experience. Be sure to make reservations for this restaurant in San Francisco, because the tables fill up quickly.
What to Order
There are two tasting menus available at Birdsong. The Discovery is a two-hour coursed experience and the Journey is a fully immersive three-hour dining experience. The contents of the tasting menu change frequently due to seasonal availability.
Birdsong | 1085 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94103 | $$$$
4. Californios
Enjoy a contemporary take on Mexican cuisine at Californios. This elegant Mexican eatery combines traditional flavors with innovative techniques. After winning a Michelin star this restaurant in San Francisco exploded in popularity and is a must-visit for serious food lovers.
The Vibe
Modern décor and a warm inviting atmosphere make dining at Californios a delightful experience.
What to Order
Elaborate seasonal tasting menus are available with a reservation, allowing you to taste the best of the best San Francisco food.
Californios | 355 11th St., San Francisco, CA 94103 | $$$$
5. Nari
At Nari, a contemporary Thai chef reimagines classic fine dining. This exciting Thai restaurant infuses heritage recipes with modern California cuisine.
The Vibe
Nari is a sleek modern restaurant with Asian design elements that entertain the eye. It stands out among many Michelin star restaurants in San Francisco with its unique take on Thai cuisine.
What to Order
The Thai-inspired menu features multiple courses of gourmet cuisine. The menu changes frequently, however, if available, try the Yum Tawai, a medley of summer vegetables, tart fruits and herbs in a curried peanut dressing with sesame seeds.
Nari | 1625 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115 | $$$
6. The Shota
Oddly located in an office building, The Shota packs a flavorful punch with its Michelin-worthy omakase. This restaurant in San Francisco is making a name for itself with its premium selection of fresh seafood and imported Japanese sake.
The Vibe
The interiors are cool industrial chic with an upscale atmosphere.
What to Order
The menu is subject to change but it regularly features premium ingredients such as razor clam, Dungeness crab, Hokkaido sea urchin and so much more.
The Shota | 115 Sansome St., San Francisco, CA 94104 | $$$$
7. Sons & Daughters
Get a taste of New Nordic cuisine at Sons & Daughters. This elegant restaurant in San Francisco is a Michelin-star winner and is known for its sustainable dishes.
The Vibe
The lively dining room wraps around the open-concept kitchen for an inviting dining experience.
What to Order
Due to the seasonality of the tasting menu, it is best to contact the restaurant for specifics before your reservation.
Sons & Daughters | 708 Bush St., San Francisco, CA 94108 | $$$$
8. The Progress
Located in the historic Progress Theatre, The Progress restaurant brings classic charm to modern-day fine dining. The menu is an innovative blend of Northern Californian and Nordic elements that change frequently to reflect the seasons.
The Vibe
The Progress is a beautiful architectural masterpiece with exposed brick, natural greenery and sunlight streaming in from the second-story skylight above. This restaurant in San Francisco is highly sought after due to its Michelin Star status, meaning reservations are required
What to Order
Explore the intriguing guinea hen schnitzel served with bay shrimp remoulade and stone fruit hot sauce.
The Progress | 1525 Fillmore St., San Francisco, CA 94115 | $$$$
9. Azalina’s
Chef Azalina Eusope is a fifth-generation street vendor from Penang Island in Malaysia who has gained national recognition for her exquisite flavors. Azalina’s is known for its authentic home-cooked Malaysian fare. Azalina’s also offers cooking classes which can be a fun date idea in San Francisco for foodies.
The Vibe
The vibrant interior of the restaurant is adorned with colorful wallpaper, brightly painted shelves and greenery.
What to Order
A menu of new Malaysian cuisine is released every couple of weeks so check out Azalina’s latest offerings before visiting. If available, try the Raw Ling cod umai, a Malaysian ceviche.
Azalina’s | 499 Ellis St., San Francisco, CA 94102 | $$
10. Scoma’s Restaurant
Take a trip to the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf and dine at Scoma’s Restaurant. Established in 1965 this restaurant in San Francisco is a staple in the community known for serving fresh West Coast seafood. The old-school atmosphere and dreamy view make Scoma’s one of the most romantic restaurants in San Francisco.
The Vibe
Dining at Scoma’s Restaurant is an unforgettable experience featuring seaside views and attentive service.
What to Order
Experience Scoma’s pier-to-plate pledge with a flaky Alaskan halibut entreé featuring sweet pea risotto cakes, buttered spring onions and pea shoots.
Scoma’s Restaurant | 1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133 | $$$
11. Golden Boy Pizza
Take your date to a funky pizza restaurant in San Francisco with a trip to Golden Boy Pizza. Renowned for its innovative square San Francisco style of pizza, this pizza joint is a quirky historical restaurant that has been operating since 1978.
The Vibe
A laidback pizza joint with fun vintage décor and pizza for sale by the slice.
What to Order
Order the interesting clam and garlic pizza with fresh baby clams, tangy garlic and fresh parsley on a handmade pizza crust.
Golden Boy Pizza | Multiple Locations | $$
12. Copra
Dive into upscale Indian cuisine at Copra. With a menu featuring childhood favorites from Chef Sri this restaurant in San Francisco brings together flavors from Indian street carts, carnivals, weddings and family recipes.
The Vibe
Copra has stunning interiors featuring lush greenery, wicker back seating, intricately braided ropes and a neutral color palette.
What to Order
Tuck into the hearty varuval spice-crusted hamachi collar with creamy coconut rice, blue lake beans, moilee broth and black mustard.
Copra | 1700 Fillmore St., San Francisco, CA 94115 | $$$
13. Noodle In A Haystack
The cleverly named Noodle in A Haystack is a family business run by a husband and wife duo. This restaurant in San Francisco has been making headlines for its popular tasting menu featuring different types of ramen.
The Vibe
Noodle In A Haystack was once a pop-up shop but is now an immensely popular brick-and-mortar with reservations sold out months in advance.
What to Order
The ramen-tasting menu features seasonal offerings that change frequently.
Noodle In A Haystack | 4601 Geary Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94118 | $$$
14. Daytrip
Dining at Daytrip is a party everyone is invited to. This restaurant near San Francisco doesn't take itself too seriously and is known for its fun and flirty fermentation-driven menu meant to be shared.
The Vibe
This quirky bottle shop is a laid-back, casual place to catch up with friends while sipping on an organic, responsibly produced beverages.
What to Order
The menu changes daily so go for a culinary adventure and leave your preconceived notions about the typical wine bar at the door.
Day Trip | 4316 Telegraph Ave., Oakland, CA 94609 | $$$
15. Cotogna
Located in San Franscisco’s famous Jackson Square Cotogna is a celebration of Italian cuisine. This restaurant in San Francisco is a top-notch Italian restaurant known for its housemade pasta and fresh seafood cooked over a wood-fired grill.
The Vibe
Traditional Italian-inspired décor with an air of California cool makes this upscale eatery irresistible. Spacious outdoor seating is available for al fresco dining.
What to Order
Dive into the house-made tagliatelle with morel mushroom and green garlic.
Cotogna | 490 Pacific Ave., San Francisco, CA 94133​​ | $$$
16. Maison Nico
One of the hands-down best restaurants in San Francisco for brunch is Maison Nico. This popular patisserie serves all the delicate French classics such as quiche de saison, pan au chocolate and savory French pâté.
The Vibe
Dining at Maison Nico is like taking a trip to France with the open and airy European interiors and immaculately curated menu.
What to Order
Delight in a flaky chestnut croissant complemented by a hand-brewed breakfast beverage.
Maison Nico | 710 Montgomery St., San Francisco, CA 94111 | $$
17. B. Patisserie
Step into a refined, yet modern French salon at B. Patisserie. This authentic bakeshop features hand-laminated croissants, delicate macarons and savory tartines.
The Vibe
Relaxed, yet sophisticated, sipping on a coffee at B. Patisserie is a stellar way to start your morning.
What to Order
B. Patisserie is one of the best restaurants in San Francisco to enjoy a French treat. Try the popular gluten-free almond cake or the rich chocolate caramel toffee mouse.
B. Patisserie | 2821 California St., San Francisco, CA 94115 | $$
18. El Mil Amores
Dig into a traditional Mexican breakfast at El Mil Amores. This brunch restaurant in San Francisco has gained local acclaim for its upgraded take on traditional Mexican breakfast foods.
The Vibe
This friendly neighborhood eatery is only open for breakfast, brunch and lunch so make sure to stop by early.
What to Order
Chef Becerra changes the menu every three months but long-standing favorites are chipotle eggs Benedict, tres leches pancakes and huevos rancheros.
El Mil Amores | 2780 21st St., San Francisco, CA 94110 | $$
19. Outerlands
Popular restaurant Outerlands splashed onto the brunch scene with new American cuisine and quickly became popular for its homemade pastries and fresh bread. This rustic neighborhood eatery is one of the best places in San Francisco to eat breakfast.
The Vibe
With an interior of reclaimed wood and spacious outdoor seating, Outerlands is a popular brunch spot with locals. Brunch is on a first come first served basis so be prepared for crowds and arrive early.
What to Order
Order the house signature Dutch pancake topped with seasonal fruits, nuts and creamy housemade ricotta.
Outerlands | ​​4001 Judah St., San Francisco, CA 94122 | $$
20. Terrene
Located in the scenic 1 Hotel, Terrene offers a top-notch breakfast experience every morning, along with brunch on the weekend. This restaurant in San Francisco focuses on using locally sourced organic ingredients to compose its dishes.
The Vibe
The ambiance in Terrene is one of quiet, comfortable luxury. The sturdy wood décor, natural greenery and elite service make this brunch unforgettable.
What to Order
Indulge your sweet tooth with sweet potato waffles topped with vanilla bean syrup or stick to savory and try the vegan wellness wrap packed with vegetables.
Terrene | 8 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94105 | $$
21. Palette Tea House
Brunch is about more than sugary sweet pastries and pancakes. Explore the savory side of brunch at Palette Tea House. This upscale restaurant in San Francisco offers authentic Cantonese cuisine such as dim sum, dumplings and bao for those looking to put the lunch in brunch.
The Vibe
With colorful Chinese lanterns overhanging a classy upscale dining room, Palette Tea House blends traditional Chinese culture with modern fine dining.
What to Order
Splurge on the XO shrimp dumplings or the salt and pepper calamari.
Palette Tea House | 900 N. Point St., Ste. B-201A, San Francisco, CA 94109 | $$
22. Green’s Restaurant
One of the first restaurants near San Francisco to be totally vegetarian, Green’s Restaurant is a beacon in the plant-based restaurant community that has been celebrating vegetables since 1979.
The Vibe
Dining at Green’s Restaurant is a truly nourishing experience. With modern earthy décor and even a live tree growing through the dining room, this restaurant stands out.
What to Order
Order the Brentwood corn pizza topped with basil, ricotta, roasted garlic, asiago and a refreshing squeeze of lime. Don’t miss out on the hand-pressed Green’s cocktails packed with antioxidants and fresh flavors.
Green’s Restaurant | 28621 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 | $$$
23. Enjoy Vegetarian
Explore vegetarian Chinese cuisine at Enjoy Vegetarian. Inspired by Buddhist principles this family-run restaurant in San Francisco has won countless awards for its flavorful plant-based dishes.
The Vibe
Enjoy Vegetarian is a casual Chinese joint serving fresh vegetarian fare with friendly service.
What to Order
Indulge in Chinese classics such as crispy fried wontons, vegetarian General Tso’s chicken and so much more.
Enjoy Vegetarian | 754 Kirkham St., San Francisco, CA 94122 | $$
24. Wildseed
Led by chef Adriano Paganini, Wildseed is a plant-based restaurant and bar in San Francisco. This eatery strives to serve seasonal ingredients prepared with love and care.
The Vibe
This is a casual eatery with modern décor featuring gold accents and natural colors.
What to Order
Try the decadent spicy rigatoni alla vodka with pomodoro sauce, vegan cream, roasted garlic, chili and spicy Parmesan.
Wildseed | Multiple Locations | $$
25. Mamahuhu
Savor Asian fusion at Mamahuhu. Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Brandon Jew, this restaurant in San Francisco is a funky and fun establishment serving cuisine with global Asian influences. While not entirely vegetarian, Mamahuhu does have many options for those who don’t eat meat.
The Vibe
Mamahuhu serves food family-style and has a creative interior with Chinese influence.
What to Order
Try the tomato garlic chow mein served with cherry tomatoes, crispy garlic, garlic chives, fried Wo Chong tofu, peppers, onions and sweet and savory tomato gravy.
Mamahuhu | Multiple Locations | $$
26. Shizen
Branch out with vegan sushi at Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar & Izakaya. This restaurant in San Francisco is dedicated to ocean conservation and serves gourmet vegan sushi. Reservations are required as this eatery is very popular.
The Vibe
Light bright and airy, Shizen is a welcoming upscale eatery and one of the many fun restaurants in San Francisco with an out-of-the-box concept.
What to Order
Try the Open Invitation specialty roll with crispy pumpkin tempura, spiced burdock, shredded tofu, tapioca, avocado crema and renkon chips all rolled up in sticky sushi rice.
Shizen | 370 14th St., San Francisco, CA 94103 | $$$
27. Rad Radish
Dine at a 100-percent plant-based eatery at Rad Radish. This restaurant in San Francisco serves affordable healthy vegan food.
The Vibe
Radically inclusive with hippie-dippy décor, Rad Radish is a refreshing place to grab a nourishing vegan meal.
What to Order
Bite into the juicy Wildseed burger with mushroom, spinach, a savory brown rice patty, burnt tomato chutney, grilled onion and crisp lettuce.
Rad Radish | 301 Hayes St., San Francisco, CA 94102 | $$
28. City View Restaurant
Fill up on dim sum without breaking the bank at City View Restaurant in San Francisco. This Cantonese eatery serves affordable authentic cuisine.
The Vibe
This restaurant in San Francisco is casual and modern with fast service.
What to Order
Stand-out dishes at City View Restaurant include juicy har cheung, flavorful xiao long bao and innovative fried rice rolls.
City View Restaurant | 33 Walter U. Lum Pl., San Francisco, CA 94108 | $$
29. Mensho
Discover the noodle haven of San Francisco at Mensho. This restaurant in San Francisco offers affordable ramen with vegetarian and vegan options available. Mensho is a must-visit for ramen enthusiasts and budget-conscious diners.
The Vibe
Enjoy a casual eating environment with Japanese-inspired décor at Mensho.
What to Order
The spicy miso ramen is a hearty favorite of local diners.
Mensho | 672 Geary St., San Francisco, CA 94102 | $$
30. Dumpling Home
This casual restaurant in San Francisco excels in making delicate hand-stuffed Asian-style dumplings. Dumpling Home is a recipient of the Bib Gourmand award from Michelin, meaning it offers exquisite cuisine at an affordable price.
The Vibe
With intricate murals and Asian-inspired décor, Dumpling Home is an interesting place to grab a filling and affordable meal.
What to Order
Order the popular juicy pork bao or the vegetarian green onion pancake.
Dumpling Home | 298 Gough St., San Francisco, CA 94102 | $$
31. Tacos Oscar
A hole-in-the-wall South American eatery serving authentic tacos at a reasonable price is Taco’s Oscar. This quirky taco restaurant near San Francisco offers a seasonal menu with gluten-free and vegan options available.
The Vibe
Kid-friendly and dog-friendly Taco’s Oscar has an inclusive outdoor dining area for guests to enjoy during brunch, lunch and dinner.
What to Order
Bite into the chilaquiles verdes or the taco de barbacoa with tender and juicy lamb and beef barbacoa, habanero tahini sauce and fresh onions and cilantro.
Taco’s Oscar | 420 40th St., Oakland, CA 94609 | $
32. Teni East Kitchen
Featured in Michelin’s 2019 California Guide, Teni East Kitchen is a restaurant near San Francisco serving traditional Burmese cuisine at affordable prices.
The Vibe
Teni East Kitchen is upscale fast casual with a family-friendly atmosphere.
What to Order
Start with the pillowy soft roti with dip as an appetizer and then indulge in the hearty coconut chicken with marble potatoes.
Teni East Kitchen | 4015 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94611 | $$
33. China Village
Get your fill of classic Chinese cuisine at China Village. This family-friendly restaurant near San Francisco serves authentic Szechuan-style dishes.
The Vibe
Bring the whole family to China Village and experience traditional cuisine, hand-crafted beverages and courteous service.
What to Order
Enjoy one of the chef’s signature dishes such as the boiling and spicy whole fish or the Changsha chicken clay pot.
China Village | 1335 Solano Ave., Albany, CA 94706 | $$
34. Hog Island Oyster Co.
If you love oysters then Hog Island Oyster Co. is the spot for you. This restaurant in San Francisco specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced West Coast oysters. This unique joint also offers a walk-up oyster bar and tours of the oyster farms.
The Vibe
Hog Island Oyster Co. is a family-friendly experience with a laid-back atmosphere.
What to Order
Oysters are seasonal so check the website for the lowdown on what oysters are available before your visit.
Hog Island Oyster Co. | 1 Ferry Building, Ste. 11, San Francisco, CA 94111 | $$
35. Sam Wo Restaurant
Experience San Francisco's historic Chinatown at Sam Wo Restaurant. This restaurant in San Francisco has been serving authentic Chinese fare since 1908, making it one of the oldest places to eat in San Francisco. China Town is packed with things to do in San Francisco making Sam Wo Restaurant a great pitstop during your adventures.
The Vibe
This family-friendly establishment offers great service and authentic fare for an affordable price.
What to Order
Order the popular Sam Wo's signature barbecue pork rice noodle rolls.
Sam Wo Restaurant | 713 Clay St., San Francisco, CA 94108 | $$
36. Mister Jiu’s
Explore contemporary Chinese-American fusion at Mister Jiu’s. Located in the historic Chinatown neighborhood, this restaurant in San Francisco is a Michelin Star recipient. Dining at renowned Chef Brandon Jew’s eatery is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and does require a reservation.
The Vibe
Mister Jiu’s is upscale fine dining with tasteful Chinese-inspired décor.
What to Order
Dining at Mister Jui’s is a banquet-style experience featuring a seasonal menu of Chinese-American dishes.
Mister Jiu’s | 28 Waverly Place, San Francisco, CA 94108 | $$$$
37. House of Prime Rib
Enjoy classic American steakhouse dining at House of Prime Rib. Established in 1906, this restaurant in San Francisco is a Californian institution serving traditional English-style prime rib. The meat is carved at your table for an exciting and interactive experience.
The Vibe
Dining at House of Prime Rib is a stately, upscale occasion with white tablecloths, rich leathers and attentive service.
What to Order
You have to try the prime rib. The juicy cut of perfectly marbled beef pairs nicely with a variety of available sides.
House of Prime Rib | 1906 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94109 | $$$
38. Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup
A popular restaurant in San Francisco serving Korean food and rich soups is Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup. This eatery is very popular and often has a long waitlist of people eager to enjoy its famous soups.
The Vibe
Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup is a casual eatery with an inviting atmosphere.
What to Order
Try the popular beef royal brisket bone soup with handmade noodles and a rich, silky broth.
Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup | 1620 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115 | $$$
39. Mandalay Restaurant
Savor traditional Burmese cuisine at Mandalay Restaurant. This restaurant in San Francisco is a 2024 James Beard Award winner and has been included in Michelin’s San Francisco restaurant guides.
The Vibe
Mandalay Restaurant is a colorful eatery with casual service and a family-friendly environment.
What to Order
Order the tea leaf salad prepared with imported Burmese tea leaves, toasted with lentil seeds, ground shrimp, fried garlic, green pepper, sesame seeds and peanuts with dressing.
Mandalay Restaurant | ​​4348 California St., San Francisco, CA 94118 | $$
San Francisco offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and occasion. You can enjoy the sophistication of Michelin star fine dining, savor authentic dishes at historic Chinatown eateries or relax at neighborhood taco joints with casual, flavorful meals. Each dining experience is an opportunity to explore and appreciate the city’s diverse food culture, and with so many places to try, whether you're a San Fran local or just visiting, you're sure to find something to suit your palate and broaden your culinary horizons.
For even more ways to explore San Francisco and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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