San Francisco, the only city and county within the state of California, packs close to 900,000 people within 49 square miles. This roughly seven-by-seven mile area is filled with hundreds of world-class destinations — SFMOMA, the de Young Museum, countless cultural and shopping districts — with equally amazing restaurants in between them to refuel at as you take in the sights.
Whether you’re seeking a quick on-the-go bite or an opulent, white tablecloth affair, there is something here for every taste and budget. These are our San Francisco Best Lunch winners, selected by our editors – look for our readers’ choice winner, selected by our audience.
Feature Photo: Souvla
In and Around Downtown:
Embarcadero, FiDi, Union Square, Chinatown
The Marina favorite Italian restaurant, A16 has just opened a new location in the ferry building, and we could not be more excited. Less is definitely more with these simple-ingredient, yet tasty sandwiches that make the perfect grab and go lunch. And let me tell you, this place does not mess around with their pizza by the slice.
138 Mason St, Union Square
Although the original Bodega Bistro closed in 2017, owner Matthew Ho has evolved his family restaurant into the Bodega SF that we have today, serving up traditional North Vietnamese cuisine in the Tenderloin. Stop by for happy hour to get a bowl of vegan pho with your One Night In Saigon, an innovative mix of Hennesy and Vietnamese coffee. Or stop by for lunch or dinner to get a lemongrass pork chop with nuoc mam, and bun cha with pork belly and meatballs.
545 Sansome St, San Francisco
This new spot evokes the comfortable atmosphere and recognizable café menu that others of its kind typically have, but Café Sebastian’s bites are even more curated and elevated for a more refined — but still casual — experience. Indulge in a fresh pastry and a coffee to start the day, or try one of their other savory dishes.
Ferry Building, #11, Embarcadero
Located in the historic San Francisco Ferry Building, In the heart of the historical Ferry Building Marketplace, Hog Island Oyster serves up fresh shellfish in front of gorgeous views of the bay. Get a mix of West and East Coast oysters to taste the differences, and follow it up with their clam chowder or delectable ceviche, paired with one of their craft cocktails. The line might be long, but it moves fast, and no matter what time you sit down, you’re going to get seafood that’s fresh off the boat.
1 Ferry Plz, Ste 33, San Francisco
Despite the wealth of diverse food options available in the city, there is a serious lack of Cambodian eateries. That’s now changed thanks to Lunette, a new addition to the Ferry Building offering noodle dishes, curries and more, opened by Nite Yun of Oakland’s now-closed Nyum Bai.
With soaring windows showcase vibrant views of San Francisco’s treasured Ferry Building, Embarcadero, and Bay Bridge, and an open exhibition kitchen offering “Chef’s Table” guests a front-row seat dining experience, One Market Restaurant has set the standard for sophisticated dining in San Francisco since 1993. A wood-fired grill, multiple private dining rooms, outdoor patio, and vibrant bar further enhance the ambiance.
399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco
This gorgeous red brick building sits right on the waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge. As the name promises, they have a top-notch raw bar, with oysters from all over the world, fresh dungeness crab, and tiger prawn cocktails. Make sure to check their daily featured oyster for the chef’s recommended offering. For lunch, try their steamed black mussels with risotto or go for dinner to sample their wood oven roasted petrale sole with pancetta and fennel marmalade. This is the perfect place for a birthday dinner, fancy date night, or to wine and dine work colleagues.
In or Around Fisherman’s Wharf:
Ghirardelli Square, Russian Hill, North Beach
39 Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf
Pier Market is a tried-and-true dining establishment on Pier 39 — it was founded by the family that started the pier itself — and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Customers flock to this seafood restaurant to experience its signature mesquite-grilled seafood, and award-winning New England clam chowder.
A European-style cafe in the heart of North Beach offering authentic Italian cuisine and a wide selection of Italian and California wines. Try their classic Luigino pizza, a margarita pie, or their pizza Sofia, with arugula, prosciutto and shaved parmesan.
373 Columbus Avenue, North Beach
While the food scene in the City can be very fickle, Molinari Delicatessen is proof that real quality outlasts hype. The deli, which serves up classic Italian sandwiches with ingredients like sweet coppa, prosciutto di Parma and Sicilian style sausage, was established in 1896, making it one of the oldest delis in the United States. If you’re a fan of meatball sandwiches, theirs is a bucket list item.
On or Around Fillmore St.:
Fillmore, Japantown, Pacific Heights
1581 Webster St #206, Japantown
This Japanese restaurant may seem unassuming with its smaller space, but once you walk in, you’ll find yourself in a cozy restaurant that feels just like home. Their curry rice really taps into that hearty and comfortable ambiance, with various options from tender beef, fresh scallops, or juicy chicken – you can also choose your preferred level of spice to satisfy both those who aren’t big on heat and those who want to burn their mouth off. You can also get all manner of noodles, from calamari and kimchi udon to napolitan spaghetti.
3006 Buchanan St, San Francisco
Less of a restaurant and more of a takeout counter, Mama’s Luncheonette is the spot for those on the go — once the lines die down! If you find yourself late for work, grab one of Mama’s halal breakfast burritos, stuffed with tater tots, scrambled eggs, smoked salsa, cheddar and avocado. On your lunch break? Try the chicken tikka masala wrap or Sonny’s wild mushroom wrap — made for easy transport back to your desk.
1581 Webster St #235, Japantown
Walking through Japan Center, you’re going to be tempted by more ramen shops than you can count, but Marufuku is easily one of the best. Some might be turned off by chain restaurants, but with Marufuku, take a chance – you won’t regret it. For a true comfort dish, get their classic tonkotsu ramen with rich pork broth, or if you’re not a meat-eater, get their vegetable ramen with spinach noodles. You can also order extra broth and noodles on the side if you understandably just can’t get enough.
In or Around the Mission:
Mission District, Noe Valley
3232 16th St, San Francisco
A tribute to authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Bee’s Vietnamese Street Food menu has all the classics from broken rice dishes to noodle soups to Vietnamese coffee made traditionally with condensed milk.
211 Valencia St, Mission District
With your first bite of their warm Burmese samosas, you’ll find yourself transported to the streets of Myanmar. Their coconut chicken noodle soup is a new twist on an American classic, with chicken legs slow-cooked in coconut milk, seasoned with turmeric and garlic, and garnished with cilantro and chili. For something more traditionally Burmese, go for their Mohinga, a catfish chowder soup that’s beloved in Southern Burma, with its catfish, fish sauce, and lemongrass broth, topped with eggs and crunchy fried split peas.
710 Florida St, Mission District
Within the bright, colorful walls of Farmhouse Thai, you’ll be greeted with all manner of Thai dishes, some familiar and some new twists on old favorites. For something familiar, get their spicy Pad Kee Mow with crunchy bamboo shoots and bell pepper. If you’re in the mood for something that just screams Thai street food, go for their Basil Bomb, an explosion of calamari, prawns, scallops, crispy pork belly, and minced pork, all served up with fried egg. If you’re not too stuffed on pork and seafood, get their Rukna dessert platter to try their ultimate sweet selection.
2234 Mission St, San Francisco
Sit beneath the ornate paper dragon that snakes across the ceiling as you sample some of the best of the Chinese-American food scene in San Francisco. If you’re looking for a basic plate of orange chicken, you’re not going to find that here, but what you will find are creative dishes like thrice-cooked bacon and rice cakes, sichuan carbonara, and kung pao pastrami. For the adventurous, try the cabbage with pistachio milk – it might sound like an odd combination, but it’s a favorite for a reason.
2224 Mission St #A, San Francisco
Chef Shawn Naputi and business partner Shawn Camacho opened up Prubechu with the goal of sharing a taste of their childhood in Guam, bringing Chamorro food culture to San Francisco. Try dishes that you might not have heard of before, like their popular Appan Mendioka (braised cassava in coconut milk) or hearty Tinaktak (handmade egg noodles with beef). For dessert, they offer a twist on the familiar with their roasted banana donuts served with whipped cream or caramelized coconut candy ice cream cones.
2901 Mission St, San Francisco
This brightly-colored Arabic bakery is offering up a taste of the Arab world that’ll leave you feeling warm and happy. From their Batata Harra with hand-cut kennebec garlic fries to their Pali Cali flatbread with sumac-braised chicken, each dish offers up heart and comfort. Don’t miss out on ordering an assortment of a dozen desserts, including their knafeh, baklawa, and their popular halawa chocolate chip cookies which are crispy and nutty on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside.
3515 20th St B, San Francisco
City days can be draining, so what better lunch to refuel with than a sandwich? Or better yet, a Japanese sandwich. Tadaima is the perfect spot for this, with every kind of sandwich from savory chicken curry, shrimp or egg to a dessert sandwich with strawberries and cream; not to mention, the atmosphere evokes that of a quaint cafe.
Near Golden Gate Park:
Cole Valley, Haight, Richmond, Sunset
3554-3560 Taraval St, San Francisco
Located on the far outskirts of the sunset in the underrated strip off Taraval, Galinette offers a unique experience serving French bistro food not far from the ocean. There are some wonderfully casual options like pain au chocolate or a jambon buerre sandwich, or you can go a little more upscale with a classic hanger steak frite.
4055 Irving St, Outer Sunset
While Palm City might be most well known for its wines, their hoagies are simply to die for. From their chewy and crispy bread to their fresh toppings, you can’t go wrong with any sandwich on their menu. A favorite amongst regulars is the Italian American, with peppery arugula, salty parm, and fresh, lemony dressing. Or go for the Au Poivre, with generous slices of roasted beef, peppercorn aioli, and thinly sliced apple. They might be a bit on the pricey side, but each sandwich is easily big enough for two and the quality is undeniable.
In or Near Civic Center:
Hayes Valley, Castro
2272 Market St, San Francisco
Your next destination for after-work tapas, Canela is a Spanish bistro and wine bar in the Castro. Their happy hour prices are magnificos ($7 small plates anyone?) and their full menu is bubbling over with espumantes, sangria and a glorious selection of bites like patatas bravas, Spanish cheeses and jamón served many ways over.
298 Gough St, Civic Center
If you have a craving for some Xiao Long Bao, you can’t go wrong with Dumpling Home. Go with some friends or family and order all the dumplings that catch your eye to ensure you can have a little taste of everything. Their chicken bao with a crispy exterior and juicy interior is simply to die for, and you can’t miss out on their spicy pork bao buns with dough so soft and pillowy that you could take a nap on it. While there is often a long wait, once you sit down the service is fast and attentive.
558 Castro St, The Castro
This open-air patio restaurant lets you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Castro while dining on seasonal Californian cuisine. Their classic sandwiches are never a bad idea, whether that’s their vegetarian-friendly smoked eggplant with almond mozzarella or their cubano with chipotle aioli and kennebec chips. It’s an excellent place to go with a group of friends to share a pitcher of sangria, a plate of homemade focaccia bread with herb dipping oil, and the latest gossip.
306 Broderick Street, Western Addition
Chef Gonzalo Guzman opened Nopalito in February 2009 with the best of two worlds at the heart of it — Guzman’s traditional, from-scratch Mexican cooking and the Bay Area’s fresh, local ingredients. Snack on the signature spicy garbanzo beans and don’t skimp on the cocktails — the tequila and mezcal drinks are out of this world.
“Souvla,” which means “skewer” in Greek, is a small San Francisco-based chain of fast-casual restaurants offering a menu of pita wraps, salads, simple sides and a local favorite, their Greek frozen yogurts topped with everything from olive oil and sea salt flakes to baklava crumbles and honey syrup. Affordable and portable, the former First Lady — no, not that one — had Souvla on her flight from San Francisco back to D.C and wrote the staff a kind note.
After stints at some of the most renowned restaurants in San Francisco, including Coi, Quince and Michael Mina, Evan Rich and his wife Sarah opened Rich Table in 2012. With signature items like porcini doughnuts and sardine chips, Rich Table became an immediate hit. In 2017 the duo ventured into counter service and opened the first RT Rotisserie. It’s pretty simple here — as the name implies, the menu features rotisserie chicken, and elevated-yet-approachable sides like whole-roasted cauliflower and umami fries. The value for the quality here is unbeatable.
1658 Market St, Civic Center
First opened in 1979, Zuni has gone on to win various awards and the hearts of the bustling Market Street. Their menu changes frequently, but it’s always filled with seasonal produce and sustainably farmed meat and fish. Try their chicken for two roasted in a wood-fired oven, with scallions, dried currants, and skin so crispy it’ll sound like creme brulee when you tap it. You might also get to sample their morel mushrooms served on mashed fava bean crostone or a plate of pan-seared ling cod cheeks with shishito peppers.
Near AT&T Park and Chase Center:
Dogpatch, SoMa
214 Townsend St, San Francisco
Mestiza explores the fusion of different cultural flavor profiles, presenting Filipino dishes in a plant-forward menu. This restaurant’s diet-friendly offerings don’t take away from the diverse flavors and delicious options for everyone at the table. Tofu sisig, veggie lumpia and classic pork adobo await.
817 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco
This two-story waterfront destination in Mission Bay boasts bay views from every seat, both indoors and outside on its spacious decks. Seafood specialties include raw bar offerings; salads including an ahi tuna bowl; sandwiches like a Dungeness crab and bay shrimp roll; and local petrale sole served with mashed potatoes, vegetables and a lemon-caper beurre blanc. Draft beer, wine and a list full of tropical cocktail concoctions round out the beverage selection.
855 Terry A Francois Blvd, Central Waterfront
This classic American restaurant was originally a public boat ramp and bait shop back in the 50s, and has now become a favorite destination for good food and live music. A famous weekend brunch spot (from 10am to 3pm) serves up mouthwatering eggs benedict and bloody mary’s. You can also choose to come for a weeknight lunch or dinner to get the San Francisco classic of clam chowder in a bread bowl or tacos al pastor with tomatillo salsa. They’ve got draft beers and craft cocktails alongside Arnold Palmers for those that prefer something non-alcoholic.
In or Near Presidio:
Cow Hollow, Marina, Presidio Heights
Building A, 2 Marina Blvd, Fort Mason
As the name might imply, Greens is a vegetarian mainstay of San Francisco. On a cold and foggy day, opt for their fresh pappardelle pasta with zucchini sauce and green olive tapenade. When the sun is shining, get their caprese sandwich with nutty basil pesto on ciabatta bread. They also offer warm cornbread and housemade whole grain seed rolls to slather with cultured butter or honey butter. For those that love Mexican food but are tired of shredded meat tacos, try Greens’ summer squash quesadilla with avocado-tomatillo salsa and oaxaca cheese.
3640 Sacramento Street, Laurel Heights
A Michelin star restaurant in a quiet corner of the city near the Presidio, Spruce has been an insider favorite since its opening in 2007. The restaurant boasts numerous awards for its wine selection and food offerings, but the burger is perhaps the most lauded of all. Served on an English muffin bun, the patty is a blend of short rib, sirloin and brisket. The $22 price tag seems intimidating, but is well-warranted.
More Local Favorites in San Francisco
Who’s writing these?
Meet our always-hungry team of foodies who compiled this list.
Please let us know if we’ve missed your favorite eat@localgetaways.com.
