The Ultimate Guide to San Francisco's Finest Restaurants

I have put up a list of San Francisco's Finest Restaurants to eat at that will satisfy every appetite or occasion. This thorough guide illustrates the varied gastronomic scene of the city, spanning numerous cuisines, locations, and price ranges, from hidden gems to recognized restaurants. Each restaurant has its own narrative that captures the spirit of San Francisco via its delectable cuisine and inviting atmosphere. These restaurants are must-stops for anyone visiting for the first time or a seasoned resident.

I frequently update this list to reflect the dynamic character of the city's thriving dining scene, which is continuously changing in San Francisco. I make an effort to include eateries that were previously underappreciated, those that have recently improved their cuisine, and newly qualifying places (open for at least six months). By doing this, the list is kept current, inclusive, and illustrative of the dining scene in San Francisco.

San Francisco's Finest Restaurants

Boulevard

Boulevard recently received an outstanding remodel by renowned designer Ken Fulk. Indulge in an opulent dining experience there. After the pandemic, the restaurant has made a comeback, serving a multi-course prix fixe menu created by owner and chef Nancy Oakes and Dana Younkin.

The food emphasizes seasonal and local ingredients and embodies Californian culture. The Berkshire pork chop, which is roasted to a perfect obsidian char over a live fire, should not be missed. Sit down at a peacock blue booth with romantic spotlighting, and let the attentive staff make it an evening to remember.

Phone number: (415) 543-6084 Address: 1 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94105

Friends Only

Reserve a seat at Friends Only, a cozy omakase counter with only 10 chairs, for a special dining experience. The evening will reward you with delightfully sumptuous small plates and sushi in a surprisingly laid-back and energetic setting, albeit it may necessitate ahead planning.

Black truffle-topped chawanmushi and a nigiri with a rainbow of uni are two of Chef Ray Lee's culinary inventions. There is a little more inexpensive choice at Chef Lee's other restaurant, Akikos, which offers lunch starting at $150 and supper starting at $250, despite the exorbitant price tag, which starts at $300.

Address: 1501 California Street, San Francisco, California 94109

Sons & Daughters

Sons & Daughters is a great dining establishment close to Union Square where you may sample the juiciness of New Nordic cuisine. Executive chef Harrison Cheney combines the fresh seasonal ingredients of Northern California with the flavors he learned while working at the two Michelin-starred Gastrologik in Stockholm.

The end result is a refined-tasting meal that is intimate and full of pleasant surprises. For more than ten years, Sons & Daughters has been making waves in the culinary world by providing a welcoming and unforgettable dining experience.

Phone: (415) 994-7933 Address: 708 Bush Street, Between Mason & Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108

Octavia

After taking a break, Octavia is back with exquisite seasonal dishes developed by executive chef Nico Pena and Melissa Perello. Enjoy dishes that highlight the wealth of Northern California, such as fresh mozzarella with Jimmy Nardellos or Brentwood corn lasagna with sweet corn and vibrant chiles, while indulging in fresh pasta and memorable sweets. The enjoyable eating experience is enhanced by the vivacious and sophisticated setting, which is highlighted by structural arrangements by the renowned Petaler florist.

Phone: (415) 408-7507 Address: 1701 Octavia St., San Francisco, CA 94109

B Patisserie

B Patisserie rules the San Francisco pastry scene under the direction of pastry aces Belinda Leong and Michel Suas. The California Street bakery sells a variety of delicious pastries, but its legendary kouign amann is unbelievably buttery and flaky. Even though the traditional form is difficult to resist, Leong and Suas' artistic talent and inventiveness are on display in their fruit and black sesame versions.

Phone: (415) 440-1700 Address: 2821 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115

Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup

Daeho Kalbijjim & Beef Soup is a popular Korean restaurant in San Francisco's Japantown that specializes in beef dishes. This restaurant highlights the variety of beef with dishes like kalbitang (beef rib soup), beef bibimbap, seolleongtang (ox bone soup), and boiling beef brisket. The kalbijjim, a slow-braised spicy-sweet beef short rib stew that has brought Daeho its well-deserved acclaim, is the star of the show, though.

Phone: (415) 563-1388 Address: 1620 Post St., San Francisco, CA 94115

Kin Khao

Kin Khao, the sibling establishment to Nari in Japantown, offers strong, bright Thai cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant provides a taste of Thai cuisine without compromising flavor. Chef Pim Techamuanvivit and chef de cuisine James Slagle serve delicacies like roasted local squid, which is tangy and smoky and garnished with peanuts and cilantro, as well as mushroom har mok and a steaming jar of spicy curry mousse. Even while the setting may be more relaxed, the addictively strong flavors make up for any decor issues. Kin Khao, a restaurant open for lunch and dinner, is close to Union Square.

Phone: (415) 362-7456 Address: 55 Cyril Magnin St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Scoma's Restaurant

Scoma's has been serving delicious seafood for almost 60 years and is situated on the well-known Fisherman's Wharf. Enjoy a range of foods, such as oysters, clam chowder, Dungeness crab cocktail, cioppino, and more. The restaurant's wood-paneled dining area, which is decorated with memorabilia from nearby sports teams, has a pleasant atmosphere. Scoma's offers a memorable eating experience whether you prefer to eat inside or outside to the relaxing sound of lapping waves.

Phone number: (415) 771-4383 Address: 1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133

Abacá

On the first floor of a Fisherman's Wharf hotel, Abacá serves up modern Filipino cuisine. With sunflower-yellow banquettes and woven baskets from the Southeast Asian archipelago, this lively eatery has bright surroundings. Francis Ang, a chef from California, offers traditional Filipino meals with a contemporary touch.

Try the seafood pancit with smoked bay scallops on top or the longganisa pig sausage served with an egg yolk and cane vinegar for dipping on a thin stick. Don't miss the delectable weekend brunch options, which include the savory ensaymada French toast and the chewy pandan mochi waffle.

Phone number: (415) 486-0788 Address: 2700 Jones St., San Francisco, CA 94133

Restaurant Nisei

Under the direction of Californios alum David Yoshimura, Restaurant Nisei offers Japanese soul food upgraded to a fine dining level. White booths and colorful regional paintings are displayed on the inky black walls of the zen-like dining room.

Yoshimura and his staff create excellent delicacies like sweet Brentwood corn wrapped in shining nori with fermented blueberries and buttery uni, as well as fresh oysters nestled on a foamy bed of English peas and wasabi. The assortment of tsukemono, bone broth miso soup with duck fat rice, and a delicate rack of lamb are the highlights of the tasting menu.

Phone number: (415) 827-6898 Address: 2316 Polk St., San Francisco, CA 94109

Hog Island Oyster Co

Located inside the iconic Ferry Building, Hog Island Oyster Co. offers a genuine San Francisco seafood experience. Even though there may be a big line during busy hours, it's worth it to get to eat platters of West Coast fresh oysters.

Enjoy a delicious grilled cheese sandwich created with three kinds of melted cheese, beautiful crudo, or fried local anchovies. Both locals and visitors can look forward to a great supper at Hog Island Oyster Co. with a glass of bubbly in hand and views of the bridge.

Phone: (415) 391-7117 Address: Ferry Building, #11, San Francisco, CA 94111

City View Restaurant

City View Restaurant, well-known for its delicious dim sum, has recently moved to a new location in Chinatown. The exquisite setting has dramatic illumination and cozy booths. Enjoy bouncy shumai filled with pork and shrimp, scallion pancakes that are incredibly thin and crunchy, and fluffy buns that are stuffed to the brim with salted egg yolk custard. A pleasant eating experience is guaranteed by prompt and courteous service, which makes City View Restaurant a great choice for a short sit-down lunch.

Phone: (415) 398-2838 Address: 33 Walter U Lum Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108

Mister Jiu's

James Beard Award-winning chef Brandon Jew opened the ambitious Chinese-American restaurant Mister Jiu's in the center of Chinatown by converting the former Four Seas banquet hall. The green and white neighborhood treasure provides a fine eating experience. Guests may enjoy delicious meals like the roast duck paired with peanut butter hoisin thanks to Jew's new prix-fixe menu style. The restaurant also has a substantial range of beer, cider, and drinks.

28 Waverly Place, San Francisco, California 94108 Phone: (415) 857-9688

House of Prime Rib

Take a step back in time at this venerable Nob Hill restaurant that has been serving outstanding prime rib for more than 70 years. This venerable eatery provides a classic dining experience with a focus on its expertly prepared prime rib.

Two Michelin-starred

Choose the meat's temperature, cut thickness, type of potatoes, and desired beverage to make your meal unique. A tableside-made salad, creamed spinach, Yorkshire pudding, and of course, a sizable portion of prime rib are all included on each platter.

1906 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, California 94109 Phone: (415) 885-4605

Two Michelin-starred Californios

Eat at the two Michelin-starred Californios to indulge in delicious food based on Mexican traditions. Offering a tasting menu that elevates Mexican food to new heights, Val Cantu and his crew respect Mexican ingredients and culinary methods. Try the sea urchin-topped puffs of black masa or the grilled banana with caviar on the side. A culinary jewel that offers a unique eating experience is Californios.

Phone: (415) 757-0994 Address: 355 11th St., San Francisco, CA 94103

Rintaro

Rintaro, a getaway to the secret izakaya in the Mission neighborhood. Rintaro has a warm and lively ambiance with its magnificent front patio and welcoming wood-clad interior. The cuisine includes gyoza, yakitori, sushi, and the renowned fried tori katsu (fried chicken packed with Cowgirl Creamery cheese), which is overseen by Sylvan Mishima Brackett, a former chef at Chez Panisse. Enjoy this Japanese izakaya's original cuisine and energetic atmosphere.

Phone: (415) 589-7022 Address: 82 14th St., San Francisco, CA 94103

Beit Rima

For a soothing experience, go to Beit Rima and unwind in the cosy dining room or on the patio's flower-lined seating area. Seasonal ingredients are used to create simple yet exquisite vegetarian cuisine by owner Samir Mogannam. Enjoy soft beef kabob and poultry that has been marinated in yogurt as well as meatier alternatives like brown butter-sauteed delicata squash with sour labneh and pine nut dukkah. Beit Rima offers a charming setting for a delectable lunch.

Phone: (415) 566-1274 Address: 86 Carl St., San Francisco, CA 94117

Poc-Chuc

Poc-Chuc is a family-run regional Mexican restaurant in the Mission District where you may sample the flavors of Yucatecan and Mayan-influenced food. Enjoy rich turkey mole, smokey pork with citrus marinade, and amazing homemade tortillas. Mexican food fans should definitely visit Poc-Chuc because of the welcoming atmosphere and excellent service that enhances the eating experience.

Phone: (415) 558-1583 Address: 2886 16th St., San Francisco, CA 94103

San Tung

The dry-fried chicken wings are a highlight dish at San Tung, a Chinese-American restaurant in the Inner Sunset. These sticky, garlicky, and delicious wings are regarded as some of the tastiest fried chicken meals available. Even though the restaurant only serves takeout right now, ordering online for pickup enables you to experience the delectable chicken wings that are flavored with garlic and chile.

In San Francisco, California 94122, at 1031 Irving St.

Palm City

Visit Palm City Wines to find a hidden gem on one of San Francisco's peaceful avenues. The Philly-style hoagies at this neighborhood wine bar and restaurant are legendary. Pair one of their enormous sandwiches, like the Italian American, with a fun and quirky glass of wine. Enjoy the laid-back ambiance and enjoy Palm City's delectable delicacies.

In San Francisco, California 94122, at 4055 Irving St.

Prubechu

At Prubechu, the only Guamanian restaurant in San Francisco, embark on a culinary adventure through Guamanian cuisine. Discover foods like Think Tank, pig ribs with red rice, and kelaguen, which are ceviches made in Guam. The dining experience is enhanced by the beachy party vibe created by the covered outdoor terrace.

Phone number: (415) 853-0671 Address: 2224 Mission St #A, San Francisco, CA 94110

Lazy Bear

Enjoy a meal at this one-of-a-kind, two-Michelin-star establishment that bills itself as a "modern dinner party." The dining room's community table has been spread out to create a professional, yet lively, chaotic ambiance. Enjoy a menu that is always changing and made using seasonal and local ingredients. To get a fully immersive gastronomic experience, choose the beverage pairings.

Phone: (415) 874-9921 Address: 3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

San Ho Won

Discover the Korean-American heritage of chef Corey Lee at San Ho Won. With its gorgeous seasonal banchan, charcoal-grilled double-cut galbi, and tender beef tongue, this Korean BBQ restaurant stands out. Enjoy the distinctive flavors and flawless presentation in the cozy yet sterile setting.

Phone number: (415) 868-4479 Address: 2170 Bryant St., San Francisco, CA 94110

True Laurel

True Laurel provides a distinctive fusion of outstanding beverages and a delectable cuisine selection. In addition to a limited menu of drinks and food options, this cocktail bar provides the famous patty melt-on toasted beef fat pan de mie bread as well as crispy mushrooms. Enjoy the milk-washed Mai O Mai, a local favorite, in the lively setting.

Phone number: (415) 341-0020 Address: 753 Alabama St., San Francisco, CA 94110

Mandalay

One of the greatest Burmese restaurants in San Francisco is Mandalay, where you can sample the best of Burmese food. While it might not be the most glitzy or packed, Mandalay offers strong flavors without making concessions to Western palates. Enjoy a bowl of the comforting samosa soup or one of their flavorful noodle meals.

However, their fermented tea leaf salad, which is regarded as the best in town, is a definite must-try. Taste the incredibly spicy tastes and savor the amazing crunch of the nuts and seeds in this traditional dish.

Phone number: (415) 386-3896 Address: 4348 California St., San Francisco, CA 94118

Breadbelly

Breadbelly is a renowned Asian-American bakery where you may immerse yourself in the blend of Asian cuisines and contemporary California tastes. French pastries and traditional baked products are given a distinctive spin at Breadbelly, which is run by a group of James Beard Award-nominated fine-dining veterans.

Enjoy their famous lime-green kaya toast that is topped with coconut-pandan jam and large sea salt flakes. Savory sandwiches and fresh pastries are other appealing options on the menu. Order online for pickup starting at 10 a.m., but act quickly because their merchandise sells out quickly.

Phone: (415) 349-0969 Address: 1408 Clement St., San Francisco, CA 94118

La Cocina Municipal Marketplace

La Cocina Municipal Marketplace is a large, light-filled food hall with a range of delectable selections. It is situated in the Tenderloin. Discover the mouthwatering menus that feature momos (Nepalese dumplings) from Bini's Kitchen, North African delicacies from Wafa and Mounir Bahloul, and po' boys with golden-fried shrimp and andouille sausage.

While only open for lunch from Monday through Friday, the hours are relatively constrained, You can still have cocktails at La Paloma bar until 8 p.m. at night on Thursday and Friday.

Phone: (415) 570-2595 Address: 101 Hyde St., San Francisco, CA 94102

Bird Box

Visit Bird Box, the fried chicken outpost of Michelin-starred Birdsong in SoMa, if you happen to be in the vicinity of Oracle Park. Super-crispy fried chicken is served by chef Chris Bleidorn and can be ordered by the box or as a sandwich.

You have the option of mouthwatering flavors like sour cream and onion or umami-forward Classic Yeast. Don't miss the renowned Claude the Claw sandwich, which showcases the restaurant's dedication to obtaining high-quality chickens. Birdbox offers a fantastic fried chicken experience, whether it's a pre-game or post-game meal.

In San Francisco, California 94107, at 680A 2nd St.

Aziza

Chef Mourad Lahlou dazzles with two outstanding eateries. Aziza for Moroccan comfort food in the avenues and Mourad for exquisite dining downtown. Aziza provides a superior eating experience above and beyond what one could anticipate from a local eatery. Start with a medley of spreads, irresistible harissa cashews, and pillowy flatbread. Enjoy dishes of entire branzino, braised lamb shank, or hand-rolled couscous after that. The basteeya, a flaky pastry filled with chicken confit and seasoned almonds, is a must-try. Don't skip the Moroccan pancakes at breakfast.

Phone: (415) 682-4196 Address: 5800 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, CA 94121

Cinderella Bakery & Cafe

Cinderella Bakery & Cafe is a well-known Russian bakery located in the Richmond neighborhood. This bakery has survived the years and is well-known for its freshly made rye bread, delicate honey cake, and puff pastry perogies. Try the pelmeni, or Russian dumplings, while you're there; they go great with soup and sour cream. Your appetites will be sated by the delicious selection of Russian treats offered by Cinderella Bakery & Cafe.

Phone: (415) 751-9690 Address: 436 Balboa St., San Francisco, CA 94118

Zuni Cafe

Located on the outskirts of Hayes Valley, the Zuni Cafe has been a recognized culinary landmark for more than 40 years. Zuni Cafe, which is well-known for its legendary roasted chicken, is also regarded as serving the greatest burgers, Caesar salads, and bloody marys in the area. Zuni Cafe provides a flexible eating experience, whether you come for brunch, a late-night supper, oysters at the bar, or a romantic sit-down dinner. Make sure to indulge in their renowned, well-deservedly praised roasted chicken.

Phone: (415) 552-2522 Address: 1658 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94102

Otra

Otra offers a veggie-forward cuisine of tacos, tostadas, and huge dishes that are bursting with fresh and tasty vegetables. The restaurant is surrounded by swaying lines of cerulean papel picado. Don't pass on the hen of the wood huarache topped with soft and flavorful mushrooms despite the availability of meaty options like slow-cooked carne with guajillo chile.

The charred cabbage gives the menu an unexpected burst of color when it is sprinkled with toasted pecan dukkah. Take advantage of their straightforward yet well-done cocktails and sip a fiery margarita in the rustic parklet off Haight.

Phone: (415) 500-2774 Address: 682 Haight St., San Francisco, CA 94117

Flour + Water

Flour + Water has reopened with a sophisticated new style. Enjoy fantastic handmade pasta there. The pasta-tasting scarping menu takes visitors on a tour of unusual forms and flavors, like tortellini in a creamy broth and scarping with balsamic vinegar drizzle. Fresh crudo, bubble-crusted pizzas, and more pasta options are available on the a la carte menu. Wines from Italy and California should be paired with your meal for a comprehensive dining experience.

Phone number: (415) 826-7000 Address: 2401 Harrison St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Besharam

Besharam is a completely renovated Indian restaurant in the Dogpatch district where you can sample the amazing flavors of Gujarati food. The meals on the menu, which primarily feature traditional Gujarati cuisine, include ringan no oro, a spicy, smoky eggplant stew. Particularly for vegetarian selections, Besharam offers a distinctive and unforgettable dining experience.

Phone number: (415) 580-7662 Address: 1275 Minnesota St., San Francisco, CA 94107

La Taqueria

Visit the renowned taqueria in San Francisco's Mission District, La Taqueria. La Taqueria is well-known for its lengthy lines and devoted clientele, and it serves excellent tacos, carne asada, and carnitas. They famously served burritos without rice letting the high quality of the meats stand out. savor the genuine flavors of Mexican cuisine in a relaxed, lively setting.

Phone: (415) 285-7117 Address: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

Reem's California Mission

Visit Reem's California Mission to experience the flavors of Arab food. Mana'eesh (topped flatbreads) and sandwiches made with ka'ik sesame bread are available at this Arab bakery and eatery. Try the Jiddo's Breakfast, a sandwich filled with pastries, or take advantage of the friendly Arab hospitality. A cherished local institution, Reem's California Mission has established itself.

Phone number: (415) 780-1953 Address: 2901 Mission St., San Francisco, CA 94110

Ch'sai Sushi Club

Visit Ch'sai Sushi Club for a less formal and unconventional sushi dining experience. Chef Eric Aplin offers an omakase menu with a variety of flavors such as sweet onasion, olive oil, and blue cheese. He was formerly of well-known sushi restaurants in San Francisco. For vegetarian customers, there is a comprehensive omakase menu available. At this inviting restaurant, savor a distinctive and personalized sushi experience.

3369 Mission Street, San Francisco, California 94110

Old Mandarin

Eat at Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant to experience the flavors of Chinese Muslim food. This San Francisco tradition is known for its clay pot lamb, braised lamb, lamb-filled dumplings, and stir-fried lamb with cumin. On chilly nights, spicy hot pots made in the style of Beijing are especially well-liked. Experience this restaurant's distinctive cuisine and welcoming ambiance.

Phone: (415) 564-3481 Address: 3132 Vicente St., San Francisco, CA 94116

San Francisco is a bustling and varied culinary destination with a wide range of great and distinctive eateries. There is something for every palate, from the beautiful handmade pasta at Flour + Water to the robust flavors of Gujarati food at Besharam.

San Francisco offers a variety of dining alternatives, whether you're in the mood for Mexican street food at La Taqueria or want to experience the flavors of Arab cuisine at Reem's California Mission. To keep you up to date on the city's newest and best gastronomic experiences, we will keep updating this list. So, keep an eye out for new improvements and keep enjoying San Francisco's dynamic food scene.