10 Must-Have Meals in San Francisco
The food scene in San Francisco keeps getting better with offerings that rival New York City. These are the restaurants I go to when I want to enjoy an upscale meal that’s guaranteed to be good. No need for formalwear (this is San Francisco, after all) but be sure to bring your appetite.
1. Lazy Bear
Mission District
This is not just a dinner, it’s a full-blown show. Prepaid tickets serve as your reservation and Lazy Bear diners sit side-by-side at long, wooden tables. Enjoy plate after plate of modern American cuisine from an ever-evolving, pre-fixe menu. Each course is announced by the chef adding to the theatricality of this two Michelin star restaurant.
2. Rich Table
Hayes Valley
This is the Michelin star restaurant I simply can’t get enough of. Rich Table has an inviting, rustic feel and a reasonably-priced pre-fixe menu that attracts young professionals. Try the ricotta-stuffed pierogi or the steak, it’s one of the best I’ve ever had. It’s hard to get a reservation so go early and grab a seat at the bar.
Mission District
The Mission is home to some of the best Mexican food I’ve ever had, but Loló is where I go when I’m looking for a not-so-casual, sit-down option. It’s packed day and night with vibrant decor that sets the mood the moment you walk in. You absolutely can not go here without ordering the guacamole. Follow that up with the Tuna Tacon or Grilled Beef Tacos.
4. The Morris
Potrero Hill
It’s all about the smoked duck at The Morris. This is why you go here. It always tastes a little different but it always tastes delicious. Be sure to save room for dessert and order the Buckwheat Donuts with Whiskey Crème Anglaise.
Russian Hill, Civic Center, Tenderloin
I went to Japan 2 years ago, and since then, Elephant Sushi is the only sushi I will eat in the Bay Area. They have 3 San Francisco locations (I like the Hyde Street location), and recently opened in downtown Oakland. Their sashimi is incredible and my go-to roll is the Flaming Seabass.
Mission District
This Mission hotspot is always filled with diners enjoying their Neapolitan-style pizzas and handmade pastas. Flour + Water’s menu revolves around seasonal ingredients so it’s always changing. Their Pasta Tasting pre-fixe menu is a unique way to sample a little bit of everything.
Hayes Valley
This is one of those places that’s earned the love of locals and tourists alike. A city staple since 1979, Zuni Café is a cozy, two-story loft bistro known for its chicken roasted in a wood-fired brick oven. It serves two and takes around an hour to prepare, so come with a date and order some oysters while you wait.
Mission District
This is a truly unique spot in the Mission with movie-themed decor. Sit outside in Foreign Cinema’s heated courtyard and enjoy seasonal new American cuisine while iconic movies play in the background on an oversized projector. It’s a magical place to enjoy dinner but I also love it for Sunday brunch with its wide-range of savory and sweet options.
SOMA
This is one of those restaurants that’s good for a working lunch, a weekend brunch or date night. Marlowe is small with a casual, cool vibe and a menu that always delivers. They’re known for their burger but I go there for the Polenta with Poached Egg and Shiitake Mushrooms.
Financial District
I can always count on this iconic Greek restaurant. Go to Kokkari and order the branzino today, it’s going to be amazing. Order it in a year and it’s still going to taste just like you remembered it. Dine here when you want an upscale meal at a restaurant that feels like home.
Cover photo @louishansel @unsplash