🍽️ 10 Best Restaurants to Try in San Francisco (For Every Budget!)
San Francisco is a dream for foodies. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite between sightseeing or sitting down for a luxurious dinner, the city offers something for every appetite and every wallet. From sourdough bread bowls to world-class pizza, here are 10 unmissable restaurants to add to your itinerary—yes, we included Hard Rock Cafe, too!
🥇 1. Hard Rock Cafe — Classic Vibes at Pier 39 ($$)
📍 Location: Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf
💰 Budget: $20–$30 per person
This iconic chain may be global, but the San Francisco location has its own rock 'n roll charm—plus unbeatable Bay views.
Must-try dishes:
- Pulled Pork Burger
- Twisted Mac & Cheese
- Oreo Cheesecake
Pro tip: Come at sunset and grab a seat by the window or outside for prime views of Alcatraz and the sea lions at Pier 39.
🍕 2. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana — Award-Winning Pizza in North Beach ($$)
📍 Location: 1570 Stockton St, North Beach
💰 Budget: $20–$30 per person
Run by 13-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani, this pizzeria is legendary for a reason. Expect a wait—but know it’s worth it.
Must-try dishes:
- Margherita Napoletana
- New Yorker with ricotta and pepperoni
- Cal Italia with fig and balsamic glaze
Pro tip: Arrive right when they open to beat the lines
🦀 3. Crab House at Pier 39 — Seafood with a View ($$$)
💰 Budget: $50–$100 per person
Fresh seafood and sizzling garlic crab platters make this a splurge-worthy spot with unforgettable views of the Bay.
Must-try dishes:
- Killer Crab® in a sizzling skillet
- Garlic noodles
- Dungeness Crab Chowder
Pro tip: Ask for a table upstairs by the window. Perfect for lunch after visiting Alcatraz.
🧀 4. Boudin Bakery Café — Sourdough That Made History ($)
💰 Budget: $10–$20 per person
Founded in 1849, this is the birthplace of San Francisco’s signature sourdough. Watch bakers create animal-shaped loaves and enjoy hearty soups.
Must-try dishes:
- Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl
- Turkey avocado sandwich
- Sourdough pizza
Pro tip: Snap a pic from the second-floor seating area for great Wharf views.
🍣 5. Dumpling Zone — Hidden Asian Gem in the Richmond ($$)
📍 Location: 1814 Irving St, Inner Sunset
💰 Budget: $20–$30 per person
Authentic Chinese comfort food in a low-key setting. Perfect after a morning in Golden Gate Park or at the California Academy of Sciences.
Must-try dishes:
- Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings)
- Spicy Wontons
- Sesame Noodles
Pro tip: Share a few dishes family-style—it’s the best way to sample the menu.
🍔 6. Mel’s Drive-In — Retro Diner Feels ($)
📍 Location: Multiple locations, including Lombard St
💰 Budget: $10–$20 per person
Step back into the 1950s at this kitschy, all-American diner. Great for families and breakfast lovers alike.
Must-try dishes:
- All-American Burger
- Sweet potato fries
- Classic milkshake
Pro tip: Mel’s is open early—make it your go-to breakfast spot before sightseeing.
🐟 7. The Codmother Fish & Chips — British Bite on a Budget ($)
📍 Location: 496 Beach St, Fisherman’s Wharf
💰 Budget: $10–$20 per person
A food truck-style joint serving crispy, golden fish and chips with British charm. Lines move quickly, but the flavor lingers.
Must-try dishes:
- Traditional Fish & Chips
- Baja-style Fish Tacos
- Fried shrimp
Pro tip: Grab your food and walk to Aquatic Park for a picnic with a view.
🥩 8. John’s Grill — Vintage Vibes and Classic Steakhouse ($$$)
📍 Location: 63 Ellis St, near Union Square
💰 Budget: $50–$100 per person
Dating back to 1908, this historic restaurant is a must for fans of The Maltese Falcon and anyone who loves a hearty steak.
Must-try dishes:
- Sam Spade’s Lamb Chops
- Prime rib
- Fresh oysters
Pro tip: Business casual is the norm. Great for a fancy night out or a special date.
🌮 9. Barrio — Trendy Latin Flavors near Union Square ($$)
📍 Location: 900 North Point St
💰 Budget: $20–$30 per person
Colorful and contemporary, Barrio serves up bold Latin American flavors with creative flair.
Must-try dishes:
- Short rib tacos
- Quesabirria
- Mezcal margaritas
Pro tip: The vibe picks up at night—book ahead for weekend dinners.
🥞 10. 1428 Haight Patio Cafe & Crepery — Brunch in Haight-Ashbury ($)
💰 Budget: $10–$20 per person
Relaxed and artsy brunch spot with great crepes and an even better people-watching patio in SF’s historic hippie neighborhood.
Must-try dishes:
- Savory veggie crepe with avocado
- Nutella banana crepe
- Iced latte
Pro tip: Sit outside and soak up the eclectic energy of Haight Street.
🍴 Final Bite: San Francisco Is a Foodie Playground
From crab legs to crepes, and chowder to churros, San Francisco’s dining scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. Whether you're splurging on seafood or sipping coffee in Haight-Ashbury, each of these restaurants adds flavor to your experience in the City by the Bay.
Which one are you adding to your list first? Tag us @usroadbooks and let us know!
📕 Plan Your Trip Like a Pro
Want every must-see, must-eat, and must-do stop mapped out for your San Francisco trip?
👉 Grab the San Francisco CityBook – a 5-day travel plan with clickable Google Maps routes, activity links, photo spots, and restaurant recommendations.
🆓 Don’t miss our Free San Francisco Foodie Guide – packed with hidden gems, cheap eats, and local favorites not covered by TikTok.