The City by the Bay has a well-deserved reputation as one of the country’s top dining cities. When it comes to the best San Francisco restaurants, there’s something for every taste. Needless to say, superb food is not just a way of life for residents, but also an essential part of the social fabric of the city. Whether it’s treating yourself to an over-the-top omakase lunch, slurping down bowls of comforting spaghetti pomodoro, or tucking into some of the best street tacos this side of the border, diverse cuisine is found in every neighborhood of San Francisco.
For visitors and residents alike, the options are overwhelming, and with an ever-evolving restaurant landscape, the choices are dizzying. We suggest you ask yourself what you’re craving, and then go find the satiating answer. Here are 28 picks to get you started. This list is by no means comprehensive, but the places you've got to try at least once.
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Every restaurant on this list has been selected independently by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by a local contributor who has visited that restaurant. Our editors consider both high-end and affordable eateries, and weigh stand-out dishes, location, and service—as well as inclusivity and sustainability credentials. We update this list as new restaurants open and existing ones evolve.
