2019 Restaurant Recommendations: from Tried-and-True to Trendy Tasting Menus

San Francisco is one of the toughest markets for restaurants to survive in, with sky-high rents and hundreds of options for hungry diners. A wise Uber driver once said, “even if every single resident of San Francisco were dining out at one of the city’s restaurants at the same time, there would still be seats left over.” True or not, it’s clear that the restaurant business is as competitive as ever, and to make it, you must be good.

Having collectively lived in the Bay Area for decades, we’ve eaten our way through San Francisco and are showcasing our list of classic favorites, and trendy hotspots. Without further ado, we present you with a list of our favorite go-to spots by neighborhood. We hope you’ll find it helpful when locating your next happy hour spot, date-night dinner or weekend brunch getaway.

NORTH BEACH

Mama’s

Oh Mama. A local breakfast favorite since the 1960’s, Mama’s serves hearty portions of the best breakfast bites in the city- including dungeness crab benedicts, Swedish cinnamon French toast and the ultimate bloody mary. Local tip: arrive before opening to avoid the long lines.

Fior d’Italia

Dubbed America’s oldest Italian Restaurant (yes, over 132 years old and counting), Fior has survived every natural disaster in San Francisco history, including the great earthquake and fires of 1906. The establishment holds true to their tradition by providing impeccable old-world service and charm. You can’t go wrong with the tagliatelle alla bolognese, ossobuco con polenta or the risotto.

Courtesy of grownuptravelguide.com

Original Joe’s

Established in 1937 by a Croatian immigrant in search of the American Dream, Original Joe’s is a San Francisco classic, serving delicious Italian-American comfort food in spacious red leather booths. Known as “OJ’s” by locals, Original Joe’s was the first “Joe’s Concept” open exhibition kitchen that has grown in popularity over the decades. Make sure to ask for a side of house-made ravioli to complement your entree.

Piccolo Forno

A simplistic and modern layout, this no-frills restaurant allows you to BYOB with no corkage fee and has extremely affordable authentic Italian cuisine. Perfect for a friend’s night out on a budget.

 Courtesy of Piccolo Forno

Il Casaro

A bite of Il Casaro’s pizza brings us back to Italy. This is a must-try for North Beach pizza spots, along with more famed Tony’s Pizza Napoletana.

SOMA / DOGPATCH

Bellota

Located in the base of Airbnb’s hip headquarters, this restaurant shines with their selection of paellas. It takes 30 minutes to prepare, so we recommend pulling up a seat at the bar and ordering some tapas and a pitcher of sangria while you wait. They often have live music, and you’ll be sure to enjoy the lively artwork splashed across their walls.

ROOH

A modern restaurant in a vibrant space, ROOH’s dishes and cocktails will tickle your taste buds with dimensional flavors. It is located across the street from intimate Jax Wine Bar, in case you want to grab a glass of vino on your way.

Courtesy of Eater

Deli Board

This little sandwich shop has a menu full of food coma-worthy options. Bring your appetite and your stretchy pants.

WESTERN ADDITION

Ijji Sushi

If you’re ready to break the bank for a special occasion, this should be on your list. Make a reservation in advance to sit at their small chef’s table where they will prepare a selection of the freshest daily catch right in front of you. They feature only the highest-quality fish and prepare it in a way that accentuates the natural flavors – from fire torched to savory salt rubs.

4505 Burgers & BBQ

There may be a line, but this drool-worthy BBQ is well-worth the wait. Just don’t go too late, or they might sell out of fan favorites.

Courtesy of 4505 Burgers & BBQ

NOPA

From brunch to late night dinner (they’re one of the few restaurants that serve until midnight), you can’t go wrong here. Belly up to the bar and try a sampling of their menu — from spaghetti to avocado toast, each bite is better than the last.

Che Fico

New to town and featured as Eater’s “Most Exciting New Place to Eat Right Now,” the team from Flour + Water brings Italian-style hospitality to this new Divisadero location. You can’t go wrong with their pasta and pizza.

THE RICHMOND

Hong Kong Lounge II

Described as one of the most authentic dim sum experiences in the city, Hong Kong Lounge II presents a medley of delightful little pockets of flaky pork buns, traditional soup dumplings and gooey egg custard tarts. Double down on this experience with the next day’s leftovers.

Chapeau!

This traditional French bistro boasts incredibly flavorful dishes (try the cassoulet) set in a charming, unpretentious dining room. Tucked away on Clement St., Chapeau! Is an unexpected find in a traditionally Asian-inspired restaurant row. Chef Philippe Gardelle makes regular appearances on the restaurant floor to greet his guests and share his coveted techniques.

Courtesy of Chapeau!

PPQ Dungeness Island

Go for the drunken crab and garlic noodles. Stay for the deep-fried banana with ice cream. PPQ is a local Vietnamese seafood treasure located off-the-grid and away from the regular Fisherman’s Wharf tourist trap crab destinations. Be in the company of fearless friends as you rip apart succulent crabs and leave smelling of eau de garlic.

MARINA

Mamanoko

Though we were sad to see Mamacita go, Mamanoko is a welcome addition to the Marina with delicious pork gyoza, fresh sushi and cookie dough rolls for dessert (which taste as good as they sound).

Ace Wasabi

If you’re looking for a fun vibe and equally great food, look no further. From date night to girls’ night, this rock and roll sushi bar has super tasty bites and delicious house rolls. We recommend the tuna poke tostadas with mango, brussels sprouts and the rocket man roll.

Terzo

Marina dwellers live at this upscale neighborhood staple, which is sister to nearby Rose’s cafe. Their personable and knowledgeable staff can recommend the wines to complement any of their delicious dishes, from burrata to roasted chicken and beyond.

Courtesy of Terzo

Blackwood

This modern Thai destination is owned by the founders of Kitchen Story, Sweet Maple, and other well-known SF mainstays. Sit by the fireplace outside, or order takeout — their Millionaire’s bacon is a MUST try, along with the Tom Khu chicken coconut soup, burger, ahi scoops, and… did we say bacon?  

Maybeck’s

Featuring beef wellington Wednesday’s, fried chicken & champagne Tuesday’s and lobster spaghetti Friday’s, you can comfortably slip into Maybeck’s dimly-lit dining room booth for the week. The freshly-made pasta and chopped salad are a must-try in the Marina. 

Courtesy of SF Chronicle

Zushi Puzzle

Talk about an overlooked destination- Zushi Puzzle serves some of the best Japanese dining in the city. Head to the back of the room and sit at the sushi bar with Chef Roger. He will prepare a special omakase experience ranging anywhere from 9 to 20 handmade courses, and keep you laughing the entire time.

Causwells

Comfy and casual, this restaurant offers several shareable favorites from brunch to dinner. Their burger is always a safe bet.

Courtesy of Causwells

HAYES VALLEY

Rich Table

Every bite eaten here is to be savored. Start with their savory donuts, a fun spin on your typical bread basket. We recommend coming for an intimate, special occasion.

Souvla

For fast-casual Greek, try Souvla’s slow-marinated lamb and chicken over a salad or in a sandwich. Don’t even think about leaving without trying their authentic Greek frozen yogurt with sea salt and olive oil. Once you try it, you will be hooked.

PRESIDIO HEIGHTS

Sorrel

What started as a sold-out pop-up dining experience, Sorrel has new permanent roots on Sacramento St. This Cal-Italian fare will delight the palates of the pickiest eaters. Start with the fried soft-shell crab, then splurge on the roasted duck for two.

Courtesy of Sorrel

Spruce

Named Wine Spectator’s Grand Award winner last year, Michelin star- rated Spruce is a fine dining establishment with a cult following (we’re looking at you former President Barack Obama). Don’t let the Baccarat crystal chandelier fool you into ordering foie gras, this spot has the best basic burger in SF (trust us, we’ve tried them all).

FILLMORE/LOWER PACIFIC HEIGHTS

La Mediterranee

This small neighborhood hideout offers half-off wine bottles on Tuesday nights and $20 per person Mediterranean platters with enough food to supply leftovers for your lunch the next day. Hummus and pomegranate chicken and filo pies… oh my!

Wise Sons

Tasty bagels in San Francisco- need we say more? We recommend trying one of their sandwich creations… and planning to take a nap afterwards.

MISSION

Civic Kitchen

Not a restaurant per se, but this brand-new cooking school will offer you the opportunity to cook everything from savory stews to sweet donuts. Come hungry for a meal and leave with a full belly and newfound cooking skills.

Myriad Gastropub

This is a hidden treasure. Though it might not be the newest, trendiest restaurant in SF, this charming, centrally-located spot features an array of flavorful, globally-inspired delicious dishes from all over- and doesn’t break the bank.

Alba Ray’s

If you like Cajun cookin’, this is the place for you. The playful decor matches the soulful dishes and fun frozen cocktail menu.

Al’s Place

Named Bon Appetit’s Restaurant of the Year, Al’s place is a fiercely creative and inspiring space that showcases dishes with unexpected (and delightful) flavors and textures. Try their family style tasting with wine pairing.

Courtesy of Al’s Place

Flour + Water

Gluten. Carbs. Pasta. Flour + Water provides comfort and substance to a diet-restricted world with their daily homemade pasta creations. You can even indulge in their six-dish pasta tasting menu. Dig in- don’t be shy.

Lolo

Family-owned and operated, Lolo dishes out non-traditional Mexican fare that will feed the masses. Dive into their spicy beef albondigas with a sidekick from the agave bar.

Lolinda

The only thing missing from this Argentinian steakhouse is a gaucho to greet you at the door. Offering a wide range of meats cooked over a wood-fired asador, Lolinda’s flavors will make your taste buds sing. Start with the empanadas and end with the homemade churros with dark chocolate and dulce de leche dipping sauces.

FINANCIAL DISTRICT/EMBARCADERO

Leo’s Oyster Bar

Possibly the most Instagrammed restaurant in SF, this hip post-work hotspot features fresh raw bar selections which pair great with their fun specialty cocktail menu (try the bubble bath).

Gott’s Roadside

If you’re looking for high-quality food – and fast – this is at the top of our list. Their Ferry Building location is one of a handful in the Bay Area and features a large patio with seasonal specials- like street corn or fresh salads with locally-sourced ingredients. Known for their burgers (including the meatless Impossible Burger), their tacos and sandwiches are also satisfying.

Waterbar

With breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge, Waterbar is a classic restaurant with an extensive list of high-quality seafood selections. We especially love the swordfish.

Angler

Believe the hype. Angler has lured the San Francisco food fanatics down to the water’s edge with their open wood fire cooking and lush cocktails. Don’t leave without trying the coveted Monterey abalone. 

Courtesy of Angler

Tadich Grill

Having opened in 1849, Tadich Grill is the oldest continuously running restaurant in California and the first to grill seafood over mesquite charcoal. Open the brass double doors to find white jacket-wearing waiters who don’t suffer fools lightly. Pony up to the long, wooden bar that stretches down the side of the room and order the local pan-fried sand dabs with a glass of California’s finest sauvignon blanc. You may be seated next to a local politician or celebrity.

Courtesy of Tadich Grill

Kokkari Estiatorio

As the Financial District quiets down at night, this Mediterranean staple continues to glow. Nightly specials are just as captivating as their tried and true dishes- like their dolmas and lamb.

E&O Kitchen and Bar  

Having celebrated its 20th year in San Francisco last year, E&O continues to stay fresh with $1 oysters and $1 dumplings deals and cocktails served out of pineapples at happy hour.

R&G Lounge

Step off Kearny St. an into an upscale Chinatown Cantonese paradise filled with unique, mouth-watering entrees. Try the famous salt & pepper crab, turnip & beef brisket clay pot and the sautéed eggplant.

POLK GULCH

Cocotte

This small French restaurant is as charming as it is delicious. Come on a warm night and they will leave the doors open al fresco style as if you were dining abroad. Dishes are authentic and flavorful.

Dunya

Perfect for a healthy weeknight post-workout meal, or a Friday night date, this spot features both affordable and yummy Mediterranean dishes. They serve good portions at a great price.

Liholiho Yacht Club

Ready to get transported to Hawaii? Start at Louie’s Gen Gen Room for a tropical cocktail downstairs, then migrate upstairs for dinner in an open-kitchen setting. Everything is delectable, but the beef tongue buns and fried rice are a must.

Mezcalito

With a huge library case of spirits behind the bar, this swanky Polk Street destination is known for fresh Mexican dishes and margaritas. Sombrero optional.

Courtesy of Mezcalito

Swan Oyster Depot

This austere countertop lunch spot has been serving the freshest seafood to San Franciscans for over 100 years. Treasured by the late Anthony Bourdain, Swan Oyster Depot is a must-try for mouth-puckering oysters, chowder and crisp Louie salads. This bastion of tradition serves a “secret menu” for regulars.

CASTRO

Finn Town

This playful bar and kitchen is calling your name. Bring your appetite so you can try their creative menu of California-inspired shareable plates and fun cocktails. They’ll most likely be screening one of your favorite movies, and you’ll become best friends with your server.

Starbelly

Take a seat on Starbelly’s sweet back patio and feel your stress melt away with their approachable drink and food menu, which features many dishes you would probably put on a menu if you decided to open a restaurant.

Do you have a staple spot in SF? Share your top picks with us!