SF: From Burritos to Bougie Bites: The Dishes in SF that you need to try

San Francisco isn’t just famous for its fog and rolling hills—it’s also one of the most iconic food cities in the world. Whether you’re craving a cheap burrito or looking for a bite of Michelin-starred magic, SF serves up unforgettable flavors on every block. Here’s your checklist of must-try dishes in San Francisco—from the legendary to the lesser-known gems.

Mission-Style Burrito — La Taqueria

If you come to SF and don’t eat a Mission burrito… did you even come to SF? La Taqueria’s perfectly wrapped, rice-free version is a local legend. Grab one and enjoy it while people-watching in Dolores Park.

Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl — Boudin

A San Francisco classic that’s as comforting as a foggy day sweater. Boudin’s clam chowder is rich, creamy, and loaded with tender clams and potatoes — but the real star is the iconic sourdough bowl: tangy, chewy, and baked fresh daily from a 170-year-old starter. Tear off the lid, dunk it in the chowder, and prepare for pure, carb-loaded bliss. It’s touristy, yes — but for good reason.

Pizza — Golden Boy Pizza

​At Golden Boy Pizza, each Sicilian-style slice is a hearty, flavorful journey. Their signature square-cut slices boast a thick, pillowy crust topped with a robust blend of cheeses and savory toppings. Whether indulging in classics like pepperoni or venturing into unique offerings such as clam and garlic, every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a delightful chew. Pair your slice with a stroll through Washington Square Park for the quintessential San Francisco experience.

Roast Pork — R&G Lounge

Salty, crispy, juicy, and deeply satisfying. R&G is an institution for Cantonese dishes, and the roast pork is a must-order. This appetizer features succulent slices of pork with a crispy, golden-brown skin, offering a delightful contrast of textures. The meat is tender and flavorful, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to traditional preparation methods.

Prime Rib — House of Prime Rib

Walking into House of Prime Rib feels like stepping into a delicious time warp — one where every table is set for a meat lover’s dream. The star of the show? Juicy, perfectly pink prime rib carved tableside from a gleaming silver cart like a royal feast on wheels. Add in buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire pudding, and a pour of creamed spinach, and you've got a meal that is an instant classic. The martinis, appletinis, and cosmopolitans all served alongside their shaker are also a must-try. 

Roast Chicken for Two — Zuni Café

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity — this wood-fired chicken is legendary. At Zuni Café, the Roast Chicken isn't just a meal; it's a culinary event. Expertly seasoned and roasted to golden perfection in their wood-burning oven, the skin is irresistibly crispy, and the meat remains juicy and tender. This iconic dish is traditionally served alongside a warm bread salad, featuring toasted bread chunks, greens, currants, and pine nuts, all tossed together with a zesty vinaigrette. The perfectly crispy mountain of shoestring fries on the side is a must as well.  

Croissants — Arsicault

Another spot you can’t miss that might be scoffed at for its outrageous line. Unfortunately, it really is that good. Wake up early on a Sunday and grab some of the city's freshest and flakiest croissants and pain au chocolats. Stroll over to the farmer’s market right next door and buy some fresh produce to offset all the buttery goodness you just wolfed down. 

Oysters — Hog Island Oyster Co.

At Hog Island Oyster Co. in San Francisco's Ferry Building, oyster lovers can indulge in a variety of fresh, sustainably farmed oysters. One standout is the Kumamoto oyster, known for its small size and sweet, nutty flavor with hints of cucumber and melon. Diners can enjoy these delicacies while taking in stunning views of the bay, making for an unforgettable seafood experience.​

Miracle Pancakes — Zazie

At Zazie in San Francisco's Cole Valley, the Miracle Pancakes are a brunch favorite. These buttermilk pancakes feature a weekly rotating flavor—past highlights have included sour cream poppyseed, bread pudding, and grilled banana. Served with whipped butter and syrup, they're a delightful treat that keeps customers returning to discover the latest creation. Enjoy them on Zazie's charming garden patio for a quintessential San Francisco brunch experience.

Tea leaf salad — Mandalay Restaurant

​At the cozy Mandalay Restaurant, the Tea Leaf Salad is a flavor-packed spectacle that arrives at your table in a vibrant array of ingredients: imported Burmese tea leaves, toasted lentil seeds, ground shrimp, fried garlic, green peppers, sesame seeds, peanuts, and a zesty dressing. The magic happens when the attentive staff mixes it all together tableside, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that's both crunchy and savory. This salad has earned its place among San Francisco's culinary elite, contributing to Mandalay's recognition as a James Beard America's Classics awardee.

Cioppino — Sotto Mare

At Sotto Mare in San Francisco’s North Beach, the cioppino is a seafood lover’s dream. This hearty stew features a generous mix of Dungeness crab, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, squid, and fish, all simmered in a rich, garlicky tomato broth. Uniquely, Sotto Mare adds penne pasta to the mix, making the dish even more satisfying. Served in a bowl big enough for two, it’s a flavorful homage to the city’s Italian-American roots. Don’t be surprised if you’re handed a bib—this is hands-on dining at its finest.

Irish Coffee — Buena Vista Cafe

Not exactly a dish but a part of San Francisco culture that is too important not to include on this list. At Buena Vista Cafe, the Irish Coffee is more than just a drink; it's a cherished tradition. Since 1952, this iconic spot has been serving up a rich blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a velvety layer of whipped cream. The magic happens when the cream floats atop the coffee, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors. Sipping this concoction feels like embracing a warm San Francisco morning, making it a must-try for both locals and visitors.

The cafe serves up to 2,000 Irish coffees a day but somehow manages to make each one taste perfect.

Your itinerary for your next trip to San Francisco is cut out for you! Whether you're indulging in iconic classics or exploring hidden gems, SF’s food scene is a vibrant celebration of flavor, culture, and creativity. Head over to hellozeal.ai and book any of these restaurants in seconds! Get ready to eat your way through the city!