San Francisco is a city built on bold flavors, fresh seafood, and rich culinary history. From iconic sourdough bread to world-class Michelin-starred cuisine, the city by the bay offers something for every appetite. Here are 10 essential foods and drinks to try when visiting San Francisco.
1. Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s foggy climate helps create the perfect environment for tangy, crusty sourdough. Grab a loaf at Boudin Bakery or any number of artisan shops around the city for a bite of true local heritage.
2. Cioppino
This hearty seafood stew was invented by Italian fishermen in North Beach. Loaded with Dungeness crab, mussels, clams, shrimp, and fish, it’s a comforting, tomato-based bowl of San Francisco’s maritime soul.
3. Mission-Style Burrito
Head to the Mission District for these overstuffed burritos, tightly wrapped with rice, beans, meat, and salsa. La Taqueria and El Farolito are two legendary spots locals swear by.
4. Dungeness Crab
A seasonal delicacy, Dungeness crab is best enjoyed fresh during the winter months. Order it cracked, steamed, and served with melted butter at Fisherman’s Wharf or high-end seafood restaurants.
5. Michelin-Starred Tasting Menus
San Francisco is a fine dining powerhouse, boasting multiple Michelin-starred restaurants like Atelier Crenn, Benu, and Quince. Expect artful plating, precision cooking, and unforgettable culinary experiences.
6. Irish Coffee
The iconic Irish Coffee was perfected at Buena Vista Café in the 1950s. Creamy, boozy, and piping hot, it’s the perfect foggy-day pick-me-up in the city by the bay.
7. Dim Sum in Chinatown
San Francisco’s Chinatown is one of the oldest in the U.S., and its dim sum scene is legendary. Visit spots like Good Mong Kok or City View for steamed dumplings, pork buns, and more.
8. Tartine Bakery Pastries
Tartine Bakery draws crowds for a reason. From croissants to morning buns, every item is flaky, buttery perfection with a cult following among pastry lovers.
9. California Wine Bars
With Napa and Sonoma just a short drive away, San Francisco is overflowing with stylish wine bars. Enjoy curated tastings of local vintages at places like High Treason, Verjus, or The Riddler.
10. It’s-It Ice Cream Sandwich
This old-school treat—vanilla ice cream sandwiched between oatmeal cookies and dipped in chocolate—was born in SF in 1928. It’s still a nostalgic local favorite.
San Francisco’s food and drink culture is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re sipping wine in a cozy bar or slurping seafood stew on the waterfront, every bite tells a story. Bring your appetite and get ready to fall in love with SF—one dish at a time.