San Francisco is a true culinary mecca, a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into a diverse range of delicious dishes and snacks that capture the city’s unique vibe. From the freshest seafood to a mouthwatering sourdough bread, San Francisco’s food scene is as dynamic as the city itself.
Choosing the most iconic dishes in this incredible city is no easy task. While this roundup doesn’t cover everything, it’s designed to highlight the unforgettable culinary journey that awaits you.
So, whether you plan to explore Frisco’s gastronomy on your own or by joining a popular food tour in San Francisco, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite iconic dishes that you absolutely must try!
Mission-Style Burrito
These hefty wraps, packed with extra rice, beans, meat, and a variety of fresh toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa, are a signature delight of San Francisco’s street food scene. The Mission-style burrito, which originated in the Mission District, is now served in hundreds of taquerias across the city.
For an authentic experience, head to La Taqueria, La Cumbre, or El Farolito—three iconic spots that have been battling it out for the title of the best burrito in town for years. Be sure to order your burrito “dorado” (grilled on the plancha), which gives the wrap a crispy texture. Trust me, you won’t leave disappointed—or hungry.
This San Francisco staple isn’t just about size—it’s about flavor and tradition. Each bite is a taste of the city’s vibrant culture, making the Mission-style burrito a must-try for anyone exploring San Francisco’s culinary landscape.
Seafood
Being right on the bay, it’s no surprise that San Francisco is a dream come true for seafood lovers. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that you can expect some of the freshest catches around.
If you’re planning a food tour San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is the obvious go-to for those craving seafood. Sure, it’s touristy, but there’s a reason why it’s famous. Clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl is practically a rite of passage here, and the oysters are a must-try as well.
Many restaurants, like Swan Oyster Depot, still source their fish and crab directly from the boats of local fishermen. Getting a table can be a challenge, especially on weekends, but the wait is worth it for a taste of San Francisco’s rich seafood history.
Dim Sum
Traditionally enjoyed for breakfast, dim sum offers a variety of bite-sized treats, including steamed dumplings, savory pastries, and vegetable dishes.
At the fancier spots, you’ll be served tea alongside your meal, while waitstaff weave through crowded tables offering pre-prepared dishes. You can also choose to order freshly made items directly from the menu.
For an authentic dim sum experience, head to the bustling streets of Chinatown, where you’ll find everything from quick bites at Golden Gate Bakery to full-service dining at Lai Hong Lounge.
Irish Coffee
Caffe Trieste in North Beach has been serving up excellent Irish Coffee (hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and whipped cream) along with great music for more than fifty years. This legendary coffee shop, which still retains its original charm, has long been a gathering place for artists, writers, and composers who come to enjoy some of the finest coffee in the city. It’s a must-visit for every coffee lover.
The walls of Caffe Trieste are adorned with paintings and photographs of famous Hollywood stars, as several actors have been known to stop by. Rumor has it that Francis Ford Coppola even wrote parts of his iconic movie The Godfatherscript right there.
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s sourdough tradition dates back to the Gold Rush era when Basque migrants began baking bread using the natural yeasts and bacteria in the air for fermentation.
While the city is often celebrated as the epicenter of sourdough bread, this reputation is more about the vibrant bread-baking culture, the abundance of talented bakers, and the fierce competition among them than any mystical bread-baking conditions.
The Original San Francisco Sourdough, Boudin Bakery, started as a small family business in 1849 and has since expanded into a major tourist attraction at Fisherman’s Wharf, complete with museums, tours, and several locations throughout the city.The flagship store even serves bread shaped like animals for the little ones.
San Francisco is a melting pot of global flavors, from adventurous new dishes to timeless classics that everyone loves. Whether you’re craving Asian, Mexican, or European flavors, San Francisco has something for every palate.
