San Francisco is undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in the world, with countless parks, shops, restaurants, and sights to get lost in forever. Each neighborhood is like its own little city, with unique quirks and scenes sure to excite any traveler.
The tight-knit San Francisco neighborhoods are just a walk or train ride away from each other, and are an easy way to take advantage of the rich history and culture of the city.
So whether you’re a local looking to explore your city or a visitor wanting to get a taste of local life, I invite you to pick a San Francisco neighborhood and find a restaurant you should try there.
Mission District: Souvla
Mission District is practically overflowing with amazing restaurants, shops, and art. On every street corner, you can find dazzling and thought-provoking street art with a corresponding story to go along with it.
If you’re looking for something quick, fresh, and healthy during your travels through Mission, check out Souvla. This Greek shop serves up everything from gyros to frozen greek yogurt, so make sure to get your Greek fix at this exciting spot.
Hayes Valley: Biergarten
Hayes Valley is a gem of a neighborhood, tucked behind the San Francisco City Hall and SF Jazz Center. This area has beautiful clothing and jewelry stores – not to mention their peaceful outdoor areas to take a break in.
Biergarten is an awesome spot if you’re looking for some hearty German food while soaking up the sun (or fog) of San Francisco. Their outdoor seating allows you to view the park filled with interesting sights while chowing down on some German sausage.
Marina District: Chubby Noodle
Marina District is an ornate and peaceful neighborhood, just south of the oceanfront. Home to the Palace of Fine Arts, a group of domes and gardens built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exhibition, this area is a must-see for history buffs.
After being immersed in the fascinating history of this area, check out Chubby Noodle, a favorite spot of locals. They are famous for their flavorful noodles, delicious pork tacos, and, yes, green beans. This excellent spot is the perfect place for foodies looking to get their fix after a day exploring the city.
Inner Sunset: Malasa
Inner Sunset is a beautiful neighborhood just south of Golden Gate Park, and is the perfect area for an afternoon walk. It really has the best of both worlds: a busy city atmosphere with a calm respite within the park.
Check out this Filipino restaurant serving up delicious dishes on your way through the neighborhood. Malasa’s main dish, called silog, features rice, an egg, and meats cooked to perfection. Not that hungry? Try their sinfully sweet Halo-halo, a Filipino dessert sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
North Beach: Calzone’s
North Beach is an idyllic neighborhood, filled with countless Italian restaurants and shops to try. It’s also home to City Lights Books, where Beat poets used to meet and write. In North Beach, every street has something new and exciting to explore.
While you’re there, eating at Calzone’s is a must. With beautiful outdoor seating and gnocchi that melts in your mouth, this place never disappoints. With the perfect combination of a good atmosphere and even better food, you can be sure to walk away from Calzone’s feeling full and happy.
Alamo Square: Little Star Pizza
Alamo Square is a beautiful area to visit in the evening and see some city views. The park in the middle of the area, called Alamo Square, has breathtaking views of the Painted Ladies and the hills of the city.
Just down the hill from the park lies Little Star Pizza, which has a wide array of pizza options and flavors for any taste. This spot bursts with flavor and comfort.
Financial District: Hops and Hominy
Best known for the large Transamerica Pyramid, the Financial District is a great area to explore. It’s close to countless unique shops and areas that are just a walk or train ride away.
Tucked away in the Financial District, Hops and Hominy is a hip restaurant with unique and exciting dishes. Their Southern-inspired dishes are delicious, and their atmosphere in the evening cannot be beat.
Yerba Buena: The Grove
Yerba Buena is a colorful and thriving area, with art and creativity in every crevice. Museums such as the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of the African Diaspora, and the Contemporary Jewish Museum all make their home in Yerba Buena, not to mention the beautiful and interesting Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.
The Grove is a great place to immerse yourself in the area’s creative culture. Its interior resembles a treehouse, and the food does not disappoint. Favorites include the Berkeley Bowl and the French Toast.
San Francisco is packed with amazing neighborhoods, each one with their own unique atmosphere. All of these areas are worth checking out to truly understand the inspiring and special city that is San Francisco.