Don't-Miss Dishes in San Francisco

Arguably one of America’s top destinations for food lovers, San Francisco is a hub for innovative cuisine made with local, seasonal ingredients. From burritos to fresh oysters to dim sum, here are some of the City by the Bay’s must-try dishes. 

Pizza

Head to North Beach for traditional thin-crust Italian pizza at any of the classic restaurants serving up wood-fired oven pizza. This neighborhood isn’t called Little Italy for nothing.

Oysters

The stately San Francisco Ferry Building, set near the Financial District at the end of Market Street, is chock-full of excellent food—including some of the freshest oysters you can find. The lines are worth the wait.

Burritos

Ask a San Franciscan where the best place to get a burrito is, and you might start a heated argument—locals take their Mexican food seriously! You can’t go wrong by heading to the Mission District, where there are multiple delicious taquerias on just about every block.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Indulging in an ice cream sundae at Ghirardelli Square is more than a treat—it’s a full-blown experience. You may even get to see chocolate being made at this famous chocolate factory.

Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl

Famous Fisherman’s Wharf is a top spot among tourists and home to some of the best seafood in San Francisco. Traditionally served in an entire hollowed-out loaf of sourdough bread, this creamy clam chowder dish makes an excellent lunch to share.

Dim Sum

This dish is traditionally enjoyed as a sit-down family brunch item, but plenty of places in Chinatown sell the small dumplings and buns to-go, so you can keep right on exploring.