In San Francisco, food is an adventure! Here are 20 of the most iconic foods in San Francisco you shouldn’t miss when you visit. Each dish represents the city’s diverse culinary scene and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy exploring these delicious flavors and discovering even more classic creations in the vibrant city of San Francisco!
Cioppino
A beloved seafood stew, Cioppino is a San Francisco classic. This hearty dish is made with a flavorful tomato-based broth, loaded with a variety of fresh seafood such as Dungeness crab, shrimp, clams, and mussels. Served with crusty bread, Cioppino is a delicious meal that showcases the city’s coastal bounty.
San Francisco Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is renowned for its sourdough bread, known for its tangy flavor and chewy texture. The bread’s distinct taste comes from the city’s unique combination of wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in a crusty and flavorful loaf. Whether enjoyed on its own or used as a base for sandwiches, SF sourdough bread is a must-try.
Irish Coffee
This blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and sugar, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, is one of San Francisco’s famous beverages. The Buena Vista Café, located near Fisherman’s Wharf, is famous for perfecting the art of Irish coffee and is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.
Fortune Cookie
While fortune cookies are often associated with Chinese cuisine, they are said to be invented in San Francisco’s Chinatown. These crisp and sweet treats are made from a simple batter, folded into a shape resembling a fortune-telling device. Enjoy a fortune cookie after a delicious Chinese meal, and discover the message inside!
Mission-style Burrito
One of San Francisco’s most iconic foods is the Mission-style burrito. Packed with rice, beans, meat (such as carne asada or grilled chicken), salsa, and other fillings, this oversized burrito is a meal in itself. Head to the Mission District to taste this local favorite!
Dungeness Crab
As San Francisco is located on the coast, it’s no surprise that seafood plays an important role in its cuisine. Dungeness crab, with its sweet and succulent meat, is a local delicacy. Enjoy it steamed, cracked, and served with melted butter for a true taste of the sea.
Ghirardelli Chocolate
Indulge your sweet tooth with Ghirardelli chocolate, a San Francisco institution since 1852. Known for their rich and velvety chocolate creations, Ghirardelli offers a wide range of treats, from their famous chocolate squares to decadent sundaes. Treat yourself at their flagship store in Ghirardelli Square!
Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl
Another popular dish that combines San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread and seafood is clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. This comforting soup features creamy broth, tender clams, potatoes, and aromatic herbs, all served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread loaf.
Dim Sum
San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown offers a wide variety of delicious dim sum. These bite-sized portions of steamed or fried dumplings, buns, and rolls are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp dumplings, barbecue pork buns, or sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves, dim sum is a must-try in the city.
It’s-It Ice Cream Sandwich
Created in San Francisco in 1928, the It’s-It ice cream sandwich is an iconic treat. It consists of a scoop of ice cream (typically vanilla) sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies and dipped in chocolate. This nostalgic dessert is perfect for enjoying on a sunny day!
Oysters
With its proximity to the coast, the city offers a wide variety of oyster bars and seafood restaurants. Whether you prefer them raw on the half shell, grilled, or served in a flavorful oyster stew, San Francisco’s oysters are a must-try for seafood lovers.
Chop Suey
While not necessarily originating from San Francisco, Chop Suey gained immense popularity during the Gold Rush era in the city. This Americanized Chinese dish typically features stir-fried meat (chicken, beef, or pork), vegetables (bean sprouts, celery, and onions) in a thick brown sauce, often served over rice.
Fog Cutter Cocktail
The Fog Cutter cocktail is a tropical drink that originated in San Francisco’s tiki bars. It combines rum, gin, brandy, orange juice, lemon juice, and orgeat syrup. The Fog Cutter cocktail offers a taste of the tropics, with its fruity flavors and bold combination of ingredients.
Crab Louie Salad
Crab Louie is a refreshing salad that features crab meat, mixed greens, avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy dressing. It’s a perfect choice for seafood lovers looking for a lighter option.
Peking Duck
Peking duck shouldn’t be missed when visiting San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown! This traditional Chinese dish features crispy duck skin and tender meat with hoisin sauce. With its rich flavors and exquisite presentation, Peking duck offers a memorable dining experience.
Chicken Tetrazzini
This classic Italian-American dish has become an iconic comfort food in San Francisco. This creamy pasta casserole is made with diced chicken, mushrooms, and a rich Parmesan and cream sauce, baked until golden and bubbling.
Crab Sandwich
Another way to enjoy the city’s famous Dungeness crab is in a sandwich. Served on a soft roll with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy sauce, the crab sandwich is a simple yet delicious option for a quick bite.
Sushi Burrito
A fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisines, the sushi burrito is a popular street food in San Francisco. It combines the convenience of a burrito with the flavors of sushi, featuring a large seaweed wrap filled with sushi rice, fresh fish, vegetables, and various sauces.
Rice-A-Roni
Known as “The San Francisco Treat,” Rice-A-Roni is a packaged side dish that was introduced in the city in the 1950s. It combines rice, vermicelli pasta, and seasonings, creating a flavorful and easy-to-prepare accompaniment to any protein meal like baked salmon or an air-fried chicken.
Rainbow Bagel
A colorful twist on a classic, the rainbow bagel is a vibrant and eye-catching treat. Made with a rainbow-colored dough, these bagels are often topped with cream cheese and enjoyed as a fun and Instagram-worthy snack.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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