Eating San Francisco

During my week in San Francisco, I got up to my usual antics.

I wandered the city streets aimlessly pointing my camera at everything that did or did not move, spent my nights drinking wine with good friends, explored cool new neighborhoods I knew little about, and, of course, ate everything in sight.

I wouldn’t say San Francisco necessarily has a reputation as a foodie destination, but it probably should.

You can find any type of cuisine from any corner of the world, for starters, and if you know where to look, you’ll find some true standout donuts stars.

I did a lot of no-frills eating while in San Francisco, like home-cooked meals or healthy delivery when we were feeling lazy, and the majority of my restaurant experiences were pretty low-key.

But the ones I did try were excellent and affordable–what more could I ask for?

And if I can get through a whole meal before a single photo is ever snapped, you know it’s good. If you’re not sure where to eat in San Francisco, this list is a great starting point.

Looking for a great place to stay while you’re in San Francisco? For a budget-friendly option just a few blocks from Union Square, try The Mosser. For a more upscale experience, try Galleria Park.

10 Deliciously Cheap Places to Eat in San Francisco

1. Ramen Yamadaya

1728 Buchanan Street

My first night in the city, dinner was a big bowl of ramen from Ramen Yamadaya in the heart of Japantown.  For around $9 for a heaping bowl of noodles and toppings like egg, pork belly, and spring onions, it’s a great (and delicious!) deal.  It’s a pretty popular spot that often has a line out the door, so if you can make it for an early dinner, you’ll be more likely to be seated right away.

2. Mr. Holmes Bakehouse

1042 Larkin Street

Mr. Holmes Bakehouse is famous–Instagram famous.  New donut flavors and baked creations are announced weekly on their Instagram account, and the small shop itself is one of the most Instagrammed spots in the city.  Come for the incredible donuts, stay for a photo op under their glowing “I Got Baked in San Francisco” sign.  Get there early for the best selection of goods, get there late for a chance at an unobstructed photo.

3. Pho 2000

637 Larkin Street

Do you pho-cking love pho?  Then this no-frills Vietnamese spot is sure to suit your fancy.  The bowls are enormous and consistently good.  This restaurant is popular with locals–you’ll feel like a true San Franciscan eating here.

4. House of Thai 2

494 Haight Street

San Francisco has some of the best Thai food I’ve found outside of Thailand, and House of Thai 2 on Haight Street is no exception.  They even serve khao soi, a traditional northern curry that is to. die. for.  The servers are lovely and the restaurant is located in a great area, so you can pop right out to a cool bar afterward.  The original House of Thai is located downtown at 901 Larkin Street.

5. Mojo Bicycle Cafe

639-A Divisadero Street

Mojo Bicycle Cafe is not just a cafe but also a bike shop, hence the name, but it’s not all that obvious.  It’s a bustling and busy place known for great sandwiches, and they also serve beer, wine, and Ritual Coffee.

6. Ritual Coffee Roasters

432b Octavia Street

If you’re just in the mood for coffee and a chill place to drink it, head to Ritual Coffee Roasters in Hayes Valley.  Then pop over to Patricia’s Green to sip your strong brew while watching the world go by.

7. Arlequin Wine Merchant

384 Hayes Street

Located not far from Ritual Coffee Roasters is my other favorite beverage, wine!  Arlequin Wine Merchant is attached to the cafe by the same name, though I wasn’t able to try the food myself.  I can vouch for the wine, though, and the outdoor patio seating makes for a truly lovely atmosphere in which to drink it.

8. Papito

425 Hayes Street

In anticipation of my trip to Mexico, I jumped on the opportunity to try this organic Mexican bistro.  My meal at Papito Hayes was hands down my favorite of the week.  I ordered the mole enchiladas con pollo and was NOT disappointed.  On my next visit, I hope to come back to try, well, just about anything else on the menu, or one of their Mexican-inspired cocktails.

9. Ferry Building Marketplace

The Embarcadero

This beautiful historic building at the foot of Market Street has become a bustling tourist attraction and one that never gets old.  It’s loaded with shops and restaurants to suit just about every taste and hosts a farmer’s market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.  You can’t go wrong!

10. Sprig

Anywhere you want it to be

Remember that healthy delivery option I mentioned earlier?  Meet Sprig.  Having not lived in a proper city for some time, I had no idea this kind of meal delivery service was even a thing.  Sprig is an app that lets you quickly and easily order meals prepared with “organic and sustainably raised ingredients.”  They even include nutritional info for each meal, and the food is delivered hot in less than 30 minutes.  No need to settle for greasy, fatty take-out when healthy food is just a few taps away.

Where are your favorite places to eat in San Francisco?  Where should I go next time?

Mr. Holmes Bakehouse Ramen Yamadaya San Francisco restaurants where to eat in San Francisco