When deciding which of the restaurants in San Francisco are my favorites, it was not an easy task. I thought about nailing down just my top three, but that proved to be a tough, though delicious, task. Instead of just listing my top three, I had to expand to provide a few more options just in case your stay in San Francisco is a long one. If it is, I promise it will not be a hungry one. Whether you are looking for endless meats or fresh seafood, you will be pleased with the offerings from any of these fine establishments. Keep reading to learn more about what to eat when you visit San Francisco.
Those who may not be fans of seafood should still try Fog Harbor Fish House if for no other reason than its views. It overlooks Pier 39 and has amazing views of Alcatraz and the occasional sea lion. As a starter, my favorite is their red chili garlic shrimp. But of course, if you are visiting Fog Harbor, you are in it for the clam chowder in a bread bowl. This amazing comfort food is served snuggly in a loaf of that sour dough bread for which this city is so famous. Their dinner offerings are equally as amazing. I always get clams and crab legs but I will always go back for their clam chowder! If you are looking for more than simply great chowder, try an order of their seared scallop and crab risotto.
What I recommend: clam chowder and clams
Location: 39 Pier Ste A-202 San Francisco, CA 94133
I understand that oysters may not be for everyone. That being said, please try them anyway because I come here all the time for happy hour. They are only one dollar each oyster when you come during happy hour! Hog Island Oyster Co. serves up the freshest of oysters at many locations throughout San Francisco. Order a dozen or so to share with friends. Be sure to give them a squeeze of lemon juice and a dab of horseradish. Those who are not able to make it to the Bay Area can even order fresh oysters to be delivered right to your home. All of their oysters are harvested locally from Tomales Bay, so you quite literally can’t find them any fresher than this.
What I recommend: Oysters and more oysters
Location: 1 Ferry Bldg Shop 11 San Francisco, CA 94111
See, I can't review best places in San Francisco to eat at without reviewing my favorite Brazillian steakhouse of all time. With two locations in the area, Espetus Churrascaria is a meat lover’s dream come true. This traditional Brazilian steakhouse carves only the finest quality meats right at your table. It is tough to say which of their meats is my favorite. Their picanha is always so savory and tender. Their filet mignon is always cooked to perfection. For those white meat lovers, I recommend their peito de frango com bacon. Or, to put it simply, bacon-wrapped chicken breast. They even have an amazing salad bar. And for those who like to cater to their sweet tooth, save some room for their pastel tres leches.
It was no easy task to whittle down a list of amazing dining spots in one of my favorite cities, but I have done my best to recommend some of my personal favorites that I just know you will enjoy. I sincerely hope you give one of these places a try and let me know that you now share them as your favorites as well.