City Guide
San Francisco City Guide
Here’s the thing -
I don’t want to overwhelm you, but I do at the same time. There are just so many things to do, to see, food to eat, and of course, and coffee shops to try in San Francisco, California. I cannot even begin to cover it all, but I'm going to try. While living in this beautiful city for the last few years, I’ve curated a list of my “favorites” and I want to share them with you.
The following is a consolidated list of what I would personally consider the best restaurants, coffee shops, activities, landmarks, and shopping areas in San Francisco. It by no means is a complete list of all that San Francisco has to offer. In fact, I still find myself exploring new areas and happening upon trendy new places all the time.
If you already live in San Francisco, I hope this travel guide will help you discover a new restaurant to try or maybe a new Happy Hour spot to bring your friends to after work. And if you’re from out of town and find yourself planning a trip to SF in the future, then I’m hoping the following will help you plan the most perfect weekend in the City By The Bay.
A FEW FUN FACTS ABOUT SAN FRANCISCO
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For locals, San Francisco is often referred to as “S.F.” or by it’s full name “San Francisco” — so you might be reading along and see me use SF instead of the full name. Fun Fact: we’ll know you’re from out of town if you call it “San Fran.”
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Before officially being named “San Francisco,” the city was actually called “Yerba Buena.” So if you pay attention, you’ll see this Yerba Buena phrase used quite a lot on buildings, on tea bottles, and in parks!
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SF has the second largest Chinatown outside of Asia…Yes, that's right!
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The official color that was used to paint the Golden Gate Bridge is called “International Orange.”
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SF is actually only 7 miles long and 7 miles wide, which makes it pretty easy to see most of the city in just one day.
Over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot about the different neighborhoods that make San Francisco what it is today. You’ll see a lot of neighborhoods with abbreviated names, like “SOMA” and “NOPA” and “Pac Heights.” SOMA is the shortened version of “South of Market” and NOPA is the shortened version of “North of Panhandle.” To learn more about the lay of the land, you can check out my San Francisco Neighborhood map here.
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LANDMARKS
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GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE
Possibly the most beautiful, and definitely the most photographed bridge in the world. The Golden Gate Bridge was declared one of the Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
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ALCATRAZ ISLAND
The island of incarceration and the island of freedom. I would highly suggest watching one of the the various documentaries that have been made about this infamous prison island to get you excited before seeing it in person. Take the ferry from Fisherman’s Wharf to the island for a tour and back.
(Forewarning: tickets for tours of Alcatraz book up quickly, so you should try purchasing them as far in advance as possible. You can purchase tickets HERE)
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LOMBARD STREET
The “crookedest street in the world.” This is a must-do. Make sure to drive down this section of Lombard St., starting at the top of the hill on Hyde St. and all the way down to Leavenworth St. You’ll have an amazing view of San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood and the Coit Tower.
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THE PAINTED LADIES
Fun Fact: “Painted Ladies“ is a term used in American Architecture to describe Victorian or Edwardian houses that have been repainted in three or more colors in order to enhance their architectural details. These Painted Ladies, however, are seen in the opening credits of the classic tv series Full House — so if you ask me, they might possibly be the most famous ones ever. If you sit atop the hill on the East side of Alamo Square Park, you’ll be able to take your own photo of “Postcard Row.”
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LAND’S END
Take a short walk through the Golden Gate National Recreation Area over to “Land’s End” and you’ll be able to look out over the Pacific Ocean. This is one of my ABSOLUTE favorite views in San Francisco. It’s even more incredible at Sunset.
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FERRY BUILDING
San Francisco’s Ferry Building is a great spot to grab a coffee and breakfast before starting your day or a quick lunch between stops. On Sundays they do a really great farmer’s market right outside! Sometimes they also do a little craft fair upstairs where local Bay Area artists sell their goods (sometimes I’m there too with my maps— *wink, wink*—come say hi!) You can check out Fog City Flea's Website to see if they have an event on the day you’ll be there! Below are a few of my favorite stops within the FB:
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Fort Point Beer Company (Local Beer Co.)
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Dandelion Chocolate (Local Co.)
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Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream (Local Creamery)
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MISSION DOLORES PARK (“DOLORES”)
One of the most historic parks in San Francisco with an insane view that overlooks the entire city.
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FISHERMAN’S WHARF
Home to the Bay’s seals and the seafood. This area can get quite touristy, but I think it’s worth a walk through to see the seals and the fish market. This is also where you can catch most Ferry’s heading to Alcatraz and elsewhere in the Bay.
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CHINATOWN’S DRAGON GATE
China Town is really its own world within San Francisco. Start at the infamous Dragon Gate then head North down Grant Ave. towards California St.
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CABLE CAR RIDE
Many people think that San Francisco’s cable cars are more of just something to see, but you can ride them! It might be a little confusing if you try to just go for it though, so read THIS GUIDE before taking a trip back in time on one of these old-fashioned cars.
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COFFEESHOPS
MY ALL-TIME FAVORITE
My all-time favorite “coffee shop” in San Francisco isn’t really a coffee shop — rather it’s a Coffee Truck. And it’s only open on the weekends.* Located at the corner of Marina Blvd. and Scott St., the Philz Coffee Truck is one of my classic Saturday or Sunday morning stops before taking a stroll down Marina Blvd alongside the small yacht harbor. First made locally in San Francisco’s Mission District, Philz now has multiple locations throughout the city — but only one truck.
*If you’re visiting San Francisco during the week or find that the truck isn’t open on the day you’re here, you can go to one of their other locations in San Francisco and get the same great taste.
For newcomers: I would suggest trying the Iced Ecstatic or the Mint Mojito. They’ll ask you how sweet you want it and how much cream you want, and if you were me — you’d tell them “light, light.” You’ll understand when you go! My personal favorite blends are Tesora and Philtered Soul (I also think their Almond Croissants are the best I’ve ever had in my life).
Coffee Shops: 1. Philz, 2. Sightglass Coffee, 3. Blue Bottle , 4. Beacon Coffee & Pantry, 5. Saint Frank Coffee, 6. Andytown Coffee Roasters, 7. The Mill, 8. Equator Coffees, 9. Cafe Reviélle, 10. Ritual Coffee Roasters
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BREAKFAST
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Forewarning you’ll have to wait in line (maybe even up to an hour) for this place as they don’t take reservations, but let me tell you — it’s worth it. It’s a family owned spot where they whip up their family recipes and you can taste it. Make sure to try the homemade jam.
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This place is an all around jaw-dropper. From the way they decorated the space to the coffee and the homemade bread. Everything on this menu will surely not disappoint. Make sure to stop next door after you eat to check out Heath Ceramics and then maybe head out to start shopping in the Mission District from there.
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This place is a hidden gem. On the corner of California St. and 23rd Ave. in the Richmond District, you might pass by at first thinking it’s just another one of San Francisco’s colorful buildings. But no, make sure to park the car and head inside for a fabulous start to your morning. From here you might want to head over to Ocean Beach or Golden Gate Park depending on the weather!
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This place is a crowd pleaser. Your traditional comfort food with a unique twist. Make sure to try their rendition of “Millionaire’s Bacon.”
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You might need to plan ahead and wait in line at this place too, but a LOT of local San Franciscans would say this is their favorite breakfast spot. They’re really well known for their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes! From here you could either head West towards the Mission for some shopping or to spend some time at Mission Dolores Park. Another option would be to head North towards the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf!
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If you’re coming to San Francisco with a group of friends, BE SURE to make a reservation for your group at Chubby Noodle for their all-inclusive brunch option. It’s breakfast food, but with an Asian twist. Plus, they have an incredible playlist playing in the background while you drink up!
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This place is a classic in Cow Hollow’s neighborhood. If you’re looking for a place to go before shopping on Union Street or before heading towards the Golden Gate Bridge, this is the place to start your day!
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This place is nothing fancy inside, but they debatably have the best Bagels in the city. Located on Polk St., The Bagelry has an option for everyone. This is a great place to grab bagels to-go before heading out for the day (or a great spot to go in the morning after a night out.. if you know what I mean lol).
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Here you can find your classic overpriced Californian Avocado Toast. But hey, YOLO and they make some pretty incredible bread (Hence the name!). My favorites are the Almond Butter and Cinnamon Toast. You can grab coffee here too! After breakfast, you can head right next door to The Perish Trust (one of my most FAVORITE Stores in San Francisco) or to Rare Device!
LUNCH
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This is one of my most favorite restaurants in San Francisco mostly because of it’s location, the aesthetic, and of course… the beer! With a minimalistic style with large wooden tree trunks used as the seats, this restaurant is a great place for a mid-day brew and some German snacks while over looking the Marina Harbor and the Golden Gate Bridge off in the distance. Located within the Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture (in the building on the far left). If you’re feeling up for another drink after lunch, head right next door to The Interval at Long Now (a quaint little bar with some crazy good craft cocktails) — or save this for later in the night!
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I frequent this restaurant a lot. It’s SO GOOD. If you like Mexican food too, stop here for a quick bite or to take some food to-go and eat it at the park. My go-to is their rendition of a quesadilla - it’s more like a fusion between a quesadilla and a burrito.
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THIS PLACE IS SO GOOD. Located in the Mission, it’s a great spot for a mid-day bite between stores you might find yourself shopping from along Valencia Street. They make the most incredible Cuban Sandwiches and it’s super cute inside too.
- SOUVLA This is another one of my most frequented San Francisco restaurants. They make Mediterranean sandwiches (more like a “gyro”) and Salads. My go-to is “Chicken with the Pork Set-up.” If you go here you have to promise me one thing — you can’t leave without trying their frozen Greek Yogurt. I get this probably 3 times a week… some might say I have a problem lol. I get it with the Baklava topping!
- 4505 BBQThis place cannot be compared to Southern BBQ, but if you’re in the mood for some pulled pork or a good burger, this place is great and has a super fun out door patio to sit on. Great spot for a quick bite in the middle of the day.
- ITALIAN HOMEMADE COMPANY This is a local favorite. They have two locations, one in North Beach (AKA Little Italy) and one on Union St. in Cow Hollow. It’s owned and run by an Italian family and if you try putting a certain type of pasta sauce on the wrong type of pasta - they’ll let you know. They want to make sure you’re getting the most traditional Italian dish. Order at the counter and then wait for your order to come out - this is a great spot for a quick bite.
- BAR BOCCE If you have time to take the Ferry over to Sausalito at some point, you should definitely make time to stop by Bar Bocce for lunch. Located right on the water, they have pitchers of drinks and incredible pizzas that you can sip and eat while playing a round of Bocce Ball! I love going for a hike in Marin with friends and then stopping here before heading back to the city!
DINNER
Alright, so this list is a long one — but rightfully so and here’s why. First you must know that San Francisco is home to a lot of incredible restaurants, not to mention home to many Michelin Stars. In fact, Northern California is often referred to as the “Fine Dining Capitol of the U.S.” When planning your trip or your night out, make sure to see if you can make a reservation before heading there. Some of the following spots are so great that they book up quickly and it can be difficult to find a table if you don’t plan ahead. With that being said, some of these restaurants do save a select number of tables for walk-ins, so you could try your luck with heading there early and putting your name in and then find a bar nearby to grab a drink at while you wait (see my Cocktail Bar list below for some recs!)
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This is hands down my favorite restaurant in San Francisco. Located in the Mission, Beretta serves it up all night long. My favorite dishes are the Walnut Bread, the Gnocchi, and the Hot Salami pizza - but know it’s spicy!
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This is a new favorite of mine. I love Eastern Mediterranean food so when this restaurant opened up, I knew I had to try it. Great drinks, amazing hummus, and even better Turkish flatbreads.
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One of the top 3 best Italian restaurants in San Francisco. If Italian is your thing, you must eat here. But make sure to make a reservation as far in advance as possible.
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The line outside of this place is always pretty long - but that’s just a sign of how good their food it. I would suggest making a reservation here up to a month in advance, but I do know that they save a few tables for walk-ins. If that’s the route you decide to go, put your name on the list and then stop over to one of the bars on my cocktail list below while you wait!
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This is another one of those places where you should have a reservation. They do unique twists on everything Italian. There’s a more casual downstairs part, but Che Fico is actually upstairs - I say this because I don’t want you to make the mistake I made and wait for an hour only to find out that you weren’t in the right spot. Yikes!
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Located right on the water, Coqueta is a small and quaint little tapas restaurant and it’s very highly regarded. If you’re looking for a great date spot - this is it. You can sip sangria while you look out over water and the Bay Bridge.
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Alright, I’m not sure where to even begin with this place. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in North Beach (aka Little Italy of SF) is the most incredible pizzeria I have ever been to in the U.S. They have an extensive menu with pizza styles from around the WORLD. I would say definitely go here if you’re looking for a true North Beach experience. There will likely be a line, so plan ahead!
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This is such a great little Mexican restaurant that’s a little hidden. There’s no sign above the door, just 3 red lights poking out from the Brick Wall. I’ve never made a reservation here, I usually just walk in. They also do a great brunch.
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If you’re a rooftop lover, then this is the spot for you. El Techo is located right above Lolinda in the heart of the Mission. Mexican food and Margaritas while overlooking the entire San Francisco skyline.. what more could you ask for!
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Located right below El Techo, Lolinda is an upscale and trendy Argentinian steakhouse with a California twist. Great spot for a date!
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Another great Italian spot with amazing Pizzas. This place is a little fancier so I would suggest dressing up with your friends or planning a dinner here for date night.
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If you traveled to San Francisco with your squad and you’re looking for a fun night out, start at Chubby Noodle. They’ll play you some pump up tunes while you eat some incredible Asian-Fusion food. If you feel up for it, try a Sake Bomb!
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Foreign Cinema is one of the Mission District’s best outdoor restaurants. Eat incredible food on their patio while watching a movie on the wall at the same time!
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If you’re a Chinese food lover, then China Live is your place. Located in the heart of China Town, China Live offers a modern day Chinese food experience.
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If you have always wanted to try a Michelin star restaurant, but don’t have the money in your bank to do so — you should go to Al’s Place.
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If you’re a Tequila lover, Mezcalito has you covered. They have an extensive Mezcal bottle collection and as you can imagine, they make great margs!
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This is the new kid on the block. Wild Seed just opened on Union St. and it’s a great restaurant if you’re interested in Vegan friendly options!
COCTAILS & DRINKS
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This cocktail bar is at the top of my list. It’s small and quant and they make the best cocktails. I usually try to stop by here while I’m waiting for a table at one of the amazing dinner restaurants nearby.
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Located in the heart of Hayes Valley, Anina is a trendy spot for a great cocktail. If you’re with a group of friends, try one of their punch bowls.
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Of all the great bars in the Mission, this cocktail bar is my fav. It has an old-school vibe to it and the drinks are served in crazy cool glasses. This is another great spot to grab a drink while waiting for a table at Beretta or any of the other great restaurants in the Mission.
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This cocktail bar is a unique one. It’s small and it’s slightly hidden. It’s located right next door to Radhaus and in the farthest West building at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture. You’ll feel like you’re in a library with a secret door to another room while you’re in this bar. Take that special someone here if you’re trying to impress them.
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This Beer and Wine bar is my favorite spot for Happy Hour in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood. Located on the corner of Columbus and Filbert, you can either do some great people watching through the window or sit along the wall and catch up with friends. They also have some great snack food if you’re hungry!
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Howell’s is one of my main go-to’s. It’s another beer and wine bar located on Chestnut St. and in the heart of the Marina. I love the brass and wooden decor and the homey vibes. They also have great food. Stop here for a drink before heading to A16 for dinner!
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This French wine bar serves flights of wine for just $12 — and in San Francisc, that’s a steal. Sit in vintage movie theatre seats while you drink some great wine and catch up with your besties.
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This bar is a great spot for a drink and a bite to eat before heading to Salt and Straw for an incredible scoop of ice cream. It’s cozy and warm inside and a great place for a date.
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Trick Dog is another Mission favorite of mine. It’s a trendy space that is located in a converted warehouse building. Super cool.
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This quant little beer and wine bar is located right next to The Fillmore (Conert Venue). I’d suggest heading here for a drink before your next show!
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A San Francisco speakeasy - go here if you’re feeling up for a fun night out and a unique experience!
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Locally made craft beer. Mikkeller bar is a funky, yet warm space and located right near Union Square. Stop in for a drink if you need a break from the crowds.
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This high-end cocktail bar is located in the heart of North Beach. You’ll just have to see for yourself.
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This is a local favorite. It’s small and more dive-y than others, but it is oh-so-fun! Head to the back room if you’re looking to play a game of pool or sit in the outdoor-porch-like seats with your friends! Or head to the front to grab some free popcorn from the side of the bar or play your own song on the juke box. I love heading here on Thursday nights with college friends for a little break in the week!
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If you’re all about the bubbly, this champagne bar is the place for you and your friends.
SHOPPING
THE MARINA
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MISSION DISTRICT
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SUNSET DISTRICT
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NOPA / FILLMORE
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