My Favorite Restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco is a culinary paradise, brimming with diverse dining experiences that cater to every palate. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, the city offers an array of exceptional restaurants that have become personal favorites. In this article, I’m excited to share some of my top picks, each known for their unique charm and outstanding cuisine. Whether you're craving inventive dishes, comforting classics, or simply a memorable dining experience, these spots—Back to Back, Udon Mugizo, Nopa, Union Larder, Octavia, Mamanoko, and House of Nanking—are sure to impress. Join me on a delicious journey through San Francisco’s vibrant food scene!

Back to Back (Nob Hill)

Back to Back is my absolute favorite spot in San Francisco, and I find myself dining here at least once a month. One of the reasons I keep coming back is their ever-changing, seasonal menu that keeps things fresh. Right now, my must-try dishes include the shishito peppers—though you’ll want to watch out for the extra spicy ones—and the heirloom burrata with fennel, crostini, basil, and dill oil. The brussel sprouts, sweetened with honey and balanced with cherry and lemon, are another favorite. Their Parisian gnocchi is always on the menu, but the ingredients evolve with the seasons; during the summer, it featured asparagus and peas, while now it’s prepared with beurre blanc, sweet corn, trout roe, and shiso. For pizza, you can't go wrong, but I’m particularly fond of "That’s Hot, Honey," their take on pepperoni pizza drizzled with hot honey. To finish off, the dark chocolate cake and panna cotta are perfect desserts.

Back to Back is the perfect spot for an intimate date night or a fun girls' dinner. The ambiance is enhanced by their commitment to playing music exclusively on vinyl, creating a unique and warm vibe. Their jazz night, held on the first Wednesday of every month, adds even more charm. I recommend making reservations in advance if you’re planning to visit over the weekend, but if you’re feeling spontaneous, you can always try walking in and snagging a spot at the bar.

Udon Mugizo (Japantown)

Located in the heart of Japantown within the SF Japan Center, Udon Mugizo is a must-visit for anyone who loves authentic Japanese noodles. My go-to order here is the tempura udon, where the warm, chewy udon pairs perfectly with the crispy, light tempura. Alongside, I like to enjoy the edamame and wash it all down with a glass of nigori sake for a refreshing finish.

One of the best parts about Udon Mugizo is its proximity to Kinokuniya Bookstore, just across the way. After a comforting bowl of udon, I love stopping by the bookstore to browse, followed by indulging in matcha soft serve from the first-floor dessert counter for the perfect ending to a Japantown visit.

Nopa (Nopa)

Nopa immediately became one of my top restaurants after just one visit. Specializing in organic, wood-fired cuisine, Nopa serves delicious food crafted from seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. With daily menu changes, you’ll find Mediterranean influences woven throughout the dishes. On my visit, I couldn’t resist the tagliatelle with veal ragu—even though I’m a vegetarian, I had to break my rule because it was just too good! We also started with the crisp and refreshing little gem salad, and for dessert, the chocolate chip pavlova was the perfect sweet finish. I will definitely be back soon.

Union Larder (Russian Hill)

Union Larder is my top choice for a laid-back evening with friends or a cozy date night. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it perfect for a range of occasions. The highlight of the menu for me is definitely the small plates. The burrata with basil olive oil is a must-try—creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced with the fresh basil. The charcuterie is another standout, offering a variety of cured meats and accompaniments that complement their extensive wine selection beautifully.

The wine list is thoughtfully curated, featuring a range of options from local favorites to international gems. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a great pairing, the knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you find the perfect match for your meal. If you're looking for a place to unwind, enjoy delicious food, and sip on some fantastic wines, Union Larder is definitely the place to go.

Octavia (Cathedral Hill)

Octavia is a culinary gem located in the Cathedral Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. This intimate and elegant restaurant is renowned for its refined approach to American cuisine. Focusing on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, their menu evolves throughout the year, offering new and exciting options with each visit.

Some of my current favorites at Octavia include the local albacore crudo, which comes with serpent cucumbers, sungold tomato, and ají dulce pepper—fresh, vibrant, and delicately seasoned. The Brentwood corn lasagna is a standout as well, featuring fonduta, padron peppers, and corn flowers, creating a rich and creamy dish with a burst of sweet corn flavor. For dessert, the pavlova is a must-try, with Tahitian vanilla crème légère, Miriam's blackberry granita, and pistachios, offering a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

Mamanoko (Cow Hollow)

Mamanoko in Cow Hollow is a delightful spot for enjoying high-quality Japanese cuisine in a relaxed, yet stylish setting. The restaurant is known for its fresh, flavorful dishes and creative rolls that make each visit a treat. My favorites at Mamanoko include the ikura nigiri, which features perfectly seasoned rice topped with vibrant salmon roe that bursts with flavor. The hamachi sashimi is another standout, offering tender slices of yellowtail that are incredibly fresh and melt-in-your-mouth. For rolls, I can’t get enough of the mamasan roll and wiki wiki roll—both are unique and packed with complementary flavors and textures. A bowl of miso soup rounds out the meal beautifully, with its rich, umami broth providing a comforting finish.

House of Nanking (Chinatown)

A Chinatown institution, House of Nanking is beloved for its no-frills atmosphere and bold, flavorful Chinese dishes. Some of my top picks at House of Nanking include the fried onion cakes, which are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, packed with savory flavor. The chow mein with tofu is another standout, featuring perfectly stir-fried noodles with tofu and vegetables, creating a deliciously balanced dish. The hot and sour soup is a classic favorite, with its tangy, spicy broth providing a comforting and flavorful start to the meal. The umami garlic long beans are a standout side dish, offering a delightful combination of crispy beans and a rich garlic sauce. For a unique and indulgent treat, the crispy egg pillows are a must-try—they’re light, airy, and full of flavor. It might be strange, but I always, always pair dinner with a diet coke.