San Francisco is more than just the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and breathtaking views—it’s a culinary haven that offers an array of diverse and iconic dishes. From seafood fresh out of the Pacific to the finest sourdough bread, the city’s food scene is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry. If you’re planning a visit or just curious about what to eat in San Francisco, here are the top 7 foods you absolutely must try.
1. Sourdough Bread
San Francisco’s sourdough bread is legendary, with its origins dating back to the California Gold Rush of 1849. What makes it so special? It’s the natural wild yeast and bacteria found in the Bay Area’s foggy climate that give the bread its unique tangy flavor and chewy texture. Boudin Bakery, the oldest continuously operating business in San Francisco, has been perfecting this bread for over 170 years.
Why It’s a Must-Try: Sourdough is more than just bread in San Francisco; it’s a culinary institution. Whether enjoyed on its own, as a base for sandwiches, or alongside a bowl of clam chowder, this bread is a quintessential part of the city’s food culture.
World Statistics: Sourdough has gained international popularity, with global sales of sourdough products reaching $2.4 billion in 2022, according to market research. However, San Francisco remains the epicenter of this trend, with Boudin alone selling millions of loaves annually.
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2. Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl
San Francisco’s clam chowder, served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl, is an iconic dish that combines the city’s love for seafood and sourdough. This creamy soup, filled with tender clams, potatoes, and celery, is perfect for the city’s cool, foggy weather.
Why It’s a Must-Try: The combination of rich, savory chowder with the tangy, chewy bread makes for a hearty meal that warms both body and soul. The bread bowl itself becomes infused with the chowder, making it a delicious and edible part of the experience.
World Statistics: Clam chowder is a popular dish in coastal cities across the United States, with San Francisco’s version standing out due to its unique presentation. The bread bowl trend has caught on globally, with variations appearing in restaurants from London to Tokyo.
3. Mission-Style Burrito
The Mission District in San Francisco is the birthplace of the Mission-style burrito, a behemoth of a meal that’s packed with rice, beans, meat, salsa, and other toppings, all wrapped up in a large flour tortilla. These burritos are known for their size and their ability to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Why It’s a Must-Try: The Mission-style burrito is a testament to the city’s vibrant Latino culture and the innovative spirit of its food scene. Taquerias like La Taqueria and El Farolito have become landmarks in their own right, serving up burritos that draw locals and tourists alike.
World Statistics: The global popularity of burritos has surged, with the Mexican fast-food industry valued at over $60 billion in 2023. The Mission-style burrito, in particular, has inspired countless imitations worldwide, but the original can only be found in San Francisco.
4. Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a seasonal delicacy that has been a part of San Francisco’s culinary tradition for over a century. Typically available from November to June, this sweet, tender crab is best enjoyed steamed or boiled, often served with melted butter or in a garlic sauce.
Why It’s a Must-Try: Dungeness crab is to San Francisco what lobster is to Maine. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean ensures that the crab is fresh and full of flavor. Fisherman’s Wharf is the go-to place for this seafood delicacy, where you can enjoy it right by the water.
World Statistics: Dungeness crab is harvested along the Pacific coast, with San Francisco being one of the major hubs. The U.S. commercial Dungeness crab fishery is valued at approximately $200 million annually, with millions of pounds of crab caught each year.
5. Cioppino
Cioppino is a seafood stew that originated in San Francisco’s Italian-American community in the late 19th century. This hearty dish is a mix of the freshest catch of the day—typically including crab, clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, mussels, and fish—all simmered in a tomato and wine broth.
Why It’s a Must-Try: Cioppino is the ultimate comfort food for seafood lovers. The dish is a reflection of San Francisco’s maritime history and its diverse immigrant population. It’s best enjoyed with a glass of wine and, of course, some sourdough bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
World Statistics: Cioppino has grown in popularity beyond San Francisco, with restaurants across the United States offering their take on the dish. However, the original version remains a beloved staple of the city’s food culture, especially during the winter months.
6. Dim Sum
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest in North America, making it a prime destination for authentic dim sum. Dim sum is a style of Chinese cuisine that involves small plates of dumplings, buns, and other bite-sized delicacies, typically enjoyed with tea.
Why It’s a Must-Try: Eating dim sum in San Francisco’s Chinatown is an experience in itself. The bustling atmosphere, the clatter of dim sum carts, and the variety of dishes make it a must-do culinary adventure. Renowned spots like Yank Sing and City View are popular choices for locals and visitors.
World Statistics: Dim sum has become a global phenomenon, with cities like London, Sydney, and New York boasting their own dim sum scenes. However, San Francisco’s Chinatown remains a historic and essential part of the dim sum experience, drawing food enthusiasts from around the world.
7. It’s-It Ice Cream Sandwich
A true San Francisco original, the It’s-It ice cream sandwich has been a local favorite since 1928. This treat consists of vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies and then dipped in chocolate. Over the years, new flavors like mint, cappuccino, and strawberry have been added to the lineup.
Why It’s a Must-Try: The It’s-It ice cream sandwich is a nostalgic favorite that has remained popular for nearly a century. It’s a sweet way to cool down on a warm day or to indulge in a bit of local history. You can find them at grocery stores throughout the city or directly from the It’s-It factory.
World Statistics: While the ice cream sandwich is popular in various forms worldwide, the It’s-It remains a uniquely San Francisco treat. The brand sells millions of sandwiches each year, making it a beloved icon of the Bay Area.
As you plan your culinary journey through San Francisco, remember to savor each moment and each dish. The city’s food is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience that reflects the heart and soul of this vibrant community. So, grab a bowl of clam chowder, unwrap a Mission burrito, and dive into a plate of dim sum—you’re in for a truly unforgettable taste of San Francisco.
