dietitian suggests the best places to eat in a day in san francisco
San Francisco is a beautiful city with so much to offer – if you know where to look. Lucky for you, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring (and dining) in this city. It’s my home – it has been for over 13 years.
If I were visiting or looking for a fantastic food-filled day, I’d follow one of the four days listed below. I’ve laid them out based on location. Though San Francisco is small – only seven square miles – it can be a hassle to move from one neighborhood or district to the next. Plus, if you only have a day, you don’t want to spend it Ubering around or waiting on public transit (which, unfortunately, isn’t that efficient here). I find it best to rely on my two feet and walk; it’s a great way to explore while getting those steps in!
Pick your path …
Downtown / The Financial District
Head to the Ferry Building, then walk the Embarcadero before dining at Kokkari. You’ll need a reservation and may want to hit your hotel for a quick pre-dinner shower.
If it’s Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday, you’ll be able to visit the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market. Grab some fresh bread, cheese, and a little of what’s in season for a mid-day snack after you stroll down the Embarcadro. If you’re down to wait in line, I highly suggest the porchetta sandwich at Roli Roti. Hang a left as you walk out of the Ferry Building and walk towards Oracle Park.
My dinner order (for a party of two)
Kokkari Roka Salata or the special salad if it sounds good
Gigantes
Kalamari
Kokkari Potatoes
Psari Psito or Kokinisto me Manestra or the daily lamb special
If you opt for fish, I suggest you add the Arnisia Plevrakia starter
A dessert to share and two espressos
The Mission
Your first stop should be Tartine The Bakery for breakfast (I suggest you order the warm brioche bread pudding), then do some shopping down Valencia Street. Grab sandwiches at Bi-Rite before posting up for a picnic in Dolores Park. When you’re ready, head to Laszlo for aperitivo before enjoying dinner and a film at Foreign Cinema.
My dinner order (for a party of two) – the Mediterranean inspired menu changes daily, so I’ve included a template below.
Warm Mediterranean Mixed Olives
Lavender Scented Goat Cheese
Half Moon Bay Baby Lettuces
Beef Sirloin Carpaccio
Seared Maine Sea Scallops
Grilled Coffee Rubbed Bavette Steak
A dessert to share and two espressos (order the birthday cake if it’s available)
The Avenues
Grab a coffee and some snacks at Breck’s before joining the line at Arsicault (their almond croissant is one of the best things I’ve ever eaten). Take a long stroll down Lake Street or through the Presidio to Lands End Trail (the labyrinth was recently destroyed but, hopefully, it’ll be back soon). Take a rest and refuel with some snacks at Baker Beach. When you’re ready, head to Pearl 6101 for excellent cocktails and a California inspired Mediterranean meal brought to you by San Francisco natives and industry professionals. This casual fine-dining restaurant has quickly become my favorite in the city.
My order (for a party of two)
Marinated Olives
Acme Bread and Butter
Local Halibut Crudo
Early Girl Tomatoes or their Little Gem Lettuce Market Salad
Roasted Cauliflower
Pasta of choice (order the black ink spaghetti with shrimp, Calabrian chili, and breadcrumbs if it’s available)
Seared Scallops
Seasonal Panna Cotta – I almost cried the first time I had this. Please order yourself one!
The Marina / Cow Hollow
Grab coffee or matcha at Wrecking Ball before heading down to Crissy Field for a walk along the Bay with iconic views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Work up an appetite on your walk back and head to Wild Seed, a vegan restaurant on Union, for lunch (make sure you order at least one beet poke for the table). Do a little shopping on Union, Chestnut, or Fillmore, then head to dinner at Camino Alto.
My order (for a party of two)
Wood Roasted Beets and Burrata
Wood Blistered Japanese Sweet Potato
Market Fish
Half Pasture Bird Chicken
Dark Chocolate Pot De Creme with Salty Whipped Cream
I hope these recommendations help you fall a little more in love with this beautiful city that I’m so happy to call home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How has COVID changed dining in San Francisco?
A: First things first – you’ll need a reservation at all three of the restaurants listed above. Indoor dining will require proof of full vaccination, and you’ll need to wear a mask anytime you leave your table. Be patient and kind; the hospitality industry was hit hard this pandemic.
Q: What about beverages?
A: Kokkari and Foreign Cinema both have excellent, extensive wine lists; speak with your server or the house sommelier. Pearl 6101 has some of the best cocktails I’ve ever had. Order the Franciscan Wallflower if it’s on the menu. The Velvet Smoking Jacket at The Tailor’s Son is an excellent choice.
Q: I’ll be here a while. Do you have more San Francisco recommendations?
A: Yes! Check out my complete City Guide – San Francisco here. It covers restaurants, bars and lounges, cafes and bakeries, local activities, and fitness studios.
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This post was written by Kelly Powers, MA, RDN. Kelly is a Registered Dietitian and Culinary Nutritionist who takes a holistic approach to nutrition and health. She is a recipe developer with a food blog highlighting whole foods, simple recipes, and her life in San Francisco. Kelly is the creator of Weeknight Dinners, a weekly meal plan program that helps users get back in the kitchen and feed themselves well. Kelly specializes in the Mediterranean diet and sustainable behavior change, helping her clients reach their health goals while improving their relationship with food.