Local Food

Cioppino is a bold seafood stew that captures the essence of San Francisco's culinary history. This exquisite dish showcases the city’s bountiful catch from the Pacific Ocean. Traditionally made with a variety of fresh seafood such as Dungeness crab, clams, shrimp, and fish, the stew is simmered in a rich broth of tomatoes, garlic, and white wine. Each spoonful is a delightful medley of flavours, invoking the maritime spirit of the Bay Area. If you're in San Francisco, missing out on Cioppino would be a culinary travesty. Treat yourself to this vibrant, finger-licking dish served with crusty sourdough bread for an experience that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.

If you find yourself in San Francisco and miss out on a Mission Burrito, you might as well have skipped the trip. These hearty, oversized burritos are a culinary institution, especially in the city’s vibrant Mission District. Known for their tantalising combination of ingredients stuffed into a warm flour tortilla, a Mission Burrito typically features rice, beans, a choice of meat (or a vegetarian option), salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Each burrito is a deliciously messy affair, often requiring both hands and a sense of adventure. Don’t be surprised if you feel a little overwhelmed—this burrito experience is a rite of passage for food lovers.

Dungeness crab is a flavour-packed delight from the Pacific, celebrated for its sweet, tender meat and rich, buttery texture. Renowned for its delicate sweetness, this crab species is often found clinging to the rocky depths of the Californian coast. Whether served steamed, roasted, or in a creamy chowder, Dungeness crab dishes are everywhere in San Francisco during the crab season, attracting both seafood lovers and gastronomes alike. One bite, and you will understand why Dungeness crab is largely considered the crowning jewel of the San Francisco seafood scene.

This creamy delight is a must-try for anyone visiting San Francisco, especially if you are a seafood lover. Clam chowder features tender clams simmered in a rich broth combined with potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon, all thickened with cream or milk to create a velvety texture. Served in a sourdough bread bowl, this dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that marries convenience with heartiness. Be warned, though—one bowl may not be enough. Many locals claim that if you haven't slurped down a bowl of clam chowder while gazing out at the Bay, have you truly visited San Francisco?

Sourdough bread, a San Francisco classic, has a personality all its own. Known for its tangy flavour and chewy texture, this bread has been crafted and perfected in the city for generations. The secret lies in its unique fermentation process, involving naturally occurring lactobacilli and wild yeast. This combination not only gives the bread its characteristic sour taste but also results in a crust that crackles delightfully when you bite into it. If you visit San Francisco and don't try the sourdough, you may as well have skipped the Golden Gate Bridge.

Crab Louis is a San Francisco classic that effortlessly marries the ocean’s bounty with a delightful mix of flavours. Think fresh Dungeness crab dressed with a zesty cocktail sauce, mayonnaise, and a hint of lemon juice, resting on a bed of crisp lettuce. It’s the dish that makes you feel like you’re dining at the seaside, even if you’re just at a local eatery. While typically served chilled, the dish’s combination of sweet crabmeat and tangy dressing creates a symphony of taste, offering a refreshing experience with every bite. For seafood lovers, enjoying Crab Louis in San Francisco is obligatory—just like a cable car ride or a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Hangtown Fry is a classic Californian dish that traces its roots back to the Gold Rush era of the mid-1800s. Legend has it that this unique combination of eggs, oysters, and bacon originated in Placerville, California, which was once known as "Hangtown." The dish features fresh shucked oysters, whisked eggs, and crispy bacon, all cooked together into a delicious, hearty scramble. The rich, briny flavour of the oysters combined with the smoky bacon and fluffy eggs makes this dish a must-try for anyone yearning for an authentic taste of California history. So, ready your forks, as this breakfast dish will leave you clamouring for more!

The Dutch Crunch Sandwich is a delightful creation that embodies the spirit of San Francisco's diverse culinary scene. Hailing from the Bay Area, this sandwich features a unique bread known for its crunchy, textured crust and soft, airy interior. The bread is typically made from a rice flour topping, giving it an eye-catching appearance and a distinct crunch that sets it apart from standard sandwich loaves. Inside, you can find a variety of fillings, from classic deli meats and cheeses to gourmet ingredients like roasted vegetables and hummus. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful picnic treat, if you haven't grabbed one when wandering the streets of San Francisco, are you even living?

Garlic noodles are a San Francisco classic that brings a burst of flavour to your plate. Often served as a side or main dish, these noodles are tossed in a rich sauce made predominantly of garlic, butter, and soy sauce, resulting in a delightful umami experience. They are typically paired with vegetables and proteins like shrimp or chicken, giving you a hearty yet satisfying meal. Garlic lovers rejoice—this dish is for you. Imagine slurping up those delicious noodles while basking in the iconic San Francisco ambiance. If you don't try garlic noodles while you're in the city, did you even visit?