San Francisco, a city renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offers an array of iconic dishes and drinks that reflect its diverse culture and history. From classic seafood to inventive cocktails, here are 15 must-try items for anyone visiting the City by the Bay.
Sourdough Bread: San Francisco’s sourdough bread, with its distinctive tang, is a culinary legend. Boudin Bakery, dating back to 1849, is famous for its sourdough.
Cioppino: This seafood stew is a testament to San Francisco’s Italian heritage and its access to fresh seafood. It typically includes crab, clams, shrimp, scallops, squid, mussels, and fish in a tomato-based broth.
Mission Burrito: A visit to San Francisco isn’t complete without trying a Mission burrito. These oversized burritos, originating from the city’s Mission District, are packed with rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa.
Dungeness Crab: Often served whole and steamed, Dungeness crab is a staple of San Francisco cuisine, particularly popular during the winter months.
Hangtown Fry: Originating from the Gold Rush era, this omelet with bacon and fried oysters is a historic dish that continues to be a local favorite.
Ghirardelli Chocolate: A sweet symbol of San Francisco, Ghirardelli chocolate is a must-try, especially in the form of their rich hot chocolate or sundae.
Anchor Steam Beer: This locally brewed beer is a San Francisco original, known for its unique steam brewing method.
Irish Coffee at Buena Vista Cafe: The Buena Vista Cafe claims to have introduced Irish coffee to America. A mix of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and cream, it’s a San Francisco staple.
Fortune Cookies: Although not originally from China, the modern fortune cookie was popularized in San Francisco and is a fun treat to try in Chinatown.
Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl: A delightful combination of two San Francisco classics – creamy clam chowder served in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl.
It’s-It Ice Cream Sandwich: This ice cream sandwich, made with oatmeal cookies and dipped in dark chocolate, originated from San Francisco and has been a local favorite since 1928.
Rice-a-Roni: Dubbed “The San Francisco Treat,” this packaged food became famous through its catchy advertising jingle and is a nod to the city’s culinary history.
Dim Sum in Chinatown: The dim sum in San Francisco’s Chinatown is as authentic as it gets outside of Asia, with a variety of steamed buns, dumplings, and other treats.
The Martini: San Francisco claims to be the birthplace of the martini, and you’ll find exquisite versions of this classic cocktail in bars across the city.
Artisanal Toast: This might sound simple, but San Francisco has elevated toast to an art form, serving it with a variety of gourmet toppings in many local cafes.
These dishes and drinks not only offer a taste of San Francisco’s culinary delights but also tell the story of the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about local flavors, these iconic items are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Joe’s Special: An emblematic dish of San Francisco’s Italian-American cuisine, Joe’s Special consists of ground beef, spinach, eggs, and garlic. Originating from the city’s classic diners, it’s a hearty, comforting meal.
Abalone: A delicacy along the California coast, abalone is often served in San Francisco’s upscale seafood restaurants, typically pan-seared or grilled.
Cable Car Cocktail: Inspired by the city’s famous cable cars, this cocktail is a mix of orange liqueur, lemon juice, and brandy. It’s a smooth and refreshing drink, perfect for San Francisco’s often foggy evenings.
Dutch Crunch Bread: This unique bread, known for its cracked, crunchy topping, is a popular choice for sandwiches in many San Francisco delis.
Bay Shrimp: These small, sweet shrimp are a local specialty, often featured in salads, tacos, and other light dishes.
Fernet-Branca: While not originally from San Francisco, this bitter, aromatic spirit has become a bartender’s favorite in the city, often served as a digestif.
Bi-Rite Creamery’s Ice Cream: Known for its artisanal approach and unique flavors, Bi-Rite Creamery is a must-visit for ice cream lovers.
Sushi Burrito: A fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisine, the sushi burrito is a contemporary San Francisco invention, combining sushi ingredients in a large, burrito-style roll.
Peking Duck in Chinatown: For a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine, Peking Duck served in San Francisco’s Chinatown is a culinary experience, known for its crispy skin and succulent meat.
The San Francisco Sling: A variation of the classic Singapore Sling, this cocktail is a fruity and refreshing mix that has become popular in the city’s bars.
Tofu from Chinatown: San Francisco’s Chinatown is known for its fresh, handmade tofu — a staple in many Asian dishes and a testament to the city’s diverse food scene.
Philz Coffee: A local coffee chain that has gained a cult following, Philz is known for its custom blends and unique brewing method.
Salmon from Fisherman’s Wharf: The salmon dishes at Fisherman’s Wharf, whether grilled, smoked, or in a chowder, reflect San Francisco’s long-standing relationship with the sea.
Haight Ashbury Smoothies: Reflecting the bohemian and health-conscious spirit of the Haight-Ashbury district, these smoothies are made with fresh, organic fruits and are a refreshing treat.
The Mai Tai at Trader Vic’s: Claimed to be the birthplace of the Mai Tai, Trader Vic’s serves this iconic rum cocktail that has become synonymous with San Francisco’s tiki culture.
Exploring San Francisco’s food and drink scene is like taking a culinary journey through its neighborhoods and history. Each dish and drink tells a story, from the city’s immigrant roots to its current status as a hub of innovation and diversity. Whether you’re craving seafood, sweets, or a unique cocktail, San Francisco’s culinary landscape is as varied and fascinating as the city itself.
