It wouldn’t be San Francisco without The Mission’s squadron of gut-busting taquerias. This one continues to lead the pack with unwavering rave reviews for its sublime, spot-on Mexico staples. Read more.
The pierna enchilada (pulled pork) torta is the perennial, but they're all good, and huge; no need to order the large unless you've got a hefty appetite or a hellish hangover. Read more.
The food is inspired by cuisines from all over, including dishes like a sunchoke roti with black truffle or lamb merguez with octopus and crispy squid. Read more.
Open only for lunch, Polk Street’s 100-year-old gem still churns out the best crab, oysters and sourdough in town. Read more.
With North African and Mediterranean menu leanings and a deepened wine program, it's one of the city's most romantic restaurants, with staggering decor and engaging food. Read more.
Chefs deliver the modern American dishes to the table themselves and invite you to come into the kitchen to peer over their shoulder while they work. Read more.
The brunch lines here are truly absurd, but once you're facing a plate of gingerbread pancakes, eggs Benedict, and perfect home fries, the annoyance of the wait will recede. Read more.
Shaanxi/Xi'an food (spicy, sour Chinese) is the name of Terra Cotta Warrior's game, where everyone talks about the amazingly authentic hand-pulled noodles. Read more.
For an alternative take on Chinese fare, Old Mandarin is a beloved industry standby. Cumin lamb, beef pancakes, and a very generous BYOB policy (yes, despite the name) are the keys to its popularity. Read more.