Yes, it's a chain. Yes, it gets busy. But it's close to Moscone, easy to find, the food is usually good and fresh, the margaritas are delicious, and Tex-Mex is rare in SF.
Fannish institution. This is where SFinSF holds pre-author event dinners. Food is pretty good, but it is particularly a good place for large groups during dinner (probably not for a short lunch).
There are several places inside the Metreon, none of them great, but all of them better than convention center food. Skip the Mexican place, and go for this one if you end up there.
No frills decor. Good food with fresh ingredients. My Vietnames coworker at my old job loved this place, so might even be 'authentic' ;)
Bay Area small chain. I've not actually eaten here myself, it's a new location (inside the Metreon I guess) but they have a good rep.
You didn't ask for bars, but this place has food too. It's around a corner and looks like murder, but is really quite fun, plus the food is good.
Wednesdays and Fridays. Location is a bit of a wasteland when there are no trucks.
Cute little bakery/cafe. Good for a lunchtime sandwich or salad. Reasonably priced for the area, too.
American diner chain, they have three other locations in SF. Average food, but good shakes. Great for tourists, open lateish.
Lunch place. Fresh ingredients, minimal decor, bit pricey for the size, but pretty fast too.
Classic cheapo Chinese food. There are better places, but there's a reason this has survived in the area; cheap, big, filling. Cash only under $10 apparently.
Slightly upscale supermarket, plus they have hot food bar to eat in (some tables) or take out. Good food, decent prices.
Expensive, appetizers only. But this is a place to impress friends with the AMAZING view! Top the big glass jukebox building (enter on 4th). It's like being inside the Death Star.
This one is new, I have no idea. Mostly adding it because the reviews are great and I want to try it :)
