What is San Francisco Known For When it Comes to Food? A Family-Friendly Guide Where The Locals Go!
San Francisco isn’t just a city of breathtaking views and iconic landmarks—it’s also a diverse and delicious food scene. San Francisco offers a variety of dishes that reflect its rich cultural heritage. In my husband’s eye, this is the number one attraction in San Francisco!
If you’re planning a family trip and wondering what food to try, here’s a guide to the must-eat dishes that San Francisco is known for.
1. Sourdough Bread
One of San Francisco’s most iconic foods is sourdough bread. The city's unique foggy climate provides the perfect environment for wild yeast to thrive, giving San Francisco sourdough its distinctive tangy flavor and chewy texture. Head to Boudin Bakery, the oldest operating sourdough bakery in the city, where you can watch the bread-making process and enjoy a fresh loaf. It’s a perfect snack for the kids and pairs wonderfully with soups, cheese, or just a good slather of butter.
2. Dungeness Crab
If your family loves seafood, Dungeness crab is a must-try. San Francisco’s location along the Pacific coast makes it a prime spot for fresh, succulent crab. For a classic experience, visit Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy freshly cooked crab at the outdoor stands or in one of the waterfront restaurants. However, if you are looking to go where it’s not touristy, then I would suggest going to the Golden Crab House on Irving Street. We love garlic so this Vietnamese fusion place packs in a lot of flavor. Couple the garlic crab with some Imperial rolls and garlic noodles. It’s a treat your entire family will love.
3. Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl
San Francisco is also famous for its clam chowder, especially when served in a sourdough bread bowl. This creamy soup loaded with tender clams, potatoes, and celery is the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly day by the bay. It’s a dish that’s as much about the experience as it is about the taste, with kids and adults alike enjoying the fun of tearing into the bread bowl once the soup is gone. Try it at Boudin’s at Pier 39.
4. Farmers’ Market
San Francisco’s diverse food scene is also reflected in its farmers’ markets. The Ferry Building Marketplace is a must-visit for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet street food. I especially like the Stonehouse California Olive Oil company where I purchased the Fig Balsamic Vinegar and Jalapeno Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The nice thing is you can purchase the TSA approved sizes. Just be sure to inform them you are heading onto an airplane and they will pack it nicely for you to carry it on the plane or pack it in your luggage.
5. Dim Sum
These bite-sized portions of dumplings, buns, and rolls are perfect for sharing, allowing your family to sample a variety of flavors and textures. You can certainly go to a restaurant and have a sit-down dim sum experience for the family to enjoy but sometimes as a family, you are in a hurry to get to a certain place. As a parent, I understand the importance of being able to have food on hand so you don’t have any hangry children while trying to get to your next destination. So, my suggestion would be to get some Dim Sum on the go at Happy Bakery. It’s a perfect solution to still try delicious dim sum, have food with you, and get to where you need to.
7. Garlic Lovers Treat – The Stinking Rose & Little Italy for Dessert
If your family loves garlic, a visit to The Stinking Rose is a must. Located in the heart of San Francisco’s North Beach, this unique restaurant celebrates garlic in all its forms—yes, even garlic ice cream! From garlic-laden appetizers to their famous 40-clove garlic chicken, it’s a flavorful experience that your family won’t soon forget. After indulging at The Stinking Rose, take a short walk over to Little Italy for a sweet treat. We recommend stopping by a local cafe to try the tiramisu—a perfect way to balance out all that savory goodness with a creamy, coffee-infused dessert!
8. Seafood – Pacific Cafe
For fresh, delicious seafood, head to Pacific Cafe, a cozy spot beloved by locals. Known for its no-fuss, flavorful dishes like clam chowder, grilled fish, and calamari, Pacific Cafe delivers high-quality seafood in a family-friendly atmosphere. One of the best parts? While you wait for your table, they offer complimentary box wine to patrons—a lovely touch for parents looking to relax after a long day of sightseeing. The wait might be long, but the fresh seafood and welcoming vibe make it well worth it!
9. Boba at T-Pumps
Craving a sweet and refreshing treat? Head to T-Pumps for some of the best boba tea in San Francisco! Known for their generous portions and customizable drinks, T-Pumps offers a variety of boba flavors and mix-ins, making it a hit with both kids and adults. The drink sizes are enormous, and the prices are super reasonable—perfect for families on a budget. With flavors ranging from classic milk tea to more adventurous fruit blends, everyone is sure to find their favorite.
Pro tip: Eat an early dinner and then head over before the line gets long. When the lines are long, the deliciousness is still worth the wait!
10. Ghirardelli Chocolate
No food tour of San Francisco would be complete without a visit to Ghirardelli Square, home of the historic Ghirardelli Chocolate Company. Indulge in rich, creamy chocolate squares, hot fudge sundaes, or decadent hot chocolate. It’s a sweet treat that delights both kids and adults and is the perfect way to end a day of exploring the city. Don’t forget to take home some chocolate souvenirs!
Final Thoughts
Exploring San Francisco’s food scene is a delicious adventure that your whole family will cherish. But did you know that planning your trip can be just as easy as finding your next meal? Discover how to uncover hidden savings in your budget so you can enjoy more treats, meals, and memories on your next vacation. Grab our free guide, 'Find Hidden Cash in Your Budget,' and start planning your perfect family getaway today!