Best Of 20 Restaurants In Union Square San Francisco

2 min read 31-12-2024

Best Of 20 Restaurants In Union Square San Francisco

Union Square, the vibrant heart of San Francisco, pulsates with energy, and its culinary scene is no exception. From Michelin-starred establishments to casual eateries, the neighborhood boasts a diverse array of restaurants catering to every palate and budget. This list highlights twenty of the best, offering a curated selection to guide your next dining adventure.

Fine Dining & Special Occasions

The French Laundry (Yountville, technically, but worth the trip): While technically located in Yountville, a short drive from San Francisco, Thomas Keller's legendary restaurant consistently ranks among the world's best and remains a must-consider for a truly special occasion. Reservations are essential, often booked months in advance.
Gary Danko: This upscale seafood restaurant provides a sophisticated ambiance and impeccably prepared dishes. The wine list is extensive, complementing the fresh, high-quality ingredients.
SPQR: This award-winning restaurant showcases inventive and seasonal Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. Its pasta dishes are particularly noteworthy.

Mid-Range & Casual Dining

Foreign Cinema: This unique restaurant combines a beautiful outdoor patio with independent film screenings, creating a memorable dining experience. The Mediterranean-inspired menu is equally appealing.
Coqueta: Enjoy Spanish tapas and paella in a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Coqueta offers a great option for sharing plates and experiencing a variety of flavors.
The Progress: This stylish restaurant from Chef Stuart Brioza offers inventive, globally-inspired cuisine in a chic setting.
Rich Table: Known for its creative and seasonal American cuisine, Rich Table delivers a consistently excellent dining experience in a welcoming environment.

Diverse Cuisines

Zuni Café: A San Francisco institution, Zuni Café is renowned for its roast chicken and its classic American fare.
Swan Oyster Depot: This iconic seafood counter offers fresh oysters and other seafood delicacies. Expect a queue, as its popularity is well-deserved.
House of Nanking: A long-standing favorite for authentic and affordable Shanghainese cuisine, known for its soup dumplings.
Burma Superstar: Prepare for a wait at this immensely popular Burmese restaurant, but the flavorful curries and tea leaf salad are worth it. Reservations are highly recommended.
Nopa: This popular neighborhood spot serves delicious and globally-inspired Californian cuisine in a rustic-chic setting.

Cafés & Bakeries

Tartine Bakery: A San Francisco institution, Tartine's bread, pastries, and coffee are legendary.
Blue Bottle Coffee: This iconic coffee roaster offers excellent coffee and pastries in a stylish setting.
Bouchon Bakery (Yountville, but again, worth the trip): Another Thomas Keller creation, Bouchon Bakery provides a selection of exquisite pastries and baked goods.

Unique Experiences

The Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar: For a truly unique San Francisco experience, head to this iconic tiki bar at the Fairmont Hotel.
Top of the Mark: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city while sipping cocktails or enjoying a meal at this elegant rooftop bar and restaurant.
The Clock Bar: This historic bar within the Hotel Nikko offers a sophisticated atmosphere and excellent cocktails.

Quick Bites & Casual

Souvla: This popular Greek spot serves delicious souvlaki, salads, and sides in a fast-casual setting.
Little Skillet: Enjoy Southern comfort food with a modern twist at this popular diner.

This list provides a starting point for exploring the diverse culinary landscape of Union Square. Remember to check websites for hours, reservations, and menus before your visit, as availability and offerings can change. Enjoy your culinary adventure!