San Francisco has specific restaurants that typify the city spirit, history, and cuisine. And, when you think of San Francisco restaurants many things can come to mind, and certainly one of these 10 restaurants will be on top of your list. Check out our list of 10 restaurants that are bonafide city classics.
1. The Cliff House: 1090 Point Lobos, 94121
The seaside is a trademark city restaurant with history, incredible sea views, and retro style. The Cliff House is a very popular and classic SF restaurant and attraction. Parking may be tough, but worth it for the views and old school ambiance. Go for the breakfast, brunch, desserts, and seafood here.
2. Tadich Grill - 240 California St, San Francisco, 94111
The history of Tadich Grill is long and tied to San Francisco. Tadich Grill was established and opened in 1849 as a coffee stand on Clay Street in San Francisco. Tadich Grill is a seafood restaurant, so this is the ideal place to order any number of fish dishes. Try the Hangtown Fry, the city dish, which puts bacon and fried oysters into an omelet!
3. House of Prime Rib: 1906 Van Ness Avenue, 94108
House of Prime Rib is a San Francisco Landmark that has been opened since 1949. The House of Prime Rib serves classic Prime Rib in the English tradition. Expect lines or make a reservation for this classic spot.
4. Top of the Mark - 999 California Street, San Francisco, 94108
Italians originally opened Tosca in November 1919 and from there it became a classic. Through the years of trends and different management, Tosca has remained as a Roast chicken and cappuccino powerhouse. A unique place with a lot of history.
5. Tosca Cafe - 242 Columbus Ave, 94133
Top of the Mark is located on the 19th floor of the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel. Another classic city restaurant that has become a tourist attraction. You can see the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, the Transamerica Building, and Alcatraz while enjoying a fancy cocktail with your meal. This is definitely some fine dining in Nob Hill!
6. Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood - 552 Green Street, 94133
A classic and popular restaurant in North Beach. This charming, nautical-themed San Francisco institution is popular for good reason. Sotto serves up big portions of Italian-style seafood & pasta.
7. Sears Fine Food — 439 Powell St, 94102
Sears is a bonafide city classic. Grab a bite to eat at this San Francisco institution. Sears has been a favorite among tourists and locals alike for more than 75 years, serving hearty breakfast, brunch, and lunch food.
8. The Tonga Room: TheFairmont Hotel, 950 Mason Street, 94108
The Tonga Room is beautiful and memorable for their creative and original design concept. The Tonga Room delivers an eccentric allure along with food, drinks, and live music. This restaurant is wildly popular for many things beyond the food! Moreover, the Tonga Room is in the iconic Fairmont Hotel in Nob Hill.
9. La Taqueria - 2889 Mission St, 94110
The Mission burrito is an undeniable San Francisco original, and Lia Taqueria is one of the best places for it in the city. La Taqueria was opened by Miguel Jara in 1973. The restaurant is critically acclaimed, and was named the best burrito in the country at one time.
10. Tommy's Joynt - 1101 Geary Blvd, 94109
Tommy's is very popular among locals and old-timers and one of the last remaining old-school Hofbraus. This place is unforgettable from the moment you arrive, take some time to appreciate the giant vintage neon sign and the giant murals that cover the exterior walls at Tommy's Joynt.
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