Everyone knows San Francisco has a lot of restaurant options. There are so many it’s easy to get overwhelmed, even as a local! I wanted to recommend 5 amazing places to eat that always hit the spot, and aren’t an ordeal to dine at. Waiting for a table is the worst when you’re hungry! In a city with a lot of expensive fine dining options, these more casual places can give you a taste of great local cuisine without costing an arm and a leg. Just order at the counter, take your number, and wait for your order to be called or brought to your table directly.
In no particular order, here are 5 must-try San Francisco fast casual restaurants serving up delicious food for both lunch and dinner. No boring national chains, and no reservations needed!
Souvla
Soulva has locations all over SF serving up Greek inspired gyros and salads, and so much more. The lamb salad and juicy potatoes are my favorite, always paired with some ice cold Greek rosé. They also have frozen Greek yogurt that you can get topped with baklava, honey, olive oil, sea salt, or sour cherry syrup.
Rooster & Rice
For a leaner and healthier meal option, I love Rooster & Rice. I go to their 18th Street location often after taking a class at Barry’s Castro. They use Mary’s organic chicken and give the customer white or dark meat based on their preference. Each plate is served with a cup of warm chicken broth and an addictive soybean sauce. I love getting the classic paleo style, substituting rice out for broccoli instead. Their habanero wings are also off the hook!
Super Duper Burger
A trip to the Bay Area might not be complete without a trip to our best local chain. Super Duper puts an emphasis on using the best ingredients to make the best “fast food” favorites like juicy burgers, outrageous garlic fries, and decadent milkshakes. Not only that, they also do happy hour specials and serve both beer and wine. Their breakfast menu is also fantastic!
Medianoche
There’s just one location in the Mission, and it’s one of my favorite weekend spots before a night out. The menu is Cuban-inspired with a twist, including sangria, empanadas, and more. My usual order is either the Cecilia sandwich, pork bowl, or ceviche with plantain chips.
Kitava
Another Mission district favorite, and the best spot I can recommend for clean eaters or anyone with dietary restrictions. Kitava focuses on gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free paleo meal options. Most of the menu is easily adaptable for vegan or keto preferences as well. I love their bowls and salads which are both nutrient dense and delicious.
Have you eaten at any of these spots? They may look familiar from my Instagram feed, because I’m a true creature of habit. Like this post? Be sure to check out some of my other Bay Area, Northern California, and food content before you go.
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