Top 10 San Francisco Restaurants for Families ⋆ Sugar, Spice and Glitter

The San Francisco food scene is more than just Rice-a-Roni or Clam Chowder in Bread Bowls (though the clam chowder is delicious). If you’re planning a Family Vacation to San Francisco, we have the food angle covered with 10 Must Do San Francisco Restaurants for Foodie Families.

Family-friendly San Francisco Restaurants

When it comes to dining, San Francisco boasts some of the best food and most diverse cuisines anywhere in the country. When asked for their favorite restaurants, locals have such diversity of opinion you’ll wonder if it’s possible to try them all.

While San Francisco is a notoriously pricey city (with a 62.6% higher cost of living than the US average), great food doesn’t have to demolish your entire travel budget – but you should be prepared to shell out more than you may be used to if you live in a smaller city. However, I’ve linked to the websites for all restaurants listed so you can plan your budget accordingly so you shouldn’t be too sticker shocked when you get there!

(If you’re by chance in San Francisco visiting family or without children, Thomas Keller’s French Laundry is about an hour south of the city in Yountville – it is one of the ultimate bucket list restaurants for foodies.)

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10+ Family-Friendly San Francisco Restaurants

State Bird Provisions

The incredibly diverse menu at State Bird Provisions, coupled with surprisingly affordable prices makes this favorite spot a great one for family dinners out. Rather than traditional dining service, wait staff bring dishes to you on carts, served dim sum style. The constant activity and surprise will keep even the littlest diners interested and excited to experiment with new flavors and textures.

Check out more about State Bird Provisions.

Finn Town

Fans of Top Chef may remember Chef Ryan Scott (Season 4), who is the brains and menu behind Finn Town. Coined a “Tavern with a Twist,” Finn offers a wide selection of American-style dishes and daily specials that might have you stopping in more than once to taste this award-winning cuisine. Make a reservation, or pickup takeout and enjoy some fantastic scenery while you savor each bite.

Check out more about Finn Town here.

Zazie

This quaint neighborhood spot boasts insane lines for weekend brunch for an important reason – the food is spectacular. The menu offers the chance to try new flavors and combinations on familiar ingredients, coaxing even picky kiddos to enjoy something new. Traveling with Fido? Monday night is pup night on the patio, complete with treats for you and your dog.

Check out more about Zazie here.

La Taqueria

After stiff competition, La Taqueria was named America’s Best Burrito by Nate Silver’s FiveThirtyEight. This beloved neighborhood spot stands out amongst a cluttered marketplace of taquerias. A casual but tasty option perfect for families needing a quick and satisfying lunch.

Check out more about La Taqueria here.

Popsons

When Thrillist claims a burger is the best in a city and even the entire country, you have to take notice. With hand-crafted burgers on rolls exclusively made by a local bakery to contain your gooey, dripping, ah-mazing burger and toppings, it’s hard not to agree. Burgers come in single or double patties, all beef hot dogs include a kid’s option, and you won’t be able to pass up a shake made with local ice cream. Come hungry.

Check out more about Popsons here.

Arguello Super Market

An unexpected recommendation, this grocery store is a fantastic place to pick up any snacks or treats you may need to keep everyone filled, but also, a killer turkey sandwich. Spit-roasted light and dark meat are settled on a classic roll and topped with avocado. Grab a sandwich and head to the nearest park to enjoy.

Check out more about Arguello Super Market here.

Golden Boy Pizza

You’ll have lots of pizza options in San Francisco, but it’s hard to pass up the thick, buttery crust at Golden Boy Pizza. Each unique square slice is bursting with quality toppings, although the variety is limited. Buy by-the-slice affordably or get an entire sheet if you’re serving a crowd. Open late nights for a quick bite after evening activities.

Check out more about G olden Boy Pizza here.

Delfina Pizza

Alternatively, there is Delfina Pizza – a second restaurant by the same owners of the James Beard award-winning, Delfina, which has spawned it’s own craze with four locations. Delfina Pizza offers up Neapolitan-inspired pizza and a daily-changing roster of seasonal antipasti and piatti (small entrees).

Check out more about Delfina Pizza here.

Arizmendi Bakery

Without savoring local bread, a trip to SF is just not complete. This standout favorite features breakfast pastries, artisan bread, and a pizza of the day. Loaves are affordable and irresistible.

Check out more about Arizmendi Bakery here.

Boudin at Fisherman’s Wharf

Some may find this to be a touristy attraction, but a San Francisco bread bowl filled with soup (preferably chowder) is never a bad idea, and it’s in a great scenic area. This one comes highly recommended by my friend Whitney over at Beauty in this Mess.

Check out more about Boudin SF here.

4505 Burgers and BBQ

Located in the Mission, this one is a favorite of my friend Kristina over at Toddler Approved. The BBQ is legendary, with a wood-fired BBQ pit and nose-to-tail offerings. The vibe is laid back and fun with great outdoor seating, perfect for families.

Check out more about 4505 Burgers & BBQ here.