If New York carved its name into fine dining and LA claimed the crown for hole-in-the-walls, then San Francisco quietly perfected the middle ground. Flavor sits at the heart of San Francisco, and understanding the city’s food scene requires digging into humble spots, mid-range gems, and elevated kitchens. It means tasting dishes in all their variations—classic and modern, street-side and white-linen—so you can see how this city tells its story through flavor.

San Francisco’s culinary strength lies in its access to high-quality produce, a deeply diverse population, and a long history of culinary innovation. From breakfast classics to seafood plates and street corner staples, here’s a look at the local dishes that tell San Francisco’s story best.