Discover These Classic SF Dining Spots You Simply Must Experience

Like many great cities, San Francisco is both modern and classic. Modern because of those attributes that give SF its edge in contemporary life, like the city’s tech culture and art community. And classic for all the reasons you already know — the Golden Gate Bridge, the painted ladies, Lombard Street, the cable cars, and, of course, our very own Nob Hill.

Today, we’re here to talk about the classic side of SF you may not know — the restaurants. As we’ve noted before, there are new restaurants that are well worth your time. But if you’re looking for the tested, the true, the reliably delicious side of San Francisco, well, here it is. These restaurants have been around so long they are San Francisco. Enjoy!

Tommy's Joynt

Since 1947, Tommy's Joynt has a no-frills atmosphere and incredible sandwiches — but no credit cards and no happy hour. So bring cash and be ready to have a good time because the drinks are priced reasonably no matter the hour and cold hard cash keeps the line moving. The cooks arrive at 6 am every day to prepare the meat they’ll cut right before your eyes as they create, perhaps, the best sandwich you’ve ever tasted.

Tadich Grill

It’s a 166-year-old restaurant — but the seafood is always fresh. Tadich Grill is always alive with energetic staff and excited patrons. The food is so great, it’s reeled in the likes of Joe DiMaggio, Joe Montana, Dan Marino, Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, Jack Nicholson, and George Lucas. One taste, and you’ll know why.

Sears Fine Food

Ben Sears was a retired circus clown, who over the years, built a reputation for serving Swedish pancakes made from a recipe inherited from his wife’s Swedish family. So, naturally, in 1938, he and his brother, Hilber, founded Sears Fine Food. But don’t let the history fool you — this place is no joke. The brunch menu is second to none and even Tony Bennett himself called it “the best in town!”

Pinecrest Diner

Founded in 1969, Pinecrest Diner is the oldest standing 24-hour diner in Union Square. Walk through the door — literally at any time — and you’ll find delicious food waiting. The basics — scrambled eggs, a juicy burger or an endless cup of joe — never tasted so good. The restaurant was completely renovated in 2010 but maintains its same nostalgic feel — and great food.