Tartine Bakery

600 Guerrero Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
View Map

Perched on a corner in the Mission, no sign or awning to give away its location, one could easily drive past without noticing they’ve missed one of the best bakeries in the city. Luckily, the constant line of patrons pouring out the door of Tartine Bakery helps draw the eye, and by constant I mean, rain or shine, expect to see some sort of line. While I was waiting in line to order, I couldn’t help but appreciate the dated decor that’s changed very little since the sixties, exuding a sorta hipster charm that has come to define the Mission district for some.

This is one of my favorite places for buttery/flakey croissants, amazing morning buns, scones, and freshly baked loaves of French bread. I love their macarons, which make a nice gift if you can manage not to eat them first. The chocolate souffle cake is extremely rich and should advisably be consumed with one of their oversized lattes, which are served in a bowl. For those looking for something savory, try one of their pressed sandwiches or the croque-monsieur. |Tartine Bakery|

Open 7 days a week:
Mon: 8am-7pm
Tues-Wed: 7:30am-7pm
Thurs-Fri: 7:30am-8pm
Sat: 8am-8pm
Sun: 9am-8pm

Anna Belle’s

54 4th Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 777-1200
View Map

Following a late night movie at the Metreon, the search was on for a kitchen still open late on a Sunday. Luckily, the brightly lit florescent sign at Anna Belle’s caught my attention. Located in the Hotel Mosser, Anna Belle’s menu features local and sustainable American fare served until a half hour past midnight. The dinner menu features a range of hearty dishes such as the prime rib, pork chops, and short ribs, and the bar menu has plenty of fried foods, various pizzas, and a delicious burger. Diners looking for a casual meal can either opt for a high-top near the bar, or chose one of the tables in the more intimate main dining area. |Anna Belle’s|

Open 7 days a week:
Mon-Sun: 11am-3pm
Mon-Sun: 5:30pm-12:30pm
Daily happy hour(s): 4pm-7pm, 11pm-12:30pm

Bangkok Noodles

110 Powell Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
View Map

When wandering around the streets near Union Square, it’s easy to get distracted by the sea of retail and restaurants dotted along Powell Street. It’s best to push past the aggressive restaurant greeters indicative of tourist traps and instead, opt for a crowded seat or table at Bangkok Noodles. Judging by the hungry diners that often congregate outside during meal times, it’s no secret that this place is a local favorite for some of the best affordable and delicious Thai cuisine in the city.

Bangkok Noodles makes various curries and flat noodle dishes that are especially good, the Pad Ga-Prow (minced chicken or pork with thai basil, chili, and bell peppers) is also one of my favorites. Portions are a good value that won’t stretch the wallet that much, just remember to bring cash (no plastic accepted).

Open 7 days a week:
Mon-Sun: 11am-1am

R & G Lounge

631 Kearny Street
San Francisco, CA
94108
(415) 982-7877
View Map

While the choices can be somewhat limited in the city for dine-in Chinese fare on the fancier side, look no further than R&G Lounge for deliciously authentic Cantonese cuisine. Located across the street from Portsmouth Square, the restaurant is only a few short blocks from the Financial District and North Beach, making it a convenient locale for a reasonably priced work lunch during the week.The restaurant features an extensive menu, though they are best known for their seafood dishes. Specialties would include their various preparations of Dungeness crab, my favorite being their Salt & Pepper style. Salt & Pepper Calamari is one of my favorite appetizers served here, as well as the honey-glazed spare ribs. |R&G Lounge|

Open 7 days a week:
Mon-Sun: 11:30am-9:30pm

Pizzeria Delfina

2406 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 440-1189
View Map

It’s not often I recall actually dreaming about something I ate, but Pizzeria Delfina’s Margherita Pizza did exactly that. Sometimes it’s the simplest of ingredients that can make a lasting impression; mine came from the perfect combination of tomato sauce, fior di latte mozzarella, fresh basil and a thin Neapolitan pizza crust.

Inspired by eateries in Napoli, Pizzeria Delfina’s open kitchen and dining room is well lit, simple, functional, and modern. From the over-sized chalkboard menu by the door, to the large mural of the Bay Bridge by local Mission artist |Andre Karpov|, dining here feels inviting and cozy, just like a neighborhood pizzeria should be. Highlights of the meal also included the freshly stretched mozzarella, served with arugula, olive oil and some garlic toast, pairing nicely with the Peroni on draft. |Pizzeria Delfina|

Open 7 days a week:
Mon, Wed, Thurs: 11:30am-10pm
Tues: 5pm-10pm
Fri-Sat: 11:30am-11pm
Sun: 11:30am-10pm