San Francisco, a city known for its Golden Gate Bridge, steep hills, and foggy weather, has a thriving food scene that’s as unique as it is delicious. From the classic comfort foods to the innovative fusion dishes, SF’s culinary identity is a reflection of its cultural diversity and rich history. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering San Francisco famous food recipes that you simply must try.
From the iconic sourdough bread to the delectable clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the City by the Bay. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this list is sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get cooking.
San Francisco Sourdough Bread
Experience the classic San Francisco-style sourdough bread with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water (around 90°F)
– 1/2 cup active sourdough starter (fed and ripe)
– 3 cups bread flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sourdough starter. Mix until smooth.
2. Add 2 cups of bread flour to the mixture and mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, or until the dough has relaxed and become easier to work with.
4. Add remaining 1 cup of bread flour, salt, and any additional desired ingredients (e.g., sugar, herbs). Mix until just combined.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
8. Gently shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cioppino Seafood Stew
This hearty San Francisco-style seafood stew is a flavorful blend of fish, shellfish, and tomatoes, perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. With its rich broth and variety of textures, Cioppino is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fish (such as cod or halibut), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the fish, shrimp, mussels, tomatoes, fish broth, and oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the stew to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mission-Style Burrito
A classic Mexican favorite, this Mission-Style Burrito recipe combines tender beef, flavorful rice, and creamy beans for a filling meal. With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious burrito that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with beef mixture, rice, and black beans.
6. Add optional toppings as desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anchor Steam Beer-Battered Fish and Chips
Get ready for a taste of the British Isles with this crispy fish and chips recipe, perfectly paired with a cold pint of Anchor Steam beer. The beer adds a subtle depth to the batter, making it a game-changer for your next seafood dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod or haddock fillets
– 1 cup Anchor Steam beer
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup cold water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, malt vinegar, and tartar sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add the beer, stirring until smooth.
3. Cut the fish into 1-inch pieces and coat in the batter mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels; serve with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Dungeness Crab Cakes
These succulent Dungeness crab cakes are a perfect blend of fresh seafood, flavorful spices, and crispy texture. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Jumbo lump Dungeness crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir in mayonnaise, lemon juice, and egg until just combined.
4. Form into 8 equal portions and shape into patties.
5. Fry crab cakes for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl
Warm up with this creamy and comforting recipe that combines the classic flavors of clam chowder with the rustic charm of a sourdough bread bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 large can (14.5 oz) of clams, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup clam juice
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sourdough bread loaf, hollowed out
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add clams, clam juice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Simmer chowder for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Hollow out the sourdough bread loaf to create a bowl. Place it on a baking sheet.
6. Pour the clam chowder into the bread bowl.
7. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until bread is toasted and chowder is warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian-American Garlic Bread
Classic comfort food gets a flavorful twist with this aromatic garlic bread recipe, perfect for family gatherings or movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.1 oz) package of Italian-style bread, such as Ciabatta or Focaccia
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice.
5. Sprinkle dried parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the bread.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Joe’s Special Scramble
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines scrambled eggs with spicy sausage, mushrooms, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the same skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
5. Crack in the eggs and scramble them with a spatula until just set (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Stir in the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook for an additional minute, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Pacific Heights Avocado Toast
Pacific Heights Avocado Toast: A San Francisco-inspired breakfast or snack that combines creamy avocado with fresh herbs and tangy feta cheese.
• 2 slices of whole grain bread (preferably a crusty sourdough)
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for garnish (optional)
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado evenly over the toast.
3. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the avocado.
4. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chinatown Dim Sum Platter
Experience the authentic flavors of Chinatown with this delicious dim sum platter, featuring a variety of small plates that will satisfy any appetite. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup of finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup of cooked chicken, diced
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: steamed bok choy and Chinese broccoli for added variety
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface and place about 1 tablespoon of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam the dumplings for 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
North Beach Fettuccine Alfredo
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy and indulgent fettuccine dish, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the cream mixture by half, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta with the Alfredo sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fisherman’s Wharf Crab Louie Salad
Experience the flavors of San Francisco’s iconic Fisherman’s Wharf with this classic Crab Louie Salad, featuring fresh crab, crisp greens, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lump crab meat (jumbo lump or claw meat works well)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons Louie dressing (or Thousand Island dressing)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, mixed greens, bell pepper, cucumber, and onion.
2. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Drizzle with Louie dressing (or Thousand Island) just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Golden Gate Fortune Cookies
Experience the sweet charm of San Francisco’s iconic fortune cookies with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Flavorings (e.g., vanilla extract or almond extract)
– Fortune messages (written on small pieces of paper)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and flavorings to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
5. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lombard Street Chocolate Truffles
Experience the rich flavors of San Francisco’s iconic Lombard Street with these indulgent chocolate truffles. Made with dark chocolate, heavy cream, and a hint of coffee, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Set aside.
3. Once the chocolate is melted, remove from heat and whisk in the coffee powder, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Roll the truffle mixture between your hands to form small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Painted Ladies Red Velvet Cupcakes
Experience the classic charm of these moist and flavorful cupcakes, inspired by the iconic Painted Ladies houses in San Francisco.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Bay Area Artichoke Dip
A creamy, savory dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. This recipe combines the rich flavors of artichokes, garlic, and Parmesan cheese to create a deliciously addictive spread.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or ramekin.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or pita bread.
Union Square Chocolate Soufflé
Savor the rich flavors of this decadent soufflé, a classic French dessert that rises to new heights with every bite.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg whites
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 1-quart soufflé dish and coat with granulated sugar.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg yolks, cocoa powder, and milk until smooth.
3. Add melted butter, salt, and sugar; whisk until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three parts, being gentle not to deflate.
6. Pour batter into prepared soufflé dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Haight-Ashbury Vegan Tacos
Transport yourself to the iconic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood with this vibrant vegan taco recipe, featuring a colorful medley of flavors and textures. This dish is a love letter to the city’s free-spirited vibe and rich cultural heritage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Optional: avocado slices, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together black beans, bell peppers, cilantro, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble the tacos by spooning the bean mixture onto a tortilla, followed by any desired toppings (avocado, tomatoes, lettuce).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Presidio Picnic Fried Chicken
Get ready for a classic Southern comfort food with our Presidio Picnic Fried Chicken recipe, perfect for a family gathering or outdoor picnic. This mouthwatering dish combines crispy fried chicken with the warmth of spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Remove fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alcatraz-Inspired Prison Bread
Inspired by the harsh realities of Alcatraz Island, this dense and flavorful bread is the perfect companion for your next adventure. With its rugged texture and subtle sweetness, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped the concrete confines of the prison walls.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, salt, and sugar.
2. Add yeast to the warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Add yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Punch down the dough, shape into a round loaf, and bake for 40-45 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the best of San Francisco with these 20 famous food recipes! From classic sourdough bread and cioppino seafood stew, to popular burritos and clam chowder in a sourdough bowl, this article takes you on a culinary journey through the city. Discover the iconic Anchor Steam beer-battered fish and chips, indulgent garlic bread, and decadent chocolate truffles. Plus, explore international flavors like vegan tacos from Haight-Ashbury and fortune cookies from Chinatown. These recipes will make you feel like you’re right in the heart of San Francisco’s food scene!