Menu

San Francisco

The 16 Best Affordable Restaurants in San Francisco

For those looking to enjoy a delicious meal in San Francisco without breaking the bank, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're a local or just visiting the city, finding affordable restaurants in San Francisco can be a great way to explore the vibrant food scene without emptying your wallet.

From cozy cafes to bustling food courts, San Francisco offers a wide array of affordable dining options that cater to every palate and budget. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat. That's why it's important to consider factors such as pricing, ambiance, and menu variety when choosing a restaurant.

Whether you're in the mood for Asian fusion, classic American fare, or something in between, there's a restaurant in San Francisco that's perfect for your budget and taste. Below is a list of The 16 Best Affordable Restaurants in San Francisco to help you find the perfect spot for your next meal.

How this guide is ordered

What counts on this San Francisco list of affordable restaurants: know-how, customer reviews, details you can verify and nearness.

Businesses can pay for services that make their listing stand out.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Quick view

Featured options

Select an option to see its summary.

#1
DragonEats
4.7392 reviews
#2
Garaje
4.62,055 reviews
#3
Brenda's Meat & Three
4.62,016 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

DragonEats, San Francisco#1
What stands out

  • Wonderful takeout restaurant offering exceptional and tasty ban mi and salad bowls at an affordable price.

  • Highly recommended by loyal customers for its caring staff and delicious food.

  • A good spot for a quick and cheap bite, especially if you're in the area and looking for quality food.

  • Fresh, simple, and consistent menu offerings that include delicious sandwiches, soup, and spring rolls.

DragonEats

4.7392 reviews
520 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

DragonEats is a popular Vietnamese restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. The restaurant is known for its delicious coffee, comfort food, healthy options, and vegetarian options. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual and cosy atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for solo dining, lunch, and dinner.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

With a rating of 4.7 based on 392 reviews, DragonEats continues to delight its customers with flavorful dishes and excellent service. If you're in the downtown area of San Francisco, be sure to visit DragonEats for a delightful dining experience.

Garaje, San Francisco#2
What stands out

  • Amazing food with a fun atmosphere and excellent customer service. The burger and zapato burritos are highly recommended.

  • Super busy during rush hour, but the kitchen moves quickly. The fried chicken sandwiches are excellent.

  • Great ambiance with a variety of delicious items on the menu. The hot chicken sandwich is a standout choice.

  • Best burritos in the city with reasonable prices. The theming of the restaurant adds to the overall experience.

Garaje

4.62,055 reviews
475 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Garaje is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers enjoy the fast service and the casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere of the place.

Some of the popular items on the menu that customers rave about include the burger, hot chicken sandwich, and fried chicken sandwiches. The combination of American and Mexican flavors shines through in the dishes offered, making it a unique dining experience.

What sets Garaje apart is their incredible customer service and friendly staff. Many customers highlight the excellent service and energetic staff members, such as Victor, who elevate the dining experience.

Here are some summarized customer reviews:

Brenda's Meat & Three, San Francisco#3
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the fantastic brunch options, including the delectable beignets and benedicts.

  • The johnny cakes are a standout dish that impressed diners with its taste and presentation.

  • Many patrons appreciate the friendly service and relaxing atmosphere, making their dining experience exceptional.

  • Reviewers highly recommend trying the fried chicken, ribs, and biscuits for a true taste of the South.

Brenda's Meat & Three

4.62,016 reviews
919 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Brenda's Meat & Three is a beloved Southern restaurant in San Francisco, offering a variety of delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With a rating of 4.6 stars from 2016 reviews, it's clear that customers love the flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere.

Visit Brenda's Meat & Three to experience the charm of Southern cuisine in the heart of San Francisco. With options for outdoor seating, takeout, delivery, and more, this restaurant caters to every diner's needs.

Brenda's French Soul Food, San Francisco#4
What stands out

  • The Muffuletta sandwich is incredible and the watermelon sweet tea is refreshingly authentic.

  • The catfish and grits are unforgettable, and the food is amazingly good.

  • Every item on the menu is great, especially the house watermelon tea, Benedict's, oyster Po Boy, and Beignets.

  • Food highlights include cheese grits, pasta, and wings with a crunchy texture and reasonable prices.

Brenda's French Soul Food

4.55,651 reviews
652 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Brenda's French Soul Food is a beloved Southern restaurant in San Francisco that charms diners with its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in to cater to different preferences. Customers rave about the fast service and the opportunity to enjoy great cocktails, great coffee, and great desserts during their visit.

Here are some key points from recent customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 5600 reviews, Brenda's French Soul Food continues to impress locals and tourists alike with its delectable offerings and cozy atmosphere. If you're looking for a delightful taste of the South in the heart of San Francisco, this is the place to be!

La Taqueria, San Francisco#5
What stands out

  • Riquísimos sus burritos y tacos. Personal muy amable y servicio atento. Suele haber colas, pero hay bastante rotación.

  • The quesadillas are the best I've had. Always a line, but they are pretty quick. Definitely go here!

  • Anticipate a wait of approximately 10-15 minutes. The staff provided exceptional and friendly service. The meat burritos were deliciously satisfying.

  • It's not the best burrito I've had but it's definitely up there. Tacos and burritos were very tasty and nicely balanced. Highly recommend.

La Taqueria

4.56,022 reviews
2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

La Taqueria is a popular Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for its fast service and delicious burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, this restaurant consistently pleases its customers. Some customers have pointed out the generous portions, friendly staff, and quick service as standout features. Here are some summarized reviews:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and over 6000 reviews, La Taqueria is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine in San Francisco.

Orphan Andy's Restaurant, San Francisco#6
What stands out

  • Liked the interior, clean and intimate diner with good food

  • Old school greasy spoon with great food, excellent value

  • Warm and charming staff, worth the visit for a friendly experience

  • Best little hole-in-the-wall with amazing menu options and courteous staff

Orphan Andy's Restaurant

4.52,099 reviews
3991 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Orphan Andy's Restaurant is a beloved diner located in the heart of San Francisco's Castro district. Known for its fast service, great coffee, and comfort food, this restaurant offers a range of delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Customers rave about the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, making it feel like a home away from home.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a 4.5-star rating and over 2000 reviews, Orphan Andy's Restaurant is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike looking for a delicious meal in a cozy setting.

Mission’s Kitchen, San Francisco#7
What stands out

  • The food and portions are great! The vibe is amazing as well. It feels so good to speak in Spanish and have a bit of the Mexican flavors! Breakfast is definitely my favorite meal of the day and they totally delivered what was promised! (5 stars)

  • Excellent breakfast! Steak to any meal is such a plus! Enchiladas or Chilaquiles are top tier winners. (5 stars)

  • Expectations were high.... Came in as average. Will try elsewhere next time. Was not bad.... Just ok (3 stars)

  • What a great hole-in-the-wall! It's a Mexican diner serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Service was good and the spicy green chilaquiles were great. (5 stars)

Mission’s Kitchen

4.5506 reviews
2738 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Mission’s Kitchen is a charming breakfast restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy the fast service and delight in the great coffee that is served. Known for being popular for breakfast and solo dining, the restaurant provides a cozy and casual atmosphere for all guests.

Customers have shared their experiences with the restaurant:

Tommy's Joynt, San Francisco#8
What stands out

  • Ordered pastrami..cold meat, dry bread, weird consistency pastrami... Rubbery. Coleslaw lacked acid or lemon components. Felt like 3 day old bread. If a meat thermometer was in the steamer tray, would have been at 110f since the pastrami was out of the juice and steam and in the 70f atmosphere of the restaurant.

  • Busted… Ordered the Jack Tar which includes a little bit of all meats. The bartender was cool, and while I was glad they had non-alcoholic beer, my brother was happy they had good price gin drinks. Always fun to stop in for a quick dinner, and always affordable. SF staple.

  • Another great visit to Tommy’s Joynt! It’s vintage, a bit dark, but amazing food…served via a serving line. Don’t let parking keep you away.

  • Only tried the sandwiches (pastrami and brisket) it was okay… Wish they had pickles for the sandwiches. Everyone inside was eating the oxtail pasta… I should have gotten that. It looked and smelled good.

Tommy's Joynt

4.43,849 reviews
1101 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Tommy's Joynt is a renowned restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy delivery, takeaway, or dine-in experiences. The highlights of this establishment include fast service, a great beer selection, cocktails, and a vibrant sport atmosphere. Popular for both lunch and dinner, it is also ideal for those dining solo. Accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.

Yamo, San Francisco#9
What stands out

  • This mom and daughter place offers tasty and cheap food, although there might be a wait due to limited seating and staff.

  • Customers appreciate the delicious and affordable dishes, making it one of the best Burmese spots in the city.

  • Homely and authentic, Yamo is a hidden gem that exceeds expectations, thanks to the mother and daughter duo's love and dedication.

  • While the food may be good, some reviewers have encountered issues with inconsistent opening hours.

Yamo

4.4728 reviews
3406 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Yamo is a well-loved Burmese restaurant in San Francisco that has garnered a rating of 4.4 with 728 reviews. Known for its comfort food and vegetarian options, it offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd, including university students.

Eats, San Francisco#10
What stands out

  • Amazing atmosphere and delicious food. Friendly and attentive staff. Highly recommended!

  • Unique and delicious breakfast options. Highly recommend the avocado toast with egg.

  • Yummy food! Almond flour gluten-free pancake and Miatake mushroom scramble are must-tries!

  • Excellent service and perfectly flavored dishes like eggs, potatoes, and chicken sausage.

Eats

4.4612 reviews
50 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Eats is a popular breakfast restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. With a rating of 4.4, it is known for its fast service and great coffee. The restaurant offers outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers rave about the scrumptious fried chicken sandwich, avocado toast, and almond flour gluten-free pancakes. Here are some summarized reviews:

Local Diner ( eggs & tacos), San Francisco#11
What stands out

  • Customers appreciate the friendly and accommodating staff who create a welcoming environment.

  • The portions are huge and affordable, making it a great stop for a filling meal.

  • The fluffy and delicious pancakes have received numerous compliments from patrons.

Local Diner ( eggs & tacos)

4.4353 reviews
1244 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Local Diner (eggs & tacos) is a charming spot in San Francisco that offers a cozy atmosphere and a diverse menu perfect for solo dining or a casual meal with friends. The diner is known for its best breakfast options, including mouthwatering omelettes like Popeyes, T-Rex, Philly, and Louisiana hot link.

Reviews also highlight the fresh ground beef used in the cheeseburgers, making them juicy and satisfying. Breakfast is served all day, so customers can enjoy pancakes or waffles at any time. Don't miss out on this gem on Market Street, where great meals, friendly service, and a cosy atmosphere await you.

Pinecrest Diner, San Francisco#12
What stands out

  • Came here on a Monday early lunch and quickly seated with delicious meals.

  • Love this diner for dinner and breakfast, friendly staff, and free coffee refills.

  • Excellent service, tasty pancakes, and high prices for breakfast.

  • Simple diner with generous portions and efficient service, slightly pricey.

Pinecrest Diner

4.33,754 reviews
401 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Pinecrest Diner is a classic establishment that offers a range of dining options. The diner is known for its fast service and great coffee, making it a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Customers appreciate the cosy and casual atmosphere, perfect for both solo dining or groups of tourists.

Ben's Fast Food, San Francisco#13
What stands out

  • Generous portions and great value for money

  • Delicious and fresh ingredients

  • Convenient for quick, healthy meals

Ben's Fast Food

4.3228 reviews
60 Morris St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Ben's Fast Food is a popular health food restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of service options such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, this spot is loved by many for its comfort food and healthy options.

Customers rave about the food and pricing, with common themes in the reviews highlighting:

With a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 228 reviews, it's clear that Ben's Fast Food is a beloved spot for those seeking a quick and healthy bite in San Francisco.

Little Skillet, San Francisco#14
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the delicious food and friendly staff, making every visit a memorable one.

  • The affordable prices and pleasant ambiance add to the overall charm of the dining experience.

  • Many patrons highlight the authenticity and quality of the soul food served, surpassing expectations with each dish.

  • Visitors appreciate the variety of menu options along with the excellent service provided by the dedicated team.

Little Skillet

4.21,221 reviews
360 Ritch St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Little Skillet is a renowned soul food restaurant nestled in the heart of San Francisco, offering a delightful culinary experience to all its patrons. With a rating of 4.2, this establishment has garnered 1221 reviews, testament to its exceptional service and delectable offerings.

Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Little Skillet, where every bite tells a story of tradition and passion for soulful cuisine. Book your table today and savor the essence of Southern hospitality in the heart of San Francisco.

Lori's Diner, San Francisco#15
What stands out

  • Fresh and hot food served with a smile

  • Great coffee and desserts

  • Atmosphere reminiscent of a 1950s diner

  • Generous portions at reasonable prices

Lori's Diner

4.14,006 reviews
500 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Lori's Diner is a popular diner located in San Francisco, offering a variety of services and features to cater to its diverse clientele. From delivery to dine-in and takeaway options, customers can enjoy their favorite meals in the comfort of their choice.

Known for its fast service, great coffee, and great desserts, Lori's Diner has garnered a rating of 4.1 from over 4006 reviews. Customers have praised the restaurant for its fresh and tasty food, friendly service, and nostalgic ambiance.

Whether you're in the mood for a classic American breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner, Lori's Diner is the perfect spot to indulge in delicious comfort food. Come in and experience the retro charm and flavorful dishes that keep customers coming back for more.

Grubstake Diner, San Francisco#16
What stands out

  • Great place with flavorful food, although some items may not always be available.

  • Cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and a variety of menu options.

  • Delicious burgers, loaded wedges, and cheesesteak sandwiches that are cooked to perfection.

  • Speedy service and a charming ambiance make Grubstake Diner a gem in the city.

Grubstake Diner

4.1991 reviews
1525 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Grubstake Diner is a beloved spot in San Francisco for those looking to enjoy a classic and delicious diner experience. With a rating of 4.1 and 991 reviews, customers have raved about the food and service provided. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Grubstake Diner is sure to satisfy your cravings with its array of offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1DragonEats 4.7392
#2Garaje 4.62,055
#3Brenda's Meat & Three 4.62,016
#4Brenda's French Soul Food 4.55,651
#5La Taqueria 4.56,022
#6Orphan Andy's Restaurant 4.52,099
#7Mission’s Kitchen 4.5506
#8Tommy's Joynt 4.43,849
#9Yamo 4.4728
#10Eats 4.4612
#11Local Diner ( eggs & tacos) 4.4353
#12Pinecrest Diner 4.33,754
#13Ben's Fast Food 4.3228
#14Little Skillet 4.21,221
#15Lori's Diner 4.14,006
#16Grubstake Diner 4.1991

For businesses

Run a business?

Manage or add my business

Map and areas

Map of Affordable Restaurants in San Francisco

Looking for budget-friendly dining options in San Francisco? Look no further! Our map highlights affordable restaurants throughout the city, from delicious hole-in-the-wall eateries to trendy food trucks. Explore the diverse culinary scene of San Francisco without breaking the bank. Plan your next meal out with our guide to the best wallet-friendly spots in town.

How to choose Affordable Restaurants in San Francisco

  1. Various cuisines to choose from.
  2. Different price ranges.
  3. Location and proximity to attractions.
  4. Quality of food and service.
  5. Ambiance and atmosphere.

Frequently asked questions

What are some affordable restaurants in San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its high cost of living, but there are still plenty of affordable dining options for budget-conscious visitors. Some popular choices include: Taqueria Cancun - A beloved spot for authentic Mexican street food at reasonable prices. The Sandwich Place - Hugely popular for their delicious sandwiches that won't break the bank. Little Skillet - Serving up tasty Southern comfort food without the hefty price tag.

How can I find affordable dining options in San Francisco?

One of the best ways to discover affordable restaurants in San Francisco is by exploring different neighborhoods. Each area has its unique dining scene, offering a range of prices and cuisines. Additionally, you can use restaurant review websites or apps to filter by price range and read reviews from other diners.

Are there any hidden gems for affordable dining in San Francisco?

Yes, there are several hidden gems in San Francisco that offer great food at affordable prices. These places might not be as well-known or trendy, but they are definitely worth checking out. Some hidden gems include hole-in-the-wall eateries, food trucks, and pop-up restaurants that offer delicious meals without the high price tag.

How can I eat on a budget in San Francisco?

Eating on a budget in San Francisco requires some planning and creativity. One strategy is to look for lunch specials or happy hour deals at restaurants. Another option is to visit farmers' markets or food trucks for tasty and affordable meals. Additionally, consider cooking your meals or packing a picnic to enjoy in one of San Francisco's beautiful parks.

Related guides

The 13 Best Sunday Brunch Buffet Options in San FranciscoThe 13 Best Dosa Places in San FranciscoThe 16 Best Restaurants Near San Francisco Opera House