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The 16 Best Instagrammable Restaurants in San Francisco

Exploring the vibrant food scene in San Francisco goes beyond just satisfying your taste buds - it's also an opportunity to capture picture-perfect moments for your Instagram feed. With numerous instagrammable restaurants scattered throughout the city, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect backdrop for your next culinary adventure.

Whether you're looking for a cozy cafe with unique decor, a rooftop bar with stunning views, or a trendy eatery with photogenic dishes, San Francisco has it all. From brunch spots to fine dining establishments, there's something for every type of foodie and photographer in this bustling city.

Get ready to elevate your Instagram game with this list of the 16 best instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco. Whether you're a local looking for a new dining spot or a visitor searching for the hottest foodie destinations, these restaurants are sure to impress both your followers and your taste buds.

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Lazy Bear, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • Unforgettable food with great presentation and interesting stories about the ingredients

  • Hospitality that makes guests feel like old friends

  • An experience that goes beyond just a meal, providing an exciting and bubbly energy

  • A magical and exceptional dining experience that is well worth the splurge

Lazy Bear

4.81,006 reviews
3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Lazy Bear is a renowned New American restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of services including dine-in and highlights such as great coffee and great dessert. It is well-known for its popular dinner options and offers a cozy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere.

Customers have left numerous positive reviews about their experiences at Lazy Bear. Some key points from these reviews include:

Overall, Lazy Bear is highly praised for its exceptional food, inviting atmosphere, and exceptional hospitality that make it a must-visit dining destination in San Francisco.

Nightbird, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • This place is ideal for special occasions due to its unique tasting menu and excellent wine pairings.

  • Clients have highlighted the attentive and friendly service, as well as the impeccable attention to detail in every dish.

  • Customers have appreciated the surprising and delightful flavors offered by Chef Kim Alter, making each bite a memorable experience.

  • Patrons have mentioned that Nightbird is a hidden gem that they would happily return to for another remarkable dining experience.

Nightbird

4.7197 reviews
330 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Nightbird is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a truly exceptional culinary experience. With a rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 based on 197 reviews, this establishment has garnered praise for its exquisite vegetarian options, cocktails, and upmarket atmosphere.

If you're looking for a place to savor extraordinary flavors in a cozy and stylish setting, Nightbird is the perfect choice for your next dining adventure.

Zazie, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Customers rave about the amazing coffee cake and friendly staff.

  • Some mention a long wait time for food during busy brunch hours but still enjoyed the excellent dishes.

  • Visitors appreciate the cozy atmosphere and generous portions of their meals.

Zazie

4.63,154 reviews
941 Cole St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

Zazie is a charming French restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features that make them stand out. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, great dessert, and great tea selection.

Trestle Restaurant, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Varied menu with attentive service.

  • Decent food quality at an affordable price point.

  • Great for sharing dishes and ideal for special occasions.

Trestle Restaurant

4.61,009 reviews
531 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Trestle Restaurant is a renowned New American restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. They provide dine-in options with a menu highlighted by their Great dessert selections, making it a popular spot for dinner. Additionally, the restaurant is wheelchair-accessible and offers a range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and coffee. Customers have praised the cosy and upmarket atmosphere of Trestle Restaurant, making it a favorite among tourists and those looking for a romantic setting.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Petit Crenn, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • A California menu by chef Crenn at a more simplistic and less expensive version of Atelier Crenn. Highlights included the onion tart and trout with divine sauce. The sommelier added to the overall entertaining experience.

  • Not fancy but absolutely delicious homestyle rustic cooking. Despite its simplicity, the dishes are executed perfectly, with standout items like the sourdough bread and peas complemented by mint.

  • Excellent food and attentive service in a comfortable atmosphere. The fixed menu focused on fresh seafood and produce, paired with a selection of wines. A truly wonderful spot with friendly kitchen staff.

  • While the wine was better than the food for one customer, they appreciated the meticulous attention to detail in the preparation of the dishes. The main fish, however, had a disappointing taste.

Petit Crenn

4.6580 reviews
609 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Petit Crenn is a charming French restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a cozy and romantic atmosphere for guests. Known for its dinner service and solo dining experience, this restaurant also provides kerbside pickup, takeaway, and dine-in options.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Petit Crenn:

These reviews showcase the diverse experiences customers have enjoyed at Petit Crenn, making it a standout destination for lovers of French cuisine.

Heirloom Café, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Charming place with a New Orleans vibe

  • Excellent wine list and generous pours

  • Outstanding food, service, and atmosphere

  • Super tasty food with lovely service

Heirloom Café

4.6343 reviews
2500 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Heirloom Café is a charming Californian restaurant nestled in San Francisco. Known for its great coffee and great dessert, it offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere perfect for solo dining. The menu showcases comfort food with healthy options and vegetarian choices, accompanied by a selection of wines and beers.

Customer reviews rave about the excellent service and large portions. They praise the friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the wine selection and accommodating to dietary restrictions. The food presentation and preparation receive high accolades, with diners enjoying every dish ordered.

Sons & Daughters, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • An absolutely beautiful dining experience with top-tier service and exquisite food.

  • Impressive ambiance that strikes a balance between sophistication and comfort.

  • Celebrates the beauty of natural flavors with a fusion of Nordic and California influences.

  • Unique non-alcoholic pairing that complements the flavors of each dish.

Sons & Daughters

4.6311 reviews
Between Mason &, 708 Bush Street, Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Sons & Daughters is an exquisite fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco. The establishment is renowned for its beautiful setup and a cozy atmosphere, highlighted by a fireplace that creates a relaxed and romantic mood. The open kitchen offers a glimpse into the meticulous preparation of each dish, showcasing the dedication and passion of the chefs.

Customers rave about the top-tier service at Sons & Daughters, where every detail is carefully thought out and executed flawlessly. The chefs deliver a culinary experience that celebrates the combination of flavors and a sustainable approach. Patrons are impressed by the purposeful presentation of each dish, from the plates to the flatware.

The menu at Sons & Daughters features a fusion of Nordic and California influences, creating dishes that showcase the beauty of natural flavors. The commitment to sourcing premium ingredients is evident in every bite, enhancing the culinary journey for each guest. With a focus on locality, seasonality, and sustainability, the restaurant delivers a dining experience that is both memorable and exceptional.

State Bird Provisions, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Reservations open 30 days in advance and are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited walk-in spots.

  • The concept of having different food offerings brought around on carts adds a fun and interactive element to the dining experience.

  • The personalized service, attention to detail, and delicious, imaginative dishes earn this restaurant its Michelin Star without breaking the bank.

State Bird Provisions

4.52,001 reviews
1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

State Bird Provisions is an innovative American restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its fusion California fare served on traveling dim-sum-style carts, allowing customers to try new and creative dishes throughout the night. The rotating menu features staple dishes like fresh oysters and a delicate fried quail, California's state bird.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at State Bird Provisions:

If you're looking for a trendy and upmarket dining experience, State Bird Provisions is a must-visit spot for any foodie looking to explore unique and flavorful dishes in a casual and cozy atmosphere.

Cassava, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • Customers appreciate the friendly service, even if the tasting menu fell short of expectations.

  • Some reviewers found the dishes in the five-course tasting menu to be unimpressive and overpriced.

  • One diner enjoyed the cozy atmosphere, exceptional food, and attentive service during their brunch experience.

  • Another patron had a disappointing experience with slow service and unimpressive food, ultimately not recommending a return visit.

Cassava

4.5775 reviews
401 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Cassava is a charming French restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for their great tea selection, Cassava is a popular spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

MKT Restaurant and Bar, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • The food is absolutely delicious, with every dish being a work of art.

  • The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to provide recommendations.

  • While some experienced minor hiccups with breakfast, the overall dining experience was fantastic.

  • The ambiance is classy and inviting, making it a must-visit spot in San Francisco.

MKT Restaurant and Bar

4.5407 reviews
757 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

MKT Restaurant and Bar offers a stunning array of New American cuisine with a touch of sophistication. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing dine-in experience or looking to indulge in some great dessert, this place has got you covered. Customers have raved about the mesmerizing food that is not only delicious but also beautifully presented. The restaurant is particularly popular for lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for any occasion.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Prospect, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • Delicious food offerings with unique flavor combinations

  • Attentive and thoughtful service, accommodating special requests

  • Elegant ambiance and spacious seating for a comfortable dining experience

  • Varied menu options suitable for all preferences

Prospect

4.4940 reviews
300 Spear St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Prospect is a renowned New American restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features to ensure an unforgettable dining experience. Customers can enjoy the fast service and indulge in the great cocktails and great dessert options available.

With a rating of 4.4, Prospect has garnered glowing reviews from its patrons. Here are some key points from their feedback:

Whether you are looking for a spot to enjoy a meal with family, friends, or colleagues, Prospect is highly recommended by satisfied customers. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation to experience their exceptional offerings.

Son and Garden, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Beautiful place with a plethora of flowers, delicious food, and amazing drinks.

  • Food is delicious and elegantly displayed, reservations are necessary, and Afternoon Tea is recommended.

  • Delicious cuisine but marred by disastrous service, high potential but service issues need addressing.

  • Afternoon tea experience was subpar with lukewarm tea, mixed food quality, excellent for photos but better options available.

Son and Garden

4.4758 reviews
700 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Son and Garden is a captivating New American restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a unique dining experience. The restaurant provides various service options including Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service and indulge in great dessert along with a great tea selection.

The restaurant is popular for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a perfect spot for solo dining. Son and Garden ensures wheelchair-accessible facilities from entrance to seating and toilets. They provide an array of offerings including alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, organic dishes, small plates, spirits, vegetarian options, and wine.

Customers enjoy a diverse selection of dining options such as brunch, dessert, and comfortable seating. The casual and cozy atmosphere makes it a preferred choice among various crowds including groups and tourists.

Customer Reviews:

VILLON, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Overall memorable dining experience with delicious food and elegant atmosphere.

  • Poetic settings and classic service provide a memorable meal.

  • Great menu selections and ambiance, highly recommended for a revisit.

  • Exceptional service, fantastic cocktails, and diverse food offerings.

VILLON

4.4420 reviews
1100 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

VILLON is a renowned New American restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco, offering a variety of dining options and amenities. Customers can enjoy No-contact delivery or savor their meal Dine-in while admiring the Great coffee and Great dessert selections. VILLON is popular for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, catering to various preferences.

The restaurant ensures Accessibility with wheelchair-accessible facilities, and the diverse Offerings include Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, and more. Guests can choose from multiple Dining options such as Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, along with Catering and delightful Dessert choices.

With a Cosy, Romantic, Trendy, and Upmarket Atmosphere, VILLON appeals to Groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, Tourists, and serves as a Transgender safe space. The restaurant offers excellent Planning options like Dinner reservations and Accepts reservations, making it convenient for guests to arrange their visits.

Customer reviews praise VILLON for its exceptional service and unique culinary experiences. Here are some key points from the reviews:

LUCE, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • Exceptional service with knowledgeable and friendly servers

  • Delicious food and well-paired wine selections

  • Ambiance that is quiet, relaxing, and perfect for special occasions

  • Intriguing flavors and unique dishes that leave a lasting impression

LUCE

4.4322 reviews
888 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

LUCE is a renowned Modern European restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services to cater to its customers' needs. From Takeaway and Dine-in options to a selection of incredible dishes and beverages, including Cocktails, Wine, and Vegetarian options, LUCE ensures a memorable dining experience for all. The restaurant is widely praised for its Great coffee and Great dessert, adding a sweet touch to every visit.

In line with its commitment to accessibility, LUCE offers Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, and Wheelchair-accessible toilet, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their time at the restaurant comfortably. The serene Atmosphere of LUCE, characterized by a blend of Romantic and Trendy vibes, makes it a perfect spot for various occasions.

With a solid Rating of 4.4 based on 322 reviews, LUCE continues to be a top choice for those seeking a delightful dining experience in the heart of San Francisco.

RAW Sugar Factory, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • Extensive menu accommodating dietary restrictions

  • Quality dishes at an affordable price

  • Great hash browns and crunchy pancakes

  • Fantastic service and unique menu options

RAW Sugar Factory

4.3399 reviews
525 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

RAW Sugar Factory is a popular breakfast restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Offering a range of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, and dine-in, this spot caters to all kinds of customers. The restaurant is known for its fast service, making it a go-to choice for those looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customers have left glowing reviews, highlighting a few key points:

Overall, RAW Sugar Factory is a must-visit for anyone craving a satisfying and flavorful breakfast or brunch experience. Whether you're in the mood for classic favorites or innovative dishes, this restaurant has something for everyone.

Café de la Presse, San Francisco#16

Café de la Presse

4.11,480 reviews
352 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Café de la Presse is a charming French restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. This cozy spot is popular for its delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, making it an ideal choice for solo dining or a lovely meal with family or friends.

The café offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and of course, dine-in for those who enjoy the inviting atmosphere within the café. It is known for its great coffee, desserts, and tea selection, drawing in customers who appreciate quality and variety.

Key reviews highlight the friendliness of the staff, with visitors praising the warm and welcoming service they received. The food is described as delicious, with favorites like the Escargots, Deviled Eggs, and Eggs Benedict being highly recommended. Customers also appreciate the café's offerings for a tasty breakfast to kickstart the day.

Overall, customers have been impressed with the atmosphere at Café de la Presse, noting its cosy and romantic ambiance that adds to the dining experience. With a strong rating of 4.1 stars and a total of 1480 reviews, this café is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic French dining experience in San Francisco.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Lazy Bear 4.81,006
#2Nightbird 4.7197
#3Zazie 4.63,154
#4Trestle Restaurant 4.61,009
#5Petit Crenn 4.6580
#6Heirloom Café 4.6343
#7Sons & Daughters 4.6311
#8State Bird Provisions 4.52,001
#9Cassava 4.5775
#10MKT Restaurant and Bar 4.5407
#11Prospect 4.4940
#12Son and Garden 4.4758
#13VILLON 4.4420
#14LUCE 4.4322
#15RAW Sugar Factory 4.3399
#16Café de la Presse 4.11,480

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Map of Instagrammable Restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its vibrant food scene, with countless instagrammable restaurants that not only serve delicious cuisine but also offer aesthetically pleasing surroundings. Whether you're looking for a trendy brunch spot or a unique dinner experience, this city has it all. Check out the map below to discover some of the most photogenic eateries in San Francisco.

How to pick Instagrammable Restaurants in San Francisco

  1. Varied cuisine options.
  2. Unique decor and ambiance.
  3. Photogenic dishes.
  4. Convenient locations.
  5. Great views for that perfect Instagram shot.

Common questions

What are some of the most Instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco?

If you're looking for Instagram-worthy spots in San Francisco, some popular choices include The Dorian, known for its chic decor and colorful cocktails, Hillstone with its stunning waterfront views, and El Techo that offers a trendy rooftop setting perfect for capturing city skyline shots. Other notable options include Media Noche for its vibrant Cuban design, Foreign Cinema with its dreamy outdoor patio, and the whimsical Mr. Holmes Bakehouse known for its famous pastries.

How can I find Instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco?

To discover the most photogenic restaurants in San Francisco, you can explore hashtags like #SanFranciscoEats or #InstaFoodSF on Instagram. These tags are frequently used by food bloggers and influencers to showcase visually appealing dining spots in the city. You can also follow popular foodie accounts like Eater SF, Time Out San Francisco, or Infatuation SF for curated lists of the best Instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco.

What makes a restaurant Instagrammable?

An Instagrammable restaurant typically features visually appealing decor, unique plating of dishes, natural lighting, and photogenic backgrounds. Elements like colorful walls, trendy furniture, beautiful table settings, and picturesque views all contribute to creating a visually appealing dining experience that is perfect for social media. Restaurants that pay attention to presentation and detail, offer aesthetically pleasing dishes, and have a welcoming ambiance that resonates with social media users are often deemed as Instagrammable.

Are there any tips for taking great Instagram photos at restaurants in San Francisco?

When capturing memorable moments at Instagrammable restaurants in San Francisco, consider using natural light whenever possible to enhance the ambiance of your photos. Experiment with different angles, compositions, and backgrounds to create a visually engaging shot that highlights the essence of the dining experience. It's also helpful to focus on details such as unique menu items, innovative cocktails, or intricate decor elements to add depth and interest to your photos. Don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box when showcasing your dining adventures on Instagram.

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