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The 15 Best South American Food in San Francisco

For those craving the vibrant and diverse flavors of South American cuisine in San Francisco, look no further. From mouthwatering Brazilian churrasco to savory Peruvian ceviche, the city offers a culinary experience that will transport you to the streets of Lima, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro.

Whether you're a fan of traditional dishes like empanadas and arepas or you're looking to try something new like feijoada or anticuchos, San Francisco has a plethora of options to satisfy your cravings for South American food. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. That's why we've curated a list of the top 15 South American restaurants in San Francisco to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect spot for your next meal.

Explore the best of South American cuisine in San Francisco and satisfy your craving for delicious and unique flavors.

How we chose and ordered them

To put together this guide to south American food in San Francisco, we looked at what each business really focuses on, how its customers rate it over time and what it shows about its work on its own channels. The order is ours and we review it regularly.

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

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
4.77,676 reviews
#2
Delancey Street Restaurant
4.51,409 reviews
#3
Venga Empanadas
4.5451 reviews

All options

Weigh 15 local options side by side

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • The salad bar was awesome with a ton of choice.

  • The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating.

  • Top-notch quality of food with beautifully presented dishes.

  • Best steakhouse in San Francisco with 5-star service.

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

4.77,676 reviews
201 3rd St Suite 100, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse is a renowned Brazilian restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Offering a wide range of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, this steakhouse is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The restaurant is popular for its lunch and dinner options, making it ideal for solo dining or group gatherings. Customers rave about the exceptional service and delicious food offered here. Some of the key highlights include a top-notch salad bar with plenty of choices and a modern ambiance.

Delancey Street Restaurant, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • Generously portioned and comforting food at diner prices

  • Beautiful setting with outdoor dining options

  • Great food variety and fresh ingredients

Delancey Street Restaurant

4.51,409 reviews
600 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Delancey Street Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in San Francisco. Not only does it serve delicious American cuisine, but it also supports a great cause. Owned and operated by ex-convicts transitioning back into the workforce, the restaurant offers a blend of fine dining and diner food at excellent prices.

Customers rave about the friendly staff, incredible food, and impressive views of the Bay Bridge. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

If you're looking for a dining experience that combines great food with a great cause, Delancey Street Restaurant is the place to visit. Make a reservation and support this legendary organization while enjoying a memorable meal.

Venga Empanadas, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • Delicious authentic empanadas with a variety of flavorful options

  • Great prices and friendly service

  • Vegetarian options available with delicious fillings

  • Fast service and convenient takeaway options

Venga Empanadas

4.5451 reviews
443 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Venga Empanadas is a popular Argentinian restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer various services such as outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers praise the fast service and the diverse selection of empanadas available.

The restaurant has received numerous positive reviews highlighting the quality and taste of their empanadas, as well as the friendly and efficient staff. Customers appreciate the authentic flavors and the clean and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant. If you are looking for a place to enjoy delicious Latin food, Venga Empanadas is a must-visit spot in San Francisco.

La Fusion, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Flavorful dishes

  • Great dessert offerings

  • Accessible location with friendly staff

La Fusion

4.5421 reviews
475 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94104, United States

La Fusion is a well-loved Latin American restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a range of services including No-contact delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Customers have praised the restaurant for its great dessert offerings and its popular lunch and dinner options. The venue is accessible with wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating. Customers have highlighted the friendly staff and the flavorful dishes served at La Fusion.

Poc-Chuc Restaurant, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • The food is delicious with fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked meat.

  • The portions are generous, offering great value for money.

  • The staff is friendly and accommodating, creating a welcoming dining experience.

  • While some minor issues were reported, such as slow service, the overall dining experience was highly satisfactory.

Poc-Chuc Restaurant

4.5370 reviews
2886 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Poc-Chuc Restaurant is a well-loved Mexican restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its fast service, this restaurant is a popular choice for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The atmosphere is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, attracting both locals and tourists.

The menu boasts traditional Mexican dishes with a twist, such as the poc chuc pork special plate and Mayan platter, both highly recommended by customers. The restaurant offers a range of amenities including toilets and is wheelchair-accessible, making it inclusive for all customers. With offerings like alcohol, beer, coffee, and healthy options, there is something for everyone.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Limón, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • Clients appreciate the flavorful appetizers and entrees that come out quickly. The cocktails are strong but tasty, making for a great dining experience.

  • Many guests highlight the attentive service, especially mentioning servers like Mauricio who go above and beyond to make celebrations special.

  • The diverse menu offers something for everyone, with exceptional seafood dishes and options for those who may not be fans of cilantro. Despite the bustling ambiance, patrons find it easy to enjoy meals and conversations.

  • Reviewers praise the fact that Limón is both a casual lunch haunt and an ideal spot for date nights, offering top-notch service, delectable dishes, and fantastic drinks.

Limón

4.41,889 reviews
524 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Limón Restaurant is a vibrant spot in San Francisco's Mission district known for its delicious Peruvian cuisine and lively atmosphere. With a rating of 4.4 stars from 1889 reviews, customers rave about their experience.

Whether you're looking for a quick lunch bite or a cozy dinner spot, Limón Restaurant is sure to impress with its authentic flavors, friendly staff, and trendy atmosphere. Make a reservation today to experience the best of Peruvian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

Limón, San Francisco#7

Limón

4.41,846 reviews
1001 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Limón Restaurant offers a wide range of Peruvian dishes in a casual and trendy atmosphere in San Francisco. The restaurant provides various service options like outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, and takeaway. Customers praise the fast service, great beer selection, cocktails, and dessert options. It is popular for both lunch and dinner, as well as solo dining experiences.

Customer reviews highlight the delicious and fresh ceviche, flavorful rotisserie chicken, and tasty paella-like dishes. The yuca fries are also a favorite among patrons. The friendly staff, quick service, and cozy ambiance make it a memorable dining experience. Some customers recommend trying the ceviche and Lomo saltado for a delightful meal. Overall, Limón Restaurant is a top choice for those looking for authentic Peruvian cuisine in the Bay Area.

Andina, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • First-time visitors enjoyed the vegan options and healthy food choices, along with the good service and cleanliness of the restaurant.

  • Customers loved the arepas, rice plates, empanadas, and platanos, praising the generous portions and balance of flavors.

  • The authenticity of the Venezuelan cuisine stood out, with classic dishes like arepas, chupe, and pabellón criollo impressing diners.

  • Visitors appreciated the friendly staff, peaceful environment, and overall wonderful dining experience at Andina.

Andina

4.638 reviews
205 Franklin St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Andina is a renowned Venezuelan restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for its fast service and authentic Venezuelan cuisine, Andina offers a variety of dishes that are popular for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a great spot for solo dining as well.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Andina, emphasizing the delicious food, warm hospitality, and cozy ambiance. Some key points from the reviews include:

If you're looking to indulge in the flavors of Venezuela in a casual and welcoming setting, Andina is the place to be!

Sam's American Eatery, San Francisco#9
What it does well

  • Very nice eatery, less than 1/2 a block from Orpheum Theater with refreshing menu options and delightful atmosphere.

  • The atmosphere was lovely, and everything was ordered correctly, highly recommended.

  • An adorable addition to any trip to downtown San Francisco with an atmosphere of pure elated joy and bright colors.

  • Yummy food, excellent service, and impressive dishes like Loco Moco and California omelet. Two thumbs up!

Sam's American Eatery

4.41,079 reviews
1220 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Sam's American Eatery is a renowned American restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. The establishment boasts a rating of 4.4 based on 1079 reviews, making it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Customers have praised the eatery for its fast service and great coffee, making it an ideal spot for a quick meal or a leisurely dining experience. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

Sam's American Eatery offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Additionally, the restaurant is popular for serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a versatile choice for any time of day. The establishment also provides numerous amenities such as toilets and is wheelchair-accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons. So, don't miss the opportunity to visit Sam's American Eatery for a memorable dining experience.

Franco's Latin Table, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • The food is flavorful and portion sizes are generous

  • Great options for Latin dishes and cocktails

  • Beautiful presentation of the food and excellent customer service

  • Outdoor seating option

Franco's Latin Table

4.4398 reviews
24 W Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA 94127, United States

Franco's Latin Table is a vibrant Peruvian restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.4 stars, this restaurant offers a variety of dining options from brunch to dinner, making it a perfect spot for any time of day. Visitors praise the fast service and delightful atmosphere that Franco's Latin Table provides.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a quick takeaway or a cozy dine-in experience, Franco's Latin Table is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious Peruvian cuisine. Next time you're in San Francisco, make sure to stop by and enjoy a meal at this beloved restaurant!

Los Yaquis, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • "Tacos de Barbacoa a la Plancha are the best in the city, and they were amazing!"

  • "The menu has transformed over time, each change only amplifying its appeal."

  • "The super mango margarita and the food is so delicious!"

  • "Excellent paella, good service, open on holidays."

Los Yaquis

4.4678 reviews
324 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Los Yaquis is a renowned Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful dining experience for their customers. Some of the highlighted service options include delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great dessert, and live music ambiance.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of food and overall experience at Los Yaquis. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a stellar rating of 4.4, Los Yaquis continues to impress customers with their delicious Mexican cuisine and exceptional service. Visit this restaurant to indulge in a memorable dining experience unlike any other!

Gilberth's Latin Fusion, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • Reasonably-priced Mexican cuisine perfect for a business lunch.

  • Delicious tacos and memorable brussel sprouts for a light bite.

  • Insanely good food including Pollo asado and maduros (fried plantains).

  • Intimate seating with amazing food and drinks, perfect for a special evening.

Gilberth's Latin Fusion

4.4353 reviews
2427 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Gilberth's Latin Fusion is a vibrant and inviting restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of dining options such as lunch, dinner, and brunch, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you prefer delivery, takeaway, or dine-in, this establishment has you covered with their service options.

Highlighted for their fast service and great beer selection, Gilberth's Latin Fusion is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The menu offerings include a variety of options such as cocktails, coffee, and vegetarian options, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. The cosy atmosphere and family-friendly crowd make it a welcoming spot for all.

Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

With a solid rating of 4.4 and 353 reviews, Gilberth's Latin Fusion continues to impress and delight its patrons. Don't miss out on experiencing the bold flavors and warm hospitality this establishment has to offer!

Arepas Latin Cuisine, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • The flavorful sauce accompanying the dishes elevates each bite to a new level

  • The Arepitas Sliders and Picada Colombiana Chopped are bursting with flavor and exquisitely prepared

  • The Passion Fruit Cheesecake is a tangy and sweet delight with a tropical twist

  • The various arepas are flavorful, filling, and enjoyable, adding uniqueness to the dining experience

Arepas Latin Cuisine

4.4250 reviews
3198 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Arepas Latin Cuisine is a vibrant Latin American restaurant located on 16th St in San Francisco. This establishment offers a variety of services, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a selection of traditional dishes and beverages such as coffee, beer, cocktails, and wine.

The restaurant is known for its fast service and occasional live music events, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Arepas Latin Cuisine is popular for all meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a versatile dining destination suitable for various occasions.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious flavors and quality of the food. Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.4 and numerous positive reviews, Arepas Latin Cuisine stands out as a top choice for those seeking authentic Latin American cuisine in a lively and welcoming setting.

Artesano, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • The best lomo saltado with huge portion sizes and delicious samosas

  • Great casual lunch spot with good matcha latte

  • Delicious food with big portions in a nice decor setting

Artesano

4.4246 reviews
2335 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Artesano is a vibrant Latin American restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a range of services such as Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. Customers can enjoy a fast service in a casual and cozy atmosphere. Artesano is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining, making it a great spot for any meal occasion.

Customer reviews rave about the flavorful and generous portions of the dishes. Some key points from the reviews include:

Whether you are a fan of Peruvian cuisine or looking for a new dining experience, Artesano is sure to satisfy your taste buds with their delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Sears Fine Food, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • Generous portions and fresh ingredients

  • Efficient and friendly service

  • Quaint atmosphere reminiscent of old school San Francisco

  • Conveniently located near Union Square

Sears Fine Food

4.33,607 reviews
439 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Sears Fine Food is a renowned American restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its fast service, great coffee, great dessert, and great tea selection, this establishment caters to a diverse clientele. Customers have left positive reviews, highlighting a few key points:

Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a delightful dinner experience, Sears Fine Food offers a variety of options to please your palate. Don't miss out on this iconic San Francisco gem!

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse 4.77,676
#2Delancey Street Restaurant 4.51,409
#3Venga Empanadas 4.5451
#4La Fusion 4.5421
#5Poc-Chuc Restaurant 4.5370
#6Limón 4.41,889
#7Limón 4.41,846
#8Andina 4.638
#9Sam's American Eatery 4.41,079
#10Franco's Latin Table 4.4398
#11Los Yaquis 4.4678
#12Gilberth's Latin Fusion 4.4353
#13Arepas Latin Cuisine 4.4250
#14Artesano 4.4246
#15Sears Fine Food 4.33,607

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On the map

Map of South American Food in San Francisco

Discover the diverse flavors of South America right here in San Francisco. From hearty Brazilian churrasco to zesty Peruvian ceviche, there's something to satisfy every craving. Explore the local restaurants and food trucks serving up traditional dishes that will transport your taste buds south of the equator. Check out this map for a guide to all the best South American eats in the city.

How to pick South American Food in San Francisco

  1. Authentic flavors from various South American countries.
  2. Diverse menu options, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.
  3. Casual and upscale dining atmospheres.
  4. Convenient locations throughout San Francisco.

Common questions

What are some popular South American dishes served in San Francisco?

When dining in San Francisco, you can find a wide variety of delicious South American dishes. Some popular options include empanadas, ceviche, luomo Saltado, and arepas. These dishes represent the diverse flavors and influences of South American cuisine. Many restaurants in San Francisco offer their unique twist on these traditional dishes, incorporating locally sourced ingredients and creative preparations to provide a memorable dining experience. Whether you are craving savory meats, fresh seafood, or flavorful vegetarian options, you are sure to find a South American dish that satisfies your taste buds in San Francisco.

Where can I find authentic South American restaurants in San Francisco?

San Francisco is home to a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants specializing in authentic South American cuisine. Some popular spots to experience the flavors of South America include Mission District, SoMa, and the Marina District. These neighborhoods are known for their diverse dining options, with a variety of restaurants offering traditional South American dishes made with authentic ingredients and cooking techniques. Whether you are looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite or a fine dining experience to savor every bite, you can find a South American restaurant in San Francisco that suits your preferences.

What ingredients are commonly used in South American food in San Francisco?

South American cuisine is known for its bold flavors and diverse ingredients. Some common ingredients used in South American food in San Francisco include corn, beans, rice, avocado, and plantains. Meats such as beef, pork, and chicken are also commonly featured in South American dishes, often marinated and grilled to perfection. Cilantro, lime, and spices like cumin and paprika are frequently used to add depth and flavor to dishes. Additionally, seafood plays a significant role in South American cuisine, with dishes like ceviche showcasing the fresh flavors of the ocean. These ingredients come together to create the vibrant and delicious flavors that characterize South American food in San Francisco.

Are there options for vegetarians and vegans at South American restaurants in San Francisco?

While South American cuisine is known for its meat-centric dishes, many restaurants in San Francisco offer vegetarian and vegan options to cater to different dietary preferences. Arepas filled with avocado and black beans, vegetarian empanadas stuffed with spinach and cheese, and quinoa salad with roasted vegetables are just a few examples of vegetarian-friendly dishes you can find at South American restaurants in the city. Whether you are looking for plant-based twists on traditional South American dishes or entirely new creations, there are plenty of options to choose from in San Francisco. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences, so you can enjoy the flavors of South America regardless of your eating habits.

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