Dining out isn’t quite like it used to be before COVID-19. It’s in fact obsolete for a lot of restaurants that don’t have the permission or space to set up outdoor seating. Over the last few months I’ve gotten acquainted with the various food delivery and takeout apps available in San Francisco: Uber Eats, Grubhub, Caviar, Postmates, etc.
I’ve come up with my top 10 takeout spots in San Francisco and want to share the goodness with you all. These restaurants/shops are all local to San Francisco and range from American to Southeast Asian to French. Not only are these some of my favorite restaurants for dine-in, they have also proven to have nailed the takeout business and been able to keep their food tasting good despite the extra time it now takes for food to reach the dining table.
1. Farmhouse Thai Kitchen
Farmhouse was at the top of my list even before the pandemic, and its takeout options do not disappoint. The Little Lao Table Set Menu for 2 at $59.99 is such a steal and includes some of their classic dishes: Pad Thai, Fried Chicken, Short Rib, Papaya Salad and more. The set also comes with a kids’ meal, a.k.a. an extra dish for you to enjoy if you don’t have kids. Oh, and did I mention you get to choose 2 complementary drinks?! I’ve seen both Thai Iced Tea and Singha beer as options.
2. Super Duper Burgers
San Francisco isn’t short of burger places. With In-N-Out as the California staple and the fairly recent addition, Shake Shack, you can easily find a good burger. However, Super Duper is a must-have because it is equally delicious, affordable, and was founded right here in the city. Ordering their burgers is a great way to support local business. There’s something for everyone on the menu, and if you have a sweet tooth, definitely get the chocolate-dipped ice cream cone. You won’t regret it!
3. Smitten
This technically isn’t a restaurant, but it deserves its spot in the ranking because Smitten sells some of the best ice cream I’ve ever had! Another shop local to the Bay Area, Smitten’s known for its fresh churned ice cream. You can get 3 pints + 1 topping for $35. Some of the flavors in their lineup are Brookies ‘n Cream, Earl Grey w/ Milk Chocolate Chips, and Fresh Strawberry. Vegan friendly options are also available.
4. Burma Superstar
If you want to taste something a little different, try Burma Superstar. The Burmese restaurant is known for its Tea Leaf Salad, and we’ve also been recommended the Chili Lamb (watch out, it’s spicy!) Burma usually has a long wait time for dine-in, but now with delivery you can just order ahead and have the food show up at your door.
5. 707 Sutter
Bring Korean street/bar food to your home by getting 707 Sutter to-go. Because the food at 707 is typically paired with Soju and beer, the food seems to stay fresher for longer and will still taste amazing after the drive from the restaurant to your door.
6. ZA Pizza
Russian Hill is filled with good Italian food, and ZA is one of the most reliable places for consistently delicious pizza. My favorite pizza there is the Scaliano: Roma tomato, spicy sausage, fresh garlic and green onion – YUM!
7. Tartine Bakery
Remember when everyone was trying to make their own bread at home? If you’re like me and cooking isn’t your strong suit, fear not! Tartine makes amazing bread and I know for a fact that the Country Loaf will last you a while. As an added bonus, they also have amazing croissants. Treat yourself while you’re at it.
8. San Tung
One of the most popular Chinese restaurants in San Francisco, San Tung is still open for business during COVID-19. Thank God! Some popular things to get here are the Dry Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Leek Dumplings, and Sautéed String Beans.
9. Soapbox Cafe
Another great local shop to support, Soapbox Cafe is located in a quiet part of Russian Hill and serves delicious coffee. They also serve Vietnamese breakfast on Fridays and the weekends that I have yet to try. I’m looking forward to my next visit and ordering that unforgettable iced latte again.
Looking for more coffee spots in SF? Check out my favorite SF coffee spots by neighborhood!
10. Marufuku Ramen
Ramen is probably one of the hardest things to make at home, so take a break from all that cooking and just order some from Marufuku. Their ramen menu is pretty simple, with five ramens to choose from and the option to add toppings. The Hakata Tonkotsu is my go-to. What’s ramen without a good, thick pork broth eh?
Many of these restaurants deliver through various apps or offer pick-up only. Check the links provided or their website for the most up-to-date information. It’s more important now than ever to support local business, and these are just some of the many delicious food spots San Francisco has to offer. Enjoy! ?
