San Francisco is known for its innovative food scene, iconic sourdough, and world-class restaurants, but eating out in the city doesn’t have to empty your wallet. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for affordable bites or a visitor trying to stretch your travel budget, the city offers plenty of delicious and affordable options.
Tips for Eating Cheap in San Francisco
Finding affordable meals in San Francisco takes a bit of strategy, but it’s easier than you might think. With a little planning and local know-how, you can enjoy great food across the city without stretching your budget. Here are a few practical tips to help you save money while still eating well.
Affordable Eats with Local Flavor
With rising costs across the Bay Area, finding budget-friendly meals that don’t sacrifice flavor has become more important than ever. Fortunately, San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods and rich culinary culture offer fantastic cheap eats that deliver big taste for small change.
Mission District: The Burrito Capital
If you’re on a budget and craving something hearty, the Mission District is your go-to. Home to the legendary Mission-style burrito, this neighborhood is packed with taquerias and hole-in-the-wall gems.
La Taqueria (2889 Mission St.) continues to draw lines for its no-rice, meat-packed burritos and tacos. Another local favorite, El Farolito, is open late and known for its generous portions and unbeatable prices, perfect after a night out or a long day of exploring.
Chinatown: History Meets Flavor
San Francisco’s Chinatown is the oldest in North America, and also one of the best places to eat well for less. Many small restaurants and bakeries serve up dumplings, noodles, and buns that cost less than your average coffee.
Try Good Mong Kok Bakery (1039 Stockton St.) for freshly steamed dim sum and BBQ pork buns that you can grab on the go. For a sit-down experience, Z&Y Restaurant (655 Jackson St.) offers authentic Szechuan dishes, and while not everything is super cheap, their lunch specials offer great value.
Best Budget-Friendly Spots
While new spots are always popping up, a few tried-and-true eateries remain essential for anyone looking to eat well on a budget in San Francisco. Here are some highlights:
- Golden Boy Pizza – Famous for its thick, square slices and neon sign in North Beach. At under $6 a slice, it’s one of the best quick bites in the city.
- Souvla – This modern Greek spot offers flavorful wraps and salads under $15. Their chicken sandwich is a favorite, and all locations offer takeout.
- Saigon Sandwich – Located in the Tenderloin, this humble counter serves Banh Mi sandwiches for under $7. Expect a line, but it moves fast.
- The Flying Falafel – A small vegan spot downtown that serves filling falafel pita sandwiches and combo plates for under $10.
- HRD Coffee Shop – A fusion diner in SoMa serving Korean burritos and spicy BBQ plates. Most dishes are under $15, and the portions are huge.
Seek Out Lunch Specials
Many higher-end restaurants offer weekday lunch specials that let you sample gourmet food at a fraction of the dinner price. Look for prix fixe menus or lunch-only deals in neighborhoods like the Financial District and SoMa.
Use Food Apps for Deals
Apps like Too Good To Go and MealPal have gained popularity, helping users rescue unsold meals from local restaurants at heavily discounted prices. It’s a win for your wallet and the planet.
Explore Farmers’ Markets and Food Trucks
San Francisco’s farmers’ markets, especially the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), are excellent for grabbing fresh, ready-to-eat meals made by local vendors. Prices are often lower than sit-down spots, and you get a taste of locally sourced ingredients.
Food trucks are another great option, check out Off the Grid events, especially on Friday nights at Fort Mason. You’ll find a rotating list of affordable, high-quality street food ranging from Korean tacos to Indian dosas.
Hidden Gems Worth the Hunt
San Francisco is full of underrated spots that locals love and visitors often overlook. These hidden gems serve up incredible food at affordable prices.
Brenda’s Meat & Three
This Southern-inspired spot in the Tenderloin offers a “meat and three sides” combo that fills you up for under $20. Known for its fried chicken and cornbread, Brenda’s is a comfort food haven that doesn’t break the bank.
Aria Korean Street Food
Tucked away near Union Square, Aria serves Korean-style fried chicken, tteokbokki, and spicy ramen. Most items are under $12, and the flavor is bold and satisfying.
Volcano Curry
Located in the Lower Nob Hill area, Volcano Curry dishes up Japanese-style curry plates in hearty portions. Meals start at $10, and their level of spice can be customized to your liking.
Final Thoughts
San Francisco may be one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., but eating on a budget is not only possible, it’s delicious. From iconic street food to international flavors and local favorites, the city’s food scene proves that affordable dining doesn’t mean compromising on quality.