A vacation to San Francisco might include a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf or a tour of Alcatraz, or perhaps a picnic in Golden Gate State Park. There are so many things to do in San Francisco, you’re going to need a detailed itinerary – and it should include where to grab breakfast so you’ll be fueled up for the day’s adventures. Breakfast in San Francisco looks like buttery pastries, soul food with a French twist, and spacious coffee shops. Once you’ve booked a comfortable San Francisco Airbnb and visited Umbrella Alley to get that perfect shot for your Instagram grid, check out these spots for the best breakfast in San Francisco.
Photo: Hurst Photo/Shutterstock
For Fluffy Pancakes and Savory Croissants, Check Out These Breakfast Restaurants in San Francisco
1. The Mill
THis brightly lit, high ceilinged cafe in the Alamo Square neighborhood has plenty of seating and space for laptops, if you’re the type that likes to sip a coffee while catching up on emails. All the coffee at The Mill comes from local roaster Four Barrel Coffee. The cafe’s speciality is its selection of toasts with a wide range of toppings from pumpkin butter to ricotta and jam to smoked trout.
Where: 736 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Price: $$
2. Plow
For an upscale breakfast in San Francisco, head to Plow. The oak tables at this Potrero Hill brunch spot give the space a rustic atmosphere. The abundant produce grown at Bay Area farms takes center stage on the menu. Most of the dishes at Plow are breakfast classics, with a touch of elegance: French toast topped with apples and vanilla cream, eggs baked in tomato sauce, layers of gruyere cheese and prosciutto on top of toast. This is brunch at its most decadent.
Where: 1299 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94107
Price: $$
3. Brenda’s French Soul Food
New Orleans style comfort food has a home at Brenda’s French Soul Food. The menu is a mix of southern, Creole and French cuisines. Owner Brenda Buenviaje calls her food sexy and soulful. Beignets are served all day, and there nods to New Orleans all over the menu from the gumbo to the Andouille sausage, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. There’s even chicory coffee available – a New Orleans classic.
Where: 52 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Price: $$
4. Arsicault Bakery
This French bakery has a short menu but it’s one you shouldn’t miss if you’re visiting San Francisco. Arsicault Bakery specializes in croissants, scones, and quiches, so if you like pastry and coffee, stop here. Don’t let the simple food fool you – Arsicault is considered one of the best bakeries in the country, so even if there’s a line, you should stick out the wait.
Where: 397 Arguello Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118
Price: $$
5. Kitchen Story
Find all the breakfast classics at Kitchen Story, from poached eggs to omelets. There are a few variations on traditional bacon on the menu – including cinnamon and rosemary bacon. What makes Kitchen Story stand out is that peppered through the menu are dishes with an Asian influence, like ribeye omurice and a black sesame latte. If you’re there for brunch, the mimosa flavors include black current and hibiscus.
Where: 3499 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Price: $$
6. Craftsman and Wolves
This patisserie and bakery has been featured in Bon Appetit and Food & Wine. The menu features a good mix of small bites, like savory croissants, and more filling breakfast meals, with delightful ingredients: an egg salad sandwich seasoned with yuzu chili or a sweet potato frittata with sage and rosemary. The pastry case is where Craftsman and Wolves gets really creative: expect cakes with fillings like tangerine mousse, grapefruit curd, mint meringue, and lemongrass ganache.
Where: 746 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Price: $$
7. Mama’s on Washington Square
For the best brunch in San Francisco, try this charming space is known for serving big portions. There’s always a long line that extends out of the door and onto the outdoor patio, for good reason: A long list of omelets and benedicts feature ingredients like smoked salmon, mushrooms, and prosciutto. Crispy bacon and fluffy French toast and pancakes keep a loyal stream of customers, who want the classics, coming back again and again.
Where: 1701 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Price: $$
Where to stay in San Francisco
Photo: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock
Whether you’re traveling with your family or embarking on a solo exploration of San Francisco, a comfortable and centrally located place to rest your head at night is essential. These highly rated Airbnbs are within walking distance of the parks and restaurants in the city, and offer stylish furnishings. Here’s where to book your stay.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Where to stay in Haight Ashbury
Photo: Airbnb
Well-heeled private suite: Experience one of the most legendary neighborhoods in San Francisco in this private guest suite. Staying here, guests will feel like they’re in the heart of the action, exploring cafes and wandering through Golden Gate Park. Or just relax on your patio and take in spectacular views of both the bay and Buena Vista Park. Escape from the chaos and noise of city life, without leaving the big city.
Where to stay in downtown San Francisco
Photo: Airbnb
Warehouse condo on Mint Plaza:This warehouse condo in the heart of San Francisco combines style and convenience. Located near Mint Plaza, it’s just steps away from the iconic Haight-Ashbury, Mission, and South Beach neighborhoods. With cuisine from around the global influences within walking distance, this Airbnb offers incredible value for couples or solo travelers looking to explore San Francisco and get to know the city’s restaurant scene.
Where to say in the Mission District
Photo: Airbnb
Classic Edwardian home: With Superfast WiFi, nearby cafes and pubs, and a historic aesthetic, this elegantly decorated oasis is as welcoming as it is cozy. And with Haight Ashbury and Golden Gate Park to the west and the bay to east, you can take advantage of all that San Francisco within walking distance or a short car ride. On top of that, this home offers comfort at an affordable price — making it just as luxurious as a hotel stay. 