Set along the picturesque coast in northern California, San Francisco is a haven for food enthusiasts, and has been named one of the best food cities in the United States. With a culinary scene as diverse as its neighborhoods, the city boasts an array of well-appointed restaurants that celebrate global flavors and innovative techniques.
While the allure of dining at sit-down restaurants is undeniable, these experiences often demand time and a generous budget.
For those seeking a more unconventional and price-conscious way to savor the finest flavors of the city, explore the vibrant world of food trucks, both in downtown San Francisco and the broader Bay Area.
Taste That Travels: The Appeal And Advantages Of Food Trucks
No Reservations Required
Satisfy cravings at your convenience. With food trucks placed around the city, you can grab quick bites or more leisurely meals while wandering around.
Unique Dining Experiences
Food truck parks cultivate an inviting and lively atmosphere, attracting people from all walks of life. Also, unlike at most restaurants, you can often interact directly with the chefs and owners.
Caters To All Palates
From the most adventurous foodies to those with particular preferences, the extensive assortment of cuisines in the city’s street food scene makes it easy to please every type of eater.
Tastes And Textures From All Over The World, All In One Place
The presence of San Francisco’s culturally diverse communities enriches the culinary scene, especially within the food truck parks. There, you’re in for a food adventure with Mexican, Asian, Indian, Mediterranean and other authentic street food at the ready.
You may even find a fusion of some of the above.
Top 10 San Francisco Food Trucks
We’ve pulled some popular picks to help you map out a perfect tour for your next visit. Warning: The following may cause cravings.
- The Chairman Stop here for pan-Asian street food. Stuffed with big, bold flavor, the steamed and baked buns will surely satisfy your taste buds.
- Señor Sisig Burritos, tacos, nachos — you name it. Make it to Señor Sisig for a Mexican spin on traditional Filipino dishes.
- Off The Grid From burgers to crab cakes, vegan bites and beyond — there’s a feast for every palate at the largest gathering of food trucks and other local vendors in San Francisco.
- Roti Roti Get a well-rounded meal here, complete with fresh veggies, and free-range meats, all from trusted family farms.
- Curry Up Now Check out San Francisco’s first Indian food truck and savor delicious dishes like chaat, crispy samosas, chicken tikka masala and more.
- SPARK Social SF Step into a world of culinary diversity at this incredible food truck park that hosts more than 150 food trucks from all over the Bay Area. The line-up of food trucks changes daily so there’s always something new to discover.
- Lobsta Truck Whether on a roll or in a soup, experience some of New England’s most succulent crustaceans here.
- Camp Toasted Go beyond the graham, chocolate and marshmallow — this truck takes s’mores to a whole other level of deliciousness.
- Rocko’s Ice Cream Tacos This famous ice cream truck serves handcrafted frozen treats using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Choose from choco tacos, ice cream cake pops and other sensational sweets.
- Hookt Mini Doughnuts Treat yourself to some of the best freshly fried mini doughnuts on the streets of San Francisco. Toppings include cinnamon-sugar, crushed Oreos, fruit pebbles and cereal milk and other unique options.
Hungry for more San Francisco food truck favorites? See which ones fellow travelers like. Or download the FoodTrux app to help you find food trucks near you.
Where To Stay
With bellies full, you and your crew will need a comfortable place to stay each night. Check out Club Donatello, a stylish San Francisco timeshare near the theater district, cable car line and the Moscone Convention Center.
Or, as a Member, you have the flexibility to use your points at any property within the Hilton portfolio. Here are a few well-appointed San Francisco spots to consider:
Read "Eat Like A Local: 14 Of The Best Restaurant Apps For Foodies" for more food-focused inspiration.