Notorious for its hopping nightlife, Polk Street is the height of entertainment for San Francisco’s younger crowd. Lined with hip bars and trendy restaurants, the neighborhood hot spot is an ideal place to meet new people and enjoy food and drink with friends. Its liveliness thrives off of the city’s hipster crowd circulating in and out of popular lounges and pubs. For a taste of some of San Francisco’s most mouth watering cuisine, check out our list of the top 10 restaurants below.
Amelie
Charcuterie, Bar, Wine Bar, Pub Grub, French
Courtesy of Amelie
Adorned with vintage decor, Amelie Wine Bar brings a taste of France to San Francisco. The romantic lighting illuminates the lounge with a cheerful ambiance to unwind in during happy hour. The sleek setting invites guests to indulge in quality low priced wines from around the world, accompanied by European cheeses, homemade jams, and rich chocolate tarts. In this dimly lit bar, an elegant evening awaits.
Fresh meats are displayed in an old-fashioned butcher shop in the first section of Belcampo. Head chef Dirk Tolsma prepares delectable meat specials, such as ‘Roast Pork Cubano’ and ‘House Reuben Sandwich.’ Belcampo has been sustaining a meat company since 2012. Every meal consumed can be traced right back to the farm where they raise their livestock.
Bell Tower
Bar, Restaurant, Pub, American, Vegetarian, Vegan, Wine, Beer
Bell Tower bar-restaurant has been serving American comfort food for the past 20 years. A great place for family style meals, the friendly neighborhood spot provides a diverse menu full of varieties sure to appeal to everyone, from their popular Tuna Tacos to pub-inspired Fish and Chips. Bell Tower upholds the American tradition of serving large portions for reasonable prices. Check out this corner spot for a casual bite to eat or a chat with a friend.
On crisp white tablecloths, Ragoon Ruby serves Burmese food at its finest. The professional staff is attentive and warm, and create a relaxing atmosphere. Alluring Asian inspired decor embellishes the interior, reflecting the authenticity of their cuisine. Although it is on the upscale side, the tasty infusions of herbs and spices are worth the splurge.
Founders Vy Lieou and Trung Nguyen began by creating E.D.M., a small start-up hospitality company, and eventually opened Co Nam. The Vietnamese inspired dishes are accommodating to vegans, vegetarians, and those who are gluten free. The humble Buddha-decked atmosphere welcomes customers with their lustrous glow of passion for hospitality. For an exotic fix, try dishes such as the Braised Pork Belly and the Grilled Sugar Cane Shrimp.
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With Flamenco nights held every second and fourth Wednesday of the month and happy hour everyday from 3pm-6pm, Dunya presents a fun place to eat and drink. Opened in 2012, chef and owner Coskun Abik sustains a traditional Mediterranean grill. For a taste of kalamata olives, feta cheese, and flavorful sauces, pull up a seat at the chic bistro’s full bar.
For superb Thai dishes, Thai Spice radiates enchanting vibes, inviting customers to indulge. With Coconut milk curries and colorful salads, this is a satisfying sweet spot. For quick service and explosive flavors, the cozy restaurant offers classic Pad Thai and Thai Spice Rolls among their most popular dishes. The generous portion sizes will certainly sate your hunger.
15 years ago, head chef and owner Robby Morgenstein founded Miller East Coast Deli. The vast menu lists East Coast eats from crispy chicken wings to toasted hoagies. Featured on Diners Drive Ins & Dives, the simple deli has gained Guy Fieri’s approval. Drop by and order a hands-on meal for a hearty bite.
Rumored to be the best Mexican food on Polk Street, Pancho’s provides fresh native staples featuring homemade tortillas and citrusy guacamole to pair with their meals. The popular salsa bar and grill is a happening joint brimming with regular customers constantly returning for more. The homey interior displays Mexican decor encompassing a casual table and chair setting.
Ideal for take-out, Tai Chi serves and delivers original Thai and Chinese fare. Offering a wide array of meats, sweet and sour sauces, and bowls filled with noodles, this spot is a Bay Area favorite. Praised for their large portions of Kung Pao Shrimp and Pot stickers, their meals make for perfect leftovers.
Hi, my name is Sarah Dilbeck. I am an SF native, 22 years old, and studying currently studying creative writing at SF state university. I love food, art, travel, literature, fashion, dogs, music, knitting, snowboarding, hiking, and running.
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