For a major tourist destination in SF, it can be tough to find reasonably priced, great food in Union Square. Thanks to easy BART/Muni access, proximity to the Children’s Creativity Museum, and friends who work nearby, we find ourselves in Union Square quite often, and usually on the hunt for food.
Here are our favorites:
1. Chaat Cafe, 320 3rd Street
If you’ve never had Indian chaat (street food), you’re in for a treat. Start out with some parpi chaat — spicy, acidic, sweet, and tangy, all in one bite. I have a special love for pani puri — crispy spherical shells that you stuff with potatoes and spices, then top with tamarind water. Pop the whole thing in one bite, and feel the explosion of flavors take over your mouth. Chaat Cafe also sells more familiar Indian dishes, and wraps are out of this world.
2. Sakana Sushi Bar & Grill, 605 Post Street
An unexpected place to find very fresh sushi, meticulously made.
3. Bio, 75 O’Farrell Street
Organic, healthy French lunch foods — gratins, quiches, French style sandwiches (butter) — in a pocket-sized cafe. The service can be a little curt, but we keep coming back for all the delicious food just a block from Union Square. (They also specialize in gluten free offerings including dessert.)
4. Burger Bar, 6th Floor of Macy’s
Hubert Keller’s Burger Bar is our Union Square guilty pleasure. If you can, get a table by the window overlooking Union Square. Especially wonderful during the holidays when the massive Christmas tree is up and ice skaters circle below. We like to concoct creative burger combinations each time we go, choosing between toppings like fried green tomatoes, black truffles, and a red wine and shallot reduction.
5. Nordstrom Cafe Bistro, Nordstrom in the Westfield Mall
Another great spot in a department store, our in-laws insist on dining here at least once every trip. The food is typical upscale bistro fare, and the setting is lovely with large glass windows overlooking the San Francisco skyline.
6. First Crush, 101 Cryil Magnin
Just steps from the Powell Street BART/Muni exit, this is the least likeliest restaurant on my list. Outside, it doesn’t look like much; inside you’ll find a secluded, cozy wine bar with a delicious, light dinner menu. We opted for an unending stream of light plates and cheese selections. A perfect spot for quiet, after-work drinks.
And, please, add to the list if you have any favorites too.
