13 popular restaurants near Golden Gate Park

The neighborhoods around Golden Gate Park represent what San Francisco is all about. Winding trails mirror the meandering streets, people from all walks of life compete for sidewalk space, and the iconic fog just may be at its thickest here. Join Uber for our round-up of restaurants in the Sunset and Richmond districts sandwiching the park.

Customizable poke at great prices—what’s not to love? Unusual protein choices like escolar and premium options like lobster, set this Inner Sunset poke restaurant apart from the pack. Enjoy 3 scoops of various fruits, veggies, seafood or seaweed salad with the large option, or scale it up with the 5-scoop large size.

Where: 716 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122

If you’re looking for a cozy, family-friendly Italian restaurant near Golden Gate Park, Vixi Cucina Italiana is your place. The veggie-packed pasta primavera is a flavorful meatless choice, while chicken marsala is a tasty option for carnivores. Whet your appetite with bread and tomato tapenade-spiked olive oil and a bowl of made-fresh-daily minestrone with seasonal vegetables.

Where: 3611 California St, San Francisco, CA 94118

The occasional around-the-block lines at this Outer Richmond dim sum spot are a sign of something good inside. The Shanghai Style Meat Wonton Soup is a savory, meaty favorite, and you can’t miss with the sweet goodness of the sugar egg puffs. The reason many locals and visitors love this purveyor of authentic Cantonese cuisine, though, is the Xiaolongbao, or steamed bun. Nicknamed XLB, it’s equally adored in San Francisco and Shanghai.

Where: 3319 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121

Pakwan serves some of the best Pakistani and Indian food in San Francisco. Complex, perfectly balanced flavors and high-quality ingredients, some of them organic, elevate Chicken Tikka Masala, Saag Paneer and other classic dishes. The atmosphere is bright and inviting, while the restaurant’s service follows the fast-casual model.

Where: 1140 Ocean Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112

From french fries loaded with umami-focused toppings to braised Korean short ribs in burger form, Koja Kitchen blends flavors from Korean and Japanese cuisines in formats more familiar to American eaters. Fast service makes quick, tasty lunch breaks at this Inner Richmond restaurant possible, but you won’t mind lingering thanks to the clean, welcoming environment.

Where: 343 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118

From hearty vegetarian subs to sammies stuffed with Italian deli meats, the offerings here are as filling as they are mouthwatering. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic diner melt or a ham sandwich finished with ghost pepper sauce, this Inner Sunset sub shop has you covered.

Where: 1298 12th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

Love a good cheeseburger but not the fillers and other questionable ingredients found in most fast-food sandwiches? Try an organic burger at Calibur. State-sourced, grass-fed organic beef means you can get your burger-fix guilt-free. Thick patties sandwiched between glossy buns are complemented by crisp fries and craft sodas.

Where: 68 W Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA 94127

Don’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; thrill it with a trip to Creations Dessert House. Traditional Asian sweets like mochi and red bean compete with calamari, popcorn chicken, and other savory treats for your appetite’s attention. Indulge one or more of your taste buds at this Inner Richmond dessert shop.

Where: 5217 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118

Crispy falafel, creamy hummus, and luscious kebabs are just a few reasons to visit this gyro shop in the Castro. Its humble facade belies great Mediterranean food, friendly service, and a clean interior.

Where: 499 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Fresh rice, flavorful sushi and expert presentation make this a popular Inner Sunset sushi destination. The budget-friendly prices are the icing on the cake. Try the mango spider and salmon snow rolls for a special treat.

Where: 1380 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

Head to this vegan burger joint in the Haight for GMO-free plant-protein patties even carnivores can get behind. Finish your meal with your choice of seaweed fries or broccoli bites followed by lush “cheesecake” or vegan soft-serve.

Where: 1466 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117

Behind its sleek dining room lurks a friendly team ready to serve up a diverse range of salads and healthy takes on comfort foods from around the globe. Give the pineapple chicken a try and don’t forget the peach-ginger version of its namesake drink.

Where: 1266 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

Enjoy a great bowl without worrying about what’s in it. GMO-free, organic, fully plant-based whole foods are the only items on the menu at this Inner Richmond health-food restaurant. Plentiful parking and a cozy decor make your colorful bibimbap salad or antioxidant-packed acai bowl taste even better.

Where: 189 6th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118

From health-conscious eats to traditional Asian sweets, we think you’ll find something to love at restaurants near Golden Gate Park. Whether you crave fusion cuisine, vegan burgers, or a full-on carnivore experience, the Richmond and Sunset districts represent the very best of diverse, flavorful dining experiences in San Francisco.