Asian Restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco’s Asian food scene is unbelievably rich and varied, and as someone who’s lived here for years, I can tell you it’s not all about the usual spots everyone knows. Sure, Chinatown’s dim sum joints are classic, but you’ve got to check out Richmond and Sunset too if you want something a bit less touristy and way more authentic.

I’m talking about places like Burma Superstar on Clement Street, where the tea leaf salad is legendary, or Izakaya Sozai in NoPa, which seriously nails small plates and sake flights. And if you’re craving ramen, head over to Japantown and swing by Marufuku , the tonkotsu broth there is something else. Pro tip: weekdays at lunchtime can be a lifesaver to avoid lines, especially for dim sum around Jackson Square.

If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss the Vietnamese bánh mì shops along The Mission’s edges, or the Korean barbecue spots in Koreatown near Geary and the Fillmore. San Francisco’s Asian restaurants often get crowded, but that’s part of the charm. Sometimes you’ll stand outside waiting, but trust me, the food’s worth it.