San Francisco is a city that takes brunch seriously. From classic American breakfast plates to globally inspired dishes, the city offers a wide range of brunch spots that cater to every palate. Whether you’re craving fluffy pancakes, avocado toast, or bottomless mimosas, San Francisco has something for you. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best brunch spots in the city, each with its own unique charm and signature dishes.
1. Zazie – A Cozy French Bistro in Cole Valley
Located in the charming Cole Valley neighborhood, Zazie is a local favorite known for its French-inspired brunch menu. This cozy, Parisian-style bistro offers mouthwatering dishes like their famous Gingerbread Pancakes, which are fluffy and spiced to perfection. Their Eggs Benedict, served with house-made hollandaise sauce, is also a must-try. One of the best parts? Zazie has a no-tipping policy, meaning staff are well-compensated with higher wages and benefits.
What to Try:
- Gingerbread Pancakes
- La Mer Eggs Benedict (with Dungeness crab)
- Croque Madame
2. Tartine Manufactory – A Baker’s Dream in the Mission
Tartine is a name that every bread lover in San Francisco knows. While the original Tartine Bakery is famous for its pastries and sourdough, Tartine Manufactory takes things to another level with its incredible brunch offerings. The restaurant boasts a bright and airy atmosphere, making it a perfect place to enjoy a leisurely weekend meal.
What to Try:
- Croque Tartine with béchamel and prosciutto
- Soft Scrambled Eggs with smoked trout and avocado
- Morning Bun (flaky, sweet, and utterly delicious)
3. Foreign Cinema – A Brunch Experience Like No Other
Foreign Cinema is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Located in the Mission District, this iconic eatery combines food and film, with old movies projected on a large outdoor screen. Their weekend brunch menu is equally impressive, featuring fresh oysters, house-made pop tarts, and elevated egg dishes. The ambiance makes it one of the most unique brunch spots in the city.
What to Try:
- Organic Egg Croque Madame
- Persian Bloody Mary
- Seasonal House-Made Pop Tart
4. Mama’s on Washington Square – A Classic Breakfast Institution
Mama’s has been serving up some of San Francisco’s best breakfast and brunch for over 50 years. Located in North Beach, this family-run spot is famous for its homemade jam, fluffy omelets, and freshly baked bread. Be prepared for a wait, as lines can get long, but the delicious food is well worth it.
What to Try:
- Monte Cristo (French toast stuffed with ham and cheese)
- Northern Italian Omelet with prosciutto and mozzarella
- Banana Walnut Pancakes
5. Plow – A Must-Visit for Brunch Enthusiasts
If you’re a fan of simple, high-quality ingredients prepared to perfection, Plow is the place to go. This cozy spot in Potrero Hill serves up some of the best scrambled eggs and crispy potatoes you’ll ever have. Their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are legendary and are often ordered by almost every table.
What to Try:
- The Plow Plate (eggs, crispy potatoes, bacon, and lemon ricotta pancakes)
- Avocado Toast with poached eggs
- House-Made Chicken Sausage
6. Brenda’s French Soul Food – A Taste of New Orleans in SF
Craving something different for brunch? Brenda’s French Soul Food brings the flavors of the South to the heart of San Francisco. This Tenderloin spot serves fluffy beignets, shrimp and grits, and decadent fried chicken. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold, making this one of the best places for a hearty brunch.
What to Try:
- Crawfish Beignets
- Shrimp & Grits
- Fried Chicken Benedict
7. Home – A Cozy Spot for Comfort Food in the Richmond
Tucked away in the Richmond District, Home is a neighborhood favorite known for its cozy vibes and comforting dishes. Their ube-flavored menu items, like the Ube Latte and Ube Pancakes, have become an Instagram sensation.
What to Try:
- Ube Pancakes with coconut cream
- Spam Musubi Benedict
- Home Fries
8. Sweet Maple – Home of the Famous Millionaire’s Bacon
No brunch guide would be complete without mentioning Sweet Maple, best known for its Millionaire’s Bacon, a thick-cut, slow-cooked, sweet and spicy bacon that’s unlike anything else. Located in Lower Pacific Heights, this spot offers a mix of classic American breakfast dishes and unique creations.
What to Try:
- Millionaire’s Bacon
- Big Hip Scramble (with shrimp and avocado)
- Deep-Fried French Toast
