By: Kyrie Sismaet By: Kyrie Sismaet | June 15, 2022 | Food & Drink, Restaurants, Culture, Local, Community,
The Castro is a wonderfully exquisite district not only for their highly entertaining clubs, gorgeous fashion boutiques, and insightful bookstore, but also for their selection of delectable eateries.
Whether you plan to dine here for Pride, before a night out, or just for a unique choice of scenery, we have your list for all the best and diverse spots to try, which are all sure to be your next trusted favorite.
See also: The Ultimate Guide To The Castro's Gay Bars & Clubs
468 Castro St / Website
If you're craving authentic Vietnamese street-style food, this cute cove is the perfect stop on Castro proper. Also making our list for best cold brews, this great eatery provides a generous meal either in the form of a stuffed Bahn Mi, a stacked rice place, and more, all with a comforting interior that pairs naturally with a refreshing cup of their sweet Vietnamese coffee.
335 Noe St / Website
Just off of Market near Lookout is this delightful dumpling shop that excels in providing a wide selection of classic, yet refined dim sum fare. From fluffy stuffed buns to fresh vegetable salads, soul-warming noodle soups, and of course, their many traditional pork or shrimp dumplings, you'll want to order one of everything!
2198 Market St / Website
Having made our list of best beer gardens, you can already expect quality atmosphere, beer, and service at this can't-miss Market Street cornerstone. Their creative offerings of German sausages are also a premiere choice for a filling meal in this trendy and welcoming stop, as they serve creative links like their Chicken Cherry or Cheddar Brat, all atop a creamy bed of potato salad and loads of bright saurkraut.
508 Castro St / Website
Oz Pizza is a trusted anchor in the Castro neighborhood for their no-frills service, delicious large pizza slices, and spacious interior with plenty of colorful seating. Many new and old return to this late night shop for a quick revitalizing bite after a night of dancing at the nearby clubs, drawn in by the irresistable smell of their Margherita or Potato Pesto pizza (trust us, it's mind blowing!).
500 Castro St / Website
Harvey's is quintessentially Castro. They are also a no-frills restaurant that serves classic American fare and is a great choice for a truly casual meal and hangout spot. With their large open windows, they make for a great airy spot that looks out on all of Castro's bustling activity right outside.
599 Castro St / Website
Thai is also on the menu at Castro! Located at the tail end of the street, this restaurant might be unassuming on the outside, but stepping inside reveals a stylish interior with a menu brimming with amazing Thai cuisine. We highly recommend starting with their cute Money Bags (Toong Gern) filled with minced chicken and veggies, then ordering their Salmon Wrapped in Banana Leaf or their classic Pad Kee-Mow, all with a tall glass of their refreshing Thai Tea.
2275 Market St / Website
Dinosaur's stars in our list for Best Banh Mis, and we had to mention them again here for their undeniably succulent sandwiches! We truly love their tucked-away location that's artfully decorated, eliciting a fun adventure to go in and then try their hefty sandwiches in either their shaking beef or lemongrass. Our pro tip is bringing them along to Dolores Park just a few blocks away for a meal with a grand view.
3991 17th St / Website
Lastly, you can trust Orphan Andy's to have a hot meal for you anytime of the day, as their 24/7 retro diner is the perfect confluence of comfort, nostalgia, and friendliness. Having provided for their neighborhood for over 40 years, this gay-owned Castro mainstay is a kind beacon after a night out, for where else can you order pancakes so late in the night?
Other fabulous ones that did not make it on this list because they have their own features includes Copas On Market, Hi Tops, Canela for their paellas, and Santeria for their extensive Mezcal bar. Why not also grab a sweet treat after at Kokak Chocolates?
Here's to dining with pride!
See also: These San Francisco Murals Created by Queer Artists Will Excite You for Pride Month
Photography by: Ketut Subi Yanto/Pexels