Summer Spots, SF Style

A Guide to the Best Summer Spots in San Francisco

As summer rolls into San Francisco, the city embraces a more laid-back vibe. While the sun may not fully show up until September, there’s still plenty to enjoy during these warmer months. From outdoor dining to unique food experiences, here’s a curated list of the best spots to explore this season.

Top Summer Destinations

Piccino Presidio
Located in the heart of one of the city’s most scenic outdoor areas, Piccino Presidio offers an all-day experience. Whether it's brunch with a view or a night of thin-crust pizzas and seasonal pastas, this spot is perfect for any time of day. The ambiance feels like a bespoke barn wedding, making it a standout choice.

All Good Pizza
Tucked away in a Bayview garden, All Good Pizza is the ideal spot for a sunny afternoon. The pizza trailer serves up thin-crust pies topped with soft hot links, paired with picnic tables and occasional DJ sets. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the weather.

620 Jones
This Nob Hill restaurant transforms Sundays into a lively event. With drag brunches, punch bowls, and live performances, it's a must-visit for those looking for a fun and festive atmosphere. Don't forget to bring cash for the inevitable shots and twerk contests.

Russ Fam Kitchen
A hidden gem in Daly City, this takeout spot inside an Exxon gas station serves up delicious Filipino dishes. From crispy lechon kawali to flavorful dinakdakan, it's a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

Turtle Tower
After a two-year hiatus, Turtle Tower has made a triumphant return with its iconic Northern-style pho. These steaming bowls are perfect for warming up on cooler days, while their carbonated lemon and egg sodas offer a refreshing alternative on hotter days.

Side A
Nestled in the Mission, Side A is the perfect spot for a golden hour moment. With a leafy patio and house wine, it's an ideal place to people-watch and enjoy a cheese fry topped with caviar. The rotating music selections add to the charm.

Gelateria di Cotogna
This summer-only gelato cart offers four rotating flavors, including a mousse-like vanilla with caramel-y honeycomb. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of summer.

Caché
Known for its unique French cuisine, Caché offers a steak and oyster crudo paired with sashimi served in a fish. The $23 cookie is worth every penny, making it a top choice for a relaxed evening on the patio.

Hyphy Burger
The East Bay's newest smashburger destination, Hyphy Burger, features a bright yellow bus serving up crispy beef and Fruity Pebbles milkshakes. The energetic atmosphere, complete with Bay Area beats, makes it a fun stop for burger lovers.

MadLab
For a colorful and refreshing treat, head to MadLab for kakigori. Leopard-printed with gold leaf and topped with salted yuzu whipped cream or cotton candy, it's a unique way to beat the heat.

Verjus
This FiDi spot is perfect for date nights or casual outings. With natural reds, buttered dishes, and oysters on ice, it sets the mood for a romantic evening. The sidewalk seating adds to the charm.

Taco Bell Cantina
Unironically dubbed the world's most beautiful Taco Bell, this Pacifica location offers ocean views and a full sit-down bar. With a vodka-spiked Baja Blast in hand, it's a unique dining experience that's hard to beat.

Don Chuy's Mexi-Mercado
Hidden in an Excelsior corner store, Don Chuy's offers some of the shatteringly crispy pork. The carnitas super burrito is a perfect companion for a park day, whether the sun is shining or not.

Hi Nrg
This coffee shop inside High Treason is a haven for espresso lovers and cyclists. With organic squash from the farmers market and cafe de olla, it's a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the surroundings.

June's Pizza
What started as a popular pop-up has now become a West Oakland restaurant. The margherita pizza, dusted with parmesan, is a must-try for anyone looking for a slice of paradise.

Rusty Ladle
On misty July days, Rusty Ladle offers a comforting escape. With tomato soup and schiacciata for dipping, it's the perfect spot to warm up and reflect on the city's unique charm.