Whether it’s for revitalizing nourishment after a late night out, a quick no-frills stop for a group, or a casual sit down meal that is as filling as it frugal, San Francisco is replete with mom-and-pop businesses that are locally loved for their high quality service and generous portions at budget-friendly prices. Having a proper meal in a big city doesn’t mean having to break the bank. Here’s a culturally diverse and authentic list of reliable eateries in SF that are fast, friendly, and filling, and all for under $20!
Beep’s Burgers
Beep’s Burgers is a true local hidden gem that’s as classic as it is an Ingleside culinary institution, flipping up fully stuffed burgers since 1962! The name pays homage to the atomic space race era, with a playful drive-in aesthetic that juxtaposes their modern culinary approaches. The burgers are 100% angus beef, and come as either 1/4 or 1/2 lbs with all of the regular fixings. There are also garlic fries, onion rings, milkshakes, and even breakfast sandwiches on english muffins, all for under $10! beepsburgers.com
Breakfast Little
In the Mission District, Breakfast Little is our choice for a budget-friendly burrito, and for breakfast! Identifiable through their colorful Mexican floral art, this is another cozy shop that is revered for their equally small prices. The hefty breakfast burritos are the main star here, with pillowy scrambled eggs, crispy tater tots, and fresh avocado to ensure your morning mood and wallet stays pleasant. Or try their vegetarian-friendly open-faced toasts, or the Breakfast Little sandwich on a soft pan de sal bun with garlic aioli. Take it on the go before exploring this historic Latino district, along with a Mexican latte made with fellow local Grand Coffee, or their rotating daily agua frescas. instagram.com/breakfastlittle
Mosto
Nothing beats a $2 Taco Tuesday special! Situated on thriving Valencia Street, Mostois an unassuming storefront that immediately surprises you with their eye-catching al pastor spit and photo worthy ceiling decor. Dark, sleek, and sultry, Mosto’s tight interior encourages an intimate dining experience that feels both modern and upscale while also relaxed and familiar from the homestyle food and kind service. The succulently crisp and tender al pastor tacos served with juicy roasted pineapple are unmissable, as well as their weekday 5-7 P.M. happy hour for $10 margaritas. If you do have extra money, they also abundantly curate regional mezcals and tequilas, precisely categorized by their subtle flavors and notes. mostobar.com
Golden Boy Pizza
For penny-pinching pizza in North Beach, Golden Boy’s helpful neon sign will guide you straight to their $4.50 slices. Though Golden Boy Pizza has expanded to several Bay Area locations, the original on Green Street is where it all began in 1978 by 19 year old Peter Sodini. Often seen with a flock of frugal fanatics surrounding its cute window, the quick wait is definitely worth it for their generous toppings piled onto the softest focaccia. Grab a slice before a rollicking or romantic night out in San Francisco’s classy Italian district. Menu Highlights: $4.50 Combo: Pepperoni, sausage, onion, mushroom, zucchini, tomato; $4.50 Pesto Veggie: Pesto sauce, onion, mushroom, zucchini, tomato, black olive. goldenboypizza.com
Pakwan
Opened in 1999 in the heart of the Mission District, Pakwan quickly rose as a guaranteed haven for authentic and traditional Pakistani and Indian cuisine. A sunny stroll down to 16th Street after lounging at Dolores Park or shopping on Valencia Street leads you to their heavenly scents and snug familial interior. Though their menu is absolutely expansive with several meat and vegetarian options in sharable portions, all menu items are well under $20. We recommend ordering a few different dishes to sample when dining with a group, and don’t miss out on their fluffy naan, $4.99 Gulab Jamun for dessert, and $2 Masala Chai. pakwanrestaurant.com/guerrero
Saigon Sandwich
This is perhaps the most iconic affordable eatery in San Francisco. Located just a few blocks from City Hall, Saigon Sandwich is a true hole-in-the-wall that has been handcrafting their brimming bahn mis since the 1980s. Today, the popular tiny-but-mighty shop still keeps most of their menu item prices under $7, remaining a favorite for locals who line up down the block. With freshly-baked French bread surrounding brightly pickled vegetables and flavorful meat, grab this filling portable treat while exploring all of downtown, and pair with an energizing $4 Vietnamese coffee too! Menu Highlights: $5.50 Roast Chicken Bánh Mì; $4 Vietnamese Coffee. saigonsandwich.foodjoyy.com
