Union Square, San Francisco's bustling heart, offers a dazzling array of lunch options to suit every taste and budget. From quick bites to elegant affairs, this guide highlights 17 of the best lunch restaurants in the area, ensuring your midday meal is as memorable as the city itself. We'll explore diverse cuisines, price points, and atmospheres, helping you choose the perfect spot for your next Union Square lunch.
Quick & Casual Lunch Spots in Union Square
These restaurants are perfect for a fast, delicious, and affordable lunch break.
1. The Soup Place: Hearty and Satisfying
The Soup Place is a Union Square institution, famed for its generous portions of homemade soups and sandwiches. Their daily specials keep things exciting, offering a rotating menu of seasonal favorites alongside classics. Expect flavorful broths, fresh ingredients, and a consistently friendly atmosphere. A perfect choice for a quick, warm, and satisfying lunch.
2. Boudin Bakery: San Francisco Icon
No trip to San Francisco is complete without experiencing a Boudin sourdough bread bowl. Filled with clam chowder or your choice of hearty filling, it's a quintessential San Francisco lunch experience right in the heart of Union Square. Don't miss their other delicious baked goods too!
3. Swan Oyster Depot (Nearby, Worth the Short Walk): Fresh Seafood
While technically a bit outside the immediate Union Square boundaries, Swan Oyster Depot is a legendary San Francisco institution worth the short walk. This bustling spot offers incredibly fresh seafood at reasonable prices, a true lunchtime treasure. Be prepared for a potential wait, as its popularity is well-deserved.
Upscale Lunch Experiences in Union Square
For a more refined midday meal, these restaurants offer exceptional cuisine and ambiance.
4. The St. Regis Bar: Classic Elegance
The St. Regis Bar provides a sophisticated setting for a luxurious lunch. Their menu features expertly crafted cocktails, gourmet sandwiches, and elegant salads, perfect for a business lunch or special occasion.
5. Foreign Cinema: Mediterranean Charm
Foreign Cinema offers a unique dining experience with its beautiful outdoor patio and screening of classic films. Their Mediterranean-inspired menu is perfect for a relaxed yet stylish lunch.
Diverse Culinary Delights in Union Square
Union Square's diverse culinary scene is reflected in these restaurants, offering a range of international flavors.
6. Gott's Roadside: Gourmet Burgers
Gott's Roadside elevates the classic burger to an art form, using high-quality ingredients and creative toppings. Their shakes and fries are equally delicious, making it a perfect casual yet satisfying lunch spot.
7. Slanted Door: Modern Vietnamese Cuisine (Upscale)
The Slanted Door, while slightly upscale, offers a fantastic modern take on Vietnamese cuisine. Expect fresh, flavorful dishes and an elegant ambiance.
Cafés and Bakeries for a Relaxing Lunch
These establishments provide a quieter atmosphere for a more relaxed lunch experience.
8. Blue Bottle Coffee: Premium Coffee and Pastries
Blue Bottle Coffee is a San Francisco staple known for its exceptional coffee and delicious pastries. Their Union Square location offers a comfortable setting to enjoy a coffee and a light lunch.
9. Tartine Bakery: Artisan Breads and Pastries (Nearby)
While a short walk from Union Square, Tartine Bakery is a must-visit for bread and pastry lovers. Their stunning creations are a treat for any occasion.
Budget-Friendly Lunch Options in Union Square
10. Pinkberry: Frozen Yogurt
Pinkberry provides a refreshing and customizable frozen yogurt option. Choose from a wide selection of flavors and toppings for a healthy and tasty lunch.
International Flavors in Union Square
11. Omakase: Sushi and Japanese Cuisine (Upscale)
For a high-end sushi experience, Omakase offers exceptional omakase menus, but be prepared for a higher price point.
More Diverse Options for Lunch in Union Square
12. House of Nanking: A San Francisco Institution
House of Nanking is a classic San Francisco spot known for its incredibly tasty and affordable Chinese-American food.
13. Perry's: Classic American Diner
Perry's offers a retro-chic atmosphere and classic American diner fare.
14. The Cheesecake Factory: Large Portions & Variety
The Cheesecake Factory, a well-known chain, provides an extensive menu with plenty of options to choose from, from salads to pasta dishes and their famous cheesecakes for dessert. Expect generous portion sizes.
Quick & Convenient Choices
15. Starbucks: Classic Coffee Shop
Starbucks offers a wide selection of coffee, tea, and pastries for a quick caffeine fix and light lunch.
16. Subway: Sandwiches and Salads
Subway offers a customizable sandwich and salad option for a quick and relatively healthy lunch.
17. Pret a Manger: Grab-and-Go Sandwiches and Salads
Pret a Manger provides a variety of grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and snacks for a quick and convenient lunch option.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Union Square Lunch
Union Square's diverse culinary landscape caters to every palate and preference. Whether you're seeking a quick bite, a luxurious meal, or something in between, you're sure to find the perfect lunch spot to fuel your Union Square explorations. Remember to check restaurant websites for hours of operation and potential reservations before heading out. Enjoy your lunch!
