While the Golden Gate Bridge itself doesn't have many dining options directly on the bridge, there are plenty of delicious places to eat nearby, offering a variety of local flavors and culinary experiences. Here are some great food options to try when visiting the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco:
1. Seafood
- Sausalito Seafood: Just across the bridge in Sausalito, you'll find a number of seafood restaurants offering fresh catches. Popular options include clam chowder served in a sourdough bowl or freshly caught crab and oysters.
- Fog Harbor Fish House: Located at Pier 39 in San Francisco, this restaurant offers stunning views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge along with a selection of seafood dishes, including grilled fish, calamari, and seafood chowder.
2. Sourdough Bread
- Boudin Bakery: San Francisco is famous for its sourdough bread, and Boudin Bakery is one of the best places to try it. You can enjoy a sourdough bowl filled with clam chowder, a local favorite, or simply pick up a loaf to take with you.
3. American Comfort Food
- The Cliff House: Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Cliff House offers a fantastic menu of American comfort food with a beautiful view. You can enjoy dishes like fish and chips, burgers, or their signature crab cakes while watching the waves crash against the shore.
4. Mexican Cuisine
- La Mediterranee: Located in the nearby neighborhood of Berkeley, this Mediterranean restaurant serves dishes inspired by the cuisines of the Middle East and North Africa. It's a great spot to grab a fresh Mediterranean platter, mezze, or kebabs.
- El Farolito: If you head towards the Mission District, El Farolito is a well-known Mexican spot that serves hearty burritos and tacos, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal after visiting the bridge.
5. Coffee and Pastries
- Tartine Bakery: Located in the Mission District, Tartine is one of San Francisco's best bakeries. It's famous for its delicious pastries, including morning buns, croissants, and cookies, along with exceptional coffee.
- Coffee Bar: Just a short drive from the Golden Gate Bridge, Coffee Bar offers artisanal coffee, along with pastries and light bites, making it the perfect spot for a coffee break with a view.
6. Pizza
- Tony’s Pizza Napoletana: Located in North Beach, Tony’s offers some of the best pizza in the city, from traditional Neapolitan pies to unique specialty pizzas. It's a great option if you're craving a satisfying meal after exploring the Golden Gate Bridge area.
7. Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- Greens Restaurant: A San Francisco institution, Greens offers gourmet vegetarian dishes with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy creative vegetarian fare like vegetable lasagna or the famous polenta fries, all with stunning views of the bay.
- Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar & Izakaya: If you're in the mood for sushi, Shizen offers a plant-based twist on traditional Japanese dishes. Their vegan sushi rolls and small plates are innovative and delicious.
8. Ice Cream and Sweet Treats
- Bi-Rite Creamery: After visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, treat yourself to some of the best ice cream in San Francisco. Bi-Rite Creamery serves up creative flavors like salted caramel, honey lavender, and seasonal fruit sorbets.
- Ghirardelli Square: Located near Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square is famous for its chocolates and decadent sundaes. A visit here is a must if you have a sweet tooth.
9. International Flavors
- Foreign Cinema: Located in the Mission District, Foreign Cinema offers a unique dining experience with a rotating selection of films playing on a large screen while you dine. The menu features California-Mediterranean fusion dishes, and it's a great option for a trendy, upscale meal.
10. Burgers and Sandwiches
- Super Duper Burgers: Known for its delicious, all-natural burgers, Super Duper is a casual, local favorite in San Francisco. Try their classic Super Duper burger or opt for a vegetarian version. The milkshakes are also highly recommended.
These food options offer a taste of the variety San Francisco has to offer, with many restaurants and eateries providing great views of the Golden Gate Bridge or being located nearby, allowing you to enjoy some of the best meals while soaking in the scenic beauty of the area.
