Best of 15 late night restaurants in Tenderloin
Tenderloin, a vibrant district in San Francisco, is known for its lively nightlife. After dark, the area comes alive with a variety of late-night restaurants that cater to night owls and partygoers. These establishments offer a range of cuisines, from classic American diner fare to exotic international dishes. Whether you're craving a greasy burger or a spicy curry, you'll find it at one of the many late-night restaurants in Tenderloin. So if you're out and about in the city after midnight, be sure to check out these culinary gems.
- 1. Lers Ros in Tenderloin
- 2. Pakwan Restaurant - Tenderloin
- 3. Shalimar Restaurant
- 4. Pinecrest Diner in Tenderloin
- 5. Mel's Kitchen in Tenderloin
- 6. Los Yucatecos Restaurant
- 7. Million Thai Restaurant
- 8. Pasha SF
- 9. The Halal Guys
- 10. Piccolo Italia
- 11. El Tesoro Taqueria & Grill
- 12. T.L. Downtown Krispy Krunchy Chicken
- 13. Yummy pizza sf inc
- 14. Falafel City
- 15. El Sabor Yucateco
1. Lers Ros in Tenderloin
Authentic Thai street food, family-owned restaurant

Thai food lovers will be delighted with the offerings at Lers Ros. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and wide variety of options, especially when it comes to seafood. Whether you're in the mood for spicy curries, savory noodle dishes, or refreshing salads, Lers Ros has something to satisfy every craving. Plus, with its late-night hours, it's the perfect spot to grab a delicious meal anytime of the day or night.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Pakwan Restaurant - Tenderloin
Vegetarian and vegan options available, Full bar with cocktails and drinks

Last night, a group of us decided to head to the Trendyloin area after spending some time at Swig Bar. Our late-night snack craving led us to Pakwan, a restaurant located on 501 O Farrell St. The aroma of the garlic naan, basmati rice, and chicken curry was enough to make our mouths water in anticipation. The flavors were rich and satisfying, adding a delicious twist to our night.
On the same note, I had the pleasure of dining at Pakwan as well. The restaurant is known for its authentic and tasty Indian cuisine, and it did not disappoint. I ordered garlic naan, tandoori fish, and chana masala (chickpea). Each item was cooked to perfection and the flavors were incredibly delicious. The tandoori fish was tender and well-seasoned, while the chana masala was hearty and flavorful. The garlic naan was the perfect complement to the meal, soft and buttery with a hint of garlic. Overall, it was one of the best meals I've had in America.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
Relate link
3. Shalimar Restaurant
Authentic Indian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere

Shalimar is a popular spot for those seeking delicious and affordable Indian and Pakistani cuisine late at night. The restaurant is known for its authentic dishes, which make it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal after dark. One of the reasons Shalimar stands out is its ability to cater to customers who may not be able to handle spicy foods. They can adjust the spice level to make the food mild, which is a great option for those who want to enjoy the flavors without the heat.
Shalimar is not only open late but also offers a wide variety of tasty and authentic Indian and Pakistani dishes, making it an ideal destination for a late-night meal. Whether you're looking to spice up your night or enjoy some mild and flavorful dishes, Shalimar has something for everyone. With its commitment to authenticity and affordability, Shalimar is a great choice for anyone seeking a satisfying and memorable meal.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegetarian Options
4. Pinecrest Diner in Tenderloin
Open 24/7, retro decor, full bar

If you're looking for a great place to satisfy your late-night hunger, this diner is an excellent choice. The service is quick and efficient, allowing you to enjoy your meal without any prolonged waiting times. Moreover, the portions are generous, ensuring that you'll leave feeling satisfied. One specific dish that is highly recommended is their pancakes, which are delicious and a popular choice among diners.
For those seeking a classic late-night eatery, this diner fits the bill perfectly. With its vintage atmosphere, it's a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a night out. The food here is the ideal comfort food, providing you with the sustenance you need to keep going. Whether you're craving something savory or sweet, you're sure to find something on the menu that hits the spot.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
5. Mel's Kitchen in Tenderloin
Features a cozy and retro atmosphere with a classic diner menu

Mel's Kitchen is an excellent spot for satisfying late-night cravings. Whether you're in the mood for rotisserie chicken or a juicy burger, this place has got you covered. The rotisserie chicken is delicious, with its crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. Meanwhile, the burgers are always cooked to perfection, oozing with juices and packed with toppings.
Aside from the tasty food, Mel's Kitchen also boasts a cozy atmosphere that makes it an ideal place to unwind. Whether you're dining in or taking out, you'll feel right at home in this welcoming establishment. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, be sure to try their milkshakes, which are thick, creamy, and truly indulgent. From the food to the ambiance, Mel's Kitchen is the perfect place to satisfy your late-night cravings.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
6. Los Yucatecos Restaurant
Authentic Yucatan-style Mexican food since 1995, cozy family-owned restaurant

El Farolito is a well-known and locally loved eatery in San Francisco’s Mission District, famous for its large portions and high-quality meat options in a burrito that will surely satisfy. Their menu offers a variety of dishes, but customers particularly rave about their chiles rellenos, taquitos, and quesadillas. However, it’s essential to remember that El Farolito is a cash-only establishment.
Los Yucatecos Restaurant provides a fantastic dining experience with friendly and bilingual service, offering authentic Mexican cuisine that is both delicious and affordable. The menu features various gluten-free options, with the panucho de pollo being a popular choice, typically served with a tangy orange hot sauce. Diners consistently compliment the quality of the food, which reminds them of the authentic flavors found in southern Mexico.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
7. Million Thai Restaurant
Colorful and vibrant atmosphere, located in the heart of San Francisco's theater district

Million Thai Restaurant is an excellent choice for satisfying late night cravings. Its location makes it a convenient option after a day of exploring. The menu offers a variety of Thai dishes that are packed with flavor, making it a great spot to experience the cuisine. The restaurant's warm and cozy atmosphere adds to its appeal, making it a place where patrons can relax and enjoy their meal.
During our visit, we found the service to be friendly and accommodating. We were welcomed warmly and served delicious food promptly. The staff were attentive to our needs and made us feel welcome, even at a late hour. The food was the highlight of our visit, with each dish offering a unique and satisfying taste. We left feeling satisfied and happy with our dining experience at Million Thai Restaurant.
TOPICS
- Gluten-Free
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Pasha SF
Family-owned Middle Eastern cuisine in the heart of San Francisco

Pasha SF is a popular spot known for its delicious food and exceptional customer service. The hookah is smooth and high-quality, and the Purple Diamond cocktail is a must-try for its unique and delightful taste. The ambiance of the place is warm and inviting, with friendly staff led by Esvet, who ensures the service is top-notch. It's the perfect location for a relaxing evening, complete with great music and a lively atmosphere.
Pasha Mediterranean is another highlight of this establishment, with an extensive menu of Mediterranean dishes available until late. The chicken kebab wrap and falafel wrap are popular selections, satisfying customers who crave delicious and authentic meals. Whether it's for a late-night snack or a full dinner, Pasha Mediterranean offers a great dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Hidden Gems
- Lunch
9. The Halal Guys
Authentic New York City street cart food experience

The Halal Guys in San Francisco is a great option for a late-night restaurant. Known for their delicious white sauce and extended hours, this spot is perfect for those late-night cravings. During our post-night out visit, the food was found to be fresh, full of flavor, and served promptly, even at 2 AM.
The Halal Guys' white sauce is a standout, and the restaurant remains open until early hours of the morning. After a night out, we decided to give it a try and were impressed with the freshness and taste of the food, which was served efficiently, despite the late hour.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
10. Piccolo Italia
Family-owned and operated, serves authentic Italian food, uses fresh ingredients

Piccolo Italia is a great option for satisfying late-night cravings, particularly for pizza. The pizza served here is delicious and guaranteed to hit the spot. The quick service means you won't be left waiting for your food for too long, making it an ideal choice for a late-night snack.
As one of the best late-night restaurants in the area, Piccolo Italia stands out for its fresh and tasty food, as well as its cozy atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for a late-night bite or just want to relax in a comfortable setting, this is the place to be. The food is always fresh, ensuring that each dish is full of flavor and satisfaction.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Vegetarian Options
11. El Tesoro Taqueria & Grill
Features a full bar with happy hour specials and outdoor seating

If you're looking for a late-night food option, this place is a great choice. Despite ordering late at night, the food arrived fresh and tasty. The restaurant clearly takes pride in the quality of their meals, even during late-night hours. This establishment is highly recommended for anyone experiencing a late-night craving.
For those looking for a satisfying meal after a night out, this spot is perfect. Their burritos are not only huge but also delicious, providing a hearty and tasty option for those looking to indulge. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, this restaurant is a great choice for late-night eats.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
12. T.L. Downtown Krispy Krunchy Chicken
Local favorite with a unique Southern twist on classic fried chicken
This establishment is a great option for satisfying late-night cravings, particularly for chicken. The chicken stands out for its consistent crispiness and flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick meal after a night out or a place to grab a bite, this spot is worth considering.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
13. Yummy pizza sf inc
Family-owned restaurant since 1977, featuring a cozy atmosphere and authentic Italian dishes

Pizza is a great option for anyone seeking a delicious meal later in the evening. Many pizza places operate late into the night, providing the perfect solution for satisfying late-night cravings. One such place is a popular pizzeria that remains open until 4:00 AM, offering a wide variety of pizzas to choose from.
One standout item on their menu is the Shawarma Chicken Pizza. Combining the savory flavors of shawarma with the classic comfort of pizza, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique twist on traditional pizza. High-quality ingredients and careful preparation make this pizza a satisfying and enjoyable choice for any late-night meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
14. Falafel City
Vegetarian and vegan options, middle eastern cuisine, family-owned business, cash only.

This establishment, often referred to as a hidden gem, offers a menu filled with delicious options at affordable prices, as it is located in the Tenderloin area. It is said to serve some of the best falafel in the city. The hot and juicy food received a 10/10 rating from satisfied customers.
The loaded gyro fries, Philly wrap, and combo platter were among the items ordered, and the portions were generous, resulting in fullness. Despite being full, the taste of the food was so satisfying that the customers continued to eat. The owner of the establishment was noted for being kind and hospitable. Although the surrounding area may not be the most appealing, the food is described as "bussinnnnnnnn", implying its high quality and popularity.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
15. El Sabor Yucateco

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats