Best of 15 lunch restaurants in Haight-Ashbury
Haight-Ashbury, a vibrant and eclectic district in San Francisco, is known for its history and counterculture roots. For those looking to grab a bite during the day, there are several lunch restaurants in Haight-Ashbury that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. From cozy cafes serving up artisanal sandwiches to bustling eateries dishing out international cuisine, the neighborhood has plenty to offer for a satisfying midday meal.
- 1. 1428 HAIGHT Patio Cafe & Crepery in Haight-Ashbury
- 2. Parada 22
- 3. Cha Cha Cha in Haight-Ashbury
- 4. Hippie Thai Street Food
- 5. Street Taco
- 6. Pork Store Cafe
- 7. Citrus Club
- 8. The Alembic
- 9. Brioche Bakery & Cafe
- 10. What The Cluck Haight
- 11. Ginza Sushi & Sake
- 12. Blue Front Deli & Cafe in Haight-Ashbury
- 13. Papa’s kitchen
- 14. DragonEats
- 15. Magnolia Brewing - Haight
1. 1428 HAIGHT Patio Cafe & Crepery in Haight-Ashbury
Cozy outdoor seating, Casual and comfortable atmosphere, Family-owned and operated

A stroll through Haight Ashbury led to an unexpected and delightful discovery - a charming cafe with delicious coffee and incredible crepes. The Funky Monkey and Tiramisu crepes were nothing short of heavenly, with melt-in-your-mouth textures and indulgent flavors. The cafe offers a cozy patio, window seats, and indoor seating, providing the perfect setting for a breakfast or coffee break.
The French toast at this establishment is a standout option, expertly cooked to perfection and beautifully presented. While the amount of toast served was modest, the quality of the meals and coffee made up for it. The atmosphere is inviting, and the outdoor seating area is a great spot to enjoy a meal. Overall, this cafe is highly recommended for a satisfying breakfast or a quick cup of coffee.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
2. Parada 22
Authentic Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of San Francisco

If you're in the mood for some delicious Puerto Rican food, Parada 22 is the place to go. During a recent visit for lunch, I was wowed by the authentic flavors and generous portions. Two standouts were the red beans and Spanish rice, which were both bursting with flavor.
But the highlights didn't end there. I also highly recommend trying the pernil asado, which was incredibly tender and juicy. And the best part is that the prices are very reasonable, making it an excellent value for the quality of food you receive. Whether you're a fan of Puerto Rican cuisine or just looking to try something new, Parada 22 is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
3. Cha Cha Cha in Haight-Ashbury
Cozy atmosphere and excellent customer service.

Haight Street's Cha-Cha-Cha offers a memorable lunch experience with standout dishes. The steamed mussels are tender, while the ceviche provides a refreshing zesty taste. The sautéed mushrooms are delicious, and the Cajun shrimp with spicy cream sauce is exceptionally flavorful. Even the fried new potatoes are well-prepared. The restaurant's atmosphere is laid-back, reflecting the vibe of the street, and the staff is friendly, contributing to the overall positive experience.
Cha-Cha-Cha also serves excellent sangria, although it is quite strong, so be cautious. Their tapas are excellent, particularly the fried calamari. Whether you're in for lunch or tapas, Cha-Cha-Cha's offerings are sure to satisfy.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Hidden Gems
4. Hippie Thai Street Food
Authentic Thai street food in a colorful, eclectic atmosphere

During a four-day stay in San Francisco, the highlight of my dining experiences was my meal at Hippie Thai. The restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere that complements its vibrant neighborhood. I would highly recommend it for the quality of food, service, ambiance, and affordability, earning a well-deserved 5 stars.
The server was friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience. I opted for the green curry, which was skillfully prepared and flavorful. Although the meal was enjoyable, I found it to be comparable to Thai food offered in my hometown.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
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5. Street Taco
Authentic street-style tacos, vibrant atmosphere

Street Taco is a new lunch spot located in the Haight neighborhood. They offer taqueria basics at a reasonable price, but the quality of their ingredients sets them apart from other taco places. The modern vibe of the restaurant adds to its appeal.
During our visit, we tried their tacos and a quesadilla. The shrimp taco was a standout, featuring perfectly grilled shrimp on a fresh corn tortilla. The quality of the ingredients and the flavor of the dish were both impressive. Overall, Street Taco is a great local spot to check out for delicious and reasonably priced Mexican food.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
6. Pork Store Cafe
Cash only, servings are generous, popular spot since 1948

The service provided is consistently described as excellent, with staff bringing coffee to customers while they wait in line. This contributes to a positive customer experience, as it shows that the staff are attentive and considerate of their customers' needs.
The atmosphere of the establishment is relaxing, making customers feel at ease as soon as they enter. The service contributes to this welcoming environment, with servers like Halle going above and beyond to make customers feel welcome and comfortable. This homey and inviting atmosphere enhances the overall breakfast experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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7. Citrus Club
Cozy atmosphere, Sustainable and local ingredients, Friendly staff

The Chinese restaurant in San Francisco offers great food and nice service, with notable dishes such as chicken teriyaki, wonton soup, and cilantro beef. From the outside, the restaurant may not look impressive, but it exceeds expectations with its delicious offerings.
San Francisco visitors should not miss out on this restaurant, which is known for its wonderful customer service and incredible food. The establishment is generous with its portions, making it a highly recommended dining destination for travelers.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
8. The Alembic
Cozy atmosphere, craft beer, and outdoor seating.

Alembic is a trendy bar with a diverse crowd. They offer a variety of drinks, including wine, beer, and artistic cocktails. The atmosphere is welcoming, and it's a great place to hang out and socialize. If you're a fan of unique and delicious brunch dishes, Alembic is the place to be. Their Jammy Eggs and Omelets are particularly noteworthy, as are their breakfast potatoes and tasty fig jam and hot sauce.
During a recent visit to Alembic, the brunch experience was exceptional. The Jammy Eggs and Omelets stood out for their delicious taste, and the breakfast potatoes were cooked to perfection. The fig jam and hot sauce were the perfect accompaniment to the eggs, adding a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Alembic is a must-try spot for brunch.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Late Night
9. Brioche Bakery & Cafe
French-inspired bakery and cafe with artisanal bread and pastries

For breakfast, the eggs with spinach dish was ordered, but eggs with fine herbs were served instead. The eggs Benedict order was also satisfactory, with both meals being delicious and generously portioned. The beverages, including coffee and orange juice, were enjoyable as well. The staff provided moderately friendly service, although the restrooms were less impressive. Despite a few minor issues, it is still recommended to dine there.
Moving on to a separate establishment, the salad served was small yet satisfying and came with a side of crispy fries that were excellent on the outside and delightful on the inside. It's worth noting that the salad was already dressed, which was a nice touch. Overall, it was a positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
10. What The Cluck Haight
Creative flavors and spices, eco-friendly packaging, and local ingredients.

The chicken and rice soup provided mixed reviews among customers. Some individuals enjoyed the soup, but others found it inconsistent in terms of flavor and temperature. Despite the varying opinions, there was a general consensus that the soup was not warm enough.
In terms of cost, the food was reasonably priced and aligned with the quality and portion size. Customers felt that they received good value for their money. The quick service also contributed to the positive experience for many customers, who were able to enjoy their meals without a long wait.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Gluten-Free
11. Ginza Sushi & Sake
Extensive sake menu and cozy atmosphere

If you're looking for a great spot to have lunch, this place is a perfect choice. They offer generous portions and fresh fish, making it a standout option. One menu item that comes highly recommended is the lunch bento box, which is sure to leave you satisfied.
During your lunch break, consider giving this establishment a try. Their lunch menu has a good variety of options to choose from, all of which are reasonably priced. In addition to the delicious food, you'll also appreciate the friendly service. Whether you're looking for a quick and affordable meal or a place to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch, this spot is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
12. Blue Front Deli & Cafe in Haight-Ashbury
Cash-only, Old-school deli vibe, Serving breakfast all day

The Blue Front Cafe is an excellent restaurant to have a delicious lunch, located in the heart of Haight Ashbury. The cafe's combo plate is a must-try, known for its tenderness and flavor. While enjoying the meal, diners can take advantage of the open window seating for some entertaining people-watching.
The Blue Front Cafe offers a cozy and comfortable ambiance, complete with freshly squeezed orange juice, mouth-watering dishes, and a down-to-earth setting. Distinctively, this restaurant maintains the authenticity of Haight Street's essence, which was present 20 years ago and more. The cafe's unfussy and inviting atmosphere is a refreshing contrast to the increasing gentrification and sleek designs seen in many establishments.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
13. Papa’s kitchen
Family-owned for over 20 years, Known for delicious sandwiches

The hot and sour soup was shared among us and we both opted for lunch specials that included a main dish and a side. We found the food to be delicious and the servings to be generous.
I decided to order the Lemongrass Beef Garlic Noodle for my meal. The flavors were exceptional, and the portion size was satisfying. I am certainly looking forward to visiting again.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
14. DragonEats
Fusion of Korean and Mexican cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and vegetarian-friendly options

If you're looking for a great spot to have lunch on Haight, this place is a fantastic option! The dining area is kept immaculately clean, and the service is quick, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. But what truly sets this location apart is the food - it's simply outstanding.
The menu features a variety of salads, all of which are affordably priced, fresh, and made with simple ingredients. One of the most popular options is the green salad with papaya, which is a fan favorite for its delicious taste and freshness. Whether you're in the mood for a light and healthy meal or something more substantial, this lunch stop has something for everyone.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
15. Magnolia Brewing - Haight
Known for their craft beers and sustainably sourced ingredients.

The service at this establishment is exceptional, with staff who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and pleasant. During lunchtime, we had the opportunity to try a variety of dishes, including fish and chips, a homemade sausage plate, grilled cheese, Caesar salad, and fried asparagus. Each dish was outstanding, showcasing the quality of the food and the skill of the chefs.
If you're looking for a great place to grab a bite to eat on Haight Street, this is an excellent choice. While we went for lunch, there were still plenty of options on the menu to choose from. Our selections included fish and chips, a homemade sausage plate, grilled cheese, Caesar salad, and fried asparagus, all of which were outstanding. This restaurant's reputation for excellent food and service makes it a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife