Cheap Eats in San Francisco (2025)
Mission-style lore lives on at this family-run landmark known for juicy, rice-free burritos and crisped tacos dorados. Celebrated by the Michelin Guide and crowned in national burrito rankings, it remains a rite of passage that’s still reasonably priced.
Just outside of Little Saigon in the Tenderloin is Saigon Sandwich, a cash-only institution that’s been around for decades, and for good reason—it’s home to the best bánh mì in San Francisco, hands down. The Vietnamese counter-serve spot on Larkin runs a tight ship. There’s usually a line around lunchtime, but it moves pretty quickly. And after you place your order, your sandwich will be made, tightly wrapped, and handed to you, seemingly within seconds. The short menu consists of bánh mì with different fillings, from roast chicken or tofu to a special combination with ham and thick pâté, plus a swath of creamy mayo, pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, and jalapeño. We’re not being hyperbolic when we say we’ve never been disappointed with anything here. The proteins are tender and well-seasoned, the French rolls are crackly and fresh, and each sandwich is loaded with an impressive amount of filling. It all adds up to a fantastic lunch that we consider picking up at least once a week. Plus, at around $5 each, one bánh mì will cost you less than an hour of parking on Hayes St. Food Rundown Roast Chicken Bánh Mì The best option on the menu. The chicken is always juicy and flavorful, and it’s balanced out really nicely with the crunchy veggies and creamy mayo. photo credit: Melissa Zink Roast Pork Bánh Mì Our other go-to. They don’t skimp on the pork, and for that, we are very grateful. photo credit: Melissa Zink Combination Bánh Mì The combination comes with steamed pork, roast pork, and a generous helping of rich pâté, which we wish we could save to spread on every sandwich and charcuterie board we encounter for the rest of our lives. photo credit: Melissa Zink Meat Ball Pork Bánh Mì If the sandwiches on this menu had superlatives, this xiu mai one would be crowned Sauciest Of All Time. The meat is tender, salty-sweet, and soaks up all the mayo. Vietnamese Coffee The iced Vietnamese coffee works wonders as a midday pick-me-up. It’s strong, creamy, and on the sweeter side. photo credit: Melissa Zink
A Chinatown ritual: queue up, point at the trays, and leave with hot har gow, siu mai, and buns for pocket change. Featured by local critics and loved by regulars, its hours-long stream of takeout dim sum defines busy Stockton Street.
A Chinatown original since the early 1900s, Sam Wo reopened in September 2025 with handmade rice noodle rolls and classic Cantonese fare intact. Widely covered by the San Francisco Chronicle, it’s cultural continuity you can taste—for not much money.
San Francisco’s longest-running Burmese restaurant delivers a tea leaf salad with punch and paratha with curry that regulars crave. Honored by the James Beard Foundation and lauded by Eater and the Chronicle, it remains a wallet-friendly Richmond classic.
Chef Isabel Caudillo’s Mexico City guisados, handmade tortillas, and chocoflan make this Bernal Heights favorite both soulful and accessible. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and praised by local critics, it’s hearty cooking at friendly prices.
Family-run since 1978, this North Beach slice window serves thick, olive-oil-kissed Sicilian squares like pesto veg and clam-garlic. A recurring pick in local guides and lists, it’s late-night-friendly and kind to your budget.
A women-owned Wharf mainstay where crisp cod, shrimp, and Baja tacos come out hot and fairly priced. Recently profiled by SFGATE and shouted out by travel outlets, it’s one waterfront pick locals and visitors agree on.
Since the 1950s, this waterfront shack has flipped budget-friendly sourdough burgers and poured coffee for dockworkers, Giants fans, and everyone in between. Chronicled for decades by local media, it’s living history with a cheap-eats soul.
Little Saigon’s Teochew noodle house specializes in wonton soups and the beloved braised duck leg bowl. Highlighted by the San Francisco Chronicle and local food writers, it’s cash-only comfort with deep flavors and modest prices.
A downtown Filipino steam-table favorite for silog breakfasts, adobo, and lumpia at gentle prices. Frequently recommended by local publications and beloved by regulars, it’s a warm, family-run counter that feeds the neighborhood well.
