North Panhandle / USF Restaurants

The area “north of the Panhandle” is one of the hippest hotbeds in SF, with a food scene that’s as eclectic as the color combinations on the nearby Painted Ladies. Focused mostly around Divisadero Street, NOPA is known for cafes that churn out thick-cut toast slathered with artisanal toppings, and more savory options—from BBQ to farm-to-table dining that helped put the neighborhood on the map. Dive bars, oyster houses, and local mainstays add to the energy of this central San Francisco hub, reflecting the different flavors of the city as longtime institutions mixed with new favorites that pop up faster each day. After getting a bite, be sure to explore Alamo Square for postcard perfect views of downtown—and 90’s pop culture appeal.