Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in San Francisco | Cheap & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Cheap Carnivore Restaurants in San Francisco | Cheap & Carnivore

• Beretta — Italian · rated 5/5: Beretta pulses with a chic, urban energy where the air is fragrant with toasted house focaccia and the savory depth of slow-simmered meatballs. The experience centers on a vibrant mosaic of shared plates, ranging from the golden crunch of crab arancini to the delicate notes of octopus carpaccio and velvety swirls of ricotta fresca. It is a spirited destination where the clatter of small plates and the warmth of communal dining transform every meal into a lively, Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Blue Plate — American · rated 5/5: Blue Plate transforms the warmth of a neighborhood gathering spot into a sophisticated culinary retreat where the air is rich with the savory aroma of wood-smoke and simmering sauces. The kitchen elevates nostalgic comfort into an art form, pairing indulgent mortadella fondue and truffle-scented arancini with masterfully executed classics like golden fried chicken and their signature, soul-warming meatloaf. Every plate serves as a bridge between rustic tradition and modern refinement, creating an atmosphere where a simple dinner feels like a celebrated homecoming.
• Last Drop Tavern — American · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt hums with energy, inviting guests to settle in amidst a warm, amber glow for an evening of elevated comfort food and vibrant conversation. The kitchen masters the art of the shared plate, turning out golden heaps of curry-dusted chips and crackling buffalo wings that burst with bold, spicy personality. From the zesty snap of blistered shishito peppers to the tender crunch of salt and pepper calamari, every dish offers a playful celebration of texture and flavor designed for lingering until the very last drop.
• Ebisu — Japanese · rated 5/5: Ebisu invites diners into a serene sanctuary where the artistry of the sea takes center stage through meticulously sliced sashimi and jewel-like nigiri. Whether savoring the chef’s curated omakase journey or finding comfort in a steaming, savory bowl of udon, every dish captures a perfect balance of traditional precision and soulful warmth.
• Acme Bread — American · rated 5/5: The intoxicating aroma of toasted sesame and warm, sweet dough fills this artisanal sanctuary, where golden-hued challahs are intricately braided into edible works of art. Rustic slabs flecked with fresh green onions and fragrant herbs sit alongside crusty, salt-dusted fougasse, offering a tactile and sensory journey through the timeless craft of traditional baking.
• Devil's Teeth Baking Company — American · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood sanctuary draws a devoted crowd with the irresistible aroma of warm, spiraled cinnamon rolls and the comforting steam rising from hearty breakfast bowls. Sunlight dances across counters piled high with whimsical shark-shaped shortbread and zesty lemon bars, while vibrant avocado toast offers a fresh, savory anchor to the bakery's decadent sweet offerings. Every bite captures a sense of handcrafted nostalgia, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where the community gathers for a quintessential morning treat.
• Boudin Bakery & Museum — American · rated 5/5: The air is thick with the tangy, comforting scent of world-famous sourdough baking in stone hearths, drawing guests into a space where San Francisco’s culinary history comes alive. Mornings begin with golden, buttery croissants and hearty breakfast burritos, while the afternoon bustle brings a parade of crispy chicken sandwiches and herb-flecked pesto dishes served in a vibrant, sun-drenched setting. It is a sensory journey through a living museum, where every bite of crusty bread and fresh, California-inspired fare celebrates a legacy of artisanal craftsmanship.
• Freddie's Sandwiches — American · rated 5/5: This bustling neighborhood corner hums with the rhythmic slicing of fresh ingredients and the inviting glow of a massive, chilled collection of botanical teas and sparkling waters. Guests find a refreshing sanctuary where crisp, made-to-order sandwiches are paired with everything from tropical coconut waters to revitalizing energy drinks, creating a vibrant midday retreat that perfectly fuels the local community.
• The Salad Place & Rotisserie — American · rated 5/5: The morning air at this neighborhood staple is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo and buttery, toasted croissants, drawing in early risers seeking a comforting, soul-warming start to their day. Golden-brown quesadillas pull apart to reveal molten cheese and hearty fillings, while flaky breakfast sandwiches offer a satisfying crunch that perfectly captures the bustling, friendly energy of a local morning haunt.
• Flour & Branch — American · rated 5/5: Flour & Branch serves as a vibrant neighborhood hub where the comforting aroma of griddled brioche and slow-roasted brisket beckons guests into a bright, welcoming space. The kitchen masters the art of the indulgent brunch, balancing the pillowy sweetness of banana ricotta pancakes with the smoky, savory depth of house-cured brisket tucked into hearty breakfast burritos. Every visit feels like a decadent escape, whether you’re savoring a crispy, powdered-sugar-dusted Monte Cristo or treating yourself to a molten, Nutella-stuffed cookie that redefines the classic bakery experience.
• DamnFine Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The crackle of a wood-fired oven anchors this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the scent of bubbling dough and charred vegetables fills a space alive with effortless, modern energy. Silky ribbons of pappardelle and toothsome radiatori share the table with golden chicken cutlets and bright, citrus-flecked salads, offering a soulful balance of rustic comfort and seasonal sophistication. It is a place designed for lingering over shared plates of wood-fired carrots and warm olives, capturing the essence of a truly elevated, convivial dining experience.
• Hook Fish Co — Seafood · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and salt-kissed, this coastal escape brings the vibrant spirit of the ocean to the table through overflowing fish tacos and jewel-toned poke bowls brimming with the day’s freshest catch. The casual, breezy atmosphere invites guests to linger over baskets of golden Old Bay fries and crisp house lemonades, creating a space where the effortless magic of a seaside retreat is served alongside every chilled local craft beer.
• Java Beach Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this breezy coastal retreat, where the invigorating scent of dark-roasted beans and the gentle hiss of steaming milk create a sanctuary for the caffeine-inclined. From the decadent, silk-smooth indulgence of a chocolate ganache cold brew to the bold, high-octane kick of a Depth Charge, every pour captures a masterclass in craft that invites guests to linger and savor the laid-back seaside rhythm.
• Mini Potstickers — Chinese · rated 4/5: The air at Mini Potstickers is thick with the savory aroma of toasted sesame and sizzling dough, drawing diners into a space where the rhythmic clatter of the kitchen signals the arrival of golden, pan-fried treasures. Bite-sized pork buns offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to succulent, steaming centers, while vibrant plates of chilled lotus root and spicy shredded pig ear provide a refreshing, textural counterpoint to the warmth of flaky green onion pancakes. It is a sanctuary of authentic flavors where traditional street-food favorites are elevated through careful craftsmanship, inviting guests to linger over a colorful mosaic of small plates and aromatic chive pockets.
• K-Elements BBQ — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at K-Elements BBQ hums with the rhythmic sizzle of tabletop grills and the intoxicating aroma of sweet-savory marinades caramelizing over open flames. Diners take center stage in this high-energy space, searing an array of premium cuts like marbled kalbi, tender beef bulgogi, and succulent samgyubsal to smoky perfection. It is a vibrant, communal celebration of flavor where the interactive art of the grill transforms a meal into a shared sensory journey.
• Fiery Hot Pot and Grill — Chinese · rated 4/5: Wisps of fragrant steam rise from bubbling cauldrons of aromatic broth, inviting guests into a lively space where the bold scents of coconut curry and zesty Tom Yum fill the air. This interactive sanctuary celebrates the art of the simmer, offering a customizable journey through intense fiery spices, comforting roasted tomato, and the savory depth of traditional rich pork. Between bites of crispy, golden potstickers and cool seaweed salad, diners craft a vibrant communal feast that balances heat, heart, and soul.
• Pancho Villa — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air inside this vibrant neighborhood staple hums with energy and the savory aroma of seared meats, drawing diners into a space where the humble burrito is elevated to a customizable art form. Whether opting for the delicate crunch of Baja-style grilled fish or the decadent pairing of succulent steak and prawns, every hand-rolled wrap arrives as a steaming, flavor-packed parcel designed to satisfy cravings of any size.
• El Lopo — Spanish · rated 4/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt captures the essence of a lively Spanish tavern, where the air is thick with the briny scent of pickled piparra peppers and the warm, nutty aroma of toasted Marcona almonds. Guests curate their own culinary journeys through artfully arranged platters, balancing the savory richness of Iberico pork meatballs with the unexpected sweetness of honeycomb and hazelnut butter or the refreshing pop of a stuffed strawberry. Whether tearing into crusty Spanish olive oil bread or savoring a single, salt-kissed anchovy-stuffed olive, every bite celebrates the bold, communal spirit of Mediterranean dining.
• Bistro Aix — French · rated 4/5: Bistro Aix invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the vibrant colors of a seasonal harvest take center stage in every elegantly composed dish. The kitchen celebrates the purity of the land and sea, offering everything from velvety summer corn chowder and jewel-toned beet salads to the delicate richness of house-cured salmon and warm, grilled figs. This refined escape honors the beauty of fresh ingredients, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a timeless summer afternoon.
• La Ciccia — Italian · rated 4/5: This intimate sanctuary captures the rugged, sun-drenched spirit of Sardinia, where the air hums with the briny aroma of the Mediterranean and the warmth of genuine hospitality. Silken strands of spaghetti come alive under a golden dusting of savory cured fish roe, while tender baby octopus stews and rich sea urchin fusilli showcase a kitchen dedicated to the bold, soulful flavors of the sea. Every dish, from the delicate crunch of shaved bottarga to the comforting depth of house-made gnochetti in pork sugo, invites guests to linger over a meal that feels like a heartfelt journey to a distant coastal village.
• Souvla — Greek · rated 4/5: This vibrant Greek rotisserie hums with energy as the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats spinning on the spit fills a bright, airy space. Succulent lamb, pork, and chicken are tucked into warm, pillowy pitas or tossed into crisp, herb-flecked salads, complemented by golden fries dusted in salty feta or potatoes glistening with rich pan drippings. It is a contemporary reimagining of the classic Mediterranean grill, offering a sun-drenched dining experience where rustic tradition meets modern, effortless style.
• Kasa — Indian · rated 4/5: Kasa pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern Indian kitchen, where the air is thick with the fragrance of toasted spices and the comforting warmth of freshly baked naan. Guests dive into colorful thali plates and crispy spinach pakoras, or enjoy a playful twist on tradition with zesty Indian-inspired tacos and savory, hand-held kati rolls. It is a communal celebration of bold, home-style flavors, perfect for sharing a sprawling family picnic platter or savoring a quick, spice-dusted bite in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
• The Treasury — American · rated 4/5: The Treasury invites guests into a sophisticated, high-ceilinged escape where the clinking of glasses and hum of conversation set the stage for an evening of refined grazing. Elevated lounge classics are transformed into artisanal delights, from the creamy richness of burrata toast and vibrant avocado hummus to playful, savory pigs in a blanket and tender tri-tip sliders. It is a stylish destination where every shared plate and craft cocktail feels like a curated discovery, perfect for those seeking a polished yet relaxed social atmosphere.
• Kirimachi Ramen — Japanese · rated 4/5: Steam rises from deep bowls of savory broth in this vibrant noodle house, where the air is thick with the tempting aroma of golden chicken kara-age and sizzling gyoza. The experience extends beyond the ramen to a colorful array of small plates, featuring everything from the earthy crunch of fried Brussels sprouts to the cooling brightness of seasonal beet and spring salads. It is a lively urban sanctuary that balances the soul-warming comfort of traditional Japanese soul food with a fresh, contemporary energy.
• Mandarin House SF — Chinese · rated 4/5: Steaming bamboo baskets arrive in a flurry of activity, unveiling delicate Siu Mai and translucent shrimp dumplings that capture the heart of traditional dim sum artistry. The experience is a symphony of textures, from the pillowy sweetness of BBQ pork buns to the golden, shattering crunch of Phoenix-tailed prawns and the rich, savory burst of broth tucked inside every Shanghai soup dumpling.
• Home Plate — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into Home Plate feels like finding the sweet spot of neighborhood dining, where a playful, high-energy atmosphere invites guests to settle in for a spirited and soulful meal. The kitchen hits a home run with indulgent, shareable plates like golden-fried avocados and "All Star" tacos that burst with bold flavors, perfectly balanced by crisp, vibrant salads and seasonal fruits. Whether you’re diving into a mountain of decadent tater tot nachos or savoring a delicate, pan-seared crab cake, every bite captures a sense of nostalgic joy and casual sophistication.
• Diamond — American · rated 4/5: Diamond shines as a polished sanctuary for coffee lovers, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the rich aroma of freshly ground beans create an inviting urban retreat. Skilled baristas transform classic pours into liquid art, layering velvety micro-foam over bold espresso and infusing signature lattes with delicate notes of rose, toasted pistachio, and warm brown sugar cinnamon. Every cup offers a meticulously crafted moment of caffeinated luxury, perfect for a quick morning ritual or a lingering, floral-scented afternoon.
• Third Rail — American · rated 4/5: Third Rail pulses with an electric, urban energy, inviting guests into a dimly lit sanctuary where the art of the cocktail takes center stage. From the smoldering, aromatic depth of the Smokeshow to the whimsical, citrus-bright notes of the Yuzu Cute, each inventive pour is a masterclass in balance and flair, making every visit feel like a spirited escape into the heart of the city’s nightlife.
• La Fromagerie — French · rated 4/5: This intimate haven transports guests to the heart of the European countryside, where the air is rich with the nutty aroma of aged wheels and the earthy decadence of seasonal truffles. Artfully curated boards overflow with velvety French bries, piquant Spanish charcuterie, and vibrant garden crudités, creating a visual and sensory feast designed for slow, communal indulgence. Whether sharing a rustic farmhouse platter or a sophisticated holiday spread, every bite celebrates the timeless artistry of the cheesemonger in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• The Stud — American · rated 4/5: Neon lights and a high-energy pulse define this iconic gathering spot, where the clink of ice in a Gin Rose Lemonade mingles with the lively hum of a spirited crowd. From the frosty, nostalgic indulgence of housemade boozy slushees to a rotating tap of crisp local IPAs, the bar serves as a vibrant backdrop for an evening of uninhibited celebration and community.