Best Upscale Low Carb Restaurants in SOMA | Upscale & Low Carb

25 restaurants in Best Upscale Low Carb Restaurants in SOMA | Upscale & Low Carb

• 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.
• Atlas Tap Room — American · rated 4/5: Atlas Tap Room serves as a vibrant neighborhood anchor where the clink of glassware and the aroma of toasted brioche create an atmosphere of effortless, casual sophistication. The kitchen masters the art of the handheld, from juice-dripping French dips and charred Atlas burgers to the zesty press of a classic Cuban, all designed to be enjoyed alongside a perfectly chilled brew. It is a place where global flavors meet hometown comfort, offering a soulful dining experience that turns a simple lunch or evening pint into a celebrated ritual.
• Southside Spirit House — American · rated 4/5: Southside Spirit House pulses with a vibrant, urban energy, offering a stylish retreat where the clinking of craft cocktails meets a menu of elevated, soul-warming comfort food. The air is thick with the irresistible scent of truffle-dusted tots and zesty lemon-parmesan wings, while colorful platters of tender carnitas tacos and juicy sliders invite guests to linger over shared bites in a lively, social atmosphere. It’s a spirited destination where casual indulgence takes center stage, blending a playful vibe with bold, crave-worthy flavors that turn any gathering into a celebratory feast.
• Sammy's on 2nd — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into this vibrant neighborhood haunt, guests are greeted by the comforting aroma of sizzling bacon and the rhythmic clinking of a busy lunch counter. The kitchen transforms humble classics into soul-warming staples, serving up everything from crisp, golden-toasted BLTs and creamy egg salads to hearty, sauce-drenched meatball subs that offer a nostalgic taste of home in every bite.
• Hotel Utah Saloon — American · rated 3/5: Stepping into this historic corner haunt feels like a journey back in time, where the weathered wood of the bar and the spirited hum of the crowd create an inviting, timeless sanctuary. The air carries the irresistible scent of garlic-dusted fries and smoky pulled pork, while the kitchen turns out inventive comforts like crispy deep-fried deviled eggs and legendary jumbo wings tossed to perfection. It is a place where the clinking of glasses and the warmth of shared sliders define an evening of unpretentious, soulful satisfaction.
• Kona's Street Market — Japanese · rated 3/5: Vibrant neon glows and the hum of eclectic energy transform this space into a spirited urban bazaar where every corner promises a new sensory discovery. The bar serves as a liquid passport, whisking guests away with imaginative concoctions like the tropical Maui Gold, the whimsical Calpico Cat, and the bold, spice-kissed Boracay Old Fashioned. It is an atmospheric retreat designed for those looking to "get lost" in a world of adventurous flavors, where the clink of ice and the pour of a Blushing Dragon signal the start of an unforgettable night.
• Spark Social SF — American · rated 2/5: This vibrant outdoor social hub pulses with energy, gathering a diverse collection of food trucks around flickering fire pits and sun-soaked communal tables. Guests toast with glasses of house-made sangria or zesty margaritas while savoring the aromatic spices of beef shawarma, creating a lively atmosphere where whimsical pixie dust lattes and refreshing boba teas fuel a day-to-night urban escape.
• The Bird — American: The Bird serves as a high-energy sanctuary for comfort food enthusiasts, where the sizzle of the fryer and the aroma of buttery, golden biscuits create an immediate sense of indulgence. Guests dive into shatteringly crisp fried chicken sandwiches and wings lacquered in vibrant glazes, ranging from the stinging heat of buffalo to the tropical kick of mango habanero. It is a place where the simple pleasure of a perfectly seasoned curly fry or a tender chicken biscuit transforms a casual meal into a soulful, flavor-packed experience.
• Buckhorn — Steakhouse: The air at Buckhorn is thick with the irresistible scent of slow-smoked tri-tip and caramelized burnt ends, drawing diners into a space that hums with the rustic warmth of a classic roadhouse. Here, the smoky indulgence of tender pulled pork tacos finds its perfect counterpoint in a vibrant parade of garden-fresh salads, from the crisp, zesty crunch of the Cabo Chop to the sweet, nutty notes of seasonal fruit mixes. It is a culinary crossroads where hearty, wood-fired traditions meet bright, refreshing flavors, creating a dining experience that is both deeply satisfying and artfully balanced.
• Marlowe — American: This neighborhood gem pulses with a refined energy, drawing guests into a space where the aroma of herb-crusted lamb and sizzling bone marrow sets the stage for a decadent feast. The kitchen masterfully balances texture and temperature, pairing the addictive crunch of golden brussels sprout chips with the silky elegance of fresh crudo and warm, indulgent deviled eggs. Every plate reflects a commitment to bold, soulful flavors, creating an atmosphere that feels both effortlessly chic and deeply welcoming.
• North India — Indian: The air at North India is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted spices and smoky tandoor char, drawing guests into a space where golden, crispy pakoras and vibrant sampler platters set the stage for a soulful feast. Velvety signature butter chicken and succulent tandoori meats emerge from the kitchen alongside fragrant, steam-filled mounds of biryani, each dish offering a masterclass in the deep, layered flavors of the subcontinent. It is a culinary journey that balances heat and comfort, inviting diners to linger over every aromatic bite in an atmosphere of genuine warmth.
• Okane — Japanese: Okane invites guests into a sleek, modern sanctuary where the sharp snap of premium Japanese lagers and the bright citrus of yuzu-infused ales set the stage for a refined culinary journey. The air hums with a sophisticated energy as delicate glasses of Premier Cru Champagne and crisp, mineral-forward white wines are poured to perfectly complement a dining experience defined by elegance and precision.
• Taksim — Middle Eastern: Bathed in the warm glow of a wood-fired oven, Taksim captures the vibrant spirit of Mediterranean hospitality through a sophisticated yet soulful lens. Guests gather over pillowy, wood-fired flower bread and colorful trios of dips, while the air carries the savory perfume of charred shish kebabs and blistered shishitos. From the delicate silkiness of cauliflower cream soup to the bold, earthy notes of lamb carpaccio, every plate celebrates a rich tapestry of flavors designed for shared discovery and lingering conversation.
• Atwater Tavern — American: Perched along the waterfront, this lively gathering spot hums with the spirited energy of a modern tavern where the scent of wood-fired pizzas and spicy buffalo wings fills the air. Guests linger over chilled platters of briny Drake’s Bay oysters and zesty tuna poke, or share golden heaps of crispy calamari and savory charcuterie boards in an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and effortlessly social.
• Working Girls' Cafe — American: This energetic neighborhood staple hums with the comforting aroma of golden-toasted bagels and bubbling cheese melts, offering a warm, inviting refuge amidst the morning rush. Whether savoring a simple, cream-cheese-slathered classic or a hearty stack piled high with silken smoked salmon and garden-fresh toppings, diners find a perfect balance of artisanal simplicity and satisfying, home-style comfort.
• Oren's Hummus — Middle Eastern: Sun-drenched flavors and the irresistible crunch of golden-fried cauliflower and schnitzel bites define this vibrant gathering spot, where the hum of conversation pairs perfectly with chilled Israeli lagers. Guests are invited to dive into a colorful spread of savory bourekas and creamy dips, finishing on a sweet note with pillowy challah french toast sticks that capture the soulful essence of modern Mediterranean comfort.
• The Grove — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this vibrant morning retreat, where the comforting aroma of toasted brown sugar and freshly brewed coffee creates an inviting sanctuary for early risers. Guests linger over plates of velvety eggs Benedict and thick slices of warm, crumbly coffee cake, or find nourishment in colorful breakfast bowls brimming with fresh avocado and wholesome grains. Whether you are savoring a spice-kissed breakfast burrito or a slice of house-made banana bread, the experience captures the relaxed, nourishing essence of a perfect neighborhood brunch.
• Asha Tea House — Chinese: Asha Tea House serves as a tranquil sanctuary where the ancient ritual of tea-making is elevated into a sensory art form. Fragrant clouds of steam rise from delicate vessels, carrying the smoky depth of Lapsang Souchong and the bright, floral whispers of high-mountain harvests into a space designed for mindful sipping. Whether finding comfort in the creamy spice of house-made masala chai or exploring the nuanced complexity of rare golden buds, guests are invited to slow down and savor the rich heritage steeped into every amber-hued cup.
• El Porteño — Spanish * Mexican: This vibrant corner of Buenos Aires culture invites guests into a space where the warm, buttery scent of hand-crimped empanadas wafts from the oven. Each golden pastry shell yields to a world of savory tradition, from the bold, spiced beef of "La Maradona" to the creamy sweetness of humita and the melted indulgence of onion-topped fugazetta.
• Luke's Lobster — Seafood: This breezy coastal escape captures the essence of a Maine wharf, where the scent of toasted brioche and savory chowder fills a space defined by rustic, nautical charm. Succulent, chilled lobster and crab are piled high into golden buns brushed with lemon butter, offering a crisp, clean taste of the Atlantic that pairs perfectly with crunchy kettle chips and a tangy poppyseed slaw.
• Curry & Kabab — Indian: The air at Curry & Kabab is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted spices and the rhythmic sizzle of the grill, drawing diners into a space where traditional comfort meets bold, vibrant flavors. Golden-hued vegetable pakoras and crispy samosas offer a satisfying crunch before giving way to the fiery kick of chili chicken or the smoky, tender char of paneer tikka kababs. Whether sharing a plate of tangy Gobi Manchurian or warming up with a soul-soothing bowl of daal soup, every dish celebrates a rich tapestry of textures that makes each visit feel like a festive, aromatic escape.
• Saap Ver — Thai: Step into a vibrant space where the bold, zesty spirit of Thai street food comes alive through an atmosphere humming with energy and the fragrant steam of lemongrass-infused broths. Golden-fried larb wontons and charred, aromatic sausages offer a satisfying crunch and a punch of heat, while tender skewers of satay and citrus-kissed wings celebrate the complex balance of sweet, salty, and spicy. Every bite serves as a lively journey through the bustling markets of Thailand, inviting guests to linger over small plates that are as visually stunning as they are intensely flavorful.
• The Venue — American: This sun-drenched morning retreat hums with the comforting clatter of a busy kitchen, where the aroma of toasted bagels and sizzling scrambles invites guests to settle in and stay a while. From the hearty warmth of hand-wrapped breakfast burritos to the vibrant, creamy layers of fresh avocado toast, every dish captures the bright energy of a day perfectly begun in a space that feels like the neighborhood’s collective living room.
• Mr. East Kitchen — Chinese: Mr. East Kitchen serves as a vibrant crossroads where the aromatic heat of the East meets modern global comfort, inviting guests into a space alive with the sizzle of Saigon steaks and the fragrant char of chicken satay. The experience centers on a playful harmony of textures, from the cooling crunch of shrimp fresh rolls to the bold, golden spice of patatas bravas and garlic-tossed fries, making every visit a spirited celebration of cross-cultural flavors.
• Red's Java House — American: Perched along the waterfront where the salty bay breeze meets the irresistible aroma of a sizzling griddle, this legendary shack offers a no-frills sanctuary for hungry locals and travelers alike. Golden stacks of pancakes and hearty chili-drenched rancheros fuel the morning crowd, while the afternoon brings the satisfying snap of classic hot dogs and juicy burgers served in a rustic space that feels like a timeless slice of maritime history.