San Francisco’s culinary landscape is a melting pot of flavors from around the world, and you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy its best dishes. From Filipino sisig tacos to Indian lentil soup, the city offers a diverse range of affordable eats that are both delicious and budget-friendly. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-try dishes, all priced under $10, based on real customer reviews and local food guides. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

1. Sisig Taco from Señor Sisig

  • Restaurant: Señor Sisig

  • Description: A single sisig taco featuring savory pork sisig (a Filipino dish made with chopped pork, onions, and spices) served on a warm tortilla.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Señor Sisig is renowned for its authentic Filipino flavors, and their sisig taco is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Yelp reviewers praise its “bold and tangy” taste, with one saying, “The sisig is perfection—crispy, spicy, and so flavorful!” It’s a quick and satisfying bite that packs a punch.

  • Price: $5

  • Location: 2121 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94115

2. Pupusas from La Santaneca

  • Restaurant: La Santaneca

  • Description: Salvadorian pupusas filled with cheese, beans, or chicharrón, served with curtido (pickled cabbage).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Santaneca is loved for its authentic Salvadorian cuisine, and their pupusas are a must-try. Customers rave about the “huge and tasty” portions, with one Yelp reviewer saying, “The cheese pupusa is my favorite—so melty and delicious!” At just $3 each, two make a filling meal.

  • Price: $3 each (recommend two for $6)

  • Location: 299 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103

3. Falafel Sandwich from Falafel Corner

  • Restaurant: Falafel Corner

  • Description: A crispy falafel sandwich with tahini sauce, lettuce, and tomato in pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Falafel Corner is a go-to spot for Middle Eastern food in the Inner Sunset. Their falafel sandwich is praised for being “fresh and crispy,” with many Yelp reviewers noting it’s “the best in SF.” It’s a hearty, vegetarian-friendly option for under $10.

  • Price: $7.50

  • Location: 955 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122

4. Banh Mi from Golden Gate Bakery

  • Restaurant: Golden Gate Bakery

  • Description: A classic Vietnamese sandwich with your choice of meat (pork, chicken, or tofu), pickled vegetables, and pate on a crusty baguette.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Golden Gate Bakery is famous for its baked goods, but their banh mi is equally impressive. Customers love the “fresh and flavorful” combination of ingredients, with one Yelp reviewer saying, “It’s the perfect lunch—filling and only $5.50!” It’s a great example of San Francisco’s Vietnamese culinary influence.

  • Price: $5.50

  • Location: 1029 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94108

5. Pizza Slice from Arizmendi Bakery

  • Restaurant: Arizmendi Bakery

  • Description: A slice of artisan pizza with various toppings like cheese, vegetables, or pepperoni.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Arizmendi Bakery is known for its high-quality, affordable pizza. Their slices are “huge and delicious,” according to Yelp reviews, with many praising the “creative toppings and crispy crust.” Getting two slices for $5 makes it a great deal for pizza lovers.

  • Price: $2.50 per slice (two for $5)

  • Location: 1331 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

6. Burrito from La Taqueria

  • Restaurant: La Taqueria

  • Description: A Mission-style burrito filled with rice, beans, meat (carne asada, al pastor, etc.), salsa, and guacamole.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Taqueria is an institution in the Mission District, famous for its “best burrito in SF.” Reviewers highlight the “generous portions and authentic flavors,” with one Yelp reviewer saying, “It’s messy, but so worth it!” At $8.50, it’s a filling and flavorful meal.

  • Price: $8.50

  • Location: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

7. Cold Assorted Vegetarian Delicacies from Bei Fang Style

  • Restaurant: Bei Fang Style

  • Description: A plate of cold mixed vegetables, including jellyfish, seaweed, and tofu, served with a savory sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bei Fang Style offers a unique take on Chinese cuisine with its vegetarian dishes. The cold assorted vegetarian delicacies are “refreshing and delicious,” according to Yelp customers, providing a light yet satisfying meal. It’s a great option for those looking for something different.

  • Price: $8.95

  • Location: 2236 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109

8. Teriyaki Lunch Box from Sushi Kinta

  • Restaurant: Sushi Kinta

  • Description: A lunch box featuring teriyaki chicken, rice, and a side salad.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Sushi Kinta is a popular spot for Japanese food in the Inner Sunset. Their teriyaki lunch box is “a steal at $10,” with Yelp reviewers noting the “tender chicken and generous portions.” It’s a complete meal that’s both affordable and tasty.

  • Price: $10

  • Location: 1220 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122

9. Hamburger from Wolfe’s Lunch

  • Restaurant: Wolfe’s Lunch

  • Description: A classic hamburger with lettuce, tomato, and onion on a soft bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Wolfe’s Lunch is a beloved old-school diner in the Inner Sunset. Their hamburger is “simple but done right,” with many Yelp reviewers appreciating the “juicy patty and fresh toppings.” At $7, it’s a no-frills, satisfying burger that’s hard to beat.

  • Price: $7

  • Location: 1830 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122

10. Yellow Dal Tadka from Bini’s Kitchen

  • Restaurant: Bini’s Kitchen

  • Description: A flavorful Indian lentil soup with spices and herbs.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bini’s Kitchen offers authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine at affordable prices. Their yellow dal Tadka is “rich and comforting,” with Yelp customers praising its “perfect balance of spices.” It’s a great option for those seeking warm, hearty flavors.

  • Price: $8

  • Location: 2249 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109

San Francisco’s food scene is a celebration of diversity, and these 10 dishes under $10 showcase the city’s culinary richness. From the bold flavors of Señor Sisig’s sisig taco to the comforting warmth of Bini’s Kitchen’s yellow dal Tadka, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or a hearty meal, these affordable eats promise a delicious experience. Dive into San Francisco’s vibrant food culture and savor these must-try dishes!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price Location
Sisig Taco Señor Sisig $5 2121 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94115
Pupusas La Santaneca $3 each (two for $6) 299 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Falafel Sandwich Falafel Corner $7.50 955 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
Banh Mi Golden Gate Bakery $5.50 1029 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94108
Pizza Slice Arizmendi Bakery $2.50 per slice (two for $5) 1331 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122
Burrito La Taqueria $8.50 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Cold Assorted Vegetarian Delicacies Bei Fang Style $8.95 2236 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Teriyaki Lunch Box Sushi Kinta $10 1220 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122
Hamburger Wolfe’s Lunch $7 1830 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122
Yellow Dal Tadka Bini’s Kitchen $8 2249 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109