La Taqueria (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: Famous for its Mission-style burritos, La Taqueria has been a staple for locals and tourists alike. The super burrito without rice is packed with tender meat, fresh guacamole, and salsa, making it worth every bite.
What to order: Carne asada super burrito.
Price: Around $10–$12.

Golden Boy Pizza (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: Known for their thick, Sicilian-style pizza, Golden Boy Pizza has been satisfying hungry San Franciscans since 1978. Each slice is generous and perfectly crunchy, topped with gooey cheese and flavorful toppings.
What to order: Pepperoni or clam and garlic slice.
Price: $4–$6 per slice.

Tacos Sinaloa (Oakland)

Why it’s a Must-Try: One of the Bay Area’s most beloved taco trucks, Tacos Sinaloa offers authentic, street-style tacos with freshly made tortillas and flavorful meats. The truck is often parked on International Boulevard in Oakland, drawing crowds for its simple, satisfying eats.
What to order: Carne asada and carnitas tacos.
Price: $2–$3 per taco.

Sam Wo Restaurant (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This historic Chinatown spot has been serving affordable Chinese food for over a century. Famous for its giant BBQ pork rice noodle rolls, it’s the go-to for delicious, hearty food at a great price.
What to order: BBQ pork rice noodle roll or jook (congee).
Price: $6–$10.

Arizmendi Bakery (Oakland/San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This worker-owned bakery is known for its fresh, daily-made bread and pizza slices. Their sourdough crust pizzas are a highlight, offering a rotating selection of toppings with fresh, local ingredients.
What to order: Daily pizza slice or a cheesy bread roll.
Price: $3–$5 per slice.

Ramen Shop (Oakland)

Why it’s a Must-Try: While not necessarily the cheapest on this list, Ramen Shop’s generous bowls of ramen are affordable for the quality and quantity. The ramen is loaded with rich broth, handmade noodles, and fresh ingredients, making it a budget-friendly luxury.
What to order: Miso ramen with smoked egg.
Price: $15–$18 for ramen (splittable).

Super Duper Burgers (Multiple Bay Area Locations)

Why it’s a Must-Try: A Bay Area favorite, Super Duper Burgers offers high-quality burgers made with Niman Ranch beef at affordable prices. Their classic burger with fresh-cut fries and soft-serve ice cream on the side offers great value for money.
What to order: Classic burger or veggie burger.
Price: $8–$10 for a burger.

Bakesale Betty (Oakland)

Why it’s a Must-Try: Known for their fried chicken sandwiches, Bakesale Betty in Oakland delivers massive, crispy sandwiches topped with a tangy, spicy coleslaw. It’s a legendary spot that’s well worth a visit.
What to order: Fried chicken sandwich.
Price: Around $10.

Souvla (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This Greek restaurant offers healthy, affordable food in the form of pita wraps or bowls, loaded with rotisserie chicken, lamb, or roasted vegetables. Their Greek frozen yogurt topped with baklava crumbles is also a must-have.
What to order: Chicken pita wrap or lamb salad bowl.
Price: $12–$14.

El Farolito (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: One of the Bay Area’s most famous taquerias, El Farolito offers large, flavor-packed burritos at an unbeatable price. Their hearty, stuffed-to-the-brim burritos are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
What to order: Carne asada or al pastor burrito.
Price: Around $10–$12.

Saigon Sandwich (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This Tenderloin spot is known for its incredible Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, made with crispy baguettes and filled with savory meats and fresh vegetables. At under $6, it's one of the best deals in the city.
What to order: Roast pork banh mi.
Price: $5–$6.

Senor Sisig (San Francisco/Oakland)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This Filipino-fusion food truck serves up savory, filling dishes like sisig burritos, tacos, and fries. With their unique twist on traditional Filipino flavors, it’s one of the best and most affordable food trucks around.
What to order: Sisig burrito or fries.
Price: $10–$12.

Tartine Bakery (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: Tartine may be world-famous for its bread and pastries, but the bakery also offers affordable sandwiches and coffee. Their signature croissant and morning bun are Instagram-worthy and make for a satisfying budget-friendly breakfast.
What to order: Morning bun or croissant.
Price: $4–$6.

Kingdom of Dumpling (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: Tucked away in the Sunset district, Kingdom of Dumpling is known for its handmade dumplings that are both delicious and affordable. The portions are generous, and the flavor is incredible for the price.
What to order: Pork and chive dumplings.
Price: $8–$10.

Bodega SF (San Francisco)

Why it’s a Must-Try: This small Vietnamese eatery offers affordable, delicious bowls of pho, spring rolls, and banh mi sandwiches. It's a low-key spot to enjoy some of the Bay Area's best Vietnamese food without spending too much.
What to order: Pho with beef or a banh mi sandwich.
Price: $8–$12.

Also don't forget to check out best Chinese, Indian, and Mexican restaurants in San Francisco