nopa
Stretching to the east of Golden Gate Park, the Panhandle has become a part of my daily routine. This slender, eucalyptus-filled park that was once a sand dune serves to connect Golden Gate Park to the heart of San Francisco, lending its name to one of my favorite micro-neighborhoods: North of Panhandle, affectionately known as NoPa.
Originally part of Western Addition, NoPa underwent a transformative period driven by real estate agents seeking to rebrand, gentrify, and draw in tech workers during the early 00s. Over the years NoPa's main haunt, Divisadero Street, has evolved into a playground for entertainment. It now hosts a diverse array of shops, a barcade nestled in a former church, a divey concert venue, and an assortment of eateries. Dive into my curated guide to uncover trendy coffee spots, the best specialty grocery in town, and my favorite gems in NoPa!
Must Try Restaurants in NoPa
Brenda’s Meat & Three
Southern | $
A Neighborhood favorite, Brenda's channels the spirit of New Orleans by delivering soulful dishes in a lively ambiance. Celebrated for its fluffy beignets and fried chicken, Brenda's offers a taste of Southern comfort with every bite. The shrimp and grits are a fan favorite and the hushpuppies are deliciously crispy. Their commitment to authentic flavors offers a taste of the Big Easy right in the heart of San Francisco.
best for: brunch & missing southern food
Che Fico
Italian | $$$ | Michelin Guide
This chic-meets-rustic Italian restaurant is a cult favorite here. Che Fico is a buzzing spot that pays homage to Jewish-Roman cuisine and treats Northern California as a region in Italy. Expect to find seasonal antipasto, Neapolitan pizzas, branzino, and delicious rich pastas. The bartenders sling playful (and stiff) cocktails and the wine pairings are a delight. Your first bite will be enough to understand why she’s so popular and why reservations are practically necessary.
best for: impressing out of towners or dinner with your parents
Che Fico Alimentari
Italian | $$
Located directly downstairs, Che Fico Alimentari is the laid back, casual version of Che Fico and is inspired by the little cafes and markets in Italy. They offer pasta supplies and packaged products like their house sauces and oils to go and a full dining menu if you post up. The high energy and dimly lit vibe is enough to keep me coming back but the food is incredible. You can’t choose wrong, but trust me the focaccia, prosciutto with burrata, lasagna, and the rigatoni amatriciana are worth an order.
best for: weeknight bites and bestie dates
Horsefeather
New American | $$
Horsefeather combines relaxed neighborhood charm with reinvented American classics. The warm, chic atmosphere and vintage vibe are the perfect backdrop for a night out. The duck fat fries are a crowd favorite and their double cheeseburger and gochujang crispy wings keep me frequenting this spot. The cocktail program features refreshing twists on moscow mules and gin coolers that are perfect for brunch!
best for: group dinners & brunch with the girlies
The Mill
Coffee & Bakery | $
Renowned for its collaboration with Josey Baker, The Mill has become a neighborhood icon and cherished SF coffee shop. Treat yourself to a Four Barrel latte and one of their signature dishes featuring Josey’s hearty, freshly baked bread topped with a mountain of avocado or almond butter with sea salt. The egg-in-a-hole toast is my go-to breakfast when I’m in the mood to post up in a laid-back, rustic shop. Expect a line and be sure to check out Monday pizza nights.
best for: coffee with carbs & cozy mornings
Nopa
New American | $$-$$$
Somehow both sophisticated and laid-back, Nopa is a neighborhood favorite restaurant that elevates American cuisine with a touch of Mediterranean flair. The daily menu revolves around their wood-burning stove and features dishes like grilled fruit, seasonal fish, grilled lamb, and supposedly one of the best burgers in town. The industrial chic ambience, high ceilings and open kitchen create an inviting space that should be next on your list.
best for: team dinners, birthdays and date nights
Nopalito
Mexican | $$ | Michelin Guide
A casual sister restaurant of Nopa, Nopalito blends the vibrant flavors of Mexico with a modern, inviting atmosphere. Their Pozole Rojo has a grip on my taste buds and their thick homemade corn tortillas are the star of almost every dish. The totopos, squash quesadillas, carnitas and pozole are a must try and if you’re feeling adventurous and comfy in the kitchen yourself, take home a copy of their James Beard award winning restaurant cookbook!
best for: margaritas with pals and weeknight eats
Bonus: Bi-Rite Market
A local favorite speciality grocery store dating back to 1940, Bi-Rite transforms grocery shopping into a celebration of the community and our local purveyors. The vibrant produce section showcases organic, locally sourced fruits and vegetables and the artisanal cheese selections will keep the foodies happy. Be sure to try one of their house-made sandwiches and set time aside to browse their carefully curated selection of goods. Their commitment to local purveyors and commitment to sustainable, community-driven practices set them apart from the rest!
