San Francisco and the Bay Area are renowned for their culinary diversity, offering a plethora of outstanding dishes that cater to every palate.
With such a vibrant food scene, it’s essential to know which dishes are must-tries and which ones can be skipped.
Eater editors, who dine out frequently, share recommendations for standout dishes that have made a lasting impression.
At Prelude, a recent tasting menu presented an array of remarkable offerings, making it a challenge to pinpoint the finest dish.
Chef Celtin Hendrickson-Jones crafts an innovative experience, and among smoked catfish dumplings, johnny cakes, and grits, one dish stands out: the stuffed chicken wing.
This dish features a crispy, fried exterior that encases a flavorful dirty rice filling, offering an incredible depth of flavor that invites appreciation in every bite.
Fried chicken aficionados will find this version particularly enlightening, as it transforms their perspective on what chicken wings can be.
If dining a la carte, don’t miss the chance to order the stuffed wings at Prelude, located at 333 Battery Street, San Francisco.
Additionally, Mama Ji’s presents a unique dining experience with its tofu wowotou, inspired by recent travels to Chengdu, China.
The restaurant, celebrating nearly 15 years in Castro, showcases a creative dish where cornmeal balls are filled with a sumptuous stir-fry, which can be customized with meat or tofu.
What sets this dish apart is the chili crisp crafted from Sichuan peppers—offering an explosively spicy flavor that is possibly the best in the city.
The tofu wowotou at Mama Ji’s, at 4416 18th Street, is not only playful but also comes at a budget-friendly price of under $20, making it a standout choice.
In Berkeley, La Marcha has recently introduced a brunch menu, where their rabo con huevos is drawing attention with its innovative take on traditional brunch fare.
While other offerings, such as churros and pancakes, cater to sweeter breakfasts, the sherry-braised oxtail steals the spotlight.
With perfectly tender meat, runny egg yolks, and crispy patatas served with a dipping sauce, this dish redefines the brunch experience.
The oxtail, falling off the bone with ease, resonated particularly well with those familiar with its use in Filipino cuisine and will likely encourage more brunch outings in the future.
La Marcha, located at 2026 San Pablo Avenue, proves that quality and creativity can revitalize the brunch scene.
Lastly, Ettan has emerged as a remarkable destination in Palo Alto, enticing diners with its vibrant atmosphere and exquisite offerings.
The paneer burji, a highlight of the menu, stands out for its luxurious combination of nutty cheese, creamy avocado, and rich tomato curry sauce.
The dish also features supreme snap peas, providing the needed crunch that balances the richness of the other ingredients.
Ettan’s atmosphere, adorned with vibrant blue accents and stylish decor, sets it apart from the more typical dining options in Silicon Valley.
While nearby restaurants may be gaining popularity, Ettan remains a culinary mainstay worthy of its reputation.
These diverse and exceptional dishes, crafted by talented chefs across the Bay Area, showcase the rich culinary landscape and the possibilities within.
So whether you’re exploring the tasting menus at Prelude, savoring the spicy wowotou at Mama Ji’s, enjoying brunch at La Marcha, or indulging in the paneer burji at Ettan, there’s no shortage of extraordinary food experiences to discover in the region.
image source from：https://sf.eater.com/2025/4/25/24416691/best-dishes-san-francisco-bay-area-restaurants-april-2025
