Best Lunch Restaurants in SOMA

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchIndian

Regions

East BayMarinPeninsulaSan Francisco

Neighborhoods

AlamedaAlbanyBerkeleyBernal HeightsChinatownCivic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

299 restaurants available nearby

1. Marlowe

4.5

Awesome(2930)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • SOMA

Booked 45 times today

Opened in 2010 and relocated to its current location in 2014, Marlowe is a New American bistro located in San Francisco’s Soma neighborhood in the former COCO500 space. Brought to you by Executive Chef Jennifer Puccio and award-winning San Francisco designer Ken Fulk, Marlowe focuses on classic comfort foods with flavorful twists, like Chef Puccio’s signature Marlowe Burger, seasonal poulet vert, brussels sprouts chips and quail egg topped steak tartare. Taking inspiration from the butcher shops of the past, Marlowe is designed with a sleek but comfortable feel, featuring white subway tiles, white marble, deep blue banquettes, wood block tables and specials listed on rolls of butcher paper.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa) restaurant

2. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa)

4.4

Awesome(298)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Japanese • SOMA

Booked 18 times today

Founded in Tokyo in 1996, Gyu-Kaku has become the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand! Thanks to our devoted fans we have reached over 700 locations worldwide. Each day, hundreds of thousands of people gather around the table-top smokeless grill, a centerpiece of our dining concept, enjoying selections of premium meats, just off the grill, and other freshly prepared foods from our kitchens, inspiring laughter, conversation, and a magical dining experience.Our authentic yakiniku (grilled barbeque) dining experience crowns you the chef. Share a variety of delicious appetizers and premium cooked meats over a flaming grill, paired with Japanese sake, frosty cold beers, or other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options of your choice. We're the perfect spot to enjoy time with friends and family, organize an office party, or to spend quality time with your significant other! Before you go, don't forget to taste our best-seller Harami Skirt Steak or Prime Kalbi Short Rib among other must-try dishes!

3. BISTRO 888

4.8

Exceptional(1795)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • SOMA

Booked 7 times today

Contemporary upscale Restaurant and Bar "BISTRO 888" in downtown San Francisco offers a modern Californian Cuisine designed by Executive Chef Norma Whitt. Along with serving delicious entrees using local ingredients, BISTRO 888 offer guests and extensive selection of wines, craft beer, and hand-crafted cocktails.

4. Mariposas

4.6

Exceptional(41)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Peruvian • SOMA

Booked 7 times today

Step into a culinary expedition that transcends borders and ignites the senses at our sizzling new Peruvian rotisserie restaurant. Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, our vibrant eatery invites you to embark on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the bold and flavorful traditions of Peru. From the moment you step through the doors, the intoxicating aroma of perfectly seasoned rotisserie meats and exotic spices will transport you to the bustling streets of Lima. Our chefs, inspired by the rich tapestry of Peruvian cuisine, have crafted a menu that showcases the artistry of rotisserie cooking, delivering a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds, as we redefine the meaning of dining with an experience that is as unforgettable as the Andean sunset. Welcome to a culinary journey where every bite tells a story – welcome to Mariposas!

A photo of Kokkari Estiatorio restaurant

5. Kokkari Estiatorio

4.8

Exceptional(9244)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 157 times today

Kokkari (pronounced “Ko-Kar-ee”) is a small fishing village located on the islands of Samos in the Aegean Sea, whose name is derived from the small onions that were once produced in the nearby fields. Its fertile soil and Mediterranean climate translated into an abundance of fresh produce as well as treasured seafood and game. Legend tells that Kokkari is the site where Orion, a mighty hunter and a young man of gigantic stature and great beauty, fell in love with the daughter of the king of Chios. For the love of her, Orion forged the island for wild game and seafood to prepare elaborate banquets in celebration of their love. Today, we hope you will enjoy your own celebration as you dine at Kokkari Estiatorio on food “fit for the Gods” prepared with an Aegean palate and the style of innovative California fare.

6. Wayfare Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(7873)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 74 times today

Chef Tyler Florence brings his passion for high quality and style to San Francisco with his new flagship restaurant, Wayfare Tavern. A classic San Francisco Tavern featuring authentic American dishes inspired by local cuisine at the turn of the 20th century, the menu ranges from classic comforts to rustic delicacies. The beverage menu features locally-sourced wines including a selection of Florence's own label, quality draft beers and organic root beer as well as classic Victorian-era cocktails.All three floors of the restaurant have been designed keeping historical accuracy in mind making Wayfare Tavern reminiscent of a Victorian parlor and an Edwardian men's club, where anything goes from black-tie to blue jeans. Pull up a stool to the Chef's Counter at the open kitchen and look on as Chef prepares your lunch or head to the Library and Billiard Room for a game of pool. Wayfare Tavern is a truly unparalleled dining experience translated from a century ago. Photo: John Lee.

7. Barcha

4.7

Exceptional(1644)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Mediterranean • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 60 times today

We welcome you to our warm modern space with the largest heated patio in the Financial District! Our outdoor dining room is set up beautifully, and has the most romantic ambiance. Indoors, celebrate with us in our newly remodeled interior. Our inspiration is that of the Mediterranean with its wonderful diverse cultures, cuisines and wines. The menu reflects flavors from South of France, Spain, Tunisia and the Middle East. Be sure to try our legendary Persian Tahdig, Spiced Beef Dumplings, and the smoothest, most delicious hummus you've ever had!We look forward to welcoming you to Barcha!HAPPY HOUR IS BACK AT BARCHA!Come join us at Barcha for a new Happy Hour experience! We are featuring small bites with our unique spin on Mediterranean specialties. Available Monday through Thursday 3:30pm-5:30pm. Drink specials, beautiful food, and most importantly, the best company!

A photo of COQUETA - San Francisco restaurant

8. COQUETA - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(3425)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Spanish • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 52 times today

Brought to you by Award Winning Chef Michael Chiarello and located at Pier 5 on the bustling San Francisco Waterfront, Coqueta is inspired by the cuisines of Spain. Chef Chiarello feels that Spain’s signature ‘small plates’ coupled with the social vibrancy of their dining scene is the perfect combination for San Francisco, which has its own deep-rooted history with the country. Focusing on regional dishes from Madrid, Catalonia, the Basque Country and beyond, the menu will feature Chiarello's interpretation of traditional Spanish cuisine and, as has always been his tradition, will highlight the bounty of fresh, local ingredients from land and sea.Coqueta means “flirt” or “infatuation” in Spanish, and represents Michael Chiarello and his team’s exploration and interpretation of Spanish Cuisine, wine and inspired cocktails, while highlighting the bounty of Northern California.

A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant

9. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(6228)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 94 times today

The Rotunda serves afternoon tea seven days a week beginning at 1:30 p.m. A tea experience reservation is necessary to enjoy our daily tea service. Any dietary restrictions must be noted at least 24 hours in advance of your reservation.Please use link below to reserve your tea experience.https://www.opentable.com/booking/experiences-availability?rid=889&restref=889&experienceId=35326Let THE ROTUNDA® host your next Baby or Bridal Shower. We pride ourselves on creating the perfect menu and ambience for your event in our chic and inviting atmosphere. Pamper the glowing bride- or mother-to-be in your life with the shower of her dreams or a lavish luncheon.*February 22, the outside elevator is under construction. Enter through any of the outside NM entrances, take any elevator to the 4th floor.

10. Starbelly

4.6

Exceptional(1604)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • The Castro

Booked 30 times today

Starbelly is a modern, urban restaurant that serves California Comfort food in the heart of The Castro. Our garden patio and fun atmosphere make Starbelly a neighborhood favorite, serving lunch, brunch and dinner. Our craft cocktails, beer and wine lists all play well with our seasonal menu.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Minneapolis - St. Paul •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Absolutely excellent from start to finish — amazing staff, ambiance and food… even the table bread was astounding. I’ll be back!
More info
Kokkari EstiatorioPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.8
A
Alfie
London •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food was excellent, refined but generous with complex flavours. The place was buzzing even on a Tuesday
More info
MarlowePrice: Moderate• American• SOMA
•
4.5
S
Shay
Denver / Colorado •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 23, 2025
Love it, I worked at the Denver locations so it was a nice experience coming out here to see the sf location! The servers were absolutely amazing The food of course was amazing If I come back out here I will definitely be coming back
More info
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa)Price: Expensive• Japanese• SOMA
•
4.4
K
KVIP
Toronto / Ontario •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 15, 2025
Outstanding server. Very professional and courteous. Though it was a lunch booking, we were not rushed. He made sure we are served with drinks and have needed time to review the menu. Both tomatoes and mushroom soups were yummy. The salad portion was generous too.
More info
BISTRO 888Price: Expensive• Californian• SOMA
•
4.8
M
Matt
Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Feb 11, 2025
This place is all about the food. Ignore the menu, it's just there to provide familiar options. Talk to your server. They'll find something for you that will delight. The decor is standard diner decor, it isn't the point. The seating looks like something from the 1950s, but again, the seating isn't the point. The food is the point, and the food is delightful.
More info
MariposasPrice: Moderate• Peruvian• SOMA
•
4.6

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