A Frequent Traveler's Guide to "Good Eats" in San Francisco

Looking for good sushi? How about arguably the best in the nation? Sebo has been hailed the best in the west but many would argue that no one does it better in the entire country. Aside from the obvious indicators that Sebo is a must visit for any fan of raw fish fare, it's also a popular hang out for local chefs, meaning the ingredients are fresh and the menu is stellar. And even though Sebo is in the trendy Hayes neighborhood it's very much a no-frills joint so there's no need to dress up. An off menu item you may consider is their Hamachi Kama (or any other type of Kama, or collar, they have on hand). In my experience, kama meat is the most tender part of the fish and is usually saved for the sushi chefs to eat when their shift is over. During my visit the chef didn't have Hamachi Kama but he offered to cook a mackerel collar then came over to ask what I thought. Very cool, considering the guy is considered among the best sushi practitioners alive. A little lemon juice and soy sauce drizzled over the top of your kama and you're eating like a local. Everything else I tried from the the menu was tremendous.
http://www.sebosf.com

The Ferry Building Marketplace is along the Embarcadero at the foot of Market Street (by the financial district). Right on the water, this is one of the best views of the bay bridge and has SO much great, fresh foods to enjoy as you gaze across the water. I had an Asian pear from the outdoor farmer's market and it was literally the best piece of fruit I've ever had. There's also this very loud, Greek vendor at the far south end of the market (just as you exit the south doors, also by the outdoor farmer's market) who sells rotisserie chicken and a pork loin sandwich. According to a local couple I chatted up, fights have broken out over the pork loin sandwich and I totally understand why. That sandwich changed my life. I've gone as far as trying TWICE to make something similar at home.
http://www.ferrybuildingmarketplace.com/

Inside the Market is Miette, a quaint little pastry shop that has very authentic and very delicious French macarOn (not macarOOn) cookies. They're about $1.25 a piece and worth every penny. One of the pistachio flavored Macarons will keep you smiling for hours. Sure wish I could find something similar in Denver, CO.
http://www.miettecakes.com/

As touristy and awful as Fisherman's Wharf might sound, Boudin's Sourdough actually dishes up a fantastic Clam Chowder. It's all made with very fresh ingredients, down to the hand peeled/chopped potatoes which are slow cooked to near perfection. Their sourdough bread is also pretty tasty. Might be good before or after the Alcatraz tour.

While you're in the city, walk across golden gate bridge. (Duh.) If you're lucky, you'll have a clear view back towards the city for some very cool photo opportunities. Graphic design nerd alert: If you go, pay close attention to the awesome type face used on the placards halfway across the bridge.

If you're up for a slightly fancier dinner (nothing over $30, though) Terzo is fantastic. They have an amazing sunchoke (Jerusalem artichoke) soup and it's located right in the Union neighborhood. I think famous people eat here.
http://www.terzosf.com/

Also recommended (but I've never been), SPQR in the Pacific Heights neighborhood.
http://www.spqrsf.com/

I can't talk about San Francisco without mentioning Pizza Orgasmica. They have two or three locations around the downtown area and serve awesome pies and calzones (for the west coast, that is). My favorite is the chicken pesto calzone but I must warn you: be careful what you order the first time because it may be the last thing you order at Pizza Orgasmica. The best part is they make their own beer and the IPA is among the best I've had. That's a lot coming from a guy residing in Denver, CO -- the small batch, gourmet beer capital of the nation.
http://www.pizzaorgasmica.com/beers.html

Last, but certainly not least is El Farolito in the Mission 'hood. I say 'hood because it's smack in the middle of one of San Francisco's less desirable neighborhoods (after 10 p.m.) but there's definitely a lot of culture and art to soak in during daylight hours. The locals rave about El Farolito's Carne Asada, but I've found the chorizo tacos and breakfast burritos are tasty and filling. Also notable are the aguas frescas (fresh fruit juices) and Al Pastor tacos. Aesthetics are terrible, seating is cramped and the clientele a bit shady but one things for sure: this is a hidden gem in what some consider the armpit of SF and it's a must visit for locals and tourists alike.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/el-farolito-san-francisco-2