Best Mom & Pop Restaurants in San Francisco, California

If you're anything like me, you're a sucker for 'mom and pop' restaurants!

For those who don't know what a 'Mom & Pop' restaurant is, It is simply a small restaurant usually owned by a family. Unlike bigger restaurants there are only one or two restaurants in the world, which makes it special and unique!

Here are my top 5 go to places!

1. Franchino - 347 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

This is the most authentic Italian restaurant I've eaten at. The environment is nice and cozy with a home-like feeling, perfect to enjoy a glass of wine! The staff is extremely friendly and their food is extraordinary! They also have outside seating for when the weather is nice, which is great if you're an outdoor person!

2. The Grubstake - 1525 Pine St San Francisco, CA 94109

What I thought was cool about this restaurant was that it is set inside of an old train car! I was staying at a hotel near by and was starving!! So, I decided to take a walk to find something good to eat. Thankfully, the grubstake came to my rescue. I had the 'Super Johnny Burger'. This burger is a 10oz Patty with cheese, bacon, avocado, mushrooms topped with onion rings! (Did I mention I was starving?!) They have draft beer, the staff has a great sense of humor, and the prices are awesome! I plan on going back to try their 'Nutella trella shake'. I didn't have room left over to order that! That darn burger!!

3. Arts Cafe 747 Irving St. San Francisco, CA 94122

Have you ever woken up one morning with your tummy screaming at you, due to the amount of hunger you had? This family owned american-korean cafe is the IDEAL breakfast spot for those days, or even for any other day! It is located in the Inner heart district of San Francisco. Their Hashbrown sandwich is their signature and a must try. What really made me smile about this place is that they make smiley faces with their eggs! I know, I know, It sounds very preschool! But Hey, Im a sucker for fun food; Who isn't ?!

Also, what was interesting to me was their tables. They have really cool photos underlying the glass on their tables. It's pretty entertaining and interesting to look at if you're on a breakfast date with someone who has no personality HA!

4.Dear Mom - 2700 16th St. San Francisco,CA 94103

This isn't really a mom and pop shop BUT, I had to share this pub-grub with everyone.

Who's up for drinks, food, Billiard, and video games? Do I have to say any more?!

And don't forget to take a picture either with or of their awesome mural of Gandhi and his wondering and inspirational quote:

"First they Ignore you, Then they fight you, Then you win!"

I hope these 4 restaurants leave a great taste in your mouths the way it did for me! Nothing beats 'Mom & pop' and/or Hole in the wall restaurants. It's worth your money and you will always have an authentic, fun, unique experience! ENJOY!

Happy Travels,

The Wanderlust Woman