Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

American food salad spots in San Francisco

Made for those who want the reliable, no-nonsense satisfaction of an American-style meal anchored by a fresh salad.

Based on 887 Opinions
+884
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Big Finish Wine Tavern image 1
Big Finish Wine Tavern image 2
Big Finish Wine Tavern image 3
View all

Restaurant blends Star Trek theme with warm, inviting atmosphere and Michelin-level food. Crowd enjoys wine and cider on tap alongside standout dishes like pork chop and pappardelle. Space feels cozy with Tiffany lamps and exposed brick, creating a casual yet classy vibe.

Salads here feature fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. The Tavern Salad stands out with its crispness and includes house pickles for a unique touch.

Buffalo wings come with perfect sauce and get local approval. Starters include smoked trout dip with Old Bay chips and chicken liver pâté with cornbread and marmalade. Desserts feature bread pudding alongside hearty mains like pork chop and pappardelle.

People are saying

"I thought the wine selection was incredible and well-paired."

"I wanted to return to try other salads on the menu."

"You have to try the pork chop; it's a perfect 10."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $7 wines and bar snacks for a quick bite.

2

A mandatory 20% service fee is added to all checks.

3

The wine list features 46 options, organized by intensity.

02
Prelude image 1
Restaurant

Southern fine dining unfolds in a sleek, moody space with an open kitchen showcasing chefs at work. Elegant, intimate lighting and soft textures create a calm, composed atmosphere. Signature cocktails and creative dishes like chicken-stuffed wings highlight a refined, upscale experience.

Salads feature winter greens with midnight moon Gouda, a beet and citrus mix on horseradish, and a notable asparagus salad. Ambrosia salad appears as a nostalgic, elevated dessert option.

Chicken wings stand out, especially the stuffed wing variety. Creamy, perfectly seasoned grits come with playful sides, alongside classic dishes like ambrosia salad.

People are saying

"The Fine Dining here is amazing, with creative and gorgeous dishes."

"The American Food, especially the pork chop, was beautifully cooked."

"The chef's personal touch made the salad experience awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 5-7pm daily.

3

The menu changes seasonally based on local farmer's market finds.

03
Jay’s Grill image 1
Restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers authentic shawarma and generous portions in a clean, spacious setting. Atmosphere stays calm and welcoming, suitable for casual meals or quiet conversations. Open late, it serves as a vibrant community spot in an otherwise quiet area.

Customization stands out with a salad bar that lets you build your own meal. Salads come topped with olive oil and pair well with dishes like grilled chicken and lentil soup.

Fried chicken with a Mediterranean twist stands out, served with rice, bread, hummus, salad, and soup for a reasonable price. The menu also features impressive hamburger options and Cajun fries that complement the dishes well.

People are saying

"I found the Mediterranean food, especially the chicken shawarma, very delicious."

"The dinner spots here have such warm, friendly staff."

"The American Food here, especially the burgers and fries, is so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Jay’s Grill is open until midnight on weekends.

2

Most menu items are halal except for wings and tenders.

3

The restaurant offers a customizable salad bar.

04
The Halfway Club image 1
American restaurant

Bar space divides into distinct vibes across front, middle, and back areas, including a back patio and a room with a projector. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting with live jazz music at a volume that allows conversation. Crowd enjoys upmarket yet relaxed neighborhood energy with a mix of classic and creative drinks.

Salads pack a punch with Szechuan peppercorns adding bold flavor. Options include a chicory salad and a Brussels sprouts and radicchio salad that stand out for quality and taste.

Meatloaf sandwich stands out as a popular choice. The French Onion Mac and Cheese offers a mild cheese sauce that could be more complex. Breakfast hot dog and chicken salad also appear on the menu.

People are saying

"This bar has a cozy interior and friendly, competent service."

"The salad here is flavorful and packed a punch."

"The American Food here is flavorful and packed a punch."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Food can be ordered directly from your bartender or server.

3

Dogs are allowed on the patio, making it a pet-friendly spot.

05
The Hungry Spot image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop with an authentic cozy interior and funny signs on the walls that can be purchased. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, reminiscent of a classic deli. Seating is limited, making it suitable for quick lunches or casual work sessions.

Salads feature fresh ingredients like bell peppers, broccoli, and corn. Portions come large, with options like the Vitamin Salad and caprese with chicken showing a balanced mix of flavors.

Smoked turkey brisket stands out with its unique flavor and pairs well with Dutch crunch bread. Garlic Parmesan chicken wings offer a crispy outside and tender inside.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwich was the best I had in the neighborhood."

"I found the salad ingredients paired really well and were very fresh."

"You have to try the smoked turkey brisket sandwich; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $14 for soup to over $20 for pasta dishes.

2

The portions are large enough for big eaters to consume easily.

3

They accommodate customers with allergies, including seafood and peanuts.

06
Question Mark Tavern image 1

Neighborhood lounge with eclectic vibe and unique decor offers a chill atmosphere and live music. Space includes private karaoke rooms and a tech-savvy buzzer entry system. Regulars enjoy perks like key fob access, while views of the skyline add to the roomy, welcoming feel.

Caesar salad stands out with its basic, tasty flavor. The kitchen serves salads alongside burgers, chili, sandwiches, fries, and wings.

Fried chicken sandwich and bacon grilled cheeses stand out on the menu. Small bites like apple blossoms and loaded tater tots add variety alongside wings.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was surprisingly superb."

"The American Food here is so accommodating and friendly."

"I was definitely going back for the salad."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Tuesdays with a two-drink minimum.

07
Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement image 1

Neighborhood soul food spot with Southern fried chicken and best-ever cornbread serves meals in plastic trays like a sports bar. Atmosphere stays low key and lively, with pleasant background music and TVs showing 80's shows and sports. Small tables, booths, and a communal table create a warm, family-operated vibe.

Green salad features red onions, carrots, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette dressing that feels refreshing. Sides include potato salad and collard greens alongside other dishes.

Fried chicken stands out with its extra crispy skin and juicy inside, seasoned well and holding up after a ride home. Cornbread is slightly sweet with a great corn mix, and the mac and cheese is rich and delicious.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken was the best I've ever had."

"The American food here, especially the fried chicken, is the best I've ever had."

"I enjoyed the tasty potato salad and mac and cheese."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5:30 pm with great deals on wings and wine.

2

The 2 piece combo is priced at $15, but may cost $20 with extras.

3

The menu is limited to lunch options, primarily featuring fried chicken.

08
Galinette image 1
French restaurant

Light, airy space with an open kitchen and large communal table encourages conversation. Bright, harsh lighting contrasts with colorful decor and French mural art, creating a unique vibe. Atmosphere feels relaxed and authentic, reminiscent of a neighborhood bistro in France.

Salads feature house-cured jamon and heirloom tomatoes in large, flavorful portions. Options include a Parisienne mesclun and a lyonnaise frisée salad with rich French twists.

Meat dishes like hanger steak and hamburger stand out here. Custom grilled cheese and sides like onion soup and fries round out the American food offerings.

People are saying

"The French onion soup here is rich and savory."

"The mesclun salad here is a huge portion."

"The service here is amazing and super friendly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays.

09
Super Mensch image 1
Jewish restaurant

Small space fills with loud energy and bright natural light from south-facing windows. Menu offers a modern twist on Jewish deli classics with a strong focus on meat, while cocktails stand out as inventive and playful. Decor includes photos of famous Jewish delis, creating a lively homage to tradition.

Watermelon and Feta salad stands out with its fresh, vibrant flavors. Potato salad includes chives and roe but leans heavily on mayo, as does the coleslaw.

Kosher hot dog and a variety of dips stand out on the menu. Potato salad and coleslaw lean heavily on mayo, and latkes taste more like hash browns than traditional latkes.

People are saying

"The Jewish Deli's cocktails, like the Black & White Cookie Martini, were a highlight."

"The watermelon feta salad was a highlight."

"The pastrami sandwich on rye bread is delicious and well-balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The sandwich prices start at $22, which may feel steep for some.

3

Expect limited vegetarian options, with only one main dish available.

10
Pete's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

No-frills barbecue spot with a modest, clean space and a loud refrigeration hum in the background. Atmosphere feels like an old-school lunchline with a focus on handmade, high-quality BBQ and succulent ribs and chicken. Limited seating and cash-only policy add to the straightforward, authentic vibe.

Beet salad stands out with its acidic contrast and nutritious quality. Other sides like macaroni salad and Greek salad add variety and depth.

Ribs come with coleslaw and baked potatoes, offering a classic American meal. Brisket appears on Tuesdays, while sides include spaghetti with meat sauce, bean salad, and macaroni salad.

People are saying

"I found Pete's ribs to be an absolute must-have experience."

"The food here is some of the best and most satisfying I've ever had."

"You can't go wrong with this amazing American food."

Good to know

1

Pete's Bar-B-Que only accepts cash payments; bring cash to avoid a 3% card fee.

2

Brisket is available only on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

The cheapest meal costs $14, with drinks bringing the total to $17.50.

11
SOHN image 1
Cafe

Spacious two-floor cafe with thoughtful interior design and cozy sofa corners creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Bright, airy space features glowing Noguchi lights and modern decor, though sound echoes off concrete walls making it loud. Self-service ordering via QR codes and plentiful outlets support casual work or socializing.

Spicy cold noodle salad features an authentic, classic spicy kimchi flavor with noodles that satisfy those avoiding meat. This dish stands out for its perfect balance of spice and coolness.

The Galbi Patty Melt stands out with its juicy, flavorful galbi patty, melty cheese, and crispy, buttery toast. It comes with a kimchi slaw that adds a tangy kick, and the sesame croissant bun adds a unique twist.

People are saying

"The breakfast sandwich here is rich, savory, and satisfying."

"The American Food here, especially the Galbi Patty Melt, is juicy with melty cheese."

"I could eat the spicy cold noodle salad every day."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

There are two lines—left side for dine-in and right side for takeout.

3

A QR code is available for ordering to-go items.

12
Board and Drink image 1
Restaurant

Small space with simple, bright decor offers a family-friendly atmosphere and early 2000s music playlist. Outdoor tables add charm on nice days. Food and drinks feature bold flavors, including standout mimosas and breakfast dishes.

Fruit salad features one banana and three strawberries. Portion size is small and priced at $10.

Eggs Benedict and fried banana French toast stand out with rich flavors. The crispy tater tots add a satisfying crunch to the meal.

People are saying

"I had some of the best breakfast I've ever experienced here."

"The American Food here, especially the tater tots, is so crispy and well-seasoned."

"I enjoyed a lovely fruit salad."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time on Sundays; bring something to do while waiting.

2

An automatic 20% gratuity is added for groups of four or more.

3

Board and Drink offers pet-friendly outdoor seating.

13
Apres Vous image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Takeout restaurant offers a quiet, friendly atmosphere with plenty of space and tables. The environment feels comfortable and welcoming, suited for casual lunch or dinner. Food selections include unique, high-quality sandwiches and hot dishes with reasonable prices.

Salads come fresh with mixed greens and seasonal vegetables. Dressings are well balanced, complementing sides like crudite platters and hummus.

Pulled pork sandwiches stand out with ciabatta bread and rich flavor. Other options include a turkey club on sourdough and tasty lasagna with mushrooms.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the lasagna, was delicious."

"I found the salad here to be delicious."

"I loved the pulled pork sandwich; it's delicious American Food."

Good to know

1

Lunch for two is under $20 with a satisfying variety of options.

2

The prices are reasonable, making it a great value.

3

There is a wide variety of entrees, sandwiches, and desserts available.

14
Cousins Maine Lobster Restaurant - Pier 41 San Francisco image 1

Seafood restaurant offers waterfront views and a small, diner-style interior with celebrity photos on the walls. Atmosphere feels like fast food with plastic seating but remains quiet enough to enjoy meals. Outdoor area doubles indoor space, creating a casual vibe amid a lively pier setting.

Harvest Salad stands out as a filling and delicious option, often paired with lobster. Portions tend to be small, especially the salad size.

Lobster rolls stand out with rich garlic flavor and a classic Maine style that many find delicious. Meals often include tater tots, small sides, and a drink, complementing the seafood well.

People are saying

"I thought the lobster rolls were great and totally worth the price."

"The lobster rolls here are really good and worth the price."

"I found the Harvest Salad to be very delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

This place has no toilets, so plan accordingly.

2

The prices at the restaurant are quite high for a fast food place.

3

I found good gluten-free options available.

15
Holbrook House image 1
Restaurant

Former bank transformed into an upscale bar and restaurant with an epic central bar and modern public house energy. Atmosphere feels beautiful and lively, suited for after-work drinks and casual lunches. Unique features include martini and champagne carts that add interactive fun to the experience.

Chicken kale salad stands out as a delicious and tasty option. Caesar salad also appears on the menu alongside other dishes.

Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich stays moist and flavorful. Coleslaw tastes fantastic. Caviar comes with duck fat hash browns. Mac and cheese feels dry.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and complex."

"You have to try their martinis, they're divine and gigantic."

"I found the kale chicken salad to be delicious American Food."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is popular, but expect large crowds and potential wait times.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially during peak hours.

3

The venue is part of a Privately Owned Public Open Space, offering free wifi.

16
Super Duper Burgers image 1
American restaurant

Spacious, clean dining area with two televisions creates a casual spot for watching NBA games. The atmosphere is cool and lively, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating including a parklet. Free house-made pickles and vegetarian options add distinctive touches to the American menu.

Salads come fresh and simple here, matching the quality of the burgers and fries. They offer a straightforward option with fresh ingredients but lean towards being just okay in flavor.

Burgers stand out with bacon cheeseburger noted for quality. Fried chicken sandwich comes with a mellow sauce that doesn't fully complement the chicken.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the shakes."

"This American food, especially the juicy burger patty, is really good."

"I thought the salads here were so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted fries and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

House-made pickles are complimentary with any burger purchase.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

17
Little Original Joe's image 1
Italian restaurant

Art Deco-inspired interior with high ceilings and expansive windows creates an inviting, well-lit atmosphere. Space feels comfortable and energetic, often loud with jazz and sports on a big bar TV. Bar serves photogenic cocktails alongside Italian dishes in a trendy, social setting.

Chinese Chicken Salad stands out with its bold flavors. Shaved Brussels sprout salad offers a fresh, crisp option. Caesar salad comes out perfectly balanced.

Smoked salmon eggs Benedict stands out with generous smoked salmon and nicely fried potatoes. Chicken noodle soup with stars offers a comforting, magical flavor. Prime rib French dip sandwiches feature thinly-sliced beef on a soft roll with au jus and horseradish sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and unforgettable."

"The American Food here is great, and the staff is so friendly."

"The Caesar salad was really good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Little Original Joe's, especially on weekends.

2

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation, particularly after 6 PM.

3

The kitchen stops serving the chicken Caesar wrap at 3 PM.

18
Caché image 1
Bistro

Small modern bistro with warm wooden decor and multiple intimate dining areas, including a hidden outdoor patio with heaters. Atmosphere feels cozy and romantic, especially during sunset. Guests enjoy a blend of refined French and California cuisine in a quiet, private setting.

Salads come as a refreshing side with a light, crisp dressing. Some salads show a cheap diner vibe, especially with mushrooms that look like they came from a salad bar.

Lobster roll features succulent lobster with a rich, creamy lobster head butter on a perfectly toasted brioche. Surf and turf appetizer offers complex flavors and textures.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with staff who are warm and knowledgeable."

"The American Food here is solid, and the staff is so attentive."

"I loved the side salad with its refreshing dressing."

Good to know

1

Caché has a seasonal menu that changes regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect higher prices for unique dishes, with some items over $20.

19
Arquet Restaurant image 1

Open kitchen with front-row view of the hearth creates an engaging dining experience. Spacious interior blends modern elegance with warm, inviting decor and offers stunning waterfront views including the Bay Bridge. Atmosphere is lively and bustling, suited for those who enjoy vibrant settings.

Salads feature contrasting flavors like walnut, anchovy, and preserved kumquat. The grilled gem salad offers a light char and fresh grated cheese, with options adjusted for vegans.

Heirloom grits with apple and fennel offer a comforting yet refined touch. Spare ribs, duck confit, ribeye steak, and scallion fried bread highlight the American food options alongside a grilled county line gems salad.

People are saying

"The food at this dinner spot is phenomenal and creative."

"The grilled gem salad had a nice light char and fresh cheese."

"The American Food's scallion fry bread was warm, crisp-edged, and irresistible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are often fully booked until late evening, so plan ahead.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes, which may not justify the price.

3

The restaurant does not serve complimentary bread with meals.

20
The Club SFO image 1
Travel lounge

Spacious lounge with modern decor and plentiful comfortable seating offers a relaxing atmosphere despite occasional crowding. Amenities include showers, yoga room, and private spaces, supporting both work and relaxation. The bar serves notable cocktails, enhancing the overall experience.

Salads include kale and broccoli, edamame, and other upscale options. They come alongside dishes like vegetarian curry and beef and broccoli, offering a healthy and varied selection.

Chocolate chip cookies and Ghirardelli brownies stand out among desserts. Dinner options include beef and broccoli, vegetarian curry, and salads, alongside chicken in gravy, meat tacos, and nachos with dips.

People are saying

"The Day Lounge staff, especially Mei and Michelle, are so friendly and attentive."

"They offered some rice, salad, and vegetables."

"I enjoyed the chicken and broccoli, and the chocolate chip cookies were great."

Good to know

1

Entry is free with a LoungeKey or Priority Pass card.

2

There was a 30-minute wait to get in during peak hours.

3

The lounge is not ADA friendly, making access difficult for those with disabilities.

21
The Third Floor image 1
Restaurant

Modern design blends natural stone accents and bespoke furnishings with a chic outdoor patio featuring fire pits and heat lamps. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming, suited for both business and special occasions. Signature cocktails like the handcrafted espresso martini complement a menu with standout dishes such as duck noodle soup.

Salads here include the Little Gems salad, which is very tasty, and a root salad that offers an exotic twist.

Fried chicken sandwiches come with coleslaw and vary from fairly good to just okay. Duck soup and pork belly eggs Benedict appear, with the latter featuring chopped pork belly rather than whole pieces.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and generous."

"The service here is so attentive and thoughtful."

"The American Food service was outstanding and very attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available with drinks and fries, perfect for after work.

2

The restaurant is suitable for both business meetings and casual dining.

3

The outdoor patio is a great spot for year-round dining.

22
Quik Dog image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Retro-modern burger spot combines family-friendly dining with a cozy bar area featuring moody lighting and wooden tables. The atmosphere stays fun and casual, with generous indoor and outdoor seating near a park. It balances a playful vibe with a comfortable setting for groups or solo visits.

Kale salad features a perfectly balanced dressing and generous parmesan. It stands out as a delicious, crave-worthy option among typical burger joint fare.

Huge menu includes burgers, hot dogs, and corn dogs. Fried chicken thighs stand out, and the kale salad has a perfectly balanced dressing with generous parmesan.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burger was one of the better ones I had."

"The kale salad here is incredible and perfectly balanced."

"I loved the American Food's fabulous location right by the beach."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday through Friday.

2

Quik Dog is conveniently located next to Oracle Park.

3

Expect a 25-minute wait for food during busy lunch hours.

Discover more

San Francisco, California

Area guide
Loading Map...