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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Francisco

Modern salad spots

A modern salad that feels innovative and fresh without losing the simplicity of a classic dish.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Prelude image 1
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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.

Interior feels classy and upscale with a modern twist on Southern dishes. Chef Hendrickson-Jones uses fresh local ingredients to create creative, modern Southern cuisine including a tasting menu.

People are saying

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

"The food here is a modern twist on southern traditions."

"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.

02
Yuja image 1
Asian restaurant

Bright, modern space offers a cozy and welcoming vibe with large tables suited for groups. Atmosphere stays relaxed and clean, matching a friendly neighborhood feel. Asian-fusion bowls feature bold, fresh flavors with healthy, satisfying portions.

Yuja's Asian salad stands out with its fresh, vibrant flavors. Salads here often balance well with dishes like chicken teriyaki and Thai basil pork, featuring elements like sweet potato salad and crisp cucumber.

People are saying

"I found the healthy food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The chicken teriyaki salad is amazing and perfectly balanced."

"The Thai basil pork was so tasty and hearty."

Good to know

1

Yuja offers affordable Asian-inspired bowls with many customization options.

2

The meals are reasonably priced for downtown San Francisco, averaging around $14.

3

Yuja has a secret menu featuring teriyaki sauce with chicken or tofu.

03
DACHA Kitchen & Bar image 1
Eastern European restaurant

Eastern European restaurant offers a gorgeous interior with cozy, welcoming atmosphere and unique handcrafted cocktails featuring homemade infusions. Two lounges create a lively bar scene where modern music enhances the exclusive vibe. Authentic dishes and specialty drinks highlight the experience.

Beet carpaccio salad appeals to beet lovers with its fresh flavor. Mimosa Salad offers light layers and a crisp apple touch. Olivier salad and winter salmon also stand out with rich tastes.

Warm and inviting atmosphere blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Eastern European dishes get a health-conscious twist with stylish presentation and attention to detail.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and feels like authentic Eastern European cuisine."

"The salads here feel like a warm, stylish home."

"It's a modern take on Eastern European dishes with a fresh twist."

Good to know

1

DACHA Kitchen & Bar hosts monthly bingo night on Thursdays.

2

Mixology classes are available and are a fun experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure a spot.

04
The Happy Crane image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant offers a beautifully designed space with stunning woodwork and an open, casual atmosphere. The vibe balances stylish yet welcoming energy, avoiding pretension while featuring thoughtful cocktails and standout dishes like Peking duck and biang biang noodles.

Doupi tofu salad stands out with its unique texture and flavor. Tofu skin salad adds a fresh, light touch alongside other dishes like tiger shrimp and golden baos.

Stunning woodwork and an open environment create a modern ambiance. The cuisine blends authentic Cantonese flavors with a refined, contemporary twist.

People are saying

"The firecracker shrimp has a great mala hit."

"The food here is a modern take on Chinese classics."

"The doupi tofu salad was a standout dish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the tasting menu, which costs $120 per person.

2

Expect a wait of about an hour after your reservation time.

3

The total cost with drinks and tips can reach around $200 per person.

05
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.

Bright, open spaces with modern furniture and sleek design create a pleasant atmosphere. Thoughtful dishes blend traditional Korean flavors with a modern touch.

People are saying

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

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

"The Modern popcorn chicken is flavorful and light."

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.

06
Turtle Tower - Fidi image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Modern dining space combines upscale decor with a long cocktail bar and tropical foliage accents. Atmosphere blends trendy Viet-techno house music with a stylish, relaxed vibe. Known for silky chicken pho and a refined, comfortable setting.

Salads here feature extreme freshness and a refreshing spice. The green papaya salad comes with peanuts and dried beef, and the shrimp wontons with mango add a nice twist.

Sophisticated, upscale interior features modern decor and a full bar. Vibrant space fills with upbeat Vietnamese music and warm energy, creating an elevated dining experience.

People are saying

"The pho broth is comforting and not too salty."

"The new location's modern decor feels sophisticated and upscale."

"This salad is rich, savory, herbasious, and crunchy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great deals.

2

The restaurant is open late until 3 AM on Friday and Saturday.

3

Reservations are recommended during lunch rush as the place gets packed.

07
Alora Coastal Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Restaurant offers stunning bay views with a heated outdoor patio that provides comfort in various weather. Atmosphere feels warm and elegant, creating a calm and refined dining environment. Cocktails and Mediterranean dishes feature multidimensional textures and thoughtful preparation.

Salads feature fresh sweet lettuces and a kale salad with rich textures. Dips like Muhammara and shared options add variety and depth.

A modern spin on classic Mediterranean cuisine shapes the menu with fresh, innovative dishes. Clean, modern decor and cozy tables create a classy, stunning lunch atmosphere on the pier.

People are saying

"These dinner spots offer flavorful vegetarian dishes and amazing textures."

"The beet salad with chicken was very good."

"I loved their modern take on Mediterranean food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have restrooms inside; public restrooms are nearby.

2

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

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

08
Hed 11 image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space blends modern Thai elegance with clean wooden decor and matching pottery. Atmosphere feels warm and sophisticated, inviting yet polished, suited for upscale dining. Unique dishes and thoughtful details create a distinct experience beyond typical Thai restaurants.

Spicy salads stand out here, especially the Spicy Hamachi Salad and the ant egg salad with lotus root. Papaya salad gets a twist with added strawberries, adding a unique touch.

Warm hospitality meets a cozy, modern atmosphere with clean lines. Dishes offer modern twists on Thai cuisine that respect tradition and taste delicious.

People are saying

"The Thai-inspired dishes here are uniquely creative and thoughtfully composed."

"The Hokkaido Scallop Phlaa salad was fresh and tasted great."

"The modern Thai dishes here are delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a $40 lunch menu with five courses.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait between dishes during dinner service.

3

Hed 11 offers a vegan option along with meat dishes.

09
Doppio Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Bright, spacious coffee shop with stylish, inviting decor and comfortable seating creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Many power outlets and fast WiFi support working or relaxing. Cleanliness and a well-designed layout offer personal space and a pleasant vibe.

Fresh ingredients define the Caprese salad, offering perfect flavor and beautiful presentation. Salads come alongside a variety of other fresh options like crepes and toasts.

Bright and welcoming with a modern, minimalist style. Interior features a cozy, stylish vibe and a well-thought-out layout.

People are saying

"The coffee here is amazing, and the staff are super friendly."

"It's modern, bright, and welcoming with a cozy, stylish vibe."

"The Caprese salad is amazing with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Doppio Cafe offers gluten-free options like sandwiches and avocado toast.

2

Prices at Doppio Cafe are lower than typical in San Francisco.

3

The portions of food and drinks are generous for the price.

10
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.

Classic Italian American dishes come with a modern twist here. The dining room feels modern but elegant, blending comfort with style.

People are saying

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

"The Caesar salad was really good."

"The food here is Modern and great."

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.

11
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.

Lots of thoughtful details shape the atmosphere and design. Cozy patio fireplaces and chic lounge seating add to the modern vibe. The food style is a fun Omakasa-Esq approach by the executive chef.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and generous."

"The service here is so attentive and thoughtful."

"The Modern staff are genuinely kind and 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.

12
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.

A warm ambiance and beautiful interior design create a cozy yet modern setting. The menu offers a modern twist on traditional French cuisine with refined flavors.

People are saying

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

"The modern cuisine here is beautifully presented and full of flavor."

"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.

13
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.

Large space features modern decor and a clean, appealing design. Service matches the inspiring, contemporary vibe.

People are saying

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

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

"The staff's warm welcome made my entire experience so much better."

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.

14
Four Kings 四大天王 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Small space with izakaya-style decor and walls adorned by classic Cantonese artists creates a nostalgic, cozy vibe. Energetic atmosphere buzzes with 80s and 90s Canton-pop music and lively chatter. Tight bar seating and warm service add to the intimate, vibrant experience.

Cucumber salad stands out with its refreshing and creamy acidic dressing. Jellyfish salad and A Choy salad add unique textures and flavors to the mix.

A modern, fusion take on Chinese cuisine shines through with a leaner, less sweet version of Chinese sausage in the claypot rice. The cozy, warm ambiance blends Cantonese decor with a nostalgic yet modern vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the spicy XO escargot."

"I waited almost a year for a reservation, but the salad was worth it."

"I loved their modern take on Cantonese cuisine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, and should be made at least three weeks in advance.

2

Expect a long wait if you arrive without a reservation, especially after 5:30pm.

3

Certain signature dishes may be unavailable if you arrive late, so plan accordingly.

15
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.

Open layout features modern elegance with warm, inviting touches. Multiple areas create a comfortable, elegant space.

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 Modern dishes were fresh, delicious, and unique."

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.

16
United Polaris Lounge image 1

Spanning two floors with varied seating options including tables, booths, and private rooms, the lounge offers a spacious and well-laid out environment. It maintains a pleasant atmosphere that can shift from quiet to crowded depending on passenger influx. Showers and quiet suites provide notable amenities enhancing the overall experience.

Plenty of options fill the salad bar, including rockfish and pulled pork. The selection pairs well with cheeses and snacks for a simple meal.

Spacious areas and a sleek design create a modern feel throughout. The lounge combines modern elements with open layouts for a fresh atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Day Lounge's ramen bar had amazing broth flavors and tender shrimp."

"The lounge was spacious and clean."

"I found the lounge to be modern and spacious."

Good to know

1

The lounge is only open until 11 PM.

2

The restaurant in the lounge requires a reservation.

3

Food is only prepared until 9:30 PM.

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