Bay Area Food Recommendations
Over 70% of our clients come here just for the tattoo, so they’re not very familiar with the area. Many of them fly in the morning, get their tattoo, and leave on the same day, or arrive the evening before and spend about a day exploring San Francisco. As a foodie, we’ve put together a list of great restaurants so you can have the best meal while you’re here. Here are some yummy places you’ll love!
Recommendations based in San Mateo (Walking Distance from Studio)
Restaurants
Daeho Kalbijjim
A renowned Korean restaurant from the Bay Area, famous for its Cheese Galbi Jjim. If you add cheese, they torch it right in front of you. Portions are for two people. Visit on weekdays or during lunch to avoid long waits.
Kajiken
Known for Japanese dry noodles, Kajiken has long lines during lunch and dinner. Visit during off-peak hours for a better experience.
Happy Lamb
A hotpot restaurant that’s so good, I’ve visited it four days in a row. Perfect for hotpot enthusiasts.
Foreigner Cafe
My favorite brunch spot in San Mateo, offering excellent brunch items and delicious coffee.
Zhangliang Malatang
Choose your ingredients, and they cook them for you. Quick and ideal for a simple meal.
Sushi Maruyama
Open only for dinner, this budget-friendly omakase is about $54 per person. Almost impossible to book on weekends, so try walk-ins or call ahead. The tamago melts in your mouth.
Kokko
A popular yakitori restaurant. Call ahead to check availability before visiting.
Gao Viet Kitchen and Bar
They are famous for their pho and pork belly dishes. It also has long lines visit on weekdays or during lunch to avoid long waits.
Coffee
There are several coffee shops like Philz, Peet's, and Blue Bottle, but I only go to Blue Bottle because it's close by.
Dessert
Backhaus Bakery
The lines are crazy on weekends. You need to go early in the morning. On weekdays, most items are sold out by 11 AM.
Urban Ritual
Recommended drinks include the Crème Brûlée Boba and Strawberry Milk.
Somisomi
Both the Nutella-filled fish-shaped pastry (bungeoppang) and the ice cream are delicious. Be aware that the lines are extremely long on weekend evenings.
Tong sui
Known for the coconut pudding.
Jia’s Top 3 Michelin-Star Restaurants
Perfect for celebrating special occasions or finding a fancy spot in SF
Ssal Korean Fine Dining (1 Star)
-My favorite cozy Korean fine dining restaurant – I’ve been here 5 times recently, and it never disappoints!
Saison (2 Stars)
-The sophisticated atmosphere and exquisite menu make every occasion unforgettable.Quince (3 Stars)
-The pinnacle of Italian fine dining. Elegant ambiance and exceptional dishes that leave a lasting impression.
Best Korean BBQ in the Bay Area
10 Butchers (Sunnyvale)
my favorite KBBQ spot! I highly recommend the marinated galbi, A5 Japanese wagyu, and chuck flap tail.
Recommendations based in San Francisco
Restaurants
Sotto Mare
You must try their cioppino and risotto.
Hog Island Oyster Co.
For oysters, this is the place to go. Fog Harbor Fish House is also a famous alternative but I prefer Hog Island. Go with either that matches your itinerary.
Bottega
Perfect for pasta and wine pairing.
Illcha Korean
The perfect place to grab drinks and enjoy flavorful Korean fusion dishes with friends in the evening.
Desserts
Arsicault
BEST CROISSANTS in town. You have to try their almond croissants. There will always be a line in the morning but the line runs fast.
B. patisserie
Best place for Classic Kouign amanns. They have special monthly flavors, so it’s good to try them out.
Third Culture Bakery
Their original mochi muffin!!
Matcha Cafe Maiko
For Matcha lovers. Love both of their soft serves and drinks.
Lush Gelato
