Under the Radar Institutions

There’s no shortage of iconic restaurants in San Francisco, many that I’ve already covered. There is, however, an extremely long tail of revered establishments that sometimes slip through the cracks. If you haven’t heard of or been to the below restaurants, it is my extreme pleasure to share them with you. Dig in:

🦀 Thanh Long / thanhlongsf.com

Thanh Long has its share of press coverage and online reviews, so you can argue that it’s not under the radar, but if you don’t make it to Outer Sunset often or you aren’t a lifelong crab and garlic noodles enjoyer, then it might not be on your radar. Now it is, and it’s crazy.

Order This ⬇️

• Mango Salad

• Roast Crab

• Garlic Noodles

NOTE: I came with a friend and a large appetite and it was not overkill to share a crab and get our own orders of garlic noodles. Truth be told a crab per person would be the ultimate luxury.

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations | Delivery & Takeout | Map

🍝 Jackson Fillmore / jacksonfillmoresf.com

Talk to anyone who’s lived in San Francisco for more than a few years and they’ll probably have fond memories of Jackson Fillmore. My personal favorite is closing the place down after many bottles of wine, plates of pasta, and glasses of whiskey from a bottle stashed secretly in a cupboard by the staff. It’s perfect for a casual get together when simple comfort food is the move.

Order This ⬇️

• Mozzarella Fritti

• Spaghetti alla Carbonara

• Bombolotti

NOTE: admittedly I haven’t explored the menu as much as I could’ve, so I’m probably overlooking a lot. If you’re 2, sit at the bar!

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations | Delivery & Takeout | Map

🍡 Terzo / terzosf.com

It’s hard to put Terzo in a box - I typically describe it as Mediterranean but in the broadest sense. It may not have the long history of the other places on this list, but it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. The wine list is surprisingly approachable, the staff is tenured and extremely helpful, and the vibe is immaculately cool.

Order This ⬇️

• Hummus

• Chicken Spiedini

• Grilled Monterrey Calamari

• Tomato-Braised Pork Meatballs

• Grilled Painted Hills Ranch Skirt Steak

• Crispy Onions

NOTE: I am constantly torn between the Chicken Spiedini appetizer and the Moroccan Style Braised Chicken entree, both of which are in a 3-way tie with Zuni Cafe for the best chicken dish in SF. If you go with 4 people, order both. If you go with 2, only order the Spiedini or risk chicken overload.

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations | Delivery & Takeout: N/A | Map