San Francisco's vibrant food scene isn't just about Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy eateries. Hidden amongst the gourmet delights are some truly exceptional places serving up delicious coleslaw. From classic creamy versions to innovative twists, San Francisco offers a surprising diversity of this humble side dish. This guide dives into 17 of the best places to find the perfect coleslaw to complement your meal, or even enjoy on its own!
Creamy Classics & Crunchy Creations: Exploring San Francisco's Coleslaw Scene
Coleslaw, that simple yet satisfying mix of shredded cabbage and creamy dressing, has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of San Franciscans. But what makes one coleslaw stand out from the rest? It's a combination of factors: the quality of ingredients, the perfect balance of flavors, and the textural contrast between the crisp cabbage and the smooth dressing.
This list showcases the range of coleslaw styles found across the city, from traditional Southern recipes to innovative Asian-inspired versions. We've considered factors like freshness, ingredient quality, and overall taste to bring you the cream of the crop.
Top 17 Coleslaw Havens in San Francisco:
This list is not ranked, as preferences for coleslaw are highly subjective! Each entry offers something unique and delicious.
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The Golden Gate Grill: Known for its classic, creamy coleslaw, this establishment uses a secret family recipe passed down through generations. Their coleslaw is the perfect complement to their famous BBQ ribs.
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Ferry Building Marketplace: Several vendors within the Ferry Building offer exceptional coleslaws. Look for seasonal variations and unique ingredient combinations. This is a great place to sample several different styles in one location!
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Swan Oyster Depot: While famous for its fresh seafood, Swan Oyster Depot also serves a surprisingly delightful coleslaw that perfectly balances the richness of the seafood. Their use of fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through.
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Burma Superstar: This popular Burmese restaurant offers a vibrant, tangy coleslaw that incorporates Asian-inspired flavors. Expect a unique profile with a touch of spice.
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Souvla: Known for its delicious Greek food, Souvla’s coleslaw is a refreshing counterpoint to the savory meats. Their version is bright, slightly tangy, and perfectly crunchy.
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Little Skillet: This popular diner serves a classic creamy coleslaw with a hint of sweetness. It's a comforting and familiar side dish that will remind you of home.
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Nopa: Nopa's coleslaw isn't your typical creamy version. They tend to offer innovative variations with unique flavor profiles and textures, making each visit a surprise.
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Rich Table: Expect refined and elegant versions from this acclaimed restaurant. Look out for creative coleslaw variations that reflect the seasonality of ingredients.
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State Bird Provisions: Similar to Nopa, State Bird Provisions often features creative and unexpected coleslaw preparations, showcasing high-quality ingredients and interesting flavor combinations.
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SPQR: This Michelin-starred restaurant incorporates coleslaw into some of their dishes, creating a balanced and sophisticated culinary experience.
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Foreign Cinema: Their coleslaw often complements the Mediterranean-inspired menu. Expect unique flavor combinations with a focus on fresh ingredients.
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Zuni Café: This iconic San Francisco restaurant might surprise you with their take on coleslaw. It's a dish worth exploring if you're looking for something different.
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Brenda's French Soul Food: While known for its soul food, Brenda's sometimes offers unique coleslaw variations that showcase both Southern comfort and creativity.
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Gracias Madre: This vegan Mexican restaurant offers a creative, plant-based coleslaw that's surprisingly delicious.
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The Progress: This upscale restaurant often features creative takes on classic dishes, and their coleslaw is no exception. Expect refinement and sophistication.
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Hard Water Restaurant: Their coleslaw might be a seasonal or special menu item, so it’s worth checking their current offerings.
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Hog Island Oyster Co.: Several locations in San Francisco offer oyster-centric menus complemented by their own take on coleslaw, usually fresh and crisp.
Finding Your Perfect Coleslaw Match:
This list provides a diverse range of coleslaw styles to explore. Remember to consider your personal preferences – do you prefer creamy, tangy, spicy, or something unique? Reading online reviews and checking menus beforehand will help you find the perfect coleslaw to suit your palate. Happy eating!
Beyond the Bite: The History and Culture of Coleslaw
Coleslaw's history is rich and diverse, with influences spanning various cultures and culinary traditions. While its exact origins are debated, its popularity in the United States is undeniable. The dish has evolved over time, with regional variations showcasing unique flavor profiles and ingredients. This diversity makes exploring different versions of coleslaw a fascinating culinary journey.
Remember to always check restaurant websites or call ahead to confirm menu availability and any seasonal variations of their coleslaw offerings. Enjoy your coleslaw adventures in San Francisco!
