How Bernal Heights became SF's most overlooked food destination

"A majestic San Francisco peak with unparalleled views is the epicenter of one of the city's greatest neighborhoods, especially when it comes to its food and drink scene. From a legendary Cantonese roast duck spot in new digs to a nearly 20-year-old pizzeria, as well as a plethora of restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, four distinct sections make up a dining scene that is tough to replicate anywhere else within our 49 square miles."

"Bernal Heights is like a village someone would create in the computer game "The Sims" - it has everything. Confined by San Jose Avenue to the west, Cesar Chavez Street to the north, Bayshore Boulevard to the east and Alemany Boulevard to the south, it's divided into quadrants surrounding Bernal Hill, each almost like its own neighborhood within the larger one."

"Variety is not only what makes Bernal a draw - it's also scarce in big brand names. There aren't any businesses owned by large corporations in the neighborhood, except a Safeway at the corner of Mission and 30th streets. This allows for residents to really support mom-and-pop shops to the nth degree, which is great because Bernal's restaurant scene really is an embarrassment of riches."

Bernal Heights centers on Bernal Hill, offering unparalleled views and a concentrated, diverse food and drink scene spanning four distinct sections. The neighborhood includes legendary Cantonese roast duck in new digs, a nearly 20-year-old pizzeria, and numerous restaurants serving global cuisines. Bernal is bounded by San Jose Avenue, Cesar Chavez Street, Bayshore Boulevard, and Alemany Boulevard, and is divided into quadrants around Bernal Hill. The Mission Street corridor hosts roughly 40 unique restaurants. The area lacks major corporate chains aside from a single Safeway, creating strong support for mom-and-pop businesses and a rich local dining ecosystem.

Read at SFGATE