Top SF Paleo Friendly Restaurants

San Francisco was just recently ranked 4th in the nation amongst healthiest city in the nation by the American Fitness Index. To be honest, I was expecting higher. I consider San Francisco a foodie's dreamland and generally, many of the eateries boast the use of local, fresh, organic ingredients. In addition to all the fresh food, San Francisco is considered by many one of the best, if not the best, running city. The cool year round weather and options for inclines or flats makes it a great destination for keeping fit. So, again... it seemed surprising that San Francisco was only 4th.

Now. Fresh, local food doesn't always equate to healthy food, right? In fact, I often hear my friends mention that eating primarily non-processed foods or following something like a paleo lifestyle makes it nearly impossible to eat out. So, I've set out to make it a little easier by offering a list of my top four paleo-friendly eateries in San Francisco.



1. Ferry Plaza Farmer's Market - This is probably a no-brainer for many. This farmers market has been featured in many shows including No Reservations with Anthony Bordain where he even gives the plaza praise. There's a wide assortment of fruits, vegetables and grilled meats making eating paleo style really easy.

2. Specialty's Cafe - It's a great place for lunch. At an affordable price, you can get an array of salads that are both filling and super yummy! You have the ability to order your lunch online (where you can fully customize your order to ensure it's paleo okay.) and you can take it to a nearby park to eat. It's a perfect lunch destination.

3. Chai-Yo - This is a lovely thai food restaurant located in Russian Hill. It's has a cozy demeanor and you feel like you're in a neighborhood spot. The menu has a large assortment of paleo friendly dishes from multiple curry options to salads to salmon and vegetable entrees. The list truly does go on. Prices are reasonable and the service is great. Best of all, you're not stuck with just a salad like many other eateries.

4. Dosa - An exquisite South Indian food restaurant with a fun and lively ambiance which makes the really long wait (should you not have a reservation) not so bad. However, the wait is completely worth it when you take your first bite of their amazing dishes. Whether you opt for something like the Grilled Calamari, Chicken with Pineapple, or the Mustard Greens you will not be disappointed. This is a little pricier so go when you're ready to splurge. There are multiple locations although my favorite is located in Pacific Heights.

Eating out while trying to be healthy can be difficult but not impossible and still quite an enjoyable experience. Areas like San Francisco make it easier to do so. With all the choices in San Francisco I'm positive there are many others I have not gotten to yet. Do you have any recommendations for my next top restaurants list?