Southern Hills, perched on the southeastern edge of Daly City, is more than just a quiet residential enclave. For those in the know, it’s a burgeoning food haven where local flavor meets the world’s cuisines. Tucked between iconic El Camino Real and the winding streets near Hillside Boulevard, you’ll discover an eclectic dining scene brimming with hearty Filipino fare, cozy cafés, and sweet delights that would satisfy any wandering foodie. Let’s take a delicious tour of the best eats Southern Hills has to offer!
The Heartbeat of Southern Hills: Filipino Comfort Food
No exploration of Southern Hills’ food scene would be complete without celebrating its vibrant Filipino community. Classics abound here — many eateries have been neighborhood mainstays for decades.
- Kuya’s Asian Cuisine (4919 Mission St):
Tucked at the bustling intersection of Mission Street and Templeton Avenue, Kuya’s is a hub for authentic Filipino home-cooking. Popular for its generous combo plates (around $10–$15), this casual eatery wins hearts with dishes like crispy pata, kare-kare, and their aromatic chicken adobo. The friendly staff and quick service make it perfect for weekday lunches or post-work comfort meals.
- Goldilocks Bakeshop (2148 Gellert Blvd):
A beloved institution along Gellert Blvd, Goldilocks is famous for its fluffy ensaymadas and ube cakes. Most visitors can’t resist leaving without hot pan de sal and a variety of sweet pastries. Prices are wallet-friendly, usually $2–$5 per pastry, making it popular for snacks and family gatherings.
International Eats: From Latin Flavors to Asian Staples
Southern Hills’ culinary diversity shines in its mix of Latin and Asian options, many of which cluster along Mission Street and its nearby avenues.
- Café Doelger (101 John Daly Blvd):
Chic yet unpretentious, Café Doelger offers a mix of Latin-American plates and classic American breakfasts. Their huevos rancheros and chicken mole enchiladas are standouts, with brunch items starting at $9. The sunlit, airy space is perfect for catching up with friends or working remotely with a fresh-baked pastry.
- Pho Huynh Hiep (6855 Mission St):
Craving something comforting? This cozy Vietnamese spot, often simply called “Kevin’s Noodle House,” is known for its rich, steaming bowls of pho (starting at $12) and crisp, savory banh mi sandwiches. Locals swear by the special beef combo and house-made chili paste.
Sweet Retreats: Bakeries and Dessert Stops
Hearty meals aside, Southern Hills offers plenty of places to indulge your sweet tooth.
- 85°C Bakery Café (2148 Gellert Blvd, next to Goldilocks):
Imported from Taiwan but beloved by locals, 85°C stuns with its pillowy sea salt coffee and show-stopping selection of buns, cakes, and pastries. Favorites include the marble taro bread and sweet milk custard buns. Most items are under $4, making it an affordable treat before hopping over to Serramonte Center for some shopping.
- Panda Café (6990 Mission St):
Part café, part dessert bar, Panda Café stands out for its creative Asian-style bubble teas and Taiwanese shaved snow desserts (around $6–$10). The matcha bingsu and brown sugar pearl milk teas are stars, drawing a younger crowd and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Food Trucks & Hidden Takeout Gems
Southern Hills’ quiet streets hide several food trucks and small takeout kitchens that offer seriously craveworthy food — some so under-the-radar, even locals keep them secret.
- The Lumpia Company Truck (Regularly parked near East Market Street):
If you spot this eye-catching truck, prepare for the crispiest, most flavor-packed lumpia (Filipino spring rolls) in Daly City. Fillings range from classic pork to OG mac-n-cheese, and each order comes with their signature sweet chili dipping sauce. Expect to pay $8–$12 for a hearty portion. Pro tip: follow their Instagram for pop-up times and specials.
- La Morena Taqueria (Small storefront at 4949 Mission St):
Here’s your fix for late-night tacos and burritos. This tiny kitchen turns out shockingly good carnitas tacos, cheesy quesadillas, and homemade salsas (most dishes in the $4–$12 range). Regulars rave about the tender lengua (beef tongue) and the spicy, tangy green salsa.
Coffee, Breakfast, and Cozy Nooks
Fueling up for the day or seeking a relaxing mid-afternoon break? Southern Hills’ inviting cafés and casual breakfast spots have you covered.
- Café De Casa (116 Hazelwood Dr):
Bright, airy, and always buzzing, Café De Casa whips up Brazilian-inspired breakfasts and robust coffee drinks. Try the pão de queijo (cheesy bread) and passionfruit mousse, or dig into their savory tapioca pancakes with a strong espresso. Breakfasts range from $8–$14, perfect for a laid-back brunch or weekday treat.
- April Nine Thai Kitchen (6921 Mission St):
Famous for its weekend breakfast plates, April Nine isn’t just a Thai lunch and dinner spot — their Asian-style omelets and fried rice with pork sausage make for a unique start to your day. Prices hover around $10, and the cozy setting makes for a peaceful morning escape.
Southern Hills’ Culinary Character
What truly sets Southern Hills apart is its sense of neighborhood — most eateries are family-owned, with recipes passed down through generations and regulars who feel like extended family. The food isn’t fussy or fancy, but it’s always made with care, whether you’re biting into a sugary Filipino ensaymada, warming up with a bowl of pho, or relaxing over Brazilian coffee.
While Mission Street and Gellert Boulevard are peppered with recognizable names, don’t be afraid to explore side streets and neighborhood corners. That’s where you’ll discover Southern Hills’ hidden culinary gems, from bubbling food trucks to small kitchens dishing out unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re a longtime South City resident or a visitor chasing Daly City’s next great meal, Southern Hills is ready to welcome you, one delicious bite at a time.