San Francisco International Airport (SFO) ranks among the busiest and most well-regarded airports in the United States. Terminal 3 is a critical hub primarily serving United Airlines, processing millions of domestic travelers annually. In 2025, Terminal 3 is known not only for its transportation efficiency but also for its comprehensive and varied food options. The terminal’s culinary offerings include a mix of fast-casual eateries, local favorites, and national chains, making it a go-to destination for travelers seeking quality food on the go.
This article provides an exhaustive overview of SFO Terminal 3 food, including detailed descriptions of available dining options, pricing structures, and navigation tools such as the SFO Terminal 3 food map and downloadable SFO Terminal 3 food map PDF. The guide will also compare Terminal 3’s dining options with those of other SFO terminals, outline key factors affecting the dining experience, and provide actionable tips for maximizing convenience and satisfaction.
What Is SFO Terminal 3 Food?
SFO Terminal 3 food encompasses all restaurants, cafes, kiosks, and grab-and-go vendors located within Terminal 3. The terminal is split between Boarding Areas E and F, each featuring multiple food outlets designed to accommodate high passenger volumes with a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
Terminal 3 primarily serves United Airlines’ domestic flights, which influences the selection of food options to include quick-service and sit-down restaurants that offer a range of international and Californian flavors. The terminal’s food program emphasizes fresh ingredients, local sourcing, and efficiency to suit both short layovers and longer waits.
SFO Terminal 3 Food Cost Breakdown or Value Analysis
Food pricing at Terminal 3 follows the SFO airport’s street pricing policy, ensuring travelers pay rates consistent with local eateries. The following price ranges represent typical costs in 2025:
Average Price Ranges
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Coffee and tea: $4 to $8
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Breakfast sandwiches and pastries: $7 to $15
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Lunch and dinner entrees: $12 to $25
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Grab-and-go salads and wraps: $10 to $18
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Smoothies and juices: $7 to $12
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Alcoholic beverages: $10 to $16
Cost Considerations
Travelers can expect moderate pricing with some variation based on dining style, location within the terminal, and time of day. Fast-casual venues such as Napa Farms Market provide budget-friendly options, while full-service restaurants command higher prices reflecting ambiance and menu complexity.
SFO Terminal 3 Food vs Alternatives
Terminal 3’s food offerings can be compared with those in SFO’s other terminals for a better understanding of strengths and limitations.
Vendor Variety and Quality
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Terminal 3 offers one of the widest varieties of quick and mid-range dining options, ideal for domestic travelers.
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Terminal 1 emphasizes locally sourced, sustainable food with fewer but carefully selected vendors.
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Terminal 2 leans toward organic and farm-to-table options with some upscale eateries.
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International Terminals provide diverse global cuisines but tend to focus less on fast service.
Dining Environment
Terminal 3 features modern food courts with ample seating, quick service, and mobile ordering capabilities, whereas other terminals may have more sit-down restaurants but with longer wait times.
Accessibility and Convenience
Terminal 3 is known for well-placed food vendors in both Boarding Areas E and F, reducing walking distances and ensuring convenient access for travelers.
Factors That Affect SFO Terminal 3 Food Experience
Several variables influence dining quality and convenience in Terminal 3.
Terminal Layout
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Boarding Area E (Gates 60–69) includes several fast-casual options and kiosks.
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Boarding Area F (Gates 70–90) features larger sit-down restaurants and lounges.
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The main post-security corridor hosts centralized dining options and seating.
Using the SFO Terminal 3 food map is essential for efficient navigation.
Time of Day
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Morning hours prioritize breakfast menus with limited variety.
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Midday to early evening offers full menus and extended vendor hours.
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Late night sees limited food service availability.
Passenger Volume
Weekends and holidays may cause longer wait times; mobile ordering reduces delays.
Common Mistakes or Misconceptions About SFO Terminal 3 Food
There are several incorrect beliefs travelers often have about Terminal 3 dining.
Misconception 1: Terminal 3 Only Offers Fast Food
Terminal 3 includes premium options such as Lark Creek Grill and Roasting Plant Coffee, offering high-quality dining beyond typical fast food.
Misconception 2: Terminal 3 Food Is Overpriced
SFO enforces price parity with city venues, so Terminal 3 pricing is comparable to restaurants off-site.
Misconception 3: Healthy and Special Diet Options Are Limited
Numerous vendors provide vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options clearly marked on menus.
Misconception 4: Food Options Are Limited to the Central Food Court
Vendors are distributed throughout boarding areas to provide food close to most gates.
Tools or Tips for Decision-Making
Several tools and strategies can improve the food experience in Terminal 3.
Use the SFO Terminal 3 Food Map
The official SFO Terminal 3 food map is accessible online, in the SFO app, or as a downloadable PDF, showing all food locations, hours, and services.
Mobile Ordering
Many vendors accept mobile orders via apps such as the SFO app or third-party delivery partners, reducing wait times.
Time and Seating Tips
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Avoid peak dining hours if possible.
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Use seating areas near power outlets.
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Choose vendors with quick service if time is limited.
Dietary Preferences
Options for vegans, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners are well marked; ask staff for details when needed.
In a few words: Is SFO Terminal 3 Food a Good Option?
Terminal 3 food at SFO is a well-rounded combination of convenience, variety, and quality. It offers a balanced range of dining experiences from quick bites to sit-down meals, all within a well-organized terminal environment supported by detailed navigation aids like the SFO Terminal 3 food map.
Travelers benefit from competitive pricing, local culinary influences, and user-friendly tools such as mobile ordering and downloadable maps. For any domestic traveler passing through San Francisco, Terminal 3 food options provide reliable, enjoyable meals adapted to a wide range of tastes and schedules.
Here are some FAQs about the SFO Terminal 3 food:
What restaurants are in Terminal 3 at SFO?
Terminal 3 sfo food options include popular choices like Bun Mee, Napa Farms Market, and SF Uncork’d. The sfo terminal 3 food map shows a variety of dining options ranging from quick bites to sit-down meals. Food terminal 3 sfo features local Bay Area flavors alongside familiar national chains for travelers’ convenience.
Is there a Starbucks in SFO Terminal 3?
Yes, Starbucks is among the terminal 3 food sfo options, located near the central area of the terminal. The sfo terminal 3 food map indicates its position for easy access to coffee and snacks. This popular chain complements other food terminal 3 sfo offerings for travelers needing a caffeine boost.
Is terminal 3 SFO domestic or international?
Terminal 3 at SFO primarily handles domestic flights, though it offers diverse terminal 3 sfo food choices. The sfo terminal 3 food map serves travelers on United Airlines and other domestic carriers. While international flights use other terminals, food terminal 3 sfo options rival those in international areas.
Can you walk from SFO Terminal 3 to International Terminal?
Yes, passengers can walk between Terminal 3 and the International Terminal while enjoying terminal 3 food sfo along the way. The sfo terminal 3 food map shows it’s about a 10-15 minute walk through connecting walkways. This allows travelers to sample food terminal 3 sfo before heading to international gates.
What food is served at the SFO International Terminal?
While focusing on terminal 3 sfo food, the International Terminal offers even more diverse options including international cuisine. The sfo terminal 3 food map differs from the International Terminal’s extensive dining selection. Both terminals provide quality food terminal 3 sfo and international options for different traveler needs.
Does Terminal 3 have McDonald’s?
No, McDonald’s isn’t among the current terminal 3 food sfo offerings according to the sfo terminal 3 food map. However, food terminal 3 sfo includes other quick-service options like Burger Joint and Yankee Pier. Travelers looking for McDonald’s would need to visit other SFO terminals.
Can you walk from international to domestic SFO?
Yes, all terminals including those with terminal 3 sfo food are connected post-security via walkways. The sfo terminal 3 food map shows connections to both domestic and international areas. This allows passengers to access food terminal 3 sfo and other terminal dining options during connections.
Is SFO T2 and T3 connected?
Yes, Terminals 2 and 3 are connected airside, allowing access to both terminal 3 sfo food and T2 dining options. The sfo terminal 3 food map indicates they share a security checkpoint and walking route. This connection makes food terminal 3 sfo and T2 restaurants available to passengers in either terminal.