North Beach is one of the city’s most toured neighborhoods – but it doesn’t mean you have to follow the Lonely Planet-carrying tourist crowds to eat well.

Dig into Italian classics, try a curry or sample a gourmet sandwich, with these prime lunch spots.

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana
1570 STOCKTON STREET
Slightly more upscale than the neighboring pizza joints, Tony’s is a gourmet Italian heaven – from the Burrata Burger to the Tartufu Pizza. Go with a group and split, as you’ll want to try everything on the menu.

Naked Lunch
504 BROADWAY
The name pretty much says it – this neighborhood staple specializes in creative sandwiches naked of over-sophistication. Try the Brussels Sprouts sandwich, and be transformed – you’ll try to recreate it at home every night.

The House
1230 GRANT AVENUE
An Asian beacon in the Italian sea of North Beach, the House does a great job at serving light, pan-Asian lunches, such as ahi tuna BLT, deep fried salmon rolls and much more.

Molinari Delicatessen
373 COLUMBUS AVENUE
Truly old-school, this deli serve sandwiches in the best North Beach traditions – hearty, filling, huge. The Renzo – a killer combo of deli meats, cheese and sun dried tomatoes is an absolute favorite.

Freddie’s Sandwiches
300 FRANCISCO STREET
Just like data plans, Freddie’s sandwiches come in three sizes, from the small to the humongous, with fresh ingredients and generous layers. Despite this being a quintessential sandwich spot, the salads – especially the carrot raisins – are also delicious.

Urban Curry
523 BROADWAY
Curry for lunch? Why not, but make sure you climb a hill or two post-lunch to walk it off. This straightforward place offers a dazzling amount of curries, from the traditional chicken to the unconventional goat. Plus most definitely say yes to some chicken momos.