Union Square is alive with action throughout the holidays — especially leading up to New Years. This is, surprisingly, the best time to visit the heart of San Francisco. You can grab a meal at any one of these top notch Union Square area restaurants as well enjoying a plethora of holiday activities until early next year. Visit one of these restaurant in the heart of the city this holiday season:

1. Sears Fine Food — 439 Powell St, San Francisco, 94102

Sears is a bonafide city classic. Grab a bite to eat at this San Francisco institution. Sears has been a favorite among tourists and locals alike for more than 75 years, serving hearty breakfast, brunch, and lunch food.

2. Farallon — 450 Post Street, San Francisco, 94102

Farallon’s Menu is pretty extensive. The emphasis is on raw preparations, highlighted seafood along with local produce, meat, and chicken. Enjoy the restaurant’s regal aquatic exterior and unforgettable decor.

3. Del Popolo — 855 Bush Street, San Francisco, 94108

A wonderful spot for Neapolitan pizzas from a wood-oven. There is a truck for this popular pizza, but the Lower Nob Hill location is a must-visit.

4. Hops & Hominy — 1 Tillman Place, San Francisco, 94108

This spot is a surprise Southern-inspired restaurant that values fresh ingredients. Once you've found this spot in a back alley, enjoy the delectable Soul food. Their fried chicken is nice and crispy on the outside, and tender and juicy on the inside. Yum!

5. Colibri Mexican Bistro — 438 Geary St, San Francisco, 94108

Creative Mexican food that is fresh and full of surprises. The food is primarily Central Mexican based. Coilbri is popular for their weekend Brunch featuring bottomless mimosas.

6. Cafe Jeanne d'Arc — 715 Bush St, San Francisco, 94108

Jeanne d'Arc is a refined and reasonably priced French restaurant near Union Square in the Cornell Hotel de France. The menu changes every day, but expect French entrees like Confit De Canard. filet mignon, and more.

7. Cheesecake Factory — 251 Geary St, San Francisco, 94102

The location of this Cheesecake Factory is more than rewarding for the view of Union Square. Eat and enjoy the hearty and varied food here from the 8th Floor of the Macy's Building in the heart of Union Square in downtown San Francisco. Of course, try the cheesecake!

8. Mourad Restaurant — 140 New Montgomery St, Ste 1, San Francisco, 94105

Travel away from Union Square a little and you'll find this place, which is simply a sight to behold for its ambiance and food. Mourad is a modern fusion of Moroccan cuisine, and more. The food pays homage to those roots, showcasing the rich and vibrant flavors of Morocco in new ways.

9. Scala's Bistro — 432 Powell St, San Francisco, 94107

Scala's Bistro, located in the heart of Union Square, brings a modern Italian twist to the food landscape. Expect dishes that mix a traditional approach with a use of local ingredients. If you want elegant and creative Italian food, head to this charming bistro.

10. Cesario's — 601 Sutter St, San Francisco, 94102

Old-school Italian food with charm and elegance. Expect mouthwatering dishes like the Capellini Gamberi, the salmon piccata, or countless Italian classic plates. This is a Union Square favorite.

Have you been to any of these spots in Union Square? Share your opinions in the comments below. If you love San Francisco landscapes, check out These 10 Scenic Muni Routes In San Francisco Will Show You Views Like You’ve Never Seen Before.