If you've been to SFO recently, you probably noticed that almost all the terminals are in the midst of major renovations and construction in their food service areas (part of the airport's "food and beverage upgrade program"), which means the pickings are slimmer than ever. Your best bet for pre-security checkpoint eats is the International Terminal North Food Court, conveniently located between the BART/AirTrain connection and the United domestic terminal. Some of the restaurants located in the food court include Lori's Diner, Fung Lum (Chinese), Willow Street Woodfired Pizza, and Ebisu (Japanese).
Pictured above is a bowl of kimchi ramen I recently enjoyed at Ebisu's SFO location. Ebisu's original location at 9th Avenue and Irving is one of the more popular sushi restaurants in the city, known for its fresh fish and inventive rolls. The SFO location has a small sushi bar and a full menu of your standard Japanese fare. Certainly worth considering if you're at SFO and find yourself hungry and eager for something other than your typical airport food.
Ebisu
1283 Ninth Avenue
415-566-1770
Ebisu, SFO International Terminal
650-588-2549