Best American Restaurants in Kensington

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

East BayMarinSan Francisco

Neighborhoods

AlamedaAlbanyBerkeleyFinancial District / EmbarcaderoFisherman's WharfLafayette

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

69 restaurants available nearby

1. Juanita & Maude

4.9

Exceptional(1789)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• American • Albany

Booked 19 times today

An intimate neighborhood restaurant, Juanita & Maude features Chef Scott Eastman's personal take on American Cuisine. The daily changing menu highlights classic dishes including Michelin Guide's top 5 hamburger in California. His refined comfort food is matched with seasonal craft cocktails and an international wine list. Juanita & Maude's lively dining room or serene outdoor patio is the perfect spot for a night out, celebration or special occasion. Conveniently located near the corner of Solano and San Pablo Avenues.

A photo of ACRE Kitchen and Bar restaurant

2. ACRE Kitchen and Bar

4.5

Awesome(722)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Oakland

Booked 54 times today

ACRE Kitchen and Bar stands out as a beacon of authentic American cuisine in the heart of Oakland. Renowned for its ingredient-driven approach, ACRE offers a menu that expertly blends traditional American flavors with innovative twists. Diners rave about the "consistently excellent food" and the "impressive service," making it a beloved neighborhood gem. The ambiance is described as both "beautiful and yet casual," creating the perfect setting for any occasion, from a casual night out with friends to a special anniversary dinner. With standout dishes like the Gold Rush pizza and delightful service, ACRE promises a dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.

3. Skates on the Bay

4.5

Awesome(7507)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Berkeley

Booked 55 times today

Skates on the Bay in Berkeley offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the essence of fresh, high-quality cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views. The restaurant is renowned for its "outstanding food and service" as well as its "classy feel and fair price." Diners rave about the "perfectly executed" dishes, such as the "rich and creamy artichoke and crab dip" and the "flaky and moist salmon sandwich." The attentive service and knowledgeable staff enhance the dining experience, making every meal memorable. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual lunch, Skates on the Bay promises a delightful and authentic taste of American cuisine.

A photo of Revival Bar+Kitchen restaurant

4. Revival Bar+Kitchen

4.4

Awesome(2817)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Berkeley

Booked 18 times today

Revival Bar+Kitchen in Berkeley is a standout gem for Contemporary American cuisine, blending authenticity with innovation. Renowned for its "phenomenal interesting exquisite food," this restaurant emphasizes locally sourced, farm-to-table ingredients that capture the essence of American culinary traditions. Diners rave about dishes like the "perfectly seared, medium-rare steak" and the "delicious seasonal pumpkin arancini," showcasing their commitment to fresh, seasonal flavors. The "stellar service" and "great ambience" further enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a pre-theater meal or special occasion. Revival Bar+Kitchen promises a delightful culinary journey that is both reliable and memorable for all food enthusiasts.

A photo of Creekwood Restaurant restaurant

5. Creekwood Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(1014)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Berkeley

Booked 16 times today

Creekwood Restaurant in Berkeley is a delightful gem that specializes in exquisite American cuisine, artfully intertwined with California-Italian influences. Known for its warm and cozy atmosphere, Creekwood has become a beloved neighborhood spot, celebrated for its "excellent wood-fired pizzas" and "innovative, freshly delicious" dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the "amazing" pastas and "exceptional" service, making it a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s commitment to using seasonal ingredients ensures that every meal is a fresh and flavorful experience. Whether you're indulging in their "fantastic" brunch or a delightful dinner, Creekwood guarantees a culinary experience that will leave you coming back for more.

6. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(201)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• American • Oakland

Booked 28 times today

Burdell, nestled in the Temescal neighborhood of Oakland, is redefining Californian cuisine with a soulful twist. This exceptional establishment, helmed by James Beard Finalist Chef Geoff Davis, pays homage to his grandmother's legacy by intertwining family recipes with contemporary flavors. The restaurant's commitment to “thoughtful and sustainable sourcing” elevates each dish and supports local farmers and artisans. Diners rave about the “delicious food, strong flavors, and unique modern soul food,” making Burdell a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Californian. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, it's no wonder Burdell is celebrated as a “true gem” in Oakland.

A photo of The Berkeley Boathouse restaurant

7. The Berkeley Boathouse

4.0

Excellent(581)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Berkeley

Booked 5 times today

The Berkeley Boathouse is a hidden gem for seafood enthusiasts, offering an array of dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of locally sourced ingredients. Nestled along the picturesque Berkeley waterfront, the restaurant is praised for its outstanding seafood offerings, with guests raving about the "outstanding sea bass" and "delicious calamari fritters with some chili bite." The Fish and Chips are also hailed as the "best in the area," making it a must-try for diners. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, The Berkeley Boathouse promises a seafood dining experience that is both authentic and memorable.

A photo of Study Hall Rooftop Lounge restaurant

8. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge

4.2

Awesome(175)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Berkeley

Booked 3 times today

Study Hall Rooftop Lounge in Berkeley offers an exquisite Contemporary American dining experience that captures the essence of modern culinary artistry. With a focus on quality and authenticity, "the food is really well done with generous servings," ensuring each dish is a delightful journey. Guests rave about standout dishes like the truffle fries and sweet potato tater tots, which perfectly showcase the innovative approach to traditional favorites. The ambiance complements the cuisine, with breathtaking rooftop views that add a visual feast to the dining experience. Whether it's for a casual outing or a special celebration, Study Hall promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

9. Monk's Kettle

4.4

Awesome(55)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Oakland

Booked 23 times today

Monk's Kettle in Oakland's Rockridge district is a standout destination for Gastro Pub enthusiasts. Renowned for its upscale pub fare, this neighborhood tavern offers a curated selection of craft beers, ciders, and small-producer wines, making it a haven for both food and drink connoisseurs. Celebrated as the "Best Beer Bar in California," Monk's Kettle is praised for its exceptional burgers and chicken sandwiches, described as "phenomenal" by delighted patrons. The restaurant's welcoming vibe and attentive staff create a cozy, yet lively atmosphere that keeps guests coming back. Whether dining indoors or on the inviting patio, Monk's Kettle promises an unforgettable experience.

A photo of Cafenated Coffee Company restaurant

10. Cafenated Coffee Company

4.6

Exceptional(11)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Berkeley

Booked 1 time today

A cafe with a spacious and flora-strewn seating garden! We offer brunch with unique dishes such as Avocado Benedict and Brunch Board.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
CatherineVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Wonderful birthday dinner and such a nice touch with the personal card.
More info
ACRE Kitchen and BarPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Oakland
•
4.5
OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The food was spectacular! I truly enjoyed everything we ordered.
More info
BurdellPrice: Very Expensive• Soul food• Oakland
•
4.5
DG
DonnaGVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Creekwood is a beautiful setting with great service and great food!
More info
Creekwood RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Berkeley
•
4.6
J
Jodie
Jacksonville / Northeast Florida •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on Mar 5, 2025
As always, amazing food and equally amazing service. It is truly a gem. Very creative food menu and equally creative cocktail menu.
More info
Juanita & MaudePrice: Very Expensive• American• Albany
•
4.9
D
Damian
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on Mar 2, 2025
I been wanting to try the StudyHall for awhile now. Indoor seating / bar area was loud but not in a uncomfortable way. They had a live DJ which was nice. The outside area was quiet. Sound proof doors blocked out the live music. I sat outside. The view was amazing only thing that probably would have been better is more view of the bay area bridges & if I would have made the sunset. The food and drinks were great. My only problem was the heat lamps. As much as I appreciate the lamps the heating areas were smaller than I anticipated. The heat lamps great for your table until a strong gust come or you happen to lean to far back. More heat lamp through out the patio area would be ideal
More info
Study Hall Rooftop LoungePrice: Moderate• Californian• Berkeley
•
4.2

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