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Best Californian Restaurants in Forest Hill / West Portal

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81 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Foreign Cinema restaurant
1. Foreign Cinema
4.7
Exceptional(8868)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Mission District
Booked 129 times today
Foreign Cinema offers an unparalleled Mediterranean dining experience in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District. This "iconic" restaurant is celebrated for its vibrant California-Mediterranean menu, which artfully combines fresh, local ingredients with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "incredible food service drinks ambiance," highlighting dishes like the delectable baked goat cheese and the perfectly crafted duck confit. The chic and airy setting, complete with a unique film screening ambiance, enhances the dining experience, making it "one of the best dining experiences" in San Francisco. With its consistently "delicious food" and "first-class service," Foreign Cinema promises a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
2. State Bird Provisions
4.7
Exceptional(3287)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 75 times today
State Bird Provisions in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers an extraordinary American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its inventive "dim sum" style service, this restaurant presents a creative twist on classic American flavors. Diners rave about the "delicious, innovative, and surprising" small dishes that keep the experience fresh and exciting. With impeccable service and a lively atmosphere, patrons find themselves returning for more. The signature quail dish and the adventurous blue corn-pepita pancakes with braised bacon and coffee butter are must-tries. As one enthusiastic diner put it, "Every dish was like culinary viagra," making this a must-visit for any American cuisine enthusiast.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
3. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2509)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 58 times today
The Progress in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers a truly remarkable Californian dining experience. Celebrated for its "innovative menu" and "delicious flavors," this restaurant uses entirely local ingredients to craft dishes that highlight the essence of Californian cuisine. Guests rave about the duck, described as a "must-try" and "100% juicy and tender," alongside other inventive dishes like the seaweed noodles and Tierra vegetables masa dumplings. The ambiance is "casual and playful," providing the perfect setting for what many reviewers describe as "the best meal in SF." With excellent service and a creative menu, The Progress is an unmissable culinary gem.
A photo of Nopa - San Francisco restaurant
4. Nopa - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(3579)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 99 times today
Nopa, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Panhandle in San Francisco, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for its "world-class food and service," Nopa delights guests with a menu that is both "creative yet simple" and showcases the best of Mediterranean flavors. The culinary team is celebrated for their mastery in using "seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms," ensuring every dish is fresh and full of flavor. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" duck and "legendary" pork chop, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to "high quality sourcing" and exquisite preparation. Come savor the warm, inviting atmosphere and discover why Nopa is a cherished gem in San Francisco.
A photo of Octavia restaurant
5. Octavia
4.7
Exceptional(2650)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Pacific Heights
Booked 28 times today
Octavia in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a beacon of authentic Farm-to-table dining, masterfully curated by the acclaimed Chef Melissa Perello. Known for its "gloriously delicious" offerings, Octavia embraces seasonally driven cuisine, showcasing the Bay Area's rich agricultural bounty through its ever-evolving menu. Diners rave about the thoughtful preparation and presentation of dishes, highlighting the "fresh, locally-sourced, delicious food" that is both creative and flavorful. The restaurant's intimate, relaxed atmosphere, coupled with top-notch service, makes it a must-visit destination. As one guest perfectly put it, “Octavia is an absolute gem!” – a testament to its commitment to quality and sustainability.
A photo of Che Fico San Francisco restaurant
6. Che Fico San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(1946)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 76 times today
Che Fico San Francisco offers an extraordinary Californian culinary experience, seamlessly blending Italian roots with local ingredients. Located in the vibrant NOPA neighborhood, this restaurant is a "beloved San Francisco institution" praised for its inventive and delicious menu. Diners rave about its "outstanding food," highlighting handmade pasta, pizzas, and unique dishes from Jewish-Roman heritage. The lively atmosphere and "warm hospitality" make it a perfect spot for gatherings. With a beverage program featuring both Italian and Californian wines, Che Fico captures the essence of Californian cuisine through its market-driven, rustic approach. This is the place for an unforgettable dining experience!
A photo of Frances restaurant
7. Frances
4.9
Exceptional(3671)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 17 times today
Frances, nestled in the heart of The Castro in San Francisco, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant and innovative dishes. Chef Melissa Perello’s seasonal menu masterfully showcases "California Cuisine," emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients that "speak for themselves." Diners rave about the "phenomenal" short rib and "divine" house sourdough, noting the harmonious blend of flavors that elevate each dish. The restaurant’s ambiance is described as cozy yet elegant, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. With its "exemplary" service and carefully curated wine pairings, Frances offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of The Post Room restaurant
8. The Post Room
4.0
Excellent(191)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 9 times today
The Post Room in San Francisco’s Union Square offers an unparalleled Mediterranean dining experience that truly stands out. Nestled within the historic Beacon Grand, this vibrant venue combines the charm of old-world elegance with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Guests rave about the "delicious and perfectly executed cuisine" that bursts with freshness and creativity. The lamb shank and branzino are particular highlights, showcasing the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Patrons are delighted by the warm, attentive service and the lovely ambiance enhanced by live piano music. With its exquisite setting and mouthwatering dishes, The Post Room is a must-visit for lovers of fine Mediterranean cuisine.
A photo of Fable - SF restaurant
9. Fable - SF
4.6
Exceptional(2209)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 44 times today
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Castro neighborhood, Fable - SF is a true gem for Contemporary American cuisine lovers. The restaurant’s seasonal California dishes are hailed as "delicious" and "scrumptious," promising an authentic taste of contemporary culinary artistry. The charming garden patio, often described as "gorgeous" and "beautiful," offers a unique outdoor dining experience that perfectly complements the exquisite dishes. With friendly and efficient staff, Fable ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere where every meal feels like a special occasion. Whether you're enjoying brunch or dinner, Fable's commitment to quality and freshness makes it an unforgettable dining destination.
A photo of Dalida restaurant
10. Dalida
4.6
Exceptional(971)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Presidio
Booked 84 times today
Dalida, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Presidio, is a culinary gem that brilliantly showcases the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Under the creative helm of Chefs Laura and Sayat, the restaurant offers an "excellent and varied Mediterranean menu" that transports diners to the rich culinary landscapes of the Middle East. Praised for its "phenomenal" dishes, Dalida masterfully combines traditional Middle Eastern ingredients with a modern twist, creating a unique dining experience. Guests rave about the "exceptional service" and the stunning ambiance, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and inventive Middle Eastern fare.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • Linda
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    4.0
    Dined today
    Our experience was a mixed bag. The latkes with smoked trout were outstanding. Burgers were also delicious. The steak, on the other hand, was not great. It was tough and difficult to cut or chew. It was also completely raw in the middle. I like rare but this was extreme- and very off-putting. I left half of it on the plate, which at $68 for the entree felt pretty bad. In addition, the sides paired with the steak weren't particularly good. Sorbets for dessert were mind blowing. I would return but couldn't help feeling a bit disappointed by the quality of the most expensive entree.
    More info
    Nopa - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Californian• North Panhandle / USF
    •
    4.7
  • MauraVIP
    California Central Coast •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Always the best service in town. From the hostess to bartender to our server, everyone has our unique experiences in mind. In the hospitality world we talk a lot about “surprise and delight” moments for guests, of varying size depending on the group, occasion, etc, and foreign cinema always gets them JUUUST right. Not to mention the food is always superb
    More info
    Foreign CinemaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Mission District
    •
    4.7
  • Vanessa
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Going to SBP is never a disappointing experience. Its variety of dishes is sure to please every taste bud during your stay.
    More info
    State Bird ProvisionsPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Western Addition
    •
    4.7
  • Pat
    San Francisco Bay Area •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The chef selection tasting menu was a special treat. Well spaced delivery. Great explanation without being overdone. Kudos the chef's and servers
    More info
    FrancesPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• The Castro
    •
    4.9
  • Lisa
    Nebraska •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 9, 2025
    The staff took my food allergy very seriously. They knew on the menu what was not Gluten Free, rather than having to go ask the chief. Other than pasta, almost everything was already cooked GF, which was wonderful. Great atmosphere and service as well.
    More info
    The Post RoomPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4
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