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Best Californian Restaurants in Pacific Heights

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88 restaurants available nearby

A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3238)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 43 times today
State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood offers a truly American dining experience that captures both the spirit and innovation of contemporary American cuisine. Renowned for its unique approach, the restaurant features a dim sum-style service that delivers a parade of creative and seasonal dishes, earning high praise from diners. Guests rave about the "extraordinary place with extraordinarily good food" and the "interesting, seasonal, and well-balanced flavors." The energy and creativity of the menu make every visit a delightful adventure, with standouts like the duck liver mousse and the smoked trout dip. The combination of top-notch service and a lively atmosphere ensures a memorable dining experience that epitomizes the best of American culinary excellence. This gem is a proud testament to the rich, evolving food scene of San Francisco.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2465)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 43 times today
The Progress, located in San Francisco's vibrant Western Addition, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its innovative and locally-sourced dishes. Guests frequently rave about the "beyond amazing" duck and the inventive flavor combinations that make each visit a culinary adventure. With its reputation for "exceptional food and impeccable service," The Progress offers a dynamic dining experience, described by many as "the greatest dinner party ever." It's not just the food that impresses; the cocktails are crafted with creativity, leading one guest to proclaim, "My wife had one of the most creative and delicious drinks she had ever had." Whether it's the warmly recommended small plates or the standout duck, The Progress ensures a memorable and delightful meal with every visit, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of Contemporary American dining in San Francisco.
A photo of Octavia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2621)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Pacific Heights
Booked 15 times today
Nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Octavia shines as a gem of Contemporary American cuisine. With Chef Melissa Perello at the helm, this elegant eatery is celebrated for its beautifully defined flavors and a menu that evolves daily, emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing. Reviewers rave about their dining experiences, noting the "thoughtful, delicious dishes" and "exceptional service." The much-acclaimed tasting menu is described as "way more food than expected," offering "great value" and a showcase of creativity with every course. Diners consistently highlight the knowledgeable staff and the intimate, beautifully designed space, making Octavia a must-visit for those seeking an outstanding representation of modern American fare in San Francisco.
A photo of Sessions at the Presidio restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1962)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 13 times today
Sessions at the Presidio in San Francisco is a beacon of comfort food excellence, offering a menu that is both heartwarming and sophisticated. Nestled in the picturesque Presidio, this restaurant pairs locally sourced ingredients from Skywalker Ranch with a culinary finesse that transforms simple dishes into memorable experiences. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" peach, tomato, burrata salad and the "best ever" steak frites, highlighting the authenticity and quality of the meals. The ambiance, described as "lovely," complements the comfort food perfectly, making every dining experience feel special. Whether enjoying a meal outdoors with a view of the park or cozying up in the elegant indoor space, Sessions at the Presidio delivers comfort food that is both refined and deeply satisfying.
A photo of Nopa - San Francisco restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3534)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 79 times today
Nopa in San Francisco is a jewel of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its urban rustic food and mastery in wood-fired dishes. Praised for its “amazing, fresh food” and warm, welcoming ambiance, Nopa sources seasonal ingredients locally, ensuring each dish, from the "halibut crudo" to the "pork chop with blueberries," is both fresh and flavorful. Diners consistently rave about the quality and attention to detail, noting that Nopa "always delivers a top-tier experience." The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and the local food scene makes it a must-visit. As one reviewer puts it, Nopa is the "quintessential Californian restaurant," making it a cherished spot in the North Panhandle of San Francisco.
A photo of The Waterfront Restaurant and Cafe restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3655)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 26 times today
The Waterfront Restaurant and Cafe, nestled in the Financial District / Embarcadero of San Francisco, is a celebrated haven for Contemporary French / American cuisine. Offering "breathtaking Bay Bridge views from every table," this culinary gem pairs its scenic allure with an exquisite menu that captivates both locals and tourists. Patrons rave about the "amazing fresh food" and the "quiet atmosphere" that enhances each dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to excellence is evident in their well-executed Californian fare, earning glowing testimonials like "everything about The Waterfront Restaurant and Cafe was perfect!" and praise for their exceptional service and ambiance. This spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Che Fico San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1879)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 48 times today
Che Fico in San Francisco's vibrant North Panhandle neighborhood is a gem of Italian cuisine, seamlessly blending California's bountiful produce with the rich traditions of Northern Italy. Chefs David Nayfeld and Matt Brewer craft a menu that sings with authenticity and innovation, from handmade pastas to exquisite pizzas, all rooted in Italian culinary traditions yet influenced by local Californian flavors. Critics rave about the “delicious food” and “exceptional service,” highlighting dishes like the “tagliatelle to die for” and the unique Jewish-Roman offerings. The ambiance is “lively” and “welcoming,” perfect for a celebratory meal or a cozy dinner. As one diner put it, Che Fico provides “the best Italian dining experience in San Francisco,” making it a must-visit for anyone craving top-notch Italian fare with a creative twist.
A photo of Foreign Cinema restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(8815)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Mission District
Booked 67 times today
At Foreign Cinema in San Francisco's Mission District, Mediterranean cuisine is elevated to an art form, infused with California flair. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "Best pork chop I’ve ever eaten!" and another praising the "creatively combined flavors" in their meals. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, enhanced by indie films and elegant decor, complements its culinary delights perfectly. The consistent acclaim for their food and service makes Foreign Cinema a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch Mediterranean dining experience in a uniquely charming setting. Whether it's the Lolita cocktail or the superbly prepared swordfish, every dish promises a memorable taste of the Mediterranean.
A photo of The Post Room restaurant
4.2
Awesome(162)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 33 times today
Nestled in the historic Beacon Grand at Union Square, San Francisco, The Post Room is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with menu highlights like the "absolutely phenomenal" Ahi Tuna and the "fork-tender" lamb. The ambiance, enriched with live piano music, complements the exquisite food, creating a vibrant yet cozy Mediterranean experience. Reviewers consistently commend the "creative" cocktails and "exceptional service," noting the baked eggplant dip and mushroom flatbread as must-tries. The Post Room is a culinary delight, perfect for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of The Garden Court - Luxury Collection restaurant
4.0
Excellent(2464)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • SOMA
Booked 21 times today
Dining at The Garden Court in SOMA, San Francisco is an unforgettable experience that epitomizes the essence of luxurious Californian cuisine. Nestled within the historic Palace Hotel, this iconic venue is celebrated for its "amazing experience" and "stunning" ambiance, as noted by numerous glowing reviews. The restaurant's signature dishes, like the crab salad with the original Palace-created Green Goddess Dressing from 1923, highlight the innovation and authenticity that define Californian culinary excellence. Diners consistently praise the "fantastic service" and the quality of the meals, making The Garden Court a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of California's rich culinary heritage in a breathtaking setting.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Anna
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We LOVED this restaurant. We sat inside so we couldn’t see the movie, but that wasn’t really an issue. The restaurant itself was stunning. Our server David was absolutely lovely. He really made our experience. The food was great, we got the smoked salmon, burrata with pears, sesame chicken, and pork chop. Everything was delicious. For dessert we got crème brûlée and a sort of chocolate mousse. Fantastic. It’s an expensive date but you pay for the food and the experience. Would go again!
    More info
    Foreign CinemaPrice: Expensive• Californian• Mission District
    4.8
  • Rohan
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Nopa is a really special place. It does everything SO well. I will start with the food. Their menu stays interesting over time with new dishes regularly introduced with the seasons and what’s seasonally available. The ingredient quality and preparation are really next level and I don’t think there is a single thing on the menu that anyone would not enjoy. The flavor of every dish is always surprising in a wonderful way with interesting combinations and textures. And plating is, of course, just beautiful. And my god, don’t just order one dish per person; share! You will be wowed. Their mainstay burger should not be missed either. If you’re into mixed drinks or wine, again, Nopa is standout. And even if you don’t drink, there are mocktails that I’m confident you’ll enjoy. Next let’s talk about the staff. Nopa has such a special and wonderful culture. Their entire staff is very well versed in the ingredients and preparation of their food. They’re also extremely kind and accommodating. There seems to be a genuine enthusiasm and shared belief that they make great food, and I would agree. They have opinions and can definitely suggest wine and beverage pairings to what you order. They know where ingredients were sourced from. And their attention to detail is also remarkable. I made a note on our reservation that we’d love a table instead of the high table if one came available and true to form, they came through. Someone took time to read the comment I had left! If you have a chance to dine here, take it. Even if you don’t have a reservation, there is a high table and bar area that may be able to accommodate a drop in. It’s a lovely atmosphere and always a joy to be a patron here. Thank you Nopa staff for the unique place you’ve created here.
    More info
    Nopa - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Californian• North Panhandle / USF
    4.6
  • yuriVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •53 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Everything was perfect except a bus person tried to clear the table before one person was still eating.
    More info
    The Post RoomPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    4.2
  • Alex
    Chicago / Illinois •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Absolutely incredible meal! Everything about it from start to finish was near perfection! Firstly, the hospitality is on point. A server is always right there when you need them to be and they made the amazing suggestion to get half an order of each of the pancakes rather than a full order of one. The servers that come around with the trays of food also know what they’re doing. When I ordered a single oyster for myself and my partner made a comment about not liking oysters, the servers gave us an extra one for free just so my partner could try it. This was an absolutely amazing opportunity to show not just above-and-beyond hospitality, but also that the restaurant truly believes in the quality of its food. And you know what? My partner did say it was the best oyster he ever had! They’re known for their quail however, I just think it’s not meaty enough of a bird for how it was prepared (Most parts were more breading than quail). As for everything else I tried, I just can’t think of any criticisms at all. I guess I could complain about my glass of rosé but that’s entirely my fault. I went with sparkling when I should have gone with still. The hit of the night were the blue corn-pepita pancakes with braised bacon and coffee butter. I wasn’t even going to order it until the server made the suggestion and I’m glad they did! The pecorino and ricotta pancakes are good too just not as good. The wedge salad is all the right balance of flavors with a nice crunch of lettuce to feel extra bright and fresh. The fried brussel sprouts are paired with an incredibly deep cashew satay sauce. The umami richness is impeccable. The almond financiers with duck liver mousse are another example of perfect balance in flavor. The financiers are light and fluffy and the mousse is smooth and delicate. I thought the burrata and bread dish came a too late into the night for us to fully enjoy however the peanut milk was the perfect cap to our evening.
    More info
    State Bird ProvisionsPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Western Addition
    4.8
  • RonaldVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 1, 2024
    Because when you walk into the location, its main entrance is on Market Street. While you walk through the lobby back to where the restaurant is, you are amazed by the ceiling. Yesterday was a bright sunny 92° day and the light that came through the ceiling and through the stained glass with marvelous magnificent, and yet the room was in great temperature. The service was spectacular. The food was excellent. The ambience was superb. The waiter and the staff were excellent. The hostess put us in the middle of the room, which ironically enough there was a wedding party seating behind us and at no time did you feel like it was a noisy environment the rosé from Paso Robles was spectacular. I had an excellent hamburger and my guest. My business client had a marvelous salad whether you’re going here for lunch for a business meeting or to celebrate an event you will enjoy the atmosphere in the opportunity and by the way on new Montgomery there is a valet service as well.
    More info
    The Garden Court - Luxury CollectionPrice: Expensive• Californian• SOMA
    4

Discover best Californian restaurants in Pacific Heights

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the distinguished Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. This area, known for its sophisticated dining scene, is home to a variety of restaurants that brilliantly showcase the diversity and quality of Californian culinary traditions. Each restaurant in this locale emphasizes sustainable, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish not only tastes exquisite but also supports local farmers and producers. Diners can expect a range of dining experiences from casual chic to high-end sophistication, with each establishment offering a unique take on Californian flavors. The restaurants here are committed to providing a memorable gastronomic experience, characterized by innovative menus and exceptional service. Whether you're seeking a creative interpretation of Mediterranean dishes or a refined contemporary American meal, Pacific Heights offers an impressive selection that caters to discerning palates. Moreover, the commitment to a high-quality, satisfying dining experience is evident in the thoughtful preparation and presentation of each meal. For those looking to indulge in the vibrant and varied flavors of California, Pacific Heights is a must-visit culinary destination.

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