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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Bernal Heights

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49 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Blue Plate restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1524)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Bernal Heights
Booked 3 times today
Blue Plate in Bernal Heights, San Francisco, is a haven for wine lovers and a standout spot for Wine Bar cuisine. Celebrated for its "fantastic" wine pairings and a wine list that perfectly complements dishes like the praised octopus and succulent meatloaf, Blue Plate ensures each sip enriches the dining experience. Patrons rave about the Wine Bar's ability to enhance meals, noting how the selections are "interesting" and seamlessly match the vibrant, fresh flavors of their dishes. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Blue Plate's wine offerings are sure to elevate your meal, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and delightful Wine Bar experience in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6098)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 106 times today
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco's Union Square is a quintessential destination for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience. Known for its elegant ambiance and meticulous service, The Rotunda offers a luxurious afternoon tea service that has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Patrons rave about the "delicious assortment of food" and "excellent ambience," highlighting the restaurant's ability to deliver a top-tier culinary experience. From the superb seafood selections like the praised shrimp and crab Louie salad to the classic American burger, every dish is crafted with excellence. Guests continually commend the Rotunda for its "outstanding service" and "beautiful setting," making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the finest American cuisine in a stunning, historic venue.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2467)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 63 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 Firefly Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3004)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Noe Valley
Booked 33 times today
Discover the heart of American cuisine at Firefly Restaurant in Noe Valley, San Francisco, where every dish tells a story of tradition and creativity. Renowned for its ever-evolving seasonal menu, Firefly stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence. Patrons often describe their dining experience as unforgettable, with one diner noting, "the fried chicken was excellent," while another praised the "food cooked to perfection." The restaurant's dedication to accommodating diverse dietary needs, such as vegan and gluten-free options, further showcases its commitment to all diners. Firefly's vibrant atmosphere and thoughtful service make it a cherished gem in the community, where both the food and the warm, inviting ambiance bring people back time and again. Whether it's the "sublime" trout or the "ambrosial" furikake-crusted trout, each meal is a celebration of authentic American flavors, lovingly prepared and served.
A photo of Octavia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2624)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 16 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 Spruce restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5405)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 78 times today
Open for lunch (two courses/$65), brunch (three courses/$98), and dinner (three courses/$125), Spruce offers seasonal prix-fixe menus crafted by Chef Mark Sullivan. Each menu offers a wide range of options, as well as luxurious additions (examples: caviar, truffles) for supplemental prices. Our cuisines is complemented by an extensive wine list which holds "Wine Spectator" magazine's highest honor, a Grand Award. The bar/lounge is available for walk-ins on a first-come, first-serve basis. We look forward to welcoming you to Spruce soon!
A photo of Angler San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(253)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 47 times today
Angler San Francisco, a Michelin-starred gem nestled on the Embarcadero waterfront, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that is both authentic and innovative. With a focus on the freshest ingredients sourced from Northern California, Angler celebrates the natural flavors of the sea, enhanced by the primal touch of their wood burning hearth. Diners rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes, describing them as "spectacular" and "sublime," with special mentions of the perfectly cooked fish and inventive seafood sauces. The ambiance and views complement the culinary journey, making every visit to Angler a memorable feast of the senses. Whether you opt for the praised tasting menu or the exceptional 'Let Us Cook For You' option, Angler promises an extraordinary dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District.
A photo of Wayfare Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7823)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 86 times today
At the heart of San Francisco's bustling Financial District, Wayfare Tavern stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a nostalgic yet refined dining experience. Chef Tyler Florence masterfully crafts a menu that captures the essence of early 20th century American fare, earning accolades from diners who rave about the "outstanding" food and service. Known for its moist and flavorful fried chicken and rustic yet elegant setting reminiscent of a Victorian parlor, Wayfare Tavern delivers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Patrons consistently praise the "perfectly cooked" dishes and the tavern's ability to turn a meal into a cherished memory, making it a cornerstone of the San Francisco dining scene.
A photo of Prospect restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2711)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 11 times today
Prospect, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco, stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Launched by the powerhouse team behind Boulevard, including James Beard award-winning chef Nancy Oakes, Prospect offers a culinary experience that dazzles with freshness and innovation. Reviewers rave about dishes like the "tender melt-in-your-mouth pork" and the "fresh lobster with delicious mushrooms," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity. The ambiance is described as "modern and creative," perfect for everything from a casual bite to a special occasion. With its warm, welcoming service and a menu that captures the essence of American dining with a modern twist, Prospect is a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining experience in San Francisco.
A photo of Trestle restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2769)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 24 times today
Trestle, nestled in the vibrant Financial District/Embarcadero area of San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its innovative and seasonal fare. Celebrated for its unique approach to dining, Trestle offers a daily-changing 3-course prix fixe menu that captures the freshness and variety characteristic of Californian gastronomy. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and creativity in dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The duck confit is the best I ever had," and another noting the "flavorful, expertly prepared food." The attentive service and cozy ambiance complement the exceptional dining experience, making Trestle a true gem for those seeking genuine and high-quality Californian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jenny
    San Francisco Bay Area •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The Rotunda is delightful. It's old-charm in a modern setting, nostalgic for its past but decidedly modern and hip. The light that comes through the windows is cheerful and the waitstaff nothing but classy. The booth-like seating is comfy and decor is pleasant. I had the rockfish sandwich for lunch and devoured every saucy bite of it. Reserve a table in advance -- dropping in will be a long wait. It's a great place to do lunch on union square!
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    4.8
  • Tim
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    These are innovative, awake and aware professionals. The original energy and spirit of the restaurant are alive and evolving. Service: Excellent. Food: Excellent. Ambience: Excellent, energetic, present, engaging. This is what an exceptional experience feels like. Thanks to everyone at The Progress.
    More info
    The ProgressPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Western Addition
    4.8
  • Audrey
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The food quality at Octavia is very high. The chefs really know what they’re doing. We had a pre-fixe menu for Christmas Eve dinner and they accommodated dietary restrictions with advanced notice. They actually called a few days in advance of the reservation to confirm the dietary restrictions which was really nice. We had 9 courses I think and they were all delicious. My favorites were the soup and the pasta dishes. The service was also very good, the servers were very attending and accommodating. There was one dish I didn’t eat much of because it had radicchio in it which I don’t like, and our server offered to have the kitchen make me a replacement dish with a different lettuce instead. The only negative of Octavia is that it feels very cramped. The space is small and they squeeze in a lot of tables so you’re sitting basically on top of other diners and it’s a little awkward. Everything else was great though. I would definitely recommend Octavia as a good place for special occasions or bringing out of town visitors.
    More info
    OctaviaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Pacific Heights
    4.7
  • Steven
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Exceptional good, great service, didn’t feel rushed at all. Server made some excellent g suggestions for both food and drink. It’s a lovely place and we will be back.
    More info
    Firefly RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Noe Valley
    4.9
  • Jan
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 15, 2024
    We had five people who were all pleased with their meals. The chicory salad with blue cheese was a big hit. Great mix of lightly bitter greens with dates and nuts! Very tasty. We felt welcome and the overall experience was festive and fun.
    More info
    Blue PlatePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Bernal Heights
    4.9

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Bernal Heights

Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant Bernal Heights neighborhood of San Francisco. Renowned for its unique blend of innovation and tradition, this area offers a variety of dining options that cater to the tastes of modern epicureans. The restaurants here excel in integrating locally-sourced ingredients with creative culinary techniques to deliver exceptional dishes that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of San Francisco. From intimate bistros to bustling eateries, each establishment provides a distinct atmosphere that complements their food offerings, making every dining experience memorable. The Bernal Heights area is celebrated for its commitment to quality and sustainability, ensuring that each meal is not only delicious but also responsibly crafted. Whether you are a local food lover or a visitor eager to explore San Francisco’s culinary delights, Bernal Heights is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking top-notch contemporary American dining.

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