Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kensington

75 restaurants available nearby

1. Juanita & Maude

4.8

Exceptional(1751)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Albany

Booked 5 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.

2. Skates on the Bay

4.6

Exceptional(7446)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Berkeley

Booked 89 times today

Skates on the Bay, nestled in the picturesque Berkeley Marina, is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, famed for its fresh seafood and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Since its opening in 1984, Skates on the Bay has been lauded for its commitment to quality and innovation in its menu offerings. Diners rave about the "amazing and breathtaking views during dinner" and the "food that is as spectacular as the sunset view over the ocean." The restaurant has cultivated a reputation for excellence, with one reviewer exclaiming it's "worth every single dollar. A+++++." Whether it's the New Orleans style shrimp, the exquisite lobster bisque, or the perfectly charred filet Mignon, Skates consistently delivers a top-notch dining experience that highlights the best of American culinary craftsmanship.

A photo of ACRE Kitchen and Bar restaurant

3. ACRE Kitchen and Bar

4.6

Exceptional(646)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Oakland

Booked 44 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Oakland, ACRE Kitchen and Bar delights with its authentic American cuisine, offering a creative twist with California and Mediterranean influences. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in dishes that patrons describe as "fabulous," from the "perfectly grilled burger" to the "most delicious morel pasta" and the standout "Calabrian pizza." Reviewers consistently praise the "welcoming and attentive" service, making every dining experience special. ACRE's atmosphere is described as both "comfortable and attractive," perfect for family gatherings or a casual yet elegant night out. As one reviewer puts it, ACRE is "exactly the kind of restaurant you hope would open in the East Bay," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch American dining experience.

A photo of Revival Bar+Kitchen restaurant

4. Revival Bar+Kitchen

4.5

Awesome(2785)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Berkeley

Booked 14 times today

Revival Bar+Kitchen in Berkeley masterfully showcases Californian cuisine with its commitment to farm-to-table freshness and innovative dishes. Diners rave about the “utterly delicious food” and the “amazing” heirloom tomato burrata paired with focaccia appetizers. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting. Patrons particularly love the mocktails, described as “tasting like the real thing,” making it an inclusive spot for all diners. With its prime location in Berkeley, perfect for pre-theater meals, Revival Bar+Kitchen is celebrated for its “great food, great service, and all around great environment,” making it a must-visit destination for authentic Californian dining.

5. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(155)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Oakland

Booked 10 times today

Burdell, nestled in the vibrant Temescal neighborhood of Oakland, stands out as a beacon of exquisite Soul food cuisine. Led by James Beard Finalist Chef Geoff Davis, the restaurant pays homage to his grandmother, infusing traditional Soul food with innovation and sophistication. Diners rave about the authenticity and elevated flavors, describing dishes like the pickle brined fried chicken as “elevated to the highest level of execution” and the BBQ shrimp as “the best I’ve ever had.” Every dish, from the smothered rabbit to the slammin' chocolate cake, is crafted with care, showcasing the best local produce and sustainable practices. The experience of dining at Burdell is consistently applauded as “a special dining experience” with an atmosphere that combines nostalgia and modern flair, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable Soul food journey.

A photo of Creekwood Restaurant restaurant

6. Creekwood Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(979)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Berkeley

Booked 8 times today

Creekwood Restaurant in Berkeley is an exemplary showcase of American cuisine, delivering a menu filled with heart and soul. Diners rave about the "excellent Beef Short Rib and Crab Ravioli" and the "delicious, unique choices" that keep the local community coming back for more. The thoughtful use of "seasonal ingredients" in dishes like the praised "corn and asparagus pizza" and "brussel sprouts with a very light sweet praline crust" highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Reviews consistently highlight the "attentive and friendly" service, making Creekwood not just a meal, but an experience. As one review puts it, this is a "wonderful neighborhood spot" where every dish is "beautifully prepared," making it a must-visit for those seeking the best of American dining in Berkeley.

A photo of The Berkeley Boathouse restaurant

7. The Berkeley Boathouse

4.2

Awesome(559)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Berkeley

Booked 21 times today

At The Berkeley Boathouse in Berkeley, diners rave about the exceptional seafood offerings in a setting that boasts spectacular marina views. Known for using fresh, local ingredients, the restaurant delivers a culinary experience that highlights the best of California cuisine with a global twist. Patrons consistently praise dishes like the "outstanding sea bass," "delicious calamari," and the "amazing" green curry mussels. One of the standout reviews exclaims the experience to be "spectacular," with the seafood being a focal point, particularly noting the cod fish and chips as "highly recommended" and the crab as "delicious." Whether it’s enjoying a meal on the scenic patio or indulging in the celebrated clam chowder, The Berkeley Boathouse offers a memorable dining adventure for seafood lovers.

A photo of Study Hall Rooftop Lounge restaurant

8. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge

4.4

Awesome(169)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Berkeley

Booked 3 times today

Welcome to Study Hall! Located on the 12th floor. Indoor/outdoor dining with stunning views of the area. Beverage Centric - light food menu with Pacific, Oceana and Asian inspired appetizers, share plates and entrees

A photo of Claremont Lobby Bar restaurant

9. Claremont Lobby Bar

4.8

Exceptional(34)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Berkeley

The historic Claremont Lobby Lounge & Bar sets the tone for a sophisticated evening, serving up signature craft cocktails, light bites and a selection of local craft beer and wine. Join us after dinner for a nightcap, or gather with friends over a glass of champagne while you take in the sweeping San Francisco Bay views.

10. Monk's Kettle

4.5

Awesome(33)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Oakland

Booked 16 times today

Monk's Kettle in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District is a treasure trove of authentic American cuisine, celebrated for its "phenomenal food and drink" and a warm, inviting ambiance. This neighborhood tavern has earned accolades as the Best Beer Bar in California, and it’s easy to see why with its "broad and balanced craft beer list." Patrons rave about their burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, hailed as some of the best in the region. The dedication to quality is evident, as every dish showcases locally sourced ingredients transformed into "mouthwatering dishes" that elevate traditional tavern fare to gourmet delights. Whether you are a local or just visiting, Monk's Kettle offers an unmatched culinary experience, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates great food and a fantastic beer selection.

‘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

T
trekkie
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
4.0
Dined on Feb 24, 2020
We have been going to this restaurant for many years and like the food. Unfortunately, it was quite noisy during our last visit. We would still recommend it for their fajitas!
More info
The Cantina - Mill ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mill Valley
•
4
M
1MoeVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •40 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 15, 2019
Great food. Great service. I will be back
More info
Colibri - Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
•
4.1
GH
GeraldH
San Francisco Bay Area •12 reviews
4.0
Dined on Nov 5, 2019
Pleasant experience, good food for reasonable prices. Great for lunch. Helpful and professional waiter. Easy to get to by public transportation, located in a pleasant 24th street mission neighborhood.
More info
Rosa JavaliPrice: Moderate• Latin American• Mission District
•
3.6
JG
JohnG
Greater Boston •8 reviews
4.0
Dined on Jun 12, 2019
The food was great the location was decent seems more like a take out place as there wasn’t anyone else dining when we were there but the service was great and food was prepared quickly.
More info
Criollos Mexican and Mediterranean CuisinePrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Oakland
•
4.5

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Kensington

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Kensington

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75 restaurants available nearby

1. Juanita & Maude

2. Skates on the Bay

3. ACRE Kitchen and Bar

4. Revival Bar+Kitchen

5. Burdell

6. Creekwood Restaurant

7. The Berkeley Boathouse

8. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge

9. Claremont Lobby Bar

10. Monk's Kettle

See what locals rave about

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