Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best Southern American Restaurants in Berkeley

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

104 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Study Hall Rooftop Lounge restaurant
1. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge
4.4
Awesome(169)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 2 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 Revival Bar+Kitchen restaurant
2. Revival Bar+Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(2772)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 33 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.
A photo of Creekwood Restaurant restaurant
3. Creekwood Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(967)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 22 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 ACRE Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4. ACRE Kitchen and Bar
4.6
Exceptional(621)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oakland
Booked 40 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 Burdell restaurant
5. Burdell
4.5
Awesome(133)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Oakland
Booked 17 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 Juanita & Maude restaurant
6. Juanita & Maude
4.8
Exceptional(1742)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Albany
Booked 10 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 Claremont Lobby Bar restaurant
7. Claremont Lobby Bar
4.3
Awesome(29)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 3 times today
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.
A photo of Cafenated Coffee Company restaurant
8. Cafenated Coffee Company
4.6
Exceptional(11)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 1 time today
Cafenated Coffee Company in Berkeley is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality American cuisine with a creative twist. Nestled in a flora-strewn garden, this cafe shines with its unique brunch offerings like the "Spicy Chicken and Waffles," which had one guest drooling, and the "Brunch Board," praised as setting "the bar higher for every other brunch experience." The dishes, such as the candied bacon and smoked salmon avocado toast, are described as "huge and very satisfying." Guests rave about the atmosphere and service, with one noting the "perfect combination of sweet and savory" in their meals. Whether it's the vibrant garden setting or the innovative American dishes, Cafenated Coffee Company stands out as a beloved brunch spot in Berkeley.
A photo of Skates on the Bay restaurant
9. Skates on the Bay
4.6
Exceptional(7415)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Berkeley
Booked 65 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 Monk's Kettle restaurant
10. Monk's Kettle
4.7
Exceptional(28)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Oakland
Booked 28 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
From verified diners like you
  • jalyn
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Very friendly staff and amazing food will be going back Forsure!
    More info
    Pierre PierrePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Oakland
    •
    4.4
  • Nancy
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Celebrated my Dad's 80th Birthday listening to great Live music and eating delicious food! We will definitely be back SOON! Cheers & Love Biscuit & Blues and we will see you soon!
    More info
    Biscuits and BluesPrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.7
  • Erin
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 20, 2024
    Prelude is such a gem that we are lucky to have in the Bay Area. In an era where tasting menus can often leave you underwhelmed and needing a slice of pizza at the end, Prelude did the exact opposite. While I did opt for the caviar supplement and added on the sweetbreads dish from the ala carte menu, even without the extras I still would have left full to the brim. Some can’t miss dishes are the stuffed chicken wing, the catfish dumplings, the aforementioned sweetbreads, and the pork chop. The service was warm, friendly, and attentive, and I found the by the glass wine options superb- I was particularly fond of a pour of a very special 1996 Chenin Blanc with dessert. I look forward to returning to Prelude again and again.
    More info
    PreludePrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.6
  • Laura
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 20, 2024
    First time at Hard Knox Cafe. We chose it because of the reviews and its proximity to the Legion of Honor. We met my niece and nephew and the staff was very accomodating of guest arriving at different times. The food arrived quickly and was very hot which was terrific. The portions are very generous and we had dinner the next night on the leftovers. The food was flavorful without being spicy. We ordered fried chicken dinner with yam fries and salad; ribs with corn and coleslaw; spicy fried chicken with collard greens and another vegetable; and a pulled pork sandwich with fries. We all enjoyed our food and will definitely be returning.
    More info
    Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Richmond District
    •
    4.8
  • Chadvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 7, 2024
    Excellent food! Highly recommended. Looking forward to going back.
    More info
    Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Potrero Hill / Dogpatch
    •
    4.6

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo