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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

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60 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
1. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(6018)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 95 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 Spruce restaurant
2. Spruce
4.8
Exceptional(5365)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 55 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
3. Angler San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(231)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 43 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 Octavia restaurant
4. Octavia
4.8
Exceptional(2610)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 22 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 Sula restaurant
5. Sula
4.7
Exceptional(210)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Sausalito
Booked 26 times today
Sula in Sausalito truly embodies the essence of Farm-to-table cuisine, offering diners a delightful culinary journey with views of the Golden Gate Bridge. The restaurant prides itself on serving dishes that are both beautifully plated and bursting with flavors sourced directly from local farms. Guests consistently rave about the "excellent food and service," with special mentions of the "beautifully presented and tasty" dishes that make every meal memorable. The use of fresh, local ingredients ensures that each dish served is not only sustainable but also supports local agriculture, making Sula a gem for those seeking authentic and consciential dining in Northern California.
A photo of Trestle restaurant
6. Trestle
4.8
Exceptional(2747)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 43 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.
A photo of Wayfare Tavern restaurant
7. Wayfare Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(7774)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 129 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 Boulevard restaurant
8. Boulevard
4.7
Exceptional(9049)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 64 times today
Boulevard, nestled in the vibrant Financial District/Embarcadero area of San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with an innovative twist. The restaurant recently refreshed its approach, offering a multi-course prefix menu that dazzles diners. Reviewers rave about its culinary delights, describing dishes like the "out of this world" strawberry yuzu sundae and flavor-packed stuffed morels as highlights of their dining experience. Boulevard's commitment to quality is evident, with one patron noting, "Boulevard never disappoints! Excellent food. We have eaten there many times and it is always exceptional." This gem provides not just a meal but a memorable dining adventure, making it a must-visit for those seeking exceptional Contemporary American fare in a sophisticated setting.
A photo of One Market Restaurant restaurant
9. One Market Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(4344)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 29 times today
One Market Restaurant, nestled in the bustling Financial District/Embarcadero of San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of high-quality American cuisine with its blend of classic dishes and innovative culinary twists. Diners rave about the authenticity and diversity of the menu, describing the saffron risotto with shrimp and chorizo as "to die for!" and praising the perfectly cooked roast prime rib. The ambiance, combined with impeccable service, makes every meal memorable, with one guest noting, "Every course and dish we ordered was perfectly prepared." One Market stands out not only for its food but also for the warmth and professionalism of its staff, like Tonya, their award-winning sommelier, who enhances dining experiences with her expert pairings. This gem is consistently lauded for its dedication to delivering a superb dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of American dining in San Francisco.
A photo of The Patio restaurant
10. The Patio
4.7
Exceptional(276)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 1 time today
The Patio, nestled in the vibrant Marina/Cow Hollow district near Presidio in San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to freshness, innovation, and local flavors. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The kitchen obviously cares," highlighting the delicately dressed salads, al dente mac'n'cheese, and spoon-tender short ribs. The venue is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, described as a gem for its inviting ambiance and top-notch service. Whether it's the perfectly cooked steak frittes or the innovative panna cotta dessert, The Patio delivers a Californian dining experience that is both memorable and heartwarming.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Lynn
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I had a party of five for the afternoon tea and I have to say it was amazing! Our party consisted of three adults and two children and everyone enjoyed the audience and the food and the special attention immensely! I could not recommend this location higher for afternoon tea. I am a huge fan of tea and this was the best one I have ever experienced! The food was delicious and the service outstanding. The location inside Neiman Marcus is absolutely beautiful and such a perfect place for a lovely afternoon! White
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.8
  • danny
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Amazing spot. Second visit in a week. Celebrating my 50th. Great food, service and atmosphere. Definitely on the pricey side but for occasional celebrations it’s great.
    More info
    Angler San FranciscoPrice: Very Expensive• American• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.7
  • Colleenvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This is what an excellent dining experience is about. From the greeter at the front, full of warm welcomes on a rainy evening to the general manager re-seating us due to a wobbly table we had the most amazing evening. Service is excellent, Christian and the house managers were attentive polite and professional. The sommelier as well chose our white and red wines and nailed it! The food goes without saying, we had pear salad, crudeo and pasta. The special white truffle pasta as a share was amazing. Duck, scallops, lobster pasta as mains. Benigets for dessert with a vanilla and dark chocolate sauce. Cocktails also supreme, old fashioned, martini's and a Paper Plate! We really had such a wonderful time and it reminded me of the wonder of our city and the talented restaurant chefs, and servers in the Presidio.
    More info
    SprucePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Presidio Heights
    •
    4.8
  • Lucy
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Food was absolutely incredible, service impeccable, restaurant soo beautiful!
    More info
    OctaviaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Pacific Heights
    •
    4.8
  • Laura
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 17, 2024
    Everything was fantastic! Service, food, value, atmosphere. Everyone was so sweet and accommodating. Felt like we were welcome family. The taste of everything was delectable! So many great options. Would highly highly recommend for a date night or gather! Can’t wait to come again!
    More info
    SulaPrice: Expensive• American• Sausalito
    •
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine in the exclusive San Francisco Bay Area dining scene. Renowned for its innovative approach and commitment to quality, the area offers a variety of restaurants that specialize in modern American dishes, each providing a unique culinary experience. These establishments celebrate the fusion of diverse flavors and techniques, reflecting the vibrant and eclectic nature of Bay Area culture. Patrons can expect menus rich with creative and carefully crafted dishes that emphasize fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The dining atmosphere ranges from casual chic to sophisticated elegance, ensuring an enjoyable experience for any occasion. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to indulge in high-quality contemporary American fare, the San Francisco Bay Area's exclusive restaurants are sure to impress with their culinary excellence and exceptional service. Dive into a world of exquisite tastes and unforgettable dining adventures in one of the most iconic food destinations in the United States.

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