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Best Southern American Restaurants in Cole Valley

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123 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bambino's Ristorante restaurant
1. Bambino's Ristorante
4.5
Awesome(567)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Cole Valley
Booked 3 times today
Bambino's Ristorante, nestled in the heart of Cole Valley, San Francisco, is a delightful gem for those craving authentic American cuisine. Known for its "fantastic food and great service," it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that diners love. With a focus on quality and freshness, every dish is prepared with high-quality ingredients, ensuring that each bite is both satisfying and memorable. The staff's attentiveness and the owner's personal touch create an "intimate" dining experience that feels like home. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Bambino's promises a culinary journey that "won’t disappoint." Don't miss out on this neighborhood favorite!
A photo of House of Prime Rib restaurant
2. House of Prime Rib
4.8
Exceptional(15974)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 165 times today
House of Prime Rib in San Francisco is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, renowned for its "iconic" status and exceptional prime rib. With 62 years of unwavering dedication, it’s no surprise that this establishment garners glowing praise from loyal patrons who rave about its "festive" atmosphere and "superb" service. Guests continually highlight the "delicious" prime rib, which is described as "massive" and "perfectly cooked," making every visit a memorable experience. The lively ambiance and the meticulous attention from the staff ensure that every meal feels like a special occasion. Truly, House of Prime Rib offers a quintessential American dining experience.
A photo of Spruce restaurant
3. Spruce
4.7
Exceptional(5468)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Presidio Heights
Booked 51 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 The Progress restaurant
4. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2516)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Western Addition
Booked 49 times today
The Progress in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers a truly remarkable Californian dining experience. Celebrated for its "innovative menu" and "delicious flavors," this restaurant uses entirely local ingredients to craft dishes that highlight the essence of Californian cuisine. Guests rave about the duck, described as a "must-try" and "100% juicy and tender," alongside other inventive dishes like the seaweed noodles and Tierra vegetables masa dumplings. The ambiance is "casual and playful," providing the perfect setting for what many reviewers describe as "the best meal in SF." With excellent service and a creative menu, The Progress is an unmissable culinary gem.
A photo of Fable - SF restaurant
5. Fable - SF
4.6
Exceptional(2214)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Castro
Booked 32 times today
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Castro neighborhood, Fable - SF is a true gem for Contemporary American cuisine lovers. The restaurant’s seasonal California dishes are hailed as "delicious" and "scrumptious," promising an authentic taste of contemporary culinary artistry. The charming garden patio, often described as "gorgeous" and "beautiful," offers a unique outdoor dining experience that perfectly complements the exquisite dishes. With friendly and efficient staff, Fable ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere where every meal feels like a special occasion. Whether you're enjoying brunch or dinner, Fable's commitment to quality and freshness makes it an unforgettable dining destination.
A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
6. State Bird Provisions
4.7
Exceptional(3303)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Western Addition
Booked 77 times today
State Bird Provisions in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers an extraordinary American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its inventive "dim sum" style service, this restaurant presents a creative twist on classic American flavors. Diners rave about the "delicious, innovative, and surprising" small dishes that keep the experience fresh and exciting. With impeccable service and a lively atmosphere, patrons find themselves returning for more. The signature quail dish and the adventurous blue corn-pepita pancakes with braised bacon and coffee butter are must-tries. As one enthusiastic diner put it, "Every dish was like culinary viagra," making this a must-visit for any American cuisine enthusiast.
A photo of Bistro Central Parc restaurant
7. Bistro Central Parc
4.7
Exceptional(953)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 4 times today
Bistro Central Parc in North Panhandle, San Francisco, is a true gem for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience with great value. Guests rave about the "fantastic food and service" and describe it as a "neighborhood gem" with a "romantic atmosphere." The restaurant is known for its early bird specials, praised as a "great deal," allowing diners to explore a diverse menu. The attentive and caring staff ensures every visit is memorable, making it a beloved spot for locals and newcomers alike. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual dinner, Bistro Central Parc promises a warm and delicious American experience.
A photo of Frances restaurant
8. Frances
4.8
Exceptional(3673)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Castro
Booked 27 times today
Frances, nestled in the heart of The Castro in San Francisco, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant and innovative dishes. Chef Melissa Perello’s seasonal menu masterfully showcases "California Cuisine," emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients that "speak for themselves." Diners rave about the "phenomenal" short rib and "divine" house sourdough, noting the harmonious blend of flavors that elevate each dish. The restaurant’s ambiance is described as cozy yet elegant, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. With its "exemplary" service and carefully curated wine pairings, Frances offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of Firefly Restaurant restaurant
9. Firefly Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3039)
Price: Expensive
• Southern american • Noe Valley
Booked 53 times today
Firefly Restaurant in Noe Valley, San Francisco, is a shining beacon of authentic American cuisine. With its innovative and ever-evolving menu, Firefly delivers "mind blowing" dishes that perfectly capture the essence of American flavors while catering to diverse palates. Known for its "delicious, healthy, perfectly portioned" offerings, this neighborhood gem consistently delights diners with its creative combinations, including standout dishes like fried chicken and Brussel sprouts. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere, combined with a "warm, efficient" service, ensures a memorable dining experience. Firefly truly embodies the heart and soul of American dining, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Horsefeather restaurant
10. Horsefeather
4.5
Awesome(41)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Western Addition
Booked 23 times today
Horsefeather, nestled in the vibrant Western Addition of San Francisco, offers a delightful Latin/Spanish culinary experience that is both authentic and innovative. The restaurant's menu is a testament to its dedication to quality, with dishes that are "delicious and surprisingly lite," drawing inspiration from diverse Latin and Spanish flavors. Patrons rave about the "excellent food and the people working there are the best," highlighting the warm and attentive service that complements the flavorful dishes. From the crispy, spicy Gochujang Wings to the churro dessert, each dish is crafted with care, ensuring diners leave thoroughly satisfied and eager to return.
‘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
  • Liz
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Exceptional atmosphere and food was amazing! A long leisurely dinner, shared plates, and can't rave enough about the overall experience. I cant wait to eat here again! 10 stars.
    More info
    PreludePrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.7
  • Paul
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 16, 2025
    As visitors from New Zealand, we really enjoyed our evening here. The venue was just around the corner from our hotel and the online booking process was easy - we booked 24 hours in advance, choosing the early (dinner) session. It was great for us to see Harvey Mandel and his band live - although he must now be in his late seventies at least, he has lost none of his guitar technique or ability to let it rock. We had a choice of tables and opted for one near the front, which gave us a good view of the stage. The quality of the food was surprisingly good and exceptionally good value. A brilliant selection of craft beer too. One final bonus - the sound level was just right - not too loud for us two oldies.
    More info
    Biscuits and BluesPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Southern)• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.7
  • Kathie
    San Francisco Bay Area •144 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 14, 2025
    Always wonderful service, deliciously made and served comfort food. Thank you for yet another enjoyable experience.
    More info
    Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Regional American (Southern)• Richmond District
    •
    4.9

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