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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Cole Valley

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46 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Progress restaurant
1. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2527)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 47 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 The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
2. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(6228)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 84 times today
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine, offering a dining experience that combines tradition and elegance. Nestled in the heart of Union Square, this iconic venue is beloved for its "excellent service" and "delicious food," consistently leaving diners "extremely satisfied." The Rotunda's menu is celebrated for its innovative takes on American classics, like the "wonderful French 75 cocktail and lobster club sandwich." The chic setting, complete with beautiful views and festive decorations, enhances the atmosphere, making it a "must-visit" destination, especially during the holiday season. Experience the quintessential American dining delight at The Rotunda!
A photo of Spruce restaurant
3. Spruce
4.7
Exceptional(5480)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 56 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 Octavia restaurant
4. Octavia
4.7
Exceptional(2663)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 33 times today
Octavia in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a beacon of authentic Farm-to-table dining, masterfully curated by the acclaimed Chef Melissa Perello. Known for its "gloriously delicious" offerings, Octavia embraces seasonally driven cuisine, showcasing the Bay Area's rich agricultural bounty through its ever-evolving menu. Diners rave about the thoughtful preparation and presentation of dishes, highlighting the "fresh, locally-sourced, delicious food" that is both creative and flavorful. The restaurant's intimate, relaxed atmosphere, coupled with top-notch service, makes it a must-visit destination. As one guest perfectly put it, “Octavia is an absolute gem!” – a testament to its commitment to quality and sustainability.
A photo of Firefly Restaurant restaurant
5. Firefly Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3050)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Noe Valley
Booked 31 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 Wayfare Tavern restaurant
6. Wayfare Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(7873)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 81 times today
Wayfare Tavern, nestled in San Francisco's bustling Financial District, stands as a beacon of exemplary Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Tyler Florence masterfully crafts dishes that transport diners to an era of authentic American flavors inspired by the early 20th century. The restaurant is celebrated for its "impeccably delicious" offerings, with standout dishes like the renowned "Mary’s Fried Chicken" and "deviled eggs" that leave patrons raving. The vibrant yet cozy Victorian ambiance complements the culinary delights, making it perfect for any occasion. With "phenomenal" service and a dedication to quality, Wayfare Tavern is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Angler San Francisco restaurant
7. Angler San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(296)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 54 times today
Angler San Francisco, a Michelin-starred gem nestled on the Embarcadero waterfront, offers a seafood experience that truly stands out. With a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, each dish is meticulously crafted by Chef de Cuisine Joe Hou, ensuring every bite is a "revelation." Diners rave about the "perfectly prepared" sea bream and "incredible" embered oysters, praising the restaurant's commitment to quality. The ambiance complements the exquisite flavors, with a warm décor and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Angler's seafood is not just a meal; it's an "absolutely stunning dining experience" that leaves patrons eager to return.
A photo of Prospect restaurant
8. Prospect
4.4
Awesome(2715)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 34 times today
Prospect, located in the vibrant SOMA district of San Francisco, stands as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, exuding warmth and sophistication. With a team led by the James Beard award-winning chef Nancy Oakes, this contemporary restaurant encapsulates the true essence of American dining. Diners rave about the "creative and incredible food" and "impeccable service," which highlight their commitment to quality and authenticity. The diverse menu, featuring standout dishes like lobster bucatini and spicy seabass ceviche, ensures each visit is a culinary adventure. Guests are consistently "blown away by the food and service," making Prospect a must-visit for American cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Trestle restaurant
9. Trestle
4.7
Exceptional(2819)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 38 times today
Trestle, nestled in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District/Embarcadero, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine that delights with its ever-evolving 3-course prix fixe menu. Celebrated for its "creative and delicious" dishes, Trestle offers a culinary journey that changes weekly to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients. The warm, inviting atmosphere paired with "superb service" makes every visit a memorable affair. Diners rave about the exceptional value, describing it as "the most exceptional dining in San Francisco for the price." With its "phenomenal taste" and attentive staff, Trestle's commitment to quality and authenticity makes it a must-visit destination for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Frances restaurant
10. Frances
4.8
Exceptional(3681)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Castro
Booked 24 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.
‘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.

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