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Best Californian Restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

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98 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Post Room restaurant
1. The Post Room
4.4
Awesome(134)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 27 times today
Nestled in the historic Beacon Grand at Union Square, San Francisco, The Post Room is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with menu highlights like the "absolutely phenomenal" Ahi Tuna and the "fork-tender" lamb. The ambiance, enriched with live piano music, complements the exquisite food, creating a vibrant yet cozy Mediterranean experience. Reviewers consistently commend the "creative" cocktails and "exceptional service," noting the baked eggplant dip and mushroom flatbread as must-tries. The Post Room is a culinary delight, perfect for those seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of ANZU restaurant
2. ANZU
4.5
Awesome(2626)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 9 times today
Restaurant ANZU, nestled in the Union Square district of Downtown San Francisco, is a beacon of sushi excellence. Renowned for its fusion of contemporary Japanese cuisine with California and Asian flavors, ANZU consistently impresses with its high-quality sushi. Guests rave about the sushi's freshness and exquisite presentation, describing it as the "best Sushi we have ever eaten!" The restaurant's dedication to quality and service shines through, with one diner noting, "Their Omakase has been one of the best experiences I have had in a sushi restaurant in a long time!" Whether it's the meticulous preparation or the vibrant setting, ANZU offers a sushi experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.
A photo of Level III restaurant
3. Level III
3.7
Very Good(398)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 1 time today
Experience social food and modern cocktails at a new level - Level Three. An exciting and sophisticated dining experience inside the JW Marriott San Francisco. This chic restaurant and lounge features a menu of delicious sharable plates crafted from the freshest, local, seasonal ingredients complemented with an extraordinary cocktail menu custom-created by an acclaimed local mixologist. Situated on the third floor lobby level of the hotel highlighted by a 16 story atrium, you can dine on extravagant plates like Dungeness Crab Cake Benedict, Croque Madame, Avocado Toast, "The Burger", Artisinal Grilled Cheese, Filet Mignon, and our Daily Catch!
A photo of ONE65 Bistro restaurant
4. ONE65 Bistro
4.6
Exceptional(169)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Union Square, ONE65 Bistro offers a culinary journey reminiscent of a Parisian bistro, right down to the authentic French flair brought to life by Chef Claude Le Tohic. With its strategic location at 165 O'Farrell Street, this bistro delights with a Prix Fixe menu that showcases local, seasonal ingredients through minimalistic preparation, allowing the true flavors to shine. Critics rave about the "exquisite pastries" and "superb" French cuisine, noting the "elegant setting" that complements the culinary experience. Whether it's the "buttery scalloped potatoes" or the "flawlessly executed beef cheeks," each dish is crafted with a dedication to authenticity and quality that echoes through glowing reviews. As one diner puts it, it's an "impeccable French culinary experience" that truly honors the essence of French dining.
A photo of Bouche restaurant
5. Bouche
4.7
Exceptional(1904)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 10 times today
Bouche, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Francisco near Union Square, is a culinary treasure that artfully blends Californian flair with French elegance. This intimate "hole in the wall" restaurant, led by the acclaimed Parisian Chef Jeremy Blaringhem, offers an ever-evolving seasonal menu that captivates with its authenticity and high-quality local ingredients. Diners rave about the unique dining experience, with one describing it as "nothing fancy... Simply expect real food, real ingredients, real people, real laughs... a love experience." Guests consistently praise the "incredible experience" and the exceptional value of the $55 seasonal 3-course Prix Fixe menu, highlighting dishes like the adventurous "The Adventurous" blind dish that challenges palates. Bouche's commitment to small producer wines from California ensures each meal is paired perfectly, enhancing the authentic Californian dining experience. A visit to Bouche is a journey through the best of Californian cuisine, served with passion and a smile.
A photo of Bartlett Hall restaurant
6. Bartlett Hall
4.0
Excellent(516)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 3 times today
Bartlett Hall, nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Union Square, is a beacon of Californian cuisine that marries the Golden State's culinary spirit with the sophistication of modern dining. Renowned for its "award-winning beers" crafted on-site and a menu that captures the essence of California-inspired American fare, Bartlett Hall stands out with its unique beer and food pairing program, elevating the dining experience. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality, describing dishes as "delicious" and the atmosphere as "cozy and grownup." One visitor highlighted, "The food was great and the chef came out to talk about the special we’d enjoyed. Hidden gem." This glowing endorsement underscores Bartlett Hall’s commitment to offering a memorable Californian dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.
A photo of The Barnes Restaurant and Bar restaurant
7. The Barnes Restaurant and Bar
4.5
Awesome(2)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Financial District / Embarcadero
The Barnes Restaurant + Bar offers an upgraded dining and beverage experience in a modern setting in Union Square in the center of San Francisco. The cocktails are incredibly delicious and elegant, with something for every palate, including zero proof drinks. The dish is ideal for sharing or having dinner with friends because it uses locally sourced, handcrafted ingredients and showcases distinctive San Francisco flavors. Locals are encouraged to make The Barnes their go-to place for coffee and cocktails.Enjoy The Barnes burger, Skuna bay fish, organic roasted chicken, or ribeye steak frites to sate a larger appetite. The famed woodfire Mr. Espresso coffee from San Francisco is included on the specialty coffee menu, which also offers a choice of other options like traditional breakfast tea and classic Americana or espresso.
A photo of Nopa - San Francisco restaurant
8. Nopa - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(3513)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 65 times today
Nopa in San Francisco is a jewel of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its urban rustic food and mastery in wood-fired dishes. Praised for its “amazing, fresh food” and warm, welcoming ambiance, Nopa sources seasonal ingredients locally, ensuring each dish, from the "halibut crudo" to the "pork chop with blueberries," is both fresh and flavorful. Diners consistently rave about the quality and attention to detail, noting that Nopa "always delivers a top-tier experience." The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and the local food scene makes it a must-visit. As one reviewer puts it, Nopa is the "quintessential Californian restaurant," making it a cherished spot in the North Panhandle of San Francisco.
A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
9. State Bird Provisions
4.8
Exceptional(3203)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 74 times today
State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood offers a truly American dining experience that captures both the spirit and innovation of contemporary American cuisine. Renowned for its unique approach, the restaurant features a dim sum-style service that delivers a parade of creative and seasonal dishes, earning high praise from diners. Guests rave about the "extraordinary place with extraordinarily good food" and the "interesting, seasonal, and well-balanced flavors." The energy and creativity of the menu make every visit a delightful adventure, with standouts like the duck liver mousse and the smoked trout dip. The combination of top-notch service and a lively atmosphere ensures a memorable dining experience that epitomizes the best of American culinary excellence. This gem is a proud testament to the rich, evolving food scene of San Francisco.
A photo of The Garden Court - Luxury Collection restaurant
10. The Garden Court - Luxury Collection
4.2
Awesome(2458)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • SOMA
Booked 16 times today
Dining at The Garden Court in SOMA, San Francisco is an unforgettable experience that epitomizes the essence of luxurious Californian cuisine. Nestled within the historic Palace Hotel, this iconic venue is celebrated for its "amazing experience" and "stunning" ambiance, as noted by numerous glowing reviews. The restaurant's signature dishes, like the crab salad with the original Palace-created Green Goddess Dressing from 1923, highlight the innovation and authenticity that define Californian culinary excellence. Diners consistently praise the "fantastic service" and the quality of the meals, making The Garden Court a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of California's rich culinary heritage in a breathtaking setting.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Globetrottervip
    San Francisco Bay Area •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Wonderful dining experience. Great food, excellent service and beautiful ambience. Highly recommended. I had octopus salad (lots of octopus), skate wing (crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, nice sauce) and Pavlova (the best!). My friend had the same appetizer and dessert as I and duck breast, which she said was awesome.
    More info
    ONE65 BistroPrice: Very Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.6
  • Joyce
    San Francisco Bay Area •29 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We had a pre-fixe menu for restaurant week and it was absolutely delicious. The service was excellent and we really enjoyed the whole experience. Thank you.
    More info
    ANZUPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.5
  • Lindavip
    San Francisco Bay Area •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Enjoyed an excellent lunch in a very beautiful setting. This hotel's dining area has several different size rooms and very comfortable furniture. Great for a business lunch or group. Service was very good as well. It was our second visit - last time was for dinner - and just as good.
    More info
    The Post RoomPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.4
  • Paolavip
    San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    Such a jewel in the neighborhood! Everything is exceptional. The missing thing is that you should also give the reward points on Open table after dining there.
    More info
    BouchePrice: Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.7
  • Anne
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    A great location to meet friends for breakfast! We had a small, more private area as a party of 8. We were able to enjoy each other's company and spend time with each other before traveling home. Food was excellent, service was outstanding.
    More info
    Level IIIPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    3.7

Discover best Californian restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in Downtown / Union Square, San Francisco. Renowned for its innovative and diverse gastronomic offerings, this area presents a plethora of dining experiences that beautifully blend local ingredients with global culinary techniques. Here, you can indulge in everything from meticulously crafted dishes at Michelin-starred establishments to vibrant flavors at cozy rooftop lounges, all while enjoying the chic urban ambiance of one of the city's most dynamic districts. The dining scene in Downtown / Union Square is characterized by its commitment to quality and authenticity, offering menus that highlight seasonal, locally-sourced produce and a fusion of cultural influences. Whether you're craving a sophisticated French-Californian fusion, a contemporary Japanese twist, or a classic Californian meal, the restaurants in this locale promise an unforgettable dining experience. Each establishment strives to provide not only delicious meals but also exemplary service and a memorable atmosphere, making each dining outing exceptional. For food enthusiasts and casual diners alike, Downtown / Union Square in San Francisco remains a top destination for those seeking to experience the true flavor of Californian cuisine in an elegant setting.

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