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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Chinatown

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56 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Wayfare Tavern restaurant
1. Wayfare Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(7823)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 87 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 Trestle restaurant
2. Trestle
4.8
Exceptional(2769)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 25 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 The Third Floor restaurant
3. The Third Floor
4.1
Excellent(52)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 6 times today
Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at its finest at The Third Floor in the bustling Financial District of San Francisco. Renowned for its fresh, seasonal menu that pays homage to the flavors of the Mediterranean, diners consistently praise the restaurant's "delicious" dishes and "excellent service." From the "exquisitely crafted charcuterie" to the tantalizing seafood tower, each dish is a testament to the culinary expertise behind the scenes. Guests are captivated by the "beautiful terrace" and the upscale yet welcoming ambience, making it an ideal spot for both casual and formal gatherings. As one diner raved, it's the perfect place for a "romantic getaway" or a vibrant business lunch. Join in and savor the Mediterranean at The Third Floor, where every meal is a celebration of taste and elegance.
A photo of The Vault Steakhouse restaurant
4. The Vault Steakhouse
4.5
Awesome(266)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the historic 555 California St building in San Francisco's Financial District, The Vault Steakhouse is a prime destination for Contemporary American cuisine, particularly renowned for its innovative approach to the classic steakhouse experience. Chefs Ryan Cerizo & Jason Halverson have masterfully elevated traditional dishes with "simple, delicious, modern day touches" that resonate with diners. Patrons rave about the "impeccable" food and service, emphasizing standout items like the "Pavé Tots with caviar" and the "truffle bordelais sauce." The unique option to select a custom steak knife and the nightly live piano music add an exclusive touch, making The Vault Steakhouse a must-visit for a memorable dining adventure in a "swanky but modern" ambiance.
A photo of The Barrel Room - San Francisco restaurant
5. The Barrel Room - San Francisco
4.5
Awesome(284)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
We're happy to announce that we are reopening! We are now accepting reservations for October 18th, 2022 and beyond. The Barrel Room offers guests a unique experience with our regionally focused rotating menus. Our menus feature the cuisine, wines, and spirits of regions from around the world, changing each quarter. Our wine list offers our guests small-production, responsibly farmed wines from iconic and influential producers organized into flights or by the glass.Join us for our current focus: the wines and cuisine of Spain. This menu will be available through October.
A photo of Monte’s Restaurant & Bar restaurant
6. Monte’s Restaurant & Bar
4.4
Awesome(9)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Located in downtown San Francisco at the corner of Montgomery and California Streets, Monte’s Restaurant and Bar is convenient to the cable car stop and features expansive windows in a comfortable, elegant atmosphere. Enjoy locally crafted meals in addition to signature cocktails and drinks at our San Francisco bar.Monte’s Restaurant is open for Breakfast and Lunch and Monte’s Bar provides walk-in Dinner service from 4:00pm – 10:00pm.Drinks are served in the bar until 11:00pm.
A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
7. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(6098)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 107 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 The Progress restaurant
8. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2467)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 62 times today
The Progress, located in San Francisco's vibrant Western Addition, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its innovative and locally-sourced dishes. Guests frequently rave about the "beyond amazing" duck and the inventive flavor combinations that make each visit a culinary adventure. With its reputation for "exceptional food and impeccable service," The Progress offers a dynamic dining experience, described by many as "the greatest dinner party ever." It's not just the food that impresses; the cocktails are crafted with creativity, leading one guest to proclaim, "My wife had one of the most creative and delicious drinks she had ever had." Whether it's the warmly recommended small plates or the standout duck, The Progress ensures a memorable and delightful meal with every visit, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of Contemporary American dining in San Francisco.
A photo of Angler San Francisco restaurant
9. Angler San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(253)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 47 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 Prospect restaurant
10. Prospect
4.6
Exceptional(2711)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 11 times today
Prospect, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco, stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Launched by the powerhouse team behind Boulevard, including James Beard award-winning chef Nancy Oakes, Prospect offers a culinary experience that dazzles with freshness and innovation. Reviewers rave about dishes like the "tender melt-in-your-mouth pork" and the "fresh lobster with delicious mushrooms," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity. The ambiance is described as "modern and creative," perfect for everything from a casual bite to a special occasion. With its warm, welcoming service and a menu that captures the essence of American dining with a modern twist, Prospect is a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining experience in San Francisco.
‘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
  • Brian
    California Central Coast •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a great time here! Great food, awesome vibe, everything was really good! There were 4 of us and we had the Burger, Steak Dianne, Beef Cheek Stroganoff and the Rigatoni (which IS freshly, house -made rigatoni, despite what the "Karen" from TX wrote/reviewed) and then we split an amazing Creme Brulee! Definitely recommend!!
    More info
    Wayfare TavernPrice: Moderate• American• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.6
  • Winona
    Los Angeles •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Ricardo was very welcoming and informative when we inquired about dinner. When we returned to dine, David was our server who was very knowledgeable and made some great suggestions. We ordered: Pumpkin Burrata Salad - delicious. Mom fell in love with the burrata Duck Soup - what yummy twist to a Chinese classic wonton noodle dish Burger - son thoroughly enjoyed Pork Shank - OMG! Star of the show. A must get! A great evening all around!
    More info
    The Third FloorPrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.1
  • NadjaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Incredibly attentive service and a delightful evening all around. Cocktail was perfect, great suggestions on the menu, and we felt very well cared for. Adjust the Caesar salad to your liking (ask for less lemon for a 2 person serving), pick your steak knife (NY and ribeye were both outstanding) and add the Mac and cheese!
    More info
    The Vault SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.5
  • h
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    a family holiday celebration evening. we had dec 23rd chef's tasting menu. we included a family share of risotto & pasta. five entrees in all. our family are world travelers & food connsoisseurs. i'm a self-taught international cook. able sons can cook. it takes culinary uniqueness to impress our family. it's the holiday. a full house on 1st hour. k, chef does best of ability. beginning entrees were tasty, but not about presentation like in restaurant photos, but we like it rudimentary. i sense kitchen staff became overwrought 2nd half. entrees became salty. a low salt person, i was dehydrated from salt. my hot water was not replenished. ah, chai was around the corner. boba drinks a block away. still highly commend front of house staff. a full house, and they work well as a team ensuring & assuring our family enjoyed our restaurant experience during our 1st visit. a rarity... they check in our outerwears & umbrellas.
    More info
    TrestlePrice: Expensive• American• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.8
  • David
    New Zealand •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 29, 2024
    4 kiwis bowled up based on a recommendation from our local wine shop. Great service friendly and welcoming great knowledge of the wine and food available. Very enjoyable night. Thanks to the great Londoner who looked after us so well
    More info
    The Barrel Room - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• International• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.5

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