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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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52 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nightbird restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(832)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 10 times today
Nightbird, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Hayes Valley, offers an exquisite American culinary journey that is both artistic and authentic. Chef Kim Alter, a James Beard Award nominee, crafts a 12-course tasting menu that brilliantly showcases the finest seasonal, local ingredients, making each visit a unique experience. Patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious and inventive food," with standout dishes like the "Taste of the ocean" leaving a lasting impression. The ambiance is described as "elegant yet welcoming," and the service as "impeccable," ensuring every diner feels cherished. Nightbird is truly a celebration of American cuisine at its finest.
A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6124)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 93 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 The Progress restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2473)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 66 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 Octavia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2625)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 14 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 Spruce restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5418)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 60 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 Wayfare Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7839)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 94 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
4.7
Exceptional(260)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 33 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
4.5
Awesome(2718)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 13 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
4.8
Exceptional(2775)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 43 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 Charmaine's Rooftop Lounge restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1369)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 25 times today
Charmaine's Rooftop Lounge, perched high above Market Street in San Francisco, offers an exquisite Contemporary American cuisine experience that is truly unparalleled. This chic rooftop venue combines the vibrant energy of a European terrace with the relaxed charm of California cool, creating a unique dining atmosphere. Guests rave about the "fantastic paella" and the "well-crafted drinks," emphasizing the authenticity and quality of the menu offerings. The restaurant's commitment to inventive flavors and original combinations shines through, making it a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts. With breathtaking views and an inviting ambiance, Charmaine's promises an unforgettable dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Diane
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Amazing, delicious food and the service is always first rate. Server was Pam and she was awesome. Consume was yummy, the popovers are to die for and the apple pie and NM chocolate chip cookie….oh my gosh! So good. The petrale sole was tasty too. The ambience is the best! Love the view and the ceiling!
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    4.8
  • Yvonne
    San Francisco Bay Area •46 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My husband and I went to the New Year's Day special 3-course brunch. The menu selection was excellent, the service was great, and the overall setting was lovely. My 3-course meal included the crab toast, Lobster egg benedicts, and apple tart. All the dishes were excellent. The freshly baked coffee cake was excellent too. If they decide to do it again next New Year's Day, I will sign up again.
    More info
    SprucePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Presidio Heights
    4.8
  • Austin
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Each course was perfectly placed and presented. A very special meal and dining experience overall. The team were attentive to our timeframe and made sure we made it to our show on time. Truly excellent Michelin style service. Top notch.
    More info
    NightbirdPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.6
  • Tim
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 27, 2024
    These are innovative, awake and aware professionals. The original energy and spirit of the restaurant are alive and evolving. Service: Excellent. Food: Excellent. Ambience: Excellent, energetic, present, engaging. This is what an exceptional experience feels like. Thanks to everyone at The Progress.
    More info
    The ProgressPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Western Addition
    4.8
  • Audrey
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    The food quality at Octavia is very high. The chefs really know what they’re doing. We had a pre-fixe menu for Christmas Eve dinner and they accommodated dietary restrictions with advanced notice. They actually called a few days in advance of the reservation to confirm the dietary restrictions which was really nice. We had 9 courses I think and they were all delicious. My favorites were the soup and the pasta dishes. The service was also very good, the servers were very attending and accommodating. There was one dish I didn’t eat much of because it had radicchio in it which I don’t like, and our server offered to have the kitchen make me a replacement dish with a different lettuce instead. The only negative of Octavia is that it feels very cramped. The space is small and they squeeze in a lot of tables so you’re sitting basically on top of other diners and it’s a little awkward. Everything else was great though. I would definitely recommend Octavia as a good place for special occasions or bringing out of town visitors.
    More info
    OctaviaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Pacific Heights
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Explore the vibrant dining scene in San Francisco's Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This neighborhood is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to the sophisticated palate of food enthusiasts. The restaurants in this location pride themselves on their innovative menus that feature a blend of local ingredients and creative culinary techniques, providing a truly unique dining experience. Patrons can expect high-quality service, exquisite food presentation, and a delightful atmosphere that complements the modern American dishes served. Whether you're looking for a casual brunch spot or an elegant dinner setting, the area's restaurants are sure to impress with their dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. Enjoy the convenience of dining in close proximity to cultural landmarks like the War Memorial & Performing Arts Center, making it an ideal choice for a pre-show meal. Discover why the Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area is celebrated for its contemporary American dining scene.

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