East Bay
There’s a reason culinary goddess Alice Waters started her career in the East Bay. From Alameda to Berkeley and Oakland, to even beyond the East Bay, trend setting eateries reflect the diverse population. Sample cuisines from overseas or with uniquely modern twists on traditional American comfort food. Whether you’re on the hunt for breakfast, lunch, dinner, burgers, pizza or sushi, these new spots are sure to become a new favorite.
Mediterranean
Not-to-miss authentic Mediterranean just dropped in Walnut Creek with PiddeG. With everything from kebabs and sausage to rice and salad, plus delicious sauces, customers can find a range of their favorite Mediterranean dishes. And of course, the namesake pidde, a Turkish flatbread, is plentiful.
Don’t Miss:
The sucuk (dry, spicy, fermented sausage) pidde.
2979 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek, 925.433.2357
San Ramon
This modern Indian bar and canteen is San Ramon’s new hotspot, with a menu and welcoming atmosphere featuring warm, orange hues. Khaki offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menu options, plus a comprehensive beverage menu with cocktails, mocktails, spirits and wine.
Don’t Miss:
For the vegetarians, the coconut curry roast cauliflower, with a coconut-tomato-onion gravy and a touch of fresh ginger. For non-vegetarians, the champaran handi mutton, with slow-cooked baby goat simmered in a sealed clay handi with mustard oil, whole garlic pods and plentiful earthy spices.
Dublin
Craving regional Indian cuisine, but with added flare? Look no further than Dublin’s new eatery, Pippal, helmed by the Bay Area powerhouse team Carolina and Jatin Bunty Grewal (the latter being a Bollywood actor and supermodel.) The menu features the beloved Emeryville location’s classics, as well as newly innovative and refined dishes. The cocktail program is similarly creative and features diverse ingredients, techniques and traditions. Not to mention, the interior speaks to Art Deco-inspired design.
Don’t Miss:
The Parsi Fish Curry, a delicate preparation of steamed fish in a mustard-flavored coconut and coriander gravy inspired by the coastal flavors of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
4500 Tassajara Rd C, Dublin, 925.587.1125
Berkeley
Whether you’re looking to start your day with a filling breakfast or you need a tasty lunch to fuel the rest of your day, check out new hotspot Ashby Eatery in Berkeley. They serve both all day, so you can turn to them whether you’re craving breakfast for dinner. Keep in mind that some of the items on their menu, like any fish or fruit compote, changes seasonally.
Don’t Miss:
The banana bread French toast, which was a recipe that was brought over by the owners’ time living in Maui.
3031 Adeline St, Berkeley, 510.529.4125
Berkeley
Helmed by the team behind Rose Pizzeria, this new cafe in Berkeley is a great way to start their day. Bagels are baked in the pizzeria’s ovens and coffee and pastries are sourced from local businesses. You can also expect wine to end up on the menu down the road.
Don’t Miss:
The Classic open-face bagel, with cream cheese, tomato, red onion, capers and dill.
2000 University Ave, Berkeley
Oakland
This contemporary Asian restaurant in Oakland currently just serves dinner, but does so effectively. Find a selection of appetizers, soups and entrées, desserts and snacks, plus an extensive beverage menu.
Don’t Miss:
The Tsukune dumpling noodle soup, with chicken dashi, egg, gochugaru, scallion and handmade egg noodles.
6200 Claremont Ave, Oakland, 510.844.4130
Berkeley
Headlands on Campus is a new hub on UC Berkeley’s campus with a grand opening in October, intended to create a welcoming environment in which students can gather and mingle amidst tasty bites and beer.
Don’t Miss:
The pulled pork sandwich, with creamy jalapeño slaw, chicharrón crumbles, pickles and mustard & vinegar sauce on a toasted soft roll.
2465 Bancroft Way #140, Berkeley, 510.643.1200
Berkeley
Good vibes and good burgers can be found at The Station in Berkeley. Originally a pop-up, they’ve established themselves permanently upon demand for more of their smashburgers, fries and shakes.
Don’t Miss:
The original Back Alley burger, griddle-fried with onions, American cheese, pickles and house sauce on a potato bun.
2984 Russell St, Berkeley
San Ramon
In a cozy blend of Californian and Italian cuisines, Rosmarino in San Ramon is the newest romantic and cozy place to get dinner. Keep an eye out for their Apertivo Hour as well, for great deals on spritzes and Italian snacks.
Don’t Miss:
The penne alla vodka, with salmon, tomato, cream, spinach, chili and shallot.
2065 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon, 925.725.4789
Lafayette
Rooted in rich Filipino cuisine made modern, this eatery in Lafayette mostly serves dinner, but also serves brunch on Sundays. Unique dishes here that you can’t just get anywhere include braised oxtail and the prevalent use of calamansi, a citrus native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
Don’t Miss:
The Adobo Sticky Ribs, made with crispy pork ribs, adobo glaze, scallions, bay leaf and crispy garlic.
3400 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, 925.900.8861
San Leandro
San Leandro’s Fournos is family-owned and serves recipes rooted in Greek and Italian cuisines, with a variety of rich carbs, salads, wings and more on their menu to show it. Check or ask for their list of favorites if you need some guidance when ordering.
Don’t Miss:
The Greek God, their featured pizza with housemade pizza sauce, salami, green bell pepper, red onion, kalamata olives, tomato, feta, oregano and a grande cheese blend.
600 Dutton Ave Ste C, San Leandro, 510.567.3453
South Bay
While the South Bay is commonly associated with technological innovation, it was at one time covered in orchards and fields. Culinary gems are still prominent throughout this part of the Bay Area, with some of the best ethnic offerings, creative fusions and elevated experiences.
For this list, we are considering the South Bay to cover the coastal area from Half Moon Bay to Santa Cruz as well as the techy towns (Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Los Gatos and San Jose). These new openings cover all things breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, sushi, burgers and more; we’ve got you covered.
Los Gatos
A traditional Irish-English pub meets American chophouse at this new Los Gatos bar and eatery. The meals are inspired by old and comforting family recipes and an ambience with the same air of homeyness.
Don’t miss:
The heritage burger, with a potato bun, ½ pound patty, aioli, grilled onions, tomato, lettuce and smoked blue cheese.
15 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, 408.827.4066
Los Gatos
The Cantina brings traditional Mexican with a contemporary and American twist to Los Gatos. Order everything from handcrafted tacos to burgers, and be sure to get a side of their fresh chips and guacamole; they also serve a tasty cocktail menu.
Don’t miss:
The Baja fish taco, with battered and fried white fish, cajun remoulade, shredded cabbage and pico de gallo.
15529 Union Ave, Los Gatos, 408.963.6221
Redwood City
After a recent month-long renovation, Redwood City’s Donato Enoteca reopened with a clean, modern interior design and new Italian-inspired small plates. They’ve been around since 2009, but the new changes make for a refreshing approach that’s worth a visit.
Don’t miss:
One of the new tapas items, like cannelloni chiusi, a “closed” spinach and mascarpone cannelloni filled with Genovese pesto and fermented berries.
1041 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, 650.701.1000
Cupertino
Cupertino got a new Chinese restaurant with Jade Xiang Yue’s opening. Here you’ll find authentic dishes with bold flavors and plenty of (optional) spice.
Don’t miss:
The Beijing style duck.
10911 N Wolfe Rd, Cupertino, 669.888.1188
San Jose
This authentically Vietnamese dining experience in San Jose is a great way to squeeze in a cozy, flavorful meal. As the name would suggest, there’s plenty of pho options and the ability to select additional toppings like oxtail or onion and vinegar.
Don’t miss:
Phở Sườn Bò Đặc Biệt, also known as special beef short rib noodle soup.
960 Story Rd, San Jose, 408.920.9603
San Jose
Yet another location of Sushi Confidential has opened, this time in Willow Glen. They have classic favorite rolls of course, but also have plenty of other offerings ranging from starters to entrées. There’s even a sushi happy hour for those wanting an affordable price tag.
Don’t miss:
The RSM, which stands for “Randy’s Original Signature Roll,” and is a tempered California roll topped with crab, salmon, tuna, albacore, spicy spy, unagi sauce, macadamia nuts, green onion and tobiko.
1140 Lincoln Ave #8, San Jose, 408.287.9854
San Jose
Serving redefined American classics, The Stand has opened another location in San Jose that has their same beloved menu, with staples like burgers, sandwiches, salads, wraps and more. Their restaurants have the same modern burger-joint ambience, and they even sell featured craft beer and wine.
Don’t miss:
The French onion soup burger, with a double parmesan-crusted bun, double gruyère cheese, red wine onions, crispy onion strings, a gourmet brioche bun and French onion au jus on the side for dipping.
503 W Capitol Expy, San Jose, 669.900.5652
Sunnyvale
Sunnyvale’s Momo Grill specializes in Himalayan and Nepalese cuisine, with momos (steamed, filled dumplings) of course, but also a variety of rice dishes, noodles and more. Not to mention, guests on Yelp have raved about their flavorful use of spices and sauces.
Don’t miss:
The butter chicken, with tender chicken cooked in a buttery tomato gravy.
133 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, 650.350.0958
Palo Alto
Now open in Palo Alto too, Horsefeather brings the same blend of elevated-casual dining with arts and crafts inspired design. The menu is the same as their SF location as well, with colorful dishes and unique flavors representative of New American cuisine.
Don’t miss:
The miso linguini, with miso cream, dashi, spinach, cherry tomato, wild mushroom, crispy nori, lemon chive oil and parmesan.
855 El Camino Real Ste 151, Palo Alto, 650.648.4845
Fremont
Authentic South Indian flavors are indicative of Naga’s Kitchen in Fremont. Their menu is easy to navigate, with the various options like vegetarian or chicken options alike, Biryanis, breads and more.
Don’t miss:
The Hyderabadi Dum Biryani, with meat, fragrant basmati rice and blend of spices in the traditional dum style.
36472 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, 510.598.4074
San Francisco
The City by the Bay has been a foodie beacon for over a century. Whether it’s white tablecloth dining at Tadich Grill, the celeb-fueled glory days of Stars or Julia Child’s endorsement (and face) on the Tenderloin’s Tú Lan menu, this town sets the pace for food trends around the country. And the foodie scene only keeps growing — new hot spots open nearly every week, keeping our editors busy updating our guides. Keep reading to find out where to eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, burgers, sushi and steak in San Francisco.
Embarcadero
Helmed by the team behind Michelin-starred Sorrel, Arquet features Californian cuisine with seasonal ingredients that are sourced locally. Enjoy the prime waterfront view while nibbling on something from one of their many menu sections including from the garden, sea, land and out of the wood-burning fire.
Don’t miss:
For vegetarians, the ricotta dumplings with green garlic, g&s sweet corn and chanterelles. For non-vegetarians, the sakura rack of pork with grilled tory peaches, spigarello and spicy mustard seed jus.
1 Ferry Building, #5, San Francisco, 415.907.1016
Financial District
For a unique fusion of Italian soul and Japanese precision, AMA promises an exciting contemporary dining experience in the Financial District. With time at and ownership of many successful restaurants, including a few of Michelin star status, Chef Brad Kilgore helms AMA as one of his newest culinary concepts.
Don’t miss:
The lumache diavolo, with vodka pomodoro, calabrian kosho and yuzu whipped cream.
Three Transamerica, Montgomery St, San Francisco, 305.773.1045
Mission Bay
Serving refined Italian dishes with a Tuscan focus, Mission Bay’s Via Aurelia serves the classic comfort dishes you might hope for and more. They also have a wine program, curated by an award-winning Wine Director and also with an emphasis on Tuscan and Italian wines.
Don’t miss:
Tortellini di formaggio robiola, with Early Girl tomato sauce and parmigiano reggiano crisp.
300 Toni Stone Xing Ste A, San Francisco, 415.875.9781
Financial District
Specializing in garlic pork-focused sandwiches, Jerry’s Roast Pork in FiDi’s Embarcadero Center is the newest hotspot for a quick but rich and tasty lunch. Plus, you’ll also find other menu options like three to four different pizzas, pastries or bread.
Don’t miss:
The garlic roast pork hoagie, with slow-roasted pork, garlicky greens and sharp provolone.
2 Embarcadero Ctr Lobby Level, San Francisco
Civic Center
While The Buoy has already been around as a daytime cafe in SF’s Civic Center neighborhood, they’ve expanded their services to now include an evening transformation into Buoy Bar. This new endeavor highlights comforting Korean flavors in a clean, contemporary setting, with alcohol pairings for the menu options they offer.
Don’t miss:
The chili jjamppong pasta, with spicy chili-garlic pasta and topped with seared brisket.
22 Franklin St, San Francisco, 415.416.9409
Mission District
In the heart of the Mission District, Sangria & Salt is serving classic tapas but with a coastal Californian flair. Find various grilled meats, pastas, and brunch favorites, with signature sangrias also on the menu, of course.
Don’t miss:
The surf and turf pasta, with grilled prime ribeye steak, sautéed seafood, chili, garlic, wine and fettuccine pasta.
2327 Mission St, San Francisco, 415.824.1502
SoMa
Bosco brings wood-fired Italian cuisine to San Francisco’s SoMa district, with a wine list that blends Californian and Italian options and a creative cocktail menu. Not to mention, the ambience is sleek, while still maintaining a fun vibe and good amount of character.
Don’t miss:
The lemon spaghetti, which is house-extruded and made with lemon zest, sungold tomato butter sauce, parmesan and basil.
888 Brannan St, San Francisco, 415.430.6580
Dogpatch
This Korean-American café in Dogpatch serves elevated comfort food all day with a colorful blend of the two cuisines. Goods and art are also featured here thanks to MAUM, so you can additionally get in your art and culture fix after a tasty bite to eat and a signature drink.
Don’t miss:
The spicy cold noodle salad, with buckwheat noodles, gochujang, cucumber, Asian pear and Korean herbs.
2535 3rd St, San Francisco
Noe Valley
Located in San Francisco’s Noe Valley, the menu at Ingredients represents a variety of global flavors, from East Asian to Californian and beyond, as a way for Chef Shuk to represent the places that have impacted him throughout his career.
Don’t miss:
The New Zealand King Salmon, with cauliflower purée, glazed rainbow cauliflowers, saffron beurre blanc and dill oil.
1298 Church St, San Francisco, 415.594.8059
SoMa
South of Market you’ll find Superprime Steakhouse, with artfully prepared steaks sourced from across the U.S., Australia and Japan. They also have a few options that aren’t steak if you’re not a fan. The ambience is clean and modern, with dark walls and furniture to create a sultry vibe.
Don’t miss:
The monster Porterhouse, with Flannery Holstein beef, tallow butter and chives.
545 Mission St, San Francisco, 415.658.7654
Hayes Valley
Originally known as a pop-up in a boba shop, The Happy Crane has just opened their permanent location in SF’s Hayes Valley. They’ve been a much anticipated spot, with elevated Chinese cuisine representing traditional flavors but with a creative twist.
Don’t miss:
The ginger scallion scallop.
451 Gough St, San Francisco, 415.610.1823
Mission District
This casual Peruvian spot in the Mission District — helmed by the team behind popular and upscale Peruvian spot Limón — specializes in pollo a la brasa, otherwise known as blackened chicken. Whether you’re feeling peckish at night or are looking for a quick lunch spot, Brasa Bros promises to deliver a flavorful but convenient punch.
Don’t miss:
The Game On fan-favorite bucket, which comes with 10 chicken tenders, 2 large sides and 3 dipping sauces. Side options range from various types of fry, slaw, plantains and more, and sauce options include ají amarillo, pica loco and brasa bliss.
1001 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, 415.821.2134
Union Square
Located on the second floor of the Palihotel close to Union Square, Bar Maritime & Maritime Boat Club is serving up cocktails and bites that could perfectly fit in with an elevated yacht experience. Seafood is the star of most dishes here, and you can even order a curated wine and seafood pairing.
Don’t miss:
The grilled halibut, with McGinnis Ranch romano beans and bay laurel bearnaise.
417 Stockton St, San Francisco, 415.376.7679
Mission District
This speakeasy in the Mission District brings something unique to the table — an hour-and-40-minute-long boozy escape room. You’ll get three flights of cocktails (or mocktails for the N/A folks) as you move through the immersive Alice in Wonderland themed experience. Grab something to eat from their Asian fusion menu if you’re feeling hungry afterwards.
Don’t miss:
The butter chicken flatbread, with butter chicken, cream, cumin, hot honey and garam masala. Pair it with one of their experimental cocktails, like Wei’s pineapple cake with butter-washed rum, pineapple, wintermelon foam and a crumble.
3065 16th St, San Francisco, 415.234.3560
Mission District
In San Francisco’s Mission District, Bar Brucato offers seasonal dishes representing California cuisine. Bites of course are a key feature here, but their cocktails are also noteworthy.
Don’t miss:
The white wine gnocchetti, with local spring mushrooms, peas, asparagus, alliums and herbs.
275 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, 628.285.5611
North Bay
From Marin to Mendocino, farm-to-table doesn’t get any fresher. The climate has been compared to Italy, and the balance of abounding farmland and extensive coastal access means North Bay eateries like Tony’s Seafood and Farmhouse Inn curate their dishes with fresh, locally source ingredients. For the latest breakfast, lunch, dinner, pizza, burgers and sushi, look no further than Local Getaways.
Novato
As of October, Novato’s Indian Valley Microbrew Taproom has been purchased by a family business and is now operating as The Keg Stand. This refreshed name comes with expanded offerings and rotating taps, plus new implements like local food truck collabs, and seasonal and specialty brews.
Don’t miss:
The options will change out frequently, so be sure to try out whatever unique, fresh flavors they have.
1016 Railroad Ave, Novato, 415.301.4983
Mill Valley
As of September 19, popular local restaurant Floodwater is reopening with a new vibe, menu and name, Tam Tavern, thanks to the team behind East Brother Beer Co. They’ll have 10–15 rotating beers on tap, cocktails and a menu designed by Chef Michael Siegel with options like smashburgers, beer-battered fish and chips and more.
Don’t miss:
The French Dip, with ribeye, provolone, red lager onions and horseradish aioli on a toasted baguette with fries on the side.
152 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley, 415.843.4545
Corte Madera
With many locations already throughout California, part of their expansion plan includes the recently opened location in the Corte Madera Town Center. Palmetto is a plant-based, whole ingredients smoothie and açaí bowl shop, with diverse flavor profiles ranging from fruity and tart to rich and creamy.
Don’t miss:
The Tropical Spirulina option, with coconut milk; coconut cream; mango; pineapple, a blend of agave, coconut nectar and molasses; and — of course — the E3 blue spirulina that gives this frozen treat its iconic color.
221 Corte Madera Town Center, Corte Madera, 415.758.1171
San Rafael
Craving something healthy and hearty? Originally based in Berkeley and now featuring a second location in San Rafael, Humbowl’s options satisfy this craving with their fresh, easy to take on-the-go bowls. There are a few flavor profile options ranging from Thai curry to breakfast fare, and all of them feature a slew of mix-ins and tasty sauces.
Don’t miss:
The togarashi 2.0, with mild-spicy togarashi seasoning, garlic mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, sautéed greens and cilantro all on top of brown rice and quinoa and paired with a cilantro ginger sauce.
1016 Court St, San Rafael, 415.795.8922
Belvedere Tiburon
With its first location in San Francisco, Troya has now come to Tiburon, serving the same beloved Turkish-Mediterranean cuisine. Dinner is yet to come, but their lunch and brunch menu still makes for a worthwhile visit, with unique dishes that you wouldn’t find on a traditional American breakfast menu. The atmosphere has a dainty yet modern Mediterranean feel, with mixed textures of warm woods and tiling, whites, light blues and abundant flowers around the restaurant.
Don’t miss:
The shakshuka for brunch, with 2 baked eggs in a tomato sauce with eggplant, peppers and bread. Add some beef sausage for some extra protein at an additional cost.
Cove Shopping Center, 1 Blackfield Dr, Ste 12, Belvedere Tiburon, 415.888.8599
Greenbrae
The square pizza trend has come to Greenbrae, with Detroit’s rectangular, deep-dish style for influence. Squared Pizza has the classic like cheese, meat and veggie, or you can opt to build your own from their selection of other classic toppings. And for a slightly-unconventional-but-still-delicious pairing, they’re even offering boba now as well.
Don’t miss:
You can’t go wrong with the classic cheese or pepperoni; all options have the signature crust that’s crisp and caramelized on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.
140 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, 415.300.0353
San Rafael
Located in a seemingly unassuming strip mall in San Rafael, MaruJun Japanese Cuisine has quickly garnered a following for its fresh, flavorful sushi menu with locally and sustainably sourced ingredients. At the helm is chef Jun-san, with roots in Japan and an extensive background.
Don’t miss:
Something off of the omakase menu is great for the indecisive, since Chef Jun-san will choose your menu for you — get the Maru option, which includes five pieces of nigiri and akamiso soup.
2224 4th St, San Rafael, 415.785.3739
San Rafael
Already located in Berkeley and Sacramento, Hot Italian Pizza Bar is opening a San Rafael location. This hub for authentic Italian cuisine from an authentic Italian chef offers three different pizza crusts in store for pizza lovers: traditional Neapolitan-style, gluten-free and their special Pinsa Romana, an airy yet crispy option. Other Italian classics are served as well, such as lasagna, and their gelato is a must.
Don’t miss:
The Murino Pinsa Romana pizza, topped with mozzarella, gorgonzola cheese, pears and honey.
909 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, 628.285.8630
San Rafael
Authentic Indian cuisine comes to San Rafael with Suvai: Taste of Indian, featuring a variety of traditional dishes and flavors. There are extensive options for vegetarians and meat eaters alike, and even a section of the menu called “office lunch” with meals that won’t just be tasty, but will also keep you full throughout a tiring work day.
Don’t miss:
The chicken Tikka Masala — it may be a typical Indian dish, but one Yelp reviewer said Suvai’s version packs its own unique punch.
909 4th St, San Rafael, 415.785.3470
Wine Country
You know what makes some of the world’s best wine taste even better? Amazing food. Napa and Sonoma Wine Country offer what we think are the perfect pairings. Elevated dining experiences, some of which are even provided by Michelin-starred or Michelin-recognized chefs, are spotted throughout Wine Country, as well as more relaxed but still with equally rich and delightful bites. Regardless of which ambience you might be in the mood for, here are our favorite new places to eat in Napa Valley and Sonoma County right now.
Sonoma County
Penngrove
This speakeasy in Penngrove is a rustic, vintage-inspired — yet still modern — affair of seasonal food and drink. And while it’s a great spot to meet friends for a night out, they’re also family-friendly.
Don’t miss:
The confit tomato risotto, with eggplant purée, confit tomatoes, parmesan, garlic and basil.
10056 Main St, Penngrove, 707.664.5916
Healdsburg
This Californian eatery in Healdsburg serves lunch and dinner — as well as brunch on the weekends — with their Californian eats. They also have some unique wines and a rotating selection of independently brewed beers for those looking to pair their meal with a drink.
Don’t miss:
The menu is subject to change regularly, but one tasty option has been the chicken banh mi, with lemongrass, pickled vegetables, jalepeño, chili mayo, lime, cilantro and fries.
22 Matheson St, Healdsburg, 707.955.0132
Petaluma
Levant brings flavors of the Middle East’s Levantine region to Petaluma with a cozy vibe and tasty dishes. Pair your meal with one of the drinks, which ranges from Sonoma-based to Levantine wines and beers.
Don’t miss:
The shish tawook, with grilled chicken breast cubes marinated in Mediterranean spices, topped with sumac and parsley and served with hose muthawama (garlic sauce).
140 2nd St #100, Petaluma, 707.658.8017
Healdsburg
Nestled in Wine Country’s Healdsburg is this new dining gem, with French-inspired farmhouse fare and seasonal bounty from right here in California. Their prime location just a few steps away from the Healdsburg Plaza makes it perfect for a date night or meal with friends. The ambience complements the menu as well, adding to the allure of an escape from everyday dining.
Don’t miss:
The roasted chicken with gold rice, artichoke and mustards.
330 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg, 707.473.8181
Petaluma
Petaluma’s downtown BiJou Restaurant serves French cuisine combined with seasonal Californian bounty, all with the intention of providing a cozy and elevated dining experience. Sip on a luxe specialty cocktail while enjoying your meal, and follow it with one of their decadent desserts.
Don’t miss:
The seafood pasta with Manilla clams, spiced nduja and fennel cream, and with the herbal remedy cocktail, with V Scotch, rum, pear, ginger and honey.
190 Kentucky St, Petaluma, 707.753.9155
Ronhert Park
This charming new eatery is located right on a small lake, creating a cozy atmosphere with good food and drinks to accompany the experience. They’re serving up a New American menu, with a classic menu of sandwiches, salads and more.
Don’t miss:
The softshell crab BLT with tartar sauce, little gems, bacon, heirloom tomatoes and fries on the side. Or, get the roasted mushroom flatbread with confit garlic, teleme cheese and arugula.
5000 Roberts Lake Rd, Rohnert Park, 707.355.4219
Sebastopol
Already prolific throughout the nation, Salt and Straw is getting another spot in Santa Rosa this June. Find the same variety of rich, creative flavors like wildflower honey & lemon chess pie or cinnamon snickerdoodle at the new opening.
Don’t miss:
Bestseller chocolate gooey brownie.
700 Village Ct, Santa Rosa, 707.360.6249
Sebastopol
Sister concept to beloved Acre Pizza, Sebastopol’s Acre Pasta still prioritizes flavor and freshness but just with pasta instead. The homemade shapes come with classic sauces of all varieties and a few options for add-ons like burrata, mushrooms, shrimp and more. There’s even the option to make your meal gluten free and/or vegan if needed.
Don’t miss:
The lumache, with porcini cream, mycopia mushrooms and scallions.
6751 McKinley St, Sebastopol
Napa Valley
Yountville
As one of Yountville’s only authentic and essential Asian restaurants, the RO Restaurant and Lounge menu recently got a refresh from Chef de Cuisine Jeffery Hayashi. Now this eatery has a more refined and sit-down feel, and the dishes also utilize local Californian seasonal ingredients.
Don’t miss:
The hokkaido uni toast, with Bouchon bakery brioche, tare and the option to add Ossetra Caviar.
6480 Washington St, Yountville, 707.947.7181
Yountville
Yountville’s Clementine is a spot for vibrant seasonal dining and whimsical, pastel ambience. The food leans into Mediterranean cuisine, and there’s also a drink menu that specializes in Aperol-centric options.
Don’t miss:
The slow-roasted halibut, with cauliflower and caviar-chive blossom butter.
6525 Washington St, Yountville, 707.948.6055
Napa
In honor of her own culture, Filipino native Chef Jade Cunningham has brought her culture’s flavors to Napa with Carabao. They update their menu often so it may not be the same for each visit, but examples of what you’ll find include smoked lemongrass chicken wings inasal, the Aloha smashburger or vegetable lumpia.
Don’t miss:
Kinilaw, which is chilled citrus cured hamachi with smoked coconut cream, pickled red onion gel and calamansi vinaigrette.
145 Gasser Dr Ste C, Napa, 707.699.1220
St. Helena
Helmed by a Michelin-starred team, Under-Study in St. Helena focuses on catering to a variety of culinary practices, ranging from their bakery menu to their butcher counter. One of their future endeavors even aims to create a space for teaching culinary skills as well.
Don’t miss:
The charcoal-grilled octopus with black truffle mole, lime crema and wild radish.
595 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, 707.286.0070
American Canyon
American Canyon gets their first farm-to-table restaurant with ONE TEN, featuring fresh Californian cuisine. Be sure to pair your meal with one of their drinks, whether that’s a mocktail like Key Lime Pie or their signature cocktail 110 Purple Rain.
Don’t miss:
The 110 pasta, with homemade arugula pesto pasta and various seasonal ingredients.
American Canyon
Raíces Mexican Cuisine and Bar has become an American Canyon favorite for modern Mexican food in a cozy atmosphere. There will of course be traditional flavors too, and the menu includes seasonal specials, a variety of salads, tacos, burritos and more. Give their specialty cocktails a try, too.
Don’t miss:
Molcajete, a house specialty with steak, chicken and shrimp simmered in house ranchero sauce with bell pepper and onion, topped with cilantro, queso fresco and green onion.
100 W American Canyon Rd Suite K4, American Canyon, 707.651.9056
American Canyon
You read it right — Guy Fieri opened a new location of his Chicken Guy chain in American Canyon. As the name would suggest, find all things chicken here, from loaded chicken sandwiches to chicken tenders and more.
Don’t miss:
The hot honey big bite sandwich, with Nashville hot honey, American slaw, pickles and spicy tenders.
200 American Canyon Rd, American Canyon, 707.237.2022
Napa
1331 Cocktail Bar is the new nightlife spot in Napa that’s worth a visit. Enjoy the simultaneously moody yet cozy atmosphere with one of their unique cocktails by your side.
Don’t miss:
The Elote Sour with torched rosemary.
1331 1st St, Napa, 707.492.3658
2 thoughts on “Where to Eat Now in the Bay Area”
I normally love your articles.
This one; Where to eat in the Bay Area Now: March), is probably your worst, in terms of clarity. The fancy titles for each establishment were obtuse, at best. But mostly non-helpful.
Sometimes, being simple and classy works best.
That said, still love ya!
Thanks for the feedback Prescott, we’ve rethought the titles and hope that helps make the articles clearer!