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.
San Jose
Casa Mia specializes in their breakfast menu — which extends from chilaquiles to eggs Benedict or omelettes. There’s also a menu for breakfast and lunch, and even Happy Hour.
Don’t miss:
The Huevos Rancheros, with two eggs of any style on top of a fried tortilla, refried beans on the side and the special house sauce.
856 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, 669.275.2205
Daly City
This deli prides itself on its creative sandwich menu, but there’s also the classics for those that prefer them. There’s also a small breakfast menu if you’re looking to fuel early in the day, and the smoothie options make for a refreshing beverage to wash everything down with.
Don’t miss:
The All Aboard, with: London broil roast beef or chicken breast; cheddar cheese; jalapeños, onions, pepperoncini and BBQ sauce.
6178 Mission St, Daly City, 650.822.2011
San Jose
A fusion of American and Persian breakfast, lunch and dinner, Lajevard Eats & Co. offers a dining concept you won’t see often. There are also Halal and vegetarian options available, and the menu ranges from shakshuka to pancakes, and many more.
Don’t miss:
The kimchi burger and fries, with kimchi, beef patty, onions, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, sauce and an egg.
181 E Tasman Dr #50, San Jose, 408.890.8124
Los Gatos
This Los Gatos restaurant caters to its prime location between the redwoods and the Pacific, with a 13-course Californian tasting menu. Each course aims to connect the guest with a specific experience in nature.
Don’t miss:
Menu to come.
368 Village Ln, Los Gatos, 669.649.4200
Palo Alto
Interested in an egg-forward brunch? Hatched is the place to go — there’s a vast selection of breakfast sandwiches, avocado toasts, salads and even lots of unique matcha and coffee flavors.
Don’t miss:
The B.E.F., with scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, chives, caramelized onions and arugula, all on a toasted bun with garlic aioli. And, get a coconut ube matcha or honey lavender latte on the side.
855 El Camino Real #161, Palo Alto, 650.248.2758
Cupertino
Find elevated yet classic Indian cuisine at Safar by Karimi, with gold accents and jewel-toned interiors to set the tone for the menu. It also serves Hi Tea daily with a special menu of select bites, and there is an extensive non-alcoholic beverage program.
Don’t miss:
Any of their biryanis, such as the mutton biryani with marinated lamb and rice cooked with yogurt, mint, coriander and spices.
19930 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, 408.816.8080
Palo Alto
The first Northern California location of Zaytinya from celebrity Chef José Andrés is now open in Palo Alto, and is serving the same blend of Lebanese, Greek and Turkish food that can be in found in New York, Las Vegas and various other locations. There are some dishes that were curated with California specifically in mind, and the beverage program features both Mediterranean and Californian wines.
Don’t miss:
The Chicken Zeytinyağli, which is roasted chicken with butternut squash ezmesi, celery root and kale.
180 El Camino Real Ste EE1400, Palo Alto, 650.203.2000
Cupertino
Serving traditional noodles, soups and other flavorful meals, Mian Sichuan Noodles & Dumplings is Cupertino’s newest addition to the foodie scene. Their original location was in Santa Clara, but is currently closed and rumored to reopen in March 2026.
Don’t miss:
The Sichuan hot and sour noodle with fried egg.
19389 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, 650.308.4364
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
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.
SoMa
Chef Yukinori Yamamoto has also played a key role at other local popular restaurants such as PABU Izakaya and Bungalow Kitchen, and has now opened his own restaurant. His spot in SF will serve sushi that combines traditional technique with California-sourced ingredients.
Don’t miss:
The Chef’s Choice 10-piece nigiri with two pieces each of bluefin tuna, salmon, yellowtail, scallop and eel.
167 11th St, San Francisco, 415.244.6415
Hayes Valley
Specializing in centuries-old Neapolitan style pies, Sforno Pizzeria Napoletana serves pizza that embrace what’s called the ‘wallet pizza,’ meaning a small pizza is folded into quarters and wrapped in paper. The portable dining experience is perfect for those on-the-go.
Don’t miss:
The Portafoglio Napoli Street, with San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte, parmesan, organic basil and extra virgin olive oil.
514 Octavia St, San Francisco, 415.347.5881
Lower Pacific Heights
With a menu rooted in traditional coastal Mexican cuisine while guided by Californian dining and with an elevated twist, Maria Isabel is the newest spot in the Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood. Outside of the menu, the restaurant interior’s use of warm colors, natural wood and botanical patterns curate an inviting atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
The ribeye carne asada with sal de gusano, flour tortilla quesillo flauta, salsas, frijoles puercos and tortillas.
500 Presidio Ave, San Francisco, 415.275.0075
Design District
This French eatery in the Design District serves dinner and drinks, and also offers a raw bar with a variety of fresh seafood to choose from. The main menu features dishes with meat like steak or chicken, and the drinks menu is extensive — particularly the wine section.
Don’t miss:
The Mt. Lassen trout almondine, with: an almond crust; fennel and mandarin salad; and toasted almond beurre blanc.
65 Division St, San Francisco, 415.523.8320
SoMa
This Mediterranean-inspired cocktail lounge in the SoMa neighborhood aims to evoke a simultaneously elevated yet comfortable experience. During the day, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and evening guests can enjoy vinyl and DJ sets. The drink and food menus both reflect the Mediterranean influence — find options ranging from cocktails and spritzes to beer and wine.
Don’t miss:
The il viaggiatore (the traveler) cocktail, with gin, campari, lemon, passionfruit, and manzanilla sherry. Order the arancini — with cacio e pepe risotto, parmesan and arrabbiata dipping sauce — to pair with your drink.
316 11th St, San Francisco
Polk Gulch
Located relatively close to Union Square, Goldenette evokes a cozy diner ambience with warm colors and modern-yet-retro branding. The menu spans across breakfast, lunch and dinner with their twists on all of the classics you’d picture there being at a diner.
Don’t miss:
The Goldenette melt — a double smash burger with caramelized onion, Pt. Reyes toma and Russian dressing on Rye bread. Order a side of crispy tots and the golden banana milkshake to take it up a notch.
1601 Polk St, San Francisco, 415.928.1233
Nob Hill
Merging Filipino cuisine with fine dining, Restaurant Naides in Nob Hill features an 11–13 course tasting menu. Also unique to this endeavor is the chef’s use of fermentation and preservation methods — common in Filipino cooking, but not so much in a fine dining environment.
Don’t miss:
Kinilaw, which is fish cooked by marinating in vinegar and citrus and with fermented coconut and pine.
708 Bush St, San Francisco
Laurel Heights
Located in the Laurel Heights neighborhood, Golden Mediterranean provides diners with Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. There are pastas, plates, wraps, salads and more available on the menu.
Don’t miss:
Any of the wraps, with options of lamb-beef, chicken and/or falafel, and with hummus spread, salad and tzatziki sauce, all wrapped in fresh lavish bread.
3611 California St, San Francisco, 415.339.5820
Cow Hollow
The institutional sports bar Final Final in SF’s Cow Hollow neighborhood has been open 92 years, but is only now offering food for the first time. It seems it was worth the wait, as the new menu features plenty of bar favorites like smashburgers, buffalo wings, fries and soft serve. The simplified, yet classic options are intended to pair well with whatever beverage you may prefer.
Don’t miss:
The smash burger, with a house beef patty, potato bun, American cheese, house sauce, onions, pickles, lettuce and an extra patty.
2990 Baker St, San Francisco, 415.931.7800
Fisherman's Wharf
Located in Fisherman’s Wharf, Bunny Cafe is the perfect place to not only enjoy a tasty meal and beverage, but also hang out with some fluffy friends. There are seven in-house bunnies, ranging from younger than 1 year old to older than 6 years old. On the menu you will find ramen, seafood, sweets and drinks. And of course, let’s not forget BEO (Bunny Chief Executive Officer) Alex the Great, a beloved therapy bunny.
Don’t miss:
The moon harvest specialty beverage, with butterfly pea flower, lavender syrup, jasmine tea, vegan cream and honey.
1327 Columbus Ave, San Francisco
North Beach
This new restaurant and cocktail bar in San Francisco has it all; exciting, inventive drinks and rich, flavorful meals, all in a modern and vibrant setting. It also has the means to host private events, so be sure to consider booking for your next party.
Don’t miss:
The Carpe Diem, which blends jalapeño and habanero infused tequila with fresh cucumber syrup, cilantro and agave, all topped with a cucumber foam.
478 Green St, San Francisco, 415.875.9600
Embarcadero
Specializing in pastries that are equally aesthetically pleasing as they are tasty, Parachute Bakery is a new hotspot eatery located in the SF Ferry Building. They have the simple but timeless classics like croissants, pan au chocolat, cheesecake or chocolate chip cookies, but also some innovative goodies. This bakery also sells some beverages like lattes or even a banana salted caramel einspanner.
Don’t miss:
The everything kouigan amann — which is laminated with sugar and everything seasoning and filled with scallion cream cheese mousse — for something savory, and the vanilla + passionfruit cube — which is a croissant pastry filled with fresh passionfruit and white chocolate vanilla crémeux — for something sweet.
Ferry Building, 1, #5, 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
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.
Walnut Creek
There’s locations of North Italia nationwide, but now there’s one more — this time, in Walnut Creek. Stop by for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour, and enjoy the classic Italian fare.
Don’t Miss:
The spicy rigatoni vodka, with Italian sausage, crispy pancetta, shaved garlic, torn basil and grana padano.
1179 Locust St, Walnut Creek, 925.441.4615
San Pablo
This franchised eatery has welcomed another location to the family, this time in San Pablo. The menu specializes in flavorful breakfast sandwiches, but also extends to lunch-leaning options like a cheeseburger or chicken sandwich, plus even some non-sandwich options such as Eggs Benedict or breakfast burritos.
Don’t Miss:
The ‘scramble me softly,’ with soft scrambled eggs, chives, caramelized onions, sharp cheddar and smoked paprika spread, all on a toasted Japanese milk bun.
102 San Pablo Towne Center, San Pablo, 510.474.1300
Berkeley
Having already been established in San Mateo, Li’s has expanded with a new location set in downtown Berkeley. This eatery specializes in knife-cut noodles (as the name suggests) that come in various forms including soup and chow mein. But, the menu also features dumplings, dim sum and stir fry.
Don’t Miss:
Braised beef noodle soup, with your choice of knife cut flat noodles or regular round noodles, plus some topping add-ons such as a marinated egg, fried egg, baby bok choy, beef and/or pork meatball.
2126 Center St, Berkeley, 510.570.2901
El Sobrante
Satisfy your craving for authentic Korean comfort food at Olchi, a fully family-run spot in El Sobrante. The menu ranges from kimbop — with a vegetarian-friendly option — to hotpot.
Don’t Miss:
The tuna mayo kimbap (a staff pick), which is rolled rice additionally featuring pickled radish, burdock root, egg, cucumber, fish cake, carrot, sesame oil and sesame seeds.
4068 San Pablo Dam Rd, El Sobrante, 510.283.5007
Danville
Danville’s Taverna Sorrentina brings modern Italian cuisine to life, with roots in the Italian town of Sorrento. Find dinner and lunch options on the menu, as well as an extensive beverage program featuring many wine options and house-crafted cocktails such as A Night in Sorrento with Sazerac Rye, rhubarb liquor, fresh lemon and sugar.
Don’t Miss:
The cacio e pepe, made with mezzi rigatoni pasta, a pecorino parmigiano reggiano mix and ground black pepper — this dish even features a tableside show.
100 Railroad Ave, Danville, 925.269.6998
Oakland
Traditional North Carolina eats have arrived in Oakland thanks to Town Biscuits, with a menu centered around flaky, housemade biscuits. There are both sweet and savory options, plus some sides like grits or fries, and classic refreshing drinks such as Carolina sweet tea.
Don’t Miss:
The blueberry jam and goat cheese biscuit, which previously was only a limited edition chef’s special but has now made it as a full-time menu item.
434 25th St, Oakland, 510.447.4344
San Leandro
Specializing in hand-pulled noodles and dim sum, San Leandro’s Dao Artisan Noodle serves a modern Chinese menu. Bonus: this restaurant follows an open kitchen concept, so you can watch the chefs bring your meal together in real time.
Don’t Miss:
Any of the noodle dishes — such as the spicy and sour beef noodle soup — which will feature your choice of thin, regular, knife cut, narrow or wide noodles.
15032 Farnsworth St, San Leandro, 510.407.9019
Berkeley
Now open under a different name, Bangalore Blues (previously known as Pochys Home Style South Indian) is a casual South Indian Berkeley eatery with authentic, powerful flavors representative of the region’s cuisine. Find dishes like crepe-like pancakes (dosas) to plenty of dishes where chicken is the star of the show.
Don’t Miss:
The butter masala roll — which you can choose to feature either chicken, paneer or egg, all of which is simmered in cashew butter — with a creamy onion-tomato-based gravy and wrapped in housemade chapati.
1889 Solano Ave, Berkeley, 510.570.2271
Oakland
This Halal and Berlin-inspired eatery serves breakfast all day and plenty of beverage options ranging from tea and matcha to unique coffee flavors like Rose N Fruit. And with the bright colored interior design, this cafe is a great way to start the day.
Don’t Miss:
The Oh Baby Baby Green Chile Brisket Breakfast Taco, with tender brisket, roasted green chile and fluffy eggs encased in warm tortillas and topped with hot salsa.
465 2nd St, Oakland, 408.547.7190
Berkeley
Located right next door to the beloved Chez Panisse, this bar now serves as its extension, with a full bar menu and small bites to pair with your drink. And with its focus on sustainable sourcing, the menus reflect the same principles of the main restaurant, too.
Don’t Miss:
The House Martini for their take on a classic, with vodka, dry vermouth, lemon verbena, bitters and saline.
1515 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
Berkeley
Kopi Bar and Bakery has moved and is now located at the Berkeley Art Museum Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA). The cafe’s menu takes inspiration from the chef’s Singaporean and Indonesian roots, with refined coffees and teas and a few lunch options that pack flavorful punches.
Don’t Miss:
The lontong bowl, with compressed rice, coconut-coriander-lemongrass broth, tofu, tempeh, winter squash, pumpkin seeds, herbs, chili oil and lime.
2155 Center St, Berkeley, 510.642.0808
Berkeley
West Berkeley recently welcomed UQBAR (pronounced “ook-bar”) and its Mediterranean fare served in a vibrant atmosphere. Sit inside or out, and choose from the variety of sandwiches, soups and salads.
Don’t Miss:
The squash shakshuka, with two eggs poached in spiced squash and caramelized onion sauce, and topped with pickled jalapeños and herbs, served with sesame bread.
2265 Fifth St, Berkeley, 510.858.1999
Walnut Creek
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
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
Santa Rosa
At Santa Rosa’s Seoul to Tokyo Kitchen, you’ll get to experience a menu that fuses traditional Asian flavors with modern technique. There’s a section of the menu dedicated to dishes inspired by Seoul, plus some other sections dedicated to udon, ramen and bento. Grab a beverage too, including sake, wine, beer or soju.
Don’t miss:
The galbi jjim, which features braised beef short rib, potato, carrot, radish and dates in a sweet soy sauce, plus mozzarella cheese.
3082 Marlow Rd, Santa Rosa, 707.919.3014
Sebastopol
With success at its initial Healdsburg location, Iggy’s Burger opened a second location at The Barlow. The eatery specializes in juicy, flavorful smashburgers and thick cut fries — including the not-to-miss truffle fries.
Don’t miss:
The Iggy burger, made with grass fed beef cooked in beef tallow on buttery Hawaiian buns and topped with cheddar cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickled onions and pickles.
6700 Sebastopol Ave, Sebastopol
Sebastopol
Grab a classic deli sub at this spot located at The Barlow — each sandwich on the menu is packed with flavorful toppings, such as Calabrian chile, herb relish and balsamic glaze.
Don’t miss:
The pickle-forward pool boy, which features pickle-brined turkey, aged provolone, pepperoncini, shredduce, dilly mayo, pickles and pickle chips on a sesame semolina hero.
The Barlow, 6760 McKinley St Unit 120, Sebastopol, 707.329.6834
Santa Rosa
Find diner classics here, from sandwiches to both sweet and savory crêpes, and an equally cozy feel. This spot is the third venture for brothers Javier and Jorge, so come in knowing you’re getting the true home-cooked meal experience.
Don’t miss:
The menu is extensive, but their Dutch Baby is a popular choice, which is a German-style pancake infused with caramelized sugar and apples, plus a hint of nutmeg.
52 Mission Cir #111, Santa Rosa, 707.978.5098
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
Napa Valley
Napa
Normandie embraces European dining tradition and the art of tableside service with a menu that captures locally sourced ingredients. Bonus: the restaurant is located on the Napa riverfront, meaning views of the water while you eat.
Don’t miss:
The Normandie Chicken à l’Orange — roasted chicken, orange gastrique, celery root purée and broccolini.
670 Main St, Napa, 707.690.9272
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
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.
San Rafael
Sapori Ristorante is serving classic Italian food in downtown San Rafael, but with a playful twist. Enjoy pizza, pasta, desserts and a curated wine list where Italian varietals meet Napa and Sonoma.
Don’t miss:
The four maggio lasagna with Italian sausage, ground beef, four-cheese blend, onion, garlic, ricotta, sour cream, mushroom and homemade marinara sauce.
869 4th St, San Rafael, 415.785.4152
Sausalito
Cultivar was already a beloved farm-to-table restaurant in San Francisco, featuring fresh seasonal produce from their gardens in Napa, as well as craft cocktails and a wide selection of wines. Now they have just opened a new space in picturesque downtown Sausalito. Find dishes inspired by local terrain and landmarks, like the Mt. Tam pizza or the Sail Safe Mary.
Don’t miss:
The baked lobster ‘mac’ and cheese, with gruyere and sharp cheddar. Wash it down with a signature cocktail such as Spa Day, made with Chareau, basil-infused vermouth and prosecco.
690 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 415.962.4200
Corte Madera
This local chain just welcomed another location in Corte Madera, and has the perk of also being a drive-thru. Find the same tried-and-true menu with beef and veggie burgers, chicken and egg sandwiches, fries, shakes and more.
Don’t miss:
The mini burger, with vegetarian-fed beef, lettuce, tomato, red onion and Super Sauce on a freshly baked bun. Choose one (or a few) of the add-ons like a fried egg, sliced mushrooms or grilled onions, to name just a few.
5839 Paradise Dr, Corte Madera
San Rafael
With a large fanbase at its two prior locations in Richmond and San Francisco, El Tucán Tacos has opened its third spot in San Rafael, and with a twist — this spot will also be selling beer. The beloved Tijuana-style tacos come in plenty of varieties, from the red taco variation to birria or even keto.
Don’t miss:
The red taco adobada, with al pastor (marinated pork), cheese, cilantro, onions and cilantro dressing, all wrapped in a crispy corn tortilla.
15 Harbor St, San Rafael, 415.740.3447
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
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!