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.
Mission District
Looking for a unique dining concept? Side A in San Francisco’s Mission District will do just the trick, with its blend of music and dining inspired by listening bars found around the globe. Featuring a “Food, Wine, Vinyl” theme, the restaurant features a high-end, curated sound system to ensure peak sound no matter your seating, and there’s also a DJ booth that sees plenty of variety, on the weekends especially. The food itself is modernized American cuisine with twists like the bone marrow burger.
Don’t miss:
One of their signature dishes like the Parisian gnocchi, paired with short rib and giardiniera.
2814 19th St, San Francisco, 415.231.4969
Outer Sunset
This food truck empire is native to Los Angeles, but San Francisco has been lucky enough to be its first out-of-LA spot. The food found at these trucks traces back to one truck started by a family from Oaxaca, and the authenticity is noticeable.
Don’t miss:
Their most famous menu item is the al pastor tacos made from traditional techniques and bursting with flavor from their blend of spices.
1234 Great Hwy, San Francisco, 323.346.2001
Outer Sunset
Serving food inspired by many diverse cuisines, the Sunset District’s Fifty Vara aims to provide a relaxing, fulfilling dining experience that’s both familiar and elevated. Their brunch, lunch and dinner menus all offer small plates, large plates, bites and flat breads, so you have plenty of different options to choose between. The ambience is equally as welcoming as the food, with lots of greenery and rich, earthy colors. And, the drinks menu is exciting and plentiful.
Don’t miss:
The Vara burger, with Brandt beef, cheddar, pickles, aioli and fries. A black bean patty, vegan cheddar, aioli and fries are available for subbing.
1735 Noriega St, San Francisco, 415.571.8701
Marina District
This Marina District spot serves modern Californian cuisine with hearty mains and elevated salads. There’s also their “Around the World in Eight Cocktails” menu, with eight drinks featuring unique ingredients and diverse flavor profiles.
Don’t miss:
The steelhead trout al pastor, with squid ink flour tortillas, cilantro slaw and grilled pineapple salsa.
3321 Steiner St, San Francisco, 408.386.8120
Inner Sunset
Located just outside of Golden Gate Park, Caché is helmed by a team with Michelin-star experience to provide modern California bistro cuisine. Classic dishes like the hot dog have gotten a makeover at this spot and honor a tasty, elevated combination of local and seasonal ingredients with a bit of French influence. The ambience caters to many natural textures like wood, tile and stone and the warm, earthy tones represent the French-Californian fusion as well.
Don’t miss:
The signature quinoa dish, with green curry, coconut milk and coriander.
1235 9th Ave, San Francisco, 415.571.8164
The Presidio
Piccino has been a name in San Francisco since 2006, and now the Presidio is home to a second location for double the presence. At the new spot, you’ll find an Italian-inspired Californian seasonal menu mainly sourced from their Healdsburg farm. Try a craft cocktail to pair with the meal, or perhaps a glass of wine.
Don’t miss:
Farfelle di fave with ricotta, fava leaf, brown butter and chicken brodo. Or, get their unique stinging nettle pizza with garlic cream, ricotta, braised leek and pickle green garlic.
1 Letterman Dr, Bldg. D, San Francisco, 415.824.4224
Lower Nob Hill
Basketball legend and All-Star Warriors power forward Draymond Green is the biggest name on the list of partners at this new Afro-Latin fusion restaurant, but Green’s fellow restaurateurs are Bay Area pillars in their own right. Co-owners Guma Fassil and Nelson German have already established themselves in the East Bay culinary scene with restaurants like Meskie’s in Berkeley and alaMar in Oakland, and this new venture incorporates dishes from their respective Ethiopian and Dominican backgrounds.
Don’t miss:
The samosas filled with fragrant berbere-spiced beef, or lentils for the veggies of the world, with crispy fried yuca exterior.
1000 Larkin St, San Francisco
Financial District
In honor of its longstanding history in San Francisco, Turtle Tower was recently reopened in the Financial District with a modern feel and the same authentic, Northern Vietnamese cuisine as before. They take pride in the clean flavors of their dishes and specialize in pho, so be sure to order a bowl.
Don’t miss:
The phở gà, or free-range chicken rice noodle soup.
220 California St, San Francisco, 415.613.5426
Near the Mission District
Just located a smidge outside of the Mission District, Anatolian Table brings Aegean and Anatolian flavors to San Francisco. The meals resemble a cozy homecooked meal with authentic spices and ingredients; start off with a warm appetizer like falafel or a cold appetizer like burrata crostini before jumping into one of the mains.
Don’t miss:
The lamb brochette, made with house-marinated lamb cubes, chickpeas, kale, red cabbage, sun-dried tomato, meyhane pilav (bulgur) and marash.
702 Valencia St, San Francisco, 415.875.9597
Lower Nob Hill
This unique breakfast and brunch eatery off of Polk Street blends two cuisines you’d never expect together: Australian and Thai. Explore their menu of hearty entrees that you can start your day with, from shakshuka to their big breakfast plate.
Don’t miss:
Lean into the Thai-side of the fusion with their Thai tea toast, made with Brioche, mixed berries and a custard Thai tea.
1247 Polk St, San Francisco, 415.714.6177
Presidio Terrace
Serving up homey Mediterranean cuisine near the Presidio, Café La Joie is a great spot to get a filling breakfast, brunch or lunch while sipping on a warm coffee or tea. Sit outside if you have a pup with you, or sit inside and soak in the clean and cozy European atmosphere.
Don’t miss:
The kefta (beef) lavish bread wrap with spices, glazed onions and tomato couli.
189 6th Ave, San Francisco, 415.571.8630
Alamo Square
The smashburger has a new home at Hamburger Project, a recently opened joint in San Francisco’s Alamo Square. They keep things simple with their three burgers, equipped with the typical tasty toppings like cheese, onion and pickles, but a couple of toppings set them apart, such as their Hamburger Project sauce, whipped butter and even Tsar Nicoulai caviar for those looking to try something new.
Don’t miss:
You can’t go wrong with their classic burger, which comes with a beef patty, American cheese, diced white onion, HP sauce and pickles. Get some loaded fries on the side
808 Divisadero St, San Francisco, 415.817.1944
Marina District
Situated in San Francisco’s Marina District, Morella’s menu explores how the immigration of Europeans impacted Argentinian cuisine through a unique blend of flavors and vibrant drinks menu. Not to mention, the atmosphere is equally rich and complex — the restaurant is saturated in jewel-tones accompanied by frilly palms, sultry lighting and, of course, mushroom- and cordyceps-inspired nods throughout the design.
Don’t miss:
The Dungeness crab sorrentinos, which is Argentinian ravioli stuffed with Dungeness crab, ricotta, fontina and parmesan cheese, all topped with crab bisque sauce.
2001 Chestnut St, San Francisco, 628.286.9698
SOMA
Located in the Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco, Modí gets creative with their fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. Find things like pastas and pizzas, but made with traditional Mexican flavors and spices.
Don’t miss:
The raviolo elote e funghi selvatici — a homemade ravioli filled with sweet corn and ricotta and served in a butter, sage and lime sauce, topped with sautéed mushrooms, balsamic and queso fresco.
88 Natoma St, San Francisco, 415.757.0245
West Portal
George’s Donuts and Merriment is located in San Francisco’s St. Francis Wood neighborhood and has a diverse menu of all things delicious. There’s a variety of donuts from traditional to cake donuts or even brioche. Beverages also come in all shapes and sizes — have a mimosa or a glass of wine with your sweet treat, if you so please.
Don’t miss:
Their donut hole flight — brioche donut holes dusted with sugar and served with valrhona chocolate fudge sauce.
163 W Portal Ave, San Francisco
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.
Sunnyvale
Located in Sunnyvale’s Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley, Valley Goat is helmed by James Beard award-winning Chef Stephanie Izard to serve seasonal Californian fare. The available brunch, lunch and dinner menus feature many options using locally sourced ingredients, and some dishes even reflect the restaurant name and goat’s milk or meat. Not to mention, the lively and plant-filled atmosphere makes it a fun, family-friendly spot.
Don’t miss:
The hamachi poke, with browned goat butter, fermented tofu and kumquat. Flank your meal with the decadent sticky toffee plantain cake with rum toffee, chocolate plantain chips and banana goat milk ice cream.
Treehouse Hotel Silicon Valley, 1100 N Mathilda Ave, Sunnyvale, 408.900.9470
Mountain View
The American-Italian eatery in Mountain View takes the classic Italian dishes you know and love and adds some modern flair. The restaurant’s ambience reflects the same, with a clean, crisp appearance and feel. Also be sure to check out their drinks menu — it’s bursting with creative cocktails and mocktails, draft beer, an extensive wine list and more.
Don’t miss:
The casarecce, with Pecorino Romano cream, black truffle paste and toasted breadcrumbs.
110 Castro St, Mountain View, 650.282.5251
San Jose
This San Jose eatery now sits in the historic Lyndon Building that was once home to the San Jose Mercury news, honoring this rich history but with a modern, elevated dining experience. They serve brunch, lunch and dinner, as well as hosting a happy hour on weekdays and craft cocktails, beer and wine regularly.
Don’t miss:
For lunch, the grain bowl with barley, quinoa, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, avocado, snap peas, beets and roasted yam. For dinner, try the rosemary fried chicken breast with green beans, potato purée, gravy and the chef’s signature sauce.
189 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, 408.256.7475
San Jose
Located within the SoFA market in San Jose, this restaurant has quickly become a local favorite, with many avid reviewers excited about the authenticity of their Japanese curries. Options include chicken katsu curry and curry potato croquettes.
Don’t miss:
For lunch, the grain bowl with barley, quinoa, asparagus, cherry tomatoes, avocado, snap peas, beets and roasted yam. For dinner, try the rosemary fried chicken breast with green beans, potato purée, gravy and the chef’s signature sauce.
387 S 1st St, San Jose, 408.785.0911
San Jose
San Jose’s new Goku Sushi offers a diverse menu of hot or cold dish options, a sushi bar, fusion sushi and more. The ambience follows Japanese influence, which is said to be cozy, and to match the cuisine. Stop by for lunch to get their daily lunch special, or come by for dinner.
Don’t miss:
The loaded Goku special roll, with shrimp tempura, crab meat, salmon skin and cucumber, and topped with salmon, unagi, avocado, crunch tempura, unagi sauce, spicy mayo, tobiko and green onion.
840 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, 408.622.8129
San Jose
Augustine is San Jose’s new spot that specializes in Californian cuisine with European influence and with the ability to offer anything from a more casual dining experience to a classier one. Their menus are divided under three categories — sea, garden and ranch — so check each category to see what type of meal you’re looking for.
Don’t miss:
The roasted branzino off of the sea menu, or the duck leg cannelloni from the ranch menu.
377 Santana Row #1000, San Jose, 408.785.7700
Los Gatos
With the high demand incurred at Croissante’s original Santa Clara location, Los Gatos recently became the home for another storefront. The same buttery and delicate French pastries are sold at the new location, and the demand has also followed — if you’re planning a visit, be prepared to get there early.
Don’t miss:
The iconic and Instagrammable croissant cube, which is exactly what it sounds like — the same flaky dough, but formed as a giant cube.
276 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, 408.827.4261
Campbell
Campbell’s newest coffee shop hotspot is STARDUST, with its superfood-forward coffee and food menu that’s unique to other coffee shops. The ambience is designed to be inviting, with a breezy, earthy color palette, cozy seating and warm lighting, so grab a latte and a pastry to enjoy the shop’s calm presence away from the demands of everyday life.
Don’t miss:
The creamy ubé taro latte paired with adaptogen mushroom toast that’s topped with roasted mushrooms, umami spread, roasted garlic, chipotle aioli, truffle oil, mushroom dust and seasonal microgreens.
1725 S Bascom Ave #1100, Campbell, 408.692.5823
Campbell
Helmed by Chef Tucker Ricchio in Campbell, Lira is the most recent hotspot serving New American fine dining that honors Ricchio’s life. The menu is seasonal and locally sourced and features small and large plate options. Their cocktails are just as refined and bold, with drinks like their Lira Negroni or the Sonoma Sour.
Don’t miss:
Soy glazed pork belly with Fresno chili spheres, pickled kumquat, micro cilantro and house chicharones. End your meal with the passionfruit and mango tartlet, with Opalys Valrhona white chocolate ganache and merengue.
368 E Campbell Ave, Campbell, 408.628.4090
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.
Oakland
A new location of Forge Rockridge has opened in Oakland, serving the same trusty American comfort and drinks. Stop by for lunch or dinner and check out the pizza menu, with the classics as well as a couple of more interesting flavor profiles like crispy eggplant or cauliflower. There’s also an extensive selection of options for the table, with everything from Wisconsin-style cheese curds to blistered shishito peppers.
Don’t Miss:
The Forge burger, with two patties, grilled onions, pickles, secret sauce. White and yellow cheddar, Nisi seeded potato bun and french fries. For an extra cost, you can add avocado and/or bacon or make the fries lemon pepper. Available for both lunch and dinner.
5900 College Ave, Oakland, 510.268.3200
Oakland
Daytrip Counter is the reimagined version of former Oakland institutional eatery Daytrip, and the new spot promises to meet the same standards of delishness. Their “flavor maximalist take on California cuisine” looks a little different, with a fast food feel made healthy.
Don’t Miss:
Something from the “salads or bowls” menu, like the cilantro lime crunch with charred tomatillo vinaigrette, red cabbage, cilantro, pumpkin seeds and sheep’s milk feta. Salads are made with a base of Lacinato kale and hearts of romaine, and bowls are made with herby quinoa. And add a protein if you’d like – shredded chicken, gigante beans or umami egg.
4316 Telegraph Ave, Oakland
Berkeley
Bangkok by the Bay is a new Thai spot that recently came to Berkeley, and they’re aiming to do exactly as the name implies by bringing Bangkok to the Bay Area. They serve Bangkok street food staples and Thai cuisine classics, as well as a happy hour five days a week. And to compliment the authentic bites, the modern, slightly elevated atmosphere makes for a pleasant dining experience.
Don’t Miss:
The Kua Kling Nuer, with minced beef, housemade southern-style curry paste, turmeric, sweet peppers and onions. The Pad Thai is also a safe bet.
800 Heinz Ave # 19, Berkeley, 510.423.3888
Oakland
This café lived its early life as a pop-up, but now has found its brick-and-mortar location in Oakland. The menu items are smaller eats, such as a ‘choose your own adventure’ campfire charcuterie board, and they serve some fun specialty drinks that suit the café vibe. But the real kicker is their goal to help people overcome unemployment barriers and provide a place for local chefs to gain experience and build a reputation.
Don’t Miss:
The menu changes seasonally, but from this year’s spring menu be sure to order the ube tres leches mochi waffle and the minty gingy, a specialty drink with ginger beer, sparkling water, blackberries, mint, orange and homemade ginger syrup.
3207 Louise St, Oakland, 510.915.6050
Oakland
Looking for authentic Thai flavors? Located in Oakland, Delicious Thai Kitchen promises to live up to its name, with an extensive menu including classic dishes like curries, noodles, rice plates and even a section with their signature dishes. The outdoor patio has a comfortable ambience as well, with colorful paper lanterns and flowers to establish a fun, homey feel.
Don’t Miss:
The popular khao soi from the signature menu, with egg noodles, pickled cabbage, red onion and lime with a spiced curry sauce. Add stewed beef, stewed chicken or tofu at an additional cost.
5299 A, College Ave, Oakland, 510.907.3796
Oakland
Oakland gets another new eatery with Sirene, a seafood-forward spot with an emphasis also on their bar service. Come to sip on a cocktail or a glass of wine with a plate of oysters, tuna, shrimp, or another seafood of your choice. There’s also a part of the menu dedicated to choose-your-own-adventure fried chicken, where you can customize your plate from a selection of sides, sauces and add-ons.
Don’t Miss:
The black cod with black trumpets and nettle jus.
3308 Grand Ave, Oakland, 510.200.8750
Berkeley
The Tipsy Yeti is stationed in Berkeley and is sharing a unique fusion of Himalayan/Nepalese cuisine with American. There is a Nepali mains section on the menu with dishes like okra masala, and another section called California Comforts includes options like creamy cajun pasta. There’s also pizza, soup and burger options. Get a drink to pair too and enjoy the fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Don’t Miss:
The Himalayan burger, with a chicken burger patty, melted mozzarella and caramelized onions.
2512 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, 510.989.9078
Oakland
Another Korean eatery comes to Oakland with To the Moon, serving a menu that represents the culture’s diverse cuisine. Street food classics like Korean chicken wings or corn cheese are flanked by heartier meals like hotpot, ramen and bibimbob. Unlike other restaurants, this one is divided by three price ranges: $9.99, $14.99 and $19.99. Each range offers a full page of options, so you’ll be sure to find something that works with your budget. And for those looking to pair their meal with a beverage, they serve soju, too.
Don’t Miss:
The spicy stir fried pork, with thinly sliced pork marinated in a gochujung-based sauce and stir-fried veggies.
4390 Telegraph Ave A, Oakland, 510.907.3182
Walnut Creek
Located within Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza is California-Mediterranean gem Sipeos. While the robust menu certainly makes the visit worth it, so does their inclusivity — there’s a non-alcoholic and low-ABV bar alongside the beer and wine selection, and a vegetarian menu with vegan options available as well.
Don’t Miss:
The pesto eggplant and hot honey flatbread with feta, mozzarella, sweet onion, honey, chili oil and Zhug ‘pesto.’ Accompany your meal with the new-groni, made with wilderton bittersweet aperitivo, optimist bright, verjus blanc and salt.
1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek, 925.939.7601
Walnut Creek
Looking for a lively pub to hang out in? Walnut Creek’s recently added Gibsons Irish Pub is a good choice, with tasteful menu options that honor the Irish name and a combination of elevated cocktails and beer or wine, of course including the classic Irish staple of Guinness. There’s occasional live music and dueling pianos for a fun, interactive twist to your evening.
Don’t Miss:
Bangers and mash, with carmelized onions, sweet peas and onion gravy.
1387 Locust St, Walnut Creek, 925.433.2145
Oakland
If you haven’t thought of trying Oaxacan food before, you’ll change your mind for Mixé Uptown (pronounced “mee-hay”), a new espresso and mezcal bar in Oakland. There’s an impressive menu of cocktails and other specialty drinks made in house with mezcal drinks of course — try the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. This new hotspot also boasts a mouth-watering menu, with entrées that mirror the Oaxacan inspiration.
Don’t Miss:
Order any of their various enchiladas that all come with cheese, a protein, crema, queso fresco, avocado, rice and beans with their Paloma, a refreshing cocktail that’s made with tequila, grapefruit, lime and agave.
2337 Broadway, Oakland, 510.907.3666
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.
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
Corte Madera
Serving Spanish-inspired meals with Californian flair, Mijo is Corte Madera’s new dining spot led by Chef Jared Rogers and restaurateur Dustin Sullivan. Ingredients are locally sourced, and preparation of meals feature traditional Spanish wood-fired cooking methods. Not to mention, the ambience is warm and complex, with color and texture mixing balanced by some plants and a bit of modern coastal feels.
Don’t miss:
The roast chicken that’s spit-roasted, smoked and roasted over white oak for two hours, and basted in a saffron-herb-garlic butter.
55 Tamal Vista Blvd, Corte Madera, 415.891.3552
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
San Rafael
An Irish pub-style restaurant is downtown San Rafael’s newest arrival. Complete with an immersive and friendly atmosphere, the food (and drinks) also reflect the same Irish authenticity.
Don’t miss:
The steak with mushroom Marsala sauce and handcut fries.
925 4th St, San Rafael, 415.690.1222
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.
Napa Valley
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
Rutherford
While this restaurant isn’t new, it will be bringing a new event to the area. The Auberge du Soleil will be hosting its first annual olive harvest celebration called Gathering in the Grove from Nov. 18-24. The multi-day celebration will feature a six-course tasting menu, olive oil infused cocktails and more.
Don’t miss:
The guided olive oil tasting to learn more about how it was made, led by an expert.
180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, 800.348.5406
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
Napa
Even if you’re not from Louisiana yourself, the Louisiana family recipes served at Lil’ Sista’s Goody’s Soul Food will certainly evoke the feeling of comfort food. You can find traditional soul food meals, as well as some lighter options.
Don’t miss:
Their fried catfish, for something you can’t just get anywhere.
1300 Main St Ste 150, Napa, 707.699.2781
Yountville
Among Yountville’s many multi-Michelin restaurants, the humble Kitchen at Priest Ranch is answering with simply delicious food. You can get breakfast all day or an Italian beef sandwich, along with refined fare like a jambon and gruyere panini, or the seared gnocchi with seasonal veggies. Pair with Priest Ranch wine and a beautiful rooftop view for a remarkable, affordable Wine Country experience.
Don’t miss:
Complete your meal with suggested wine pairings for the most sophisticated sausage, egg and cheese sandwich of your life.
6488 Washington Street, Yountville, 707.947.4017
Yountville
Once a pop-up caviar lounge by the man behind the iconic French Laundry restaurant, Thomas Keller, RO Restaurant and Lounge has expanded into a full service restaurant focused on Asian-inspired cuisine in Yountville. Featuring uni toast, black truffle egg salad and a cocktail version of Keller’s renowned French Laundry dish Oysters & Pearls, this restaurant is the perfect way to expand on Keller’s Regiis Ova Caviar & Champagne Lounge. And the caviar isn’t going anywhere — RO’s menu still features six different types of Regiis Ova Caviar, paired with garnishes and blinis.
Don’t miss:
The shave ice for dessert, made with huckleberry and dried hibiscus syrup and finished with a dollop of crème fraîche.
6480 Washington St, Yountville, 707.947.7181
Sonoma County
Santa Rosa
Farmhouse Sonoma honors their name by bringing fresh, seasonal ingredients to the table and serving meals reflective of what’s inside. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner and/or dessert, with dishes like squid ink fettuccine to Meyer lemon panna cotta.
Don’t miss:
The fried chicken sandwich, with buttermilk-marinated fried chicken breast, lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo and a brioche bun.
18999 Sonoma Hwy, Sonoma, 707.210.0515
Santa Rosa
Darbar Kitchen is bringing authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine to Santa Rosa, with dishes inspired by those prepared for royal feasts. The menu is broad, covering everything from curries, momos, tandoori and more. There are even some vegan and gluten free options available for those that are looking for it.
Don’t miss:
Vegetarians should try the dal makhani, with whole black lentils, ginger, garlic, onions, herbs and butter sauce, and meat eaters should try the chicken curry, with dark chicken tomato, onion, ginger, garlic and plentiful spices. And be sure to get some of their fluffy, rich garlic naan on the side.
615 4th St, Santa Rosa, 707.919.3095
Petaluma
Originally located just in Sebastopol, the Sunshine Cafe has expanded to include a spot in Petaluma now, too. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are still served at the new spot with tasty diner classics like eggs benedict at breakfast, sandwiches at lunch and BBQ baby back ribs at dinner.
Don’t miss:
The super sunshine cheeseburger, with double patties, thousand island dressing, smoked bacon, grilled onions and mushrooms, American cheese, lettuce, pickles, mayo and tomatoes. Non meat-eaters can sub a garden burger, or those who don’t prefer red meat can opt for a turkey burger patty.
701 Sonoma Mountain Pkwy # C8, Petaluma, 707.559.3042
Kenwood
Stella has been a long-anticipated opening for Kenwood, and it’s finally here. Helmed by the team behind Michelin-recognized restaurant Glen Ellen Star, wood-fired Italian flavors and seasonal ingredients are two of Stella’s main selling points. The cozy ambience is accented by jewel tones and warm, inviting lighting.
Don’t miss:
The Lumache amatriciana, with sughetto di pomodoro (a classic Italian tomato sauce), calabrian chili, guanciale (a traditional Italian cured pork product) and pecorino. A vegan option is also available upon request.
9049 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, 707.801.8043
Petaluma
This beloved Santa Rosa restaurant decided to spread the love a bit and open a Petaluma location as well. The same traditional Italian fare is served, with all the staples from housemade pastas to authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Don’t miss:
The primavera pizza, with Fior di Latte, cherry tomatoes and fresh arugula, topped with Burrata cheese, Prosciutto, fresh basil and extra virgin olive oil.
208 Petaluma Blvd N, Petaluma, 707.981.7175
Sonoma
Downtown Sonoma is now home to a new fine dining restaurant by Stone Edge Farm Estate Vineyards & Winery called Enclos Sonoma. Their dishes specialize in modern yet classic dishes with innovative twists, and the atmosphere is just as elevated and welcoming.
Don’t miss:
Their Otto File brioche, made with an ancient variety of corn and paired with a cultured seaweed butter that’s shaped to even resemble the flowing shape of seaweed.
139 E Napa St, Sonoma, 707.387.1724
1 thought 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!