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.
Union Square
Located on the second floor of the Palihotel close to Union Square, Bar Maritime 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 salt spring mussels, with white wine, miso butter, herbs and toasted sourdough.
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
Castro District
You’ve heard of sports bars, but have you heard of a women’s sports bar? Located in San Francisco’s Castro District, Rikki’s is creating this very industry. It celebrates women’s sports and aims to provide a welcoming environment for the community.
Don’t miss:
The pear grilled cheese, for a fun twist on a classic sandwich.
2223 Market St, San Francisco
Financial District
Chef Tyler Florence’s downtown SF outpost has found a new home at a two-story spot on the corner of Pine and Battery. Old-school style and upscale bar bites make it a winning choice for any clientele.
Don’t miss:
The fried chicken sandwich, with a creamy cilantro lime coleslaw and potato bun.
201 Pine St, San Francisco, 415.772.9060
Castro District
Located in the Castro District, Flora King promises an equally charming European menu as they do ambience; the blue and white tiled floors and warm wood detailing is complimented by the rustic pizzas and additional entrées.
Don’t miss:
The forest pizza, topped with white sauce, smoky bacon, sautéed mushrooms and red onion. Or, opt for the pasta, with roasted carrots/seasonal veggies, apricot-mint pesto, hazelnuts and basil.
4248 18th St, 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 a twist, like the bone marrow burger.
Don’t miss:
Try 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 pronounced
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 exotic drinks featuring unique ingredients and diverse flavor profiles reflective of different countries.
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 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 reflects 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
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.
Alameda
Craving something classic like pad thai or mango sticky rice? Million Spoons in Alameda boasts flavorful authentic Thai food with these items and more. If you aren’t sure which tasty thing to order, check their chef recommended section on the menu.
Don’t Miss:
Pad Kemow, spicy pan-fried noodles with basil, bell pepper, green beans, tomato and chili sauce.
1307 Park St, Alameda, 510.517.4922
Oakland
For a unique fusion of Azerbaijani and Mediterranean flavors, Bistro 4293 is the new kid on the block. You’ll find a blend of tradition with modern flair across their extensive menu with soups, mains, desserts and a variety of both alcoholic and non-alchoholic drinks.
Don’t Miss:
The khan plov, with tender beef, saffron rice and layers of dried fruits and caramelized onions, all wrapped in crispy lavash.
4293 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, 510.775.5039
Emeryville
Calling the plant-based foodies: From June 20 through January 2026, Alma y Sazon will be open at La Cocina’s pop-up kiosk at The Public Market Emeryville. The all-vegan bites here makes it a unique Mexican food stop, but a traditionally inspired and delicious one all the same. And pair whatever you order with their housemade Horchata.
Don’t Miss:
The street tacos, either with their Al Pastor (marinated tofu and jackfruit) Jamaica “Asada, made with carmelized hibiscus flowers, or their oyster mushroom carnitas.
5959 Shellmound St, Emeryville, 510.652.5852
Oakland
Modern Peruvian-Californian fare comes to Oakland with the welcoming of Lucuma. Here you’ll find an extensive lunch and dinner menu with the classics you can expect from Peruvian cuisine, but with the aforementioned twists. The ambience is as vibrant as the menu, with use of playful color, patterns and textures.
Don’t Miss:
The tallarines verdes, which includes Argentinian rib eye steak with bucatini pasta in a Peruvian pesto sauce.
1700 Franklin St, Oakland, 510.607.8110
Berkeley
Oakland just became the lucky home to El Mono’s second location, serving the same authentic Peruvian cuisine that’s loved at their original spot in El Cerrito. They have an extensive menu, segmented with options like beef/steak, seafood/fish, veggie/vegan, kids and more, so that everyone can find something. There’s also a nice selection of drinks from the bar so you can sip on something like a strawberry margarita or a mojito.
Don’t Miss:
Any of their specialty dishes, like the seco de cordeo, a tender lamb shank slow-stewed with cilantro, topped with Creole onions and sided with Peruvian beans and garlic jasmine rice.
1300 Fourth St, Berkeley, 510.778.8884
Oakland
With now a second location in Uptown Oakland, Yonsei Handrolls delivers the classic, authentic sushi flavors that people know and love but with a twist — they’re served openface. Find flavors like dungeness crab with shoyu butter or American Wagyu with quail egg and yamaimo. If you’re feeling indecisive, try one of the omaka-sets, which comes with five handrolls and an optional sixth.
Don’t Miss:
The Yonsei omaka-set (their house specialities selection) that comes with the following rolls: seared Albacore w/ black garlic; salmon belly w/ truffle salt and yuzu kosho; saba misoyaki w/ myoga ginger; tako-wasa w/ nori aioli and micro wasabi; and toro w/ takuan.
1738 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, 510.588.6924
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
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
With a variety of locations already, noodle place Tsujita has opened another location — locally in San Jose this time. They’re serving the same beloved ramen, noodles and a variety of other dishes.
Don’t miss:
The Tonkotsu ramen, with homemade pork broth, a seasoned egg, chashu, wood ear mushroom, green onion and seaweed.
4330 Moorpark Ave, San Jose, 408.564.0627
San Jose
Aromatic flavors, tradition and hospitality — The Second Wife brings indulgent Indian cuisine to San Jose. Check out their kid’s menu if you have a little one with you, and see what soups, chicken dishes, seafood and more. And don’t forget to get an order of naan on the side.
Don’t miss:
Any of their entrees are fair game, but you could opt for a classic chicken shawarma plate that comes with a few sides like fries and pickles.
50 Skyport Dr #40, San Jose, 408.963.6690
Santa Clara
Santa Clara just got this new shawarma spot, with various options for their entree plates ranging from beef and chicken to vegan and falafel. Stop here to bask in the friendly atmosphere and enjoy a comforting Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Don’t miss:
Any of their entrees are fair game, but you could opt for a classic chicken shawarma plate that comes with a few sides like fries and pickles.
1345 Coleman Ave, Santa Clara, 408.650.2471
San Jose
Locanda already has a selection of locations dotted throughout the Bay Area, and their newest digs are set in San Jose. Transport yourself to Italy for the night with a meal here, featuring seasonal dishes and traditional Italian eats set in a restaurant that perfectly matches the Mediterranean vibe of the menu.
Don’t miss:
The ravioli carbonara.
1346 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, 669.230.6169
Santa Clara
Lots of locations may already be open, but JOEY Valley Fair marks the first Bay Area one. Dining at the JOEY restaurants is a bit elevated, with mains ranging from sushi and salads, to burgers and steaks. And similar to the other spots, the ambience is sultry with its dim lighting and use of textures like woods, leather and stone.
Don’t miss:
The truffle udon carbonara with egg yolk, bacon and dashi truffle cream sauce, or for an even heartier option, the JOEY classic steak — a 7 oz. prime top sirloin with their famous loaded crispy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, Ste 1840, Santa Clara, 669.899.5639
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
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
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
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
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
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
Sonoma County
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
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
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!