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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

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55 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6118)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 101 times today
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine, offering a dining experience that combines tradition and elegance. Nestled in the heart of Union Square, this iconic venue is beloved for its "excellent service" and "delicious food," consistently leaving diners "extremely satisfied." The Rotunda's menu is celebrated for its innovative takes on American classics, like the "wonderful French 75 cocktail and lobster club sandwich." The chic setting, complete with beautiful views and festive decorations, enhances the atmosphere, making it a "must-visit" destination, especially during the holiday season. Experience the quintessential American dining delight at The Rotunda!
A photo of The Harlequin restaurant
4.4
Awesome(94)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 8 times today
The Harlequin is a standout in San Francisco's Dining Bar scene, offering an exquisite 1920's revival cocktail experience that has diners raving about its "creative and fun" cocktail menu. Located in the vibrant Yerba Buena district, this establishment is celebrated for its impeccable service and "amazing" staff who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable visit. The menu features decadent New American cuisine, with highlights such as "amazing" Bone Marrow and "delicious" Pasta Shrimp. The Harlequin's ambiance is perfect for both intimate gatherings and lively group events, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking quality and authenticity in Dining Bar cuisine.
A photo of Nob Hill Club at the Mark Hopkins restaurant
4.0
Excellent(61)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Nob Hill
Booked 3 times today
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Nob Hill Club will only be offering the Holiday Pre-Fixe on Dec. 24, 25, 31, and Jan. 1, 2025. A la carte service will not be available. Thank you for your understanding.Embracing the Bay Area's culinary spirit, the Nob Hill Club provides an unparalleled setting for an intimate dinner or small gathering in San Francisco. Featuring contemporary American fare with global influences, each dish is created with care, resulting in a tantalizing blend of flavors and aromas. From our delectable options like our Mixed Berry-Ricotta French Toast to Spanish Octopus & Chorizo for lunch to Seared King Slamon in Miso-Kumquat Broth for dinner, our captivating restaurant offers a delightfully charming experience. Nob Hill Club is located on the lobby level of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco.
A photo of Top of the Mark restaurant
4.2
Awesome(854)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Nob Hill
Booked 24 times today
Top of the Mark in Nob Hill, San Francisco, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that beautifully marries tradition with modern flair. Praised as "quintessential San Francisco," this iconic restaurant delights with its "delicious" small plates like short rib sliders and shrimp tacos, which are a testament to its commitment to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "magical" ambiance, where the stunning 360-degree views of the cityscape enhance every bite and sip. The attentive staff and live entertainment, including memorable performances, create a vibrant and sophisticated atmosphere that elevates an already exquisite dining experience to new heights.
A photo of Aliment restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(946)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 7 times today
Aliment, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Francisco just steps from Union Square, is a shining star in the realm of Contemporary American cuisine. This family-owned gem delights diners with a menu that evolves seasonally, showcasing the freshest organic ingredients. Guests rave about the "amazing and delicious food," with standout dishes like lamb chops, grilled seabass, and pesto gnocchi. The atmosphere is both "fun and unique," complemented by an extensive cocktail menu and local Napa wines. Visitors consistently highlight the "excellent food and service," making Aliment a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and innovative American flavors.
A photo of Tower Salon - The Westin St. Francis restaurant
3.7
Very Good(530)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
We'd like to inform you of our current relocation to Tower Salon A while the Oak Room undergoes renovations. Tower Salon A, conveniently situated in the tower building, past the concierge desk and adjacent to the tower glass elevators, is now hosting our services.Rest assured, while our location may have changed, our commitment to providing you with our signature hearty breakfast and full American buffet remains unchanged. You can continue to expect the same wonderful dining experience you've come to love.We appreciate your continued support during this renovation period. If you have any questions or require further information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to welcoming you at Tower Salon A for a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Jasper's Corner Tap and Kitchen restaurant
3.7
Very Good(989)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 1 time today
A long-time local favorite, Jasper’s Corner Tap and Kitchen serves crave-worthy New American cuisine. We feature 18 rotating local craft draft beers in addition to a seasonal lineup of handcrafted cocktails. Our scratch kitchen will delight you with home-style favorites and unique offerings, complemented with unique dishes straight from the imaginations of our talented chefs. Just steps away from famous Union Square in San Francisco and by the Curran Theater, Jasper’s welcomes sports fans, adventurous eaters, movers, shakers, and everyone in-between in an urban-style sophisticated, yet comfortable atmosphere.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2472)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 60 times today
The Progress in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers a truly remarkable Californian dining experience. Celebrated for its "innovative menu" and "delicious flavors," this restaurant uses entirely local ingredients to craft dishes that highlight the essence of Californian cuisine. Guests rave about the duck, described as a "must-try" and "100% juicy and tender," alongside other inventive dishes like the seaweed noodles and Tierra vegetables masa dumplings. The ambiance is "casual and playful," providing the perfect setting for what many reviewers describe as "the best meal in SF." With excellent service and a creative menu, The Progress is an unmissable culinary gem.
A photo of Wayfare Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7836)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 57 times today
Wayfare Tavern, nestled in San Francisco's bustling Financial District, stands as a beacon of exemplary Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Tyler Florence masterfully crafts dishes that transport diners to an era of authentic American flavors inspired by the early 20th century. The restaurant is celebrated for its "impeccably delicious" offerings, with standout dishes like the renowned "Mary’s Fried Chicken" and "deviled eggs" that leave patrons raving. The vibrant yet cozy Victorian ambiance complements the culinary delights, making it perfect for any occasion. With "phenomenal" service and a dedication to quality, Wayfare Tavern is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Octavia restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2625)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 10 times today
Octavia in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a beacon of authentic Farm-to-table dining, masterfully curated by the acclaimed Chef Melissa Perello. Known for its "gloriously delicious" offerings, Octavia embraces seasonally driven cuisine, showcasing the Bay Area's rich agricultural bounty through its ever-evolving menu. Diners rave about the thoughtful preparation and presentation of dishes, highlighting the "fresh, locally-sourced, delicious food" that is both creative and flavorful. The restaurant's intimate, relaxed atmosphere, coupled with top-notch service, makes it a must-visit destination. As one guest perfectly put it, “Octavia is an absolute gem!” – a testament to its commitment to quality and sustainability.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DannyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    What a perfect place to celebrate with a friend. The traditional consommé and popover with strawberry butter are amazing. The caviar service is ridiculous. Yummylicious chestnut soup. And a date cake for dessert that felt like Christmas had already come around again. I LOVED our waiter Charlie.
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    4.8
  • Melinda
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Great food and excellent service. Really loud music made it tough to talk but they turned it down for us!
    More info
    The HarlequinPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• SOMA
    4.4
  • BarbaraVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •63 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    It was a nice, quiet festive atmosphere for Christmas Day dinner for our family of 4 adults. We had the prix fix menu. The onion soup was excellent and so were the beet/goat cheese salads. We started with tasty warm bread rolls and truffle butter and a glass of sparkling wine (included). 3 had the prime rib and our vegetarian daughter had the pea risotto. The other choice was salmon. Dessert was molten chocolate lava cake with ice cream. Delicious and decadent. A nice evening out. Service was attentive and efficient. Thank you!
    More info
    Nob Hill Club at the Mark HopkinsPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Nob Hill
    4
  • Linda
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 25 Dec 2024
    We have been enjoying Christmas Brunch at the Top of the Mark for over 25 years. This year was the best organized and the "people flow" was so much better. Excellent food and the lovely young woman who made my yummy omelet was so professional and crisp and fun to watch. I understand that the new manager, is Amu" I think is her name, who wore a spectacular magenta dress, kept everything smoothly running and was so gracious. I had the privilege of thanking her personally. Frank was our expert server (he has worked there over 25 years) and he was unruffled and did not miss a beat even when dealing with the crass and rude and snarky pair who sat behind us. THANK YOU Mark Hopkins for making our Christmas, yet again, memorable.
    More info
    Top of the MarkPrice: Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Nob Hill
    4.2
  • Toyia
    Minneapolis - St. Paul •4 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on 22 Dec 2024
    The food was good. Service was ok - very busy night at the bar with no support from other staff. Also loud so not necessarily a great choice if you were/are looking for a romantic dinner.
    More info
    AlimentPrice: Expensive• American• Downtown / Union Square
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in the bustling heart of Downtown / Union Square, San Francisco. This vibrant area is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of restaurants that masterfully blend American traditions with innovative techniques. The dining scene here is characterized by its dynamic atmosphere and a commitment to quality, providing an array of choices for both casual and sophisticated palates. Each establishment in this locale prides itself on delivering exceptional service, fresh ingredients, and creative menus that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're seeking a chic rooftop dining experience or a cozy meal in a historic setting, Downtown / Union Square offers an eclectic mix of venues that promise a memorable dining adventure. These restaurants not only highlight the local flavors but also the city's flair for upscale, contemporary dining, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and culinary connoisseurs alike. Join locals and tourists in exploring one of the most celebrated dining districts in San Francisco, where every meal is served with a dash of city charm and culinary excellence.

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