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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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57 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nightbird restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(818)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Hayes Valley of San Francisco, Nightbird stands out as a beacon of American cuisine. Led by the talented and James Beard-nominated Chef Kim Alter, the restaurant offers an exquisite 6 Course 6 Bite Menu that celebrates the essence of local, seasonal ingredients. Diners consistently laud the "amazing displays" and "outstanding experience" that Nightbird offers. One reviewer raves, "Every course of the prefix menu was unbelievable. Absolutely amazing experience." With its meticulous attention to detail and a menu that showcases America’s culinary diversity, Nightbird has become a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic and high-quality American dining experience.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2443)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 58 times today
The Progress, located in San Francisco's vibrant Western Addition, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its innovative and locally-sourced dishes. Guests frequently rave about the "beyond amazing" duck and the inventive flavor combinations that make each visit a culinary adventure. With its reputation for "exceptional food and impeccable service," The Progress offers a dynamic dining experience, described by many as "the greatest dinner party ever." It's not just the food that impresses; the cocktails are crafted with creativity, leading one guest to proclaim, "My wife had one of the most creative and delicious drinks she had ever had." Whether it's the warmly recommended small plates or the standout duck, The Progress ensures a memorable and delightful meal with every visit, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best of Contemporary American dining in San Francisco.
A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(6006)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 155 times today
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus in San Francisco's Union Square is a quintessential destination for those seeking an exceptional American dining experience. Known for its elegant ambiance and meticulous service, The Rotunda offers a luxurious afternoon tea service that has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. Patrons rave about the "delicious assortment of food" and "excellent ambience," highlighting the restaurant's ability to deliver a top-tier culinary experience. From the superb seafood selections like the praised shrimp and crab Louie salad to the classic American burger, every dish is crafted with excellence. Guests continually commend the Rotunda for its "outstanding service" and "beautiful setting," making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the finest American cuisine in a stunning, historic venue.
A photo of Octavia restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2609)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Octavia shines as a gem of Contemporary American cuisine. With Chef Melissa Perello at the helm, this elegant eatery is celebrated for its beautifully defined flavors and a menu that evolves daily, emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing. Reviewers rave about their dining experiences, noting the "thoughtful, delicious dishes" and "exceptional service." The much-acclaimed tasting menu is described as "way more food than expected," offering "great value" and a showcase of creativity with every course. Diners consistently highlight the knowledgeable staff and the intimate, beautifully designed space, making Octavia a must-visit for those seeking an outstanding representation of modern American fare in San Francisco.
A photo of Spruce restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5361)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 64 times today
Open for lunch (two courses/$65), brunch (three courses/$98), and dinner (three courses/$125), Spruce offers seasonal prix-fixe menus crafted by Chef Mark Sullivan. Each menu offers a wide range of options, as well as luxurious additions (examples: caviar, truffles) for supplemental prices. Our cuisines is complemented by an extensive wine list which holds "Wine Spectator" magazine's highest honor, a Grand Award. The bar/lounge is available for walk-ins on a first-come, first-serve basis. We look forward to welcoming you to Spruce soon!
A photo of Angler San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(226)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 31 times today
Angler San Francisco, a Michelin-starred gem nestled on the Embarcadero waterfront, offers an unparalleled seafood experience that is both authentic and innovative. With a focus on the freshest ingredients sourced from Northern California, Angler celebrates the natural flavors of the sea, enhanced by the primal touch of their wood burning hearth. Diners rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes, describing them as "spectacular" and "sublime," with special mentions of the perfectly cooked fish and inventive seafood sauces. The ambiance and views complement the culinary journey, making every visit to Angler a memorable feast of the senses. Whether you opt for the praised tasting menu or the exceptional 'Let Us Cook For You' option, Angler promises an extraordinary dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District.
A photo of Wayfare Tavern restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(7766)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 96 times today
At the heart of San Francisco's bustling Financial District, Wayfare Tavern stands as a beacon of American cuisine, offering a nostalgic yet refined dining experience. Chef Tyler Florence masterfully crafts a menu that captures the essence of early 20th century American fare, earning accolades from diners who rave about the "outstanding" food and service. Known for its moist and flavorful fried chicken and rustic yet elegant setting reminiscent of a Victorian parlor, Wayfare Tavern delivers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Patrons consistently praise the "perfectly cooked" dishes and the tavern's ability to turn a meal into a cherished memory, making it a cornerstone of the San Francisco dining scene.
A photo of Trestle restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2746)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 29 times today
Trestle, nestled in the vibrant Financial District/Embarcadero area of San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its innovative and seasonal fare. Celebrated for its unique approach to dining, Trestle offers a daily-changing 3-course prix fixe menu that captures the freshness and variety characteristic of Californian gastronomy. Reviewers rave about the authenticity and creativity in dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The duck confit is the best I ever had," and another noting the "flavorful, expertly prepared food." The attentive service and cozy ambiance complement the exceptional dining experience, making Trestle a true gem for those seeking genuine and high-quality Californian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Prospect restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2706)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 10 times today
Prospect, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco, stands as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Launched by the powerhouse team behind Boulevard, including James Beard award-winning chef Nancy Oakes, Prospect offers a culinary experience that dazzles with freshness and innovation. Reviewers rave about dishes like the "tender melt-in-your-mouth pork" and the "fresh lobster with delicious mushrooms," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity. The ambiance is described as "modern and creative," perfect for everything from a casual bite to a special occasion. With its warm, welcoming service and a menu that captures the essence of American dining with a modern twist, Prospect is a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining experience in San Francisco.
A photo of Charmaine's Rooftop Lounge restaurant
4.5
Awesome(1358)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 12 times today
Charmaine's Rooftop Lounge, dubbed "S.F's Hottest Rooftop" by S.F. Magazine, is a beacon of cocktail excellence in Downtown / Union Square, San Francisco. Elevating cocktail culture 120 feet above Market Street, Charmaine’s offers an experience where European chic meets California cool. The cocktails, described as "bomb" by delighted guests, stand out with their vibrant flavors and original combinations. Crafted by the renowned BVHospitality, these drinks feature unique bitters and syrups, ensuring each sip is a revelation. Patrons rave about the "amazing" service and "gorgeous views," making it a perfect spot for a memorable night out. With its stylish ambiance and innovative drink menu, Charmaine’s is a must-visit destination for cocktail aficionados.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Colleenvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This is what an excellent dining experience is about. From the greeter at the front, full of warm welcomes on a rainy evening to the general manager re-seating us due to a wobbly table we had the most amazing evening. Service is excellent, Christian and the house managers were attentive polite and professional. The sommelier as well chose our white and red wines and nailed it! The food goes without saying, we had pear salad, crudeo and pasta. The special white truffle pasta as a share was amazing. Duck, scallops, lobster pasta as mains. Benigets for dessert with a vanilla and dark chocolate sauce. Cocktails also supreme, old fashioned, martini's and a Paper Plate! We really had such a wonderful time and it reminded me of the wonder of our city and the talented restaurant chefs, and servers in the Presidio.
    More info
    SprucePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Presidio Heights
    4.8
  • Gaylevip
    San Francisco Bay Area •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We appreciate considerate and efficient service at the Rotunda. Our sandwiches were tasty and huge. It is such a beautiful setting and viewing the Union Square Christmas tree put us in the holiday mood.
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    4.8
  • Lucy
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Food was absolutely incredible, service impeccable, restaurant soo beautiful!
    More info
    OctaviaPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Pacific Heights
    4.8
  • Sam
    Atlanta Metro •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    What a find! Food choices were great- love the fact they are shareable as it's hard sometimes for my wife and me to try different things at a restaurant with individual/full portions. Quality was excellent as dishes are innovative, accurately described, and tasty. Don't pass on the caviar potato cloud (insider tip- order one for yourself instead of sharing)! And the drinks are also innovative and quite balanced in their flavor profiles!
    More info
    The ProgressPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Western Addition
    4.9
  • Carolevip
    California Central Coast •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 13 Nov 2024
    Amazing and creative food! So delicious and worthy for a special occasion! Will definitely be back.
    More info
    NightbirdPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Explore the vibrant dining scene in San Francisco's Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area, where contemporary American cuisine takes center stage. This neighborhood is a culinary hotspot, offering a diverse array of dining experiences that cater to the sophisticated palate of food enthusiasts. The restaurants in this location pride themselves on their innovative menus that feature a blend of local ingredients and creative culinary techniques, providing a truly unique dining experience. Patrons can expect high-quality service, exquisite food presentation, and a delightful atmosphere that complements the modern American dishes served. Whether you're looking for a casual brunch spot or an elegant dinner setting, the area's restaurants are sure to impress with their dedication to culinary excellence and customer satisfaction. Enjoy the convenience of dining in close proximity to cultural landmarks like the War Memorial & Performing Arts Center, making it an ideal choice for a pre-show meal. Discover why the Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area is celebrated for its contemporary American dining scene.

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