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Best Californian Restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

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90 restaurants available nearby

A photo of A16 - San Francisco restaurant
1. A16 - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(5031)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 18 times today
At A16 in San Francisco, you'll discover a slice of Campania in the heart of the Marina district. This Michelin-rated gem, celebrated for bringing authentic Southern Italian cuisine to the Bay Area, offers a vibrant menu curated by Executive Chef Yosuke Machida. The wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are a standout, with diners raving about their "perfect" authenticity and "incredible" flavors. Alongside these, the handcrafted pastas and fresh, organic ingredients highlight the traditional Italian cooking methods. A16's dedication to authenticity doesn’t stop at food—their extensive wine list features unique Italian wines, meticulously selected by owner Shelley Lindgren. As one review puts it, A16 makes you "feel like you're in Italy," making every meal here a delightful culinary journey steeped in Italian tradition and local excellence.
A photo of Rose's Cafe restaurant
2. Rose's Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(588)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Nestled in the vibrant Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio neighborhood of San Francisco, Rose's Cafe is a beacon of Californian cuisine, combining the best of local produce and Italian culinary traditions. Praised for its "authentic and delicious food" that uses "organic local produce, fresh seafood, and free-range poultry," the cafe exemplifies the freshness and innovation California is known for. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one noting, "The ambiance of Rose's is world-class. I will come here as long as I am alive." Another diner gushed, "Had the best salmon ever here... it's such a well-executed healthy dish. Yum, it's a must-try for me." Rose's Cafe is not just a restaurant; it’s a slice of California on a plate, offering a delightful culinary adventure to locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Palm House restaurant
3. Palm House
4.0
Excellent(555)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in the bustling Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio neighborhood of San Francisco, Palm House is a gem that epitomizes the spirit of Californian cuisine with its vibrant and fresh offerings. Visitors rave about the "delicious and fresh" food, highlighting dishes like the "perfectly seasoned jerk chicken" and the unique "coconut popcorn shrimp." The restaurant's use of quality ingredients shines through in their menu, creating a "memorable dining experience" that keeps guests coming back. The ambiance, described as "high energy party vibes" and "chill & islandy," perfectly complements the Californian ethos of laid-back sophistication. Palm House is not just a dining spot but a cultural experience, where the "fun cocktails" and "dog-friendly" environment add to its charm, making it a true standout in San Francisco's culinary scene.
A photo of Isa restaurant
4. Isa
4.8
Exceptional(2814)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the vibrant Marina District of San Francisco, Isa has been a beacon of exceptional bistro cuisine for over 25 years. With a consistent 4.9-star rating on OpenTable and glowing Yelp reviews, Isa stands out for its "delicious and satisfying" French fare with a Californian twist, executed under the expertise of Chef Luke Sung, a James Beard Foundation nominee. The restaurant's cozy ambiance and elegant settings, including a beautiful back patio, enhance every dining experience. Reviewers rave about the "potato wrapped sea bass" and "outstanding" service, noting dishes that "felt like fireworks in my mouth." Isa's commitment to quality and flavor, combined with a warm, knowledgeable staff, makes every visit memorable, cementing its status as a treasured local gem and a must-visit for bistro enthusiasts.
A photo of The Patio restaurant
5. The Patio
4.7
Exceptional(277)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
The Patio, nestled in the vibrant Marina/Cow Hollow district near Presidio in San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to freshness, innovation, and local flavors. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The kitchen obviously cares," highlighting the delicately dressed salads, al dente mac'n'cheese, and spoon-tender short ribs. The venue is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors, described as a gem for its inviting ambiance and top-notch service. Whether it's the perfectly cooked steak frittes or the innovative panna cotta dessert, The Patio delivers a Californian dining experience that is both memorable and heartwarming.
A photo of Sessions at the Presidio restaurant
6. Sessions at the Presidio
4.5
Awesome(1965)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Sessions at the Presidio in San Francisco is a beacon of comfort food excellence, offering a menu that is both heartwarming and sophisticated. Nestled in the picturesque Presidio, this restaurant pairs locally sourced ingredients from Skywalker Ranch with a culinary finesse that transforms simple dishes into memorable experiences. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" peach, tomato, burrata salad and the "best ever" steak frites, highlighting the authenticity and quality of the meals. The ambiance, described as "lovely," complements the comfort food perfectly, making every dining experience feel special. Whether enjoying a meal outdoors with a view of the park or cozying up in the elegant indoor space, Sessions at the Presidio delivers comfort food that is both refined and deeply satisfying.
A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
7. State Bird Provisions
4.8
Exceptional(3239)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 60 times today
State Bird Provisions in San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood offers a truly American dining experience that captures both the spirit and innovation of contemporary American cuisine. Renowned for its unique approach, the restaurant features a dim sum-style service that delivers a parade of creative and seasonal dishes, earning high praise from diners. Guests rave about the "extraordinary place with extraordinarily good food" and the "interesting, seasonal, and well-balanced flavors." The energy and creativity of the menu make every visit a delightful adventure, with standouts like the duck liver mousse and the smoked trout dip. The combination of top-notch service and a lively atmosphere ensures a memorable dining experience that epitomizes the best of American culinary excellence. This gem is a proud testament to the rich, evolving food scene of San Francisco.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
8. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2466)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 23 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 Octavia restaurant
9. Octavia
4.7
Exceptional(2623)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Pacific Heights
Booked 12 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 Nopa - San Francisco restaurant
10. Nopa - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(3533)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 34 times today
Nopa in San Francisco is a jewel of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its urban rustic food and mastery in wood-fired dishes. Praised for its “amazing, fresh food” and warm, welcoming ambiance, Nopa sources seasonal ingredients locally, ensuring each dish, from the "halibut crudo" to the "pork chop with blueberries," is both fresh and flavorful. Diners consistently rave about the quality and attention to detail, noting that Nopa "always delivers a top-tier experience." The restaurant's commitment to authenticity and the local food scene makes it a must-visit. As one reviewer puts it, Nopa is the "quintessential Californian restaurant," making it a cherished spot in the North Panhandle of San Francisco.

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Discover best Californian restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the vibrant Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio neighborhood in San Francisco, where a diverse array of restaurants offers a unique gastronomic experience. Embodying the spirit of California, these establishments serve up a variety of dishes that highlight local, sustainable ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. From contemporary American to fusion and farm-to-table approaches, each restaurant in this area captures the fresh and eclectic flavors that define Californian cuisine. Patrons can expect exceptional service, inviting atmospheres, and a commitment to quality that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. The dining scene here is characterized by its laid-back yet sophisticated vibe, making it a perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal in a scenic setting. Whether you’re craving a simple but elevated dish or a full-course meal with fine Californian wines, the restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio promise a satisfying dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary culture of California.

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