Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Kensington

26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Revival Bar+Kitchen restaurant

1. Revival Bar+Kitchen

4.6

Exceptional(2772)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Berkeley

Booked 19 times today

Revival Bar+Kitchen in Berkeley masterfully showcases Californian cuisine with its commitment to farm-to-table freshness and innovative dishes. Diners rave about the “utterly delicious food” and the “amazing” heirloom tomato burrata paired with focaccia appetizers. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring each visit offers something new and exciting. Patrons particularly love the mocktails, described as “tasting like the real thing,” making it an inclusive spot for all diners. With its prime location in Berkeley, perfect for pre-theater meals, Revival Bar+Kitchen is celebrated for its “great food, great service, and all around great environment,” making it a must-visit destination for authentic Californian dining.

A photo of Creekwood Restaurant restaurant

2. Creekwood Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(967)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Berkeley

Booked 12 times today

Creekwood Restaurant in Berkeley is an exemplary showcase of American cuisine, delivering a menu filled with heart and soul. Diners rave about the "excellent Beef Short Rib and Crab Ravioli" and the "delicious, unique choices" that keep the local community coming back for more. The thoughtful use of "seasonal ingredients" in dishes like the praised "corn and asparagus pizza" and "brussel sprouts with a very light sweet praline crust" highlights the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Reviews consistently highlight the "attentive and friendly" service, making Creekwood not just a meal, but an experience. As one review puts it, this is a "wonderful neighborhood spot" where every dish is "beautifully prepared," making it a must-visit for those seeking the best of American dining in Berkeley.

A photo of Study Hall Rooftop Lounge restaurant

3. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge

4.4

Awesome(169)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Berkeley

Booked 8 times today

Welcome to Study Hall! Located on the 12th floor. Indoor/outdoor dining with stunning views of the area. Beverage Centric - light food menu with Pacific, Oceana and Asian inspired appetizers, share plates and entrees

A photo of Cafenated Coffee Company restaurant

4. Cafenated Coffee Company

4.6

Exceptional(11)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Berkeley

Cafenated Coffee Company in Berkeley is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality American cuisine with a creative twist. Nestled in a flora-strewn garden, this cafe shines with its unique brunch offerings like the "Spicy Chicken and Waffles," which had one guest drooling, and the "Brunch Board," praised as setting "the bar higher for every other brunch experience." The dishes, such as the candied bacon and smoked salmon avocado toast, are described as "huge and very satisfying." Guests rave about the atmosphere and service, with one noting the "perfect combination of sweet and savory" in their meals. Whether it's the vibrant garden setting or the innovative American dishes, Cafenated Coffee Company stands out as a beloved brunch spot in Berkeley.

A photo of Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant

5. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

4.8

Exceptional(480)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Oakland

Booked 24 times today

Bardo Lounge & Supper Club in Oakland’s Grand Lake District stands out as a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, continuously recommended in the MICHELIN Guide from 2021-2023. The lounge, reminiscent of a mid-century modern living room, offers a swanky retreat where guests can indulge in "the best cocktails in Oakland" and a "creative and varied cocktail menu" that pairs beautifully with seasonally inspired supper-fare. Praised for its "perfectly balanced" drinks and vibrant ambiance, Bardo is a favorite for both locals and newcomers. Guests rave about the attentive service and the elegant, cozy setting, making it the perfect spot for a sophisticated night out. Whether it's for a casual drink or a special occasion, Bardo promises an unforgettable experience with every visit.

6. MUA

4.4

Awesome(1367)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Oakland

Booked 6 times today

MUA in Oakland is a haven for those who crave authentic and heartwarming Comfort Food. Established in 2008, this family-owned gem delights with its eclectic and open atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both large parties and intimate gatherings. Renowned for dishes like the blackened catfish, butternut squash mac n' "cheese," and crispy tofu, MUA has become a staple in the Oakland community. Guests rave about the food's deliciousness and the ambiance, with one patron exclaiming, "The blackened catfish was amazing... Great service and an even better atmosphere." Whether you're in for the vibrant art events or the soul-satisfying cuisine, MUA promises an unforgettable dining experience that highlights the best of Comfort Food.

A photo of Angler San Francisco restaurant

7. Angler San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(231)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 38 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 Commis Dining Room restaurant

8. Commis Dining Room

4.9

Exceptional(1225)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Oakland

Booked 6 times today

Commis in Oakland stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, offering a unique experience that melds the bounty of Northern California with a flair for innovation. With its proud Two-Star Michelin rating, Commis showcases the region's finest ingredients through a multi-course tasting menu crafted by James Beard Foundation Nominated Chef James Syhabout. Guests rave about the “delicious from beginning to end” meals and the “perfect” wine pairings that enhance the dining experience. The use of modern and classic techniques to bridge Eastern and Western flavors ensures that each dish is not just a meal, but a story of California itself. The "wonderful gem in the East Bay" offers an "unforgettable experience" making each visit a cherished memory.

9. Wayfare Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(7776)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 81 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.

10. Trestle

4.8

Exceptional(2748)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 24 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.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

D
Davidvip
San Francisco Bay Area •25 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Wonderful food and service. Would be nice to dine such lovely food in an atmosphere where one can have an enjoyable conversation with fellow diners rather than having to yell over the relentless piped music. The food speaks for itself. The music dimities ones enjoyment.
More info
The ProgressPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Western Addition
•
4.9
W
Williamvip
San Francisco Bay Area •61 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The service was stellar, the food, especially the Arancini and special pizza was excellent. My only complaint was that we were there early, only a couple other tables in the whole place had customers, but they sat another group at the closest table to us, raising the noise level significantly in our otherwise empty restaurant.
More info
Revival Bar+KitchenPrice: Expensive• Californian• Berkeley
•
4.6
L
Lynn
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
I had a party of five for the afternoon tea and I have to say it was amazing! Our party consisted of three adults and two children and everyone enjoyed the audience and the food and the special attention immensely! I could not recommend this location higher for afternoon tea. I am a huge fan of tea and this was the best one I have ever experienced! The food was delicious and the service outstanding. The location inside Neiman Marcus is absolutely beautiful and such a perfect place for a lovely afternoon! White
More info
The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
•
4.8
I
Ismail
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on 16 Nov 2024
It was an incredible experience thank you………………………..
More info
Study Hall Rooftop LoungePrice: Moderate• Californian• Berkeley
•
4.4
M
Mark
San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
5.0
Dined on 2 Nov 2024
The ambience and service were top-notch and offered the experience we were seeking.
More info
Cafenated Coffee CompanyPrice: Moderate• Café• Berkeley
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

Kensington

Contemporary american

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Kensington

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

26 restaurants available nearby

1. Revival Bar+Kitchen

2. Creekwood Restaurant

3. Study Hall Rooftop Lounge

4. Cafenated Coffee Company

5. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

6. MUA

7. Angler San Francisco

8. Commis Dining Room

9. Wayfare Tavern

10. Trestle

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable