Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best Californian Restaurants in The Castro

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

88 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Frances restaurant
1. Frances
4.9
Exceptional(3721)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 21 times today
Frances, nestled in the heart of The Castro in San Francisco, is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant and innovative dishes. Chef Melissa Perello’s seasonal menu masterfully showcases "California Cuisine," emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients that "speak for themselves." Diners rave about the "phenomenal" short rib and "divine" house sourdough, noting the harmonious blend of flavors that elevate each dish. The restaurant’s ambiance is described as cozy yet elegant, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. With its "exemplary" service and carefully curated wine pairings, Frances offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of Blind Butcher restaurant
2. Blind Butcher
4.4
Awesome(566)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 28 times today
Blind Butcher in the Castro, San Francisco, offers an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience that is both authentic and inventive. The restaurant's "globally inspired New American menu" masterfully combines prime steaks, seafood, and organic produce, creating dishes that are "delicious and cooked to perfection." Diners rave about the "super tender" ribeye and the "decadent" lobster mac and cheese, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The attentive staff, coupled with a cozy and vibrant atmosphere, makes each visit memorable. As one reviewer eloquently put it, Blind Butcher is "a must in San Francisco," where every meal is a gastronomic delight.
A photo of Starbelly restaurant
3. Starbelly
4.5
Awesome(1647)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 55 times today
Starbelly in The Castro serves an exceptional Californian cuisine experience that has diners raving about its “consistently delicious food and cocktails” and “warm, helpful, and personable” service. This urban gem brings Californian comfort food to life with a seasonal menu that harmonizes perfectly with their craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Diners can enjoy dishes like the popular corn pizza and fresh pasta amidst a lively ambiance, often described as “an oasis in the heart of the city.” The charming garden patio adds a special touch, making Starbelly a vibrant neighborhood favorite perfect for any occasion.
A photo of Canela Bistro Bar restaurant
4. Canela Bistro Bar
4.8
Exceptional(1608)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 15 times today
Canela Bistro & Wine Bar in the vibrant Castro district of San Francisco offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that transports you straight to Spain. Celebrated for its authentic Spanish flair, this eatery seamlessly blends traditional Spanish ingredients with California's finest produce, crafting a culinary delight that patrons rave about. With an impressive selection of over 75 unique Spanish wines, Canela delivers a "treasure" trove of flavors that "never fail to amaze." Renowned for its delicious tapas and "wonderful paella," Canela has earned the prestigious Certified Restaurant from Spain award, underscoring its commitment to genuine Mediterranean excellence.
A photo of Flora King restaurant
5. Flora King
4.1
Excellent(6)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • The Castro
Booked 4 times today
Flora King – Castro’s Culinary Gem for Argentine Comfort Food in a Beautiful SettingFounded by Argentinean couple Chef Angela Pryor-Garat and Ignacio Garat, Flora King brings the warmth of Argentina to the heart of the Castro. The menu blends bold South American flavors with a touch of California freshness, featuring standout dishes like the 'Francisco Milanesa' and 'Mendoza Lamb Steak', alongside Angela’s handmade empanadas and her indulgent Dulce de Leche 4 Leches. Don’t miss a scoop (or two) of Angela’s Organic Ice Cream, a beloved brand she launched in Petaluma in 2018—with their sixth location and first in San Francisco opening soon in Noe Valley.Housed in a thoughtfully renovated space, Flora King offers a cozy and luminous indoor dining room, a charming beer and wine bar, and a secret 'backyard-style dining room' perfect for relaxed evenings. Just steps from the iconic 'Castro Theatre', it’s fast becoming a local favorite for comfort, flavor, and heart.-
A photo of Nopa - San Francisco restaurant
6. Nopa - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(3682)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 94 times today
Nopa, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of North Panhandle in San Francisco, offers an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for its "world-class food and service," Nopa delights guests with a menu that is both "creative yet simple" and showcases the best of Mediterranean flavors. The culinary team is celebrated for their mastery in using "seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms," ensuring every dish is fresh and full of flavor. Guests rave about the "phenomenal" duck and "legendary" pork chop, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to "high quality sourcing" and exquisite preparation. Come savor the warm, inviting atmosphere and discover why Nopa is a cherished gem in San Francisco.
A photo of State Bird Provisions restaurant
7. State Bird Provisions
4.7
Exceptional(3444)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Western Addition
Booked 57 times today
State Bird Provisions in Western Addition, San Francisco, offers an extraordinary American dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its inventive "dim sum" style service, this restaurant presents a creative twist on classic American flavors. Diners rave about the "delicious, innovative, and surprising" small dishes that keep the experience fresh and exciting. With impeccable service and a lively atmosphere, patrons find themselves returning for more. The signature quail dish and the adventurous blue corn-pepita pancakes with braised bacon and coffee butter are must-tries. As one enthusiastic diner put it, "Every dish was like culinary viagra," making this a must-visit for any American cuisine enthusiast.
A photo of Foreign Cinema restaurant
8. Foreign Cinema
4.8
Exceptional(8983)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Mission District
Booked 124 times today
Foreign Cinema offers an unparalleled Mediterranean dining experience in the heart of San Francisco's Mission District. This "iconic" restaurant is celebrated for its vibrant California-Mediterranean menu, which artfully combines fresh, local ingredients with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Diners rave about the "incredible food service drinks ambiance," highlighting dishes like the delectable baked goat cheese and the perfectly crafted duck confit. The chic and airy setting, complete with a unique film screening ambiance, enhances the dining experience, making it "one of the best dining experiences" in San Francisco. With its consistently "delicious food" and "first-class service," Foreign Cinema promises a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of Che Fico San Francisco restaurant
9. Che Fico San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(2044)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 73 times today
Che Fico San Francisco offers an extraordinary Californian culinary experience, seamlessly blending Italian roots with local ingredients. Located in the vibrant NOPA neighborhood, this restaurant is a "beloved San Francisco institution" praised for its inventive and delicious menu. Diners rave about its "outstanding food," highlighting handmade pasta, pizzas, and unique dishes from Jewish-Roman heritage. The lively atmosphere and "warm hospitality" make it a perfect spot for gatherings. With a beverage program featuring both Italian and Californian wines, Che Fico captures the essence of Californian cuisine through its market-driven, rustic approach. This is the place for an unforgettable dining experience!
A photo of Nightbird restaurant
10. Nightbird
4.8
Exceptional(879)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 11 times today
Nightbird, nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Hayes Valley, offers an exquisite American culinary journey that is both artistic and authentic. Chef Kim Alter, a James Beard Award nominee, crafts a 12-course tasting menu that brilliantly showcases the finest seasonal, local ingredients, making each visit a unique experience. Patrons rave about the "absolutely delicious and inventive food," with standout dishes like the "Taste of the ocean" leaving a lasting impression. The ambiance is described as "elegant yet welcoming," and the service as "impeccable," ensuring every diner feels cherished. Nightbird is truly a celebration of American cuisine at its finest.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best Californian restaurants in The Castro

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's Castro District, an area renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. Restaurants here offer a delightful exploration of Californian flavors, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and a fusion of global culinary techniques. Each establishment in The Castro provides a unique dining experience, from intimate garden patios to chic urban settings, catering to an array of tastes and preferences. The dining scene in The Castro is characterized by its innovative approach and commitment to quality, showcasing the best of California's bountiful produce and creative culinary minds. Whether you're looking for a memorable meal featuring hand-cut steaks, seafood, or inventive vegetarian dishes, the options are boundless. Reviewers consistently praise the area for its excellent service and the ability to maintain a cozy, yet sophisticated atmosphere. Dining in The Castro is not just a meal; it's an experience that reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of Californian cuisine.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Restaurant Management Solutions
  • Restaurant Reservation Software
  • Restaurant Marketing Software
  • Restaurant Event Software
  • OpenTable For Restaurants
  • OpenTable For Restaurant Groups
  • Restaurant Resources
  • OpenTable Pricing & Plans
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo