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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in SOMA

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56 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco restaurant
1. The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(6098)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 106 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 The Progress restaurant
2. The Progress
4.8
Exceptional(2467)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Western Addition
Booked 63 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 Prospect restaurant
3. Prospect
4.6
Exceptional(2711)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 11 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 Angler San Francisco restaurant
4. Angler San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(253)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 47 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
5. Wayfare Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(7823)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 86 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 Octavia restaurant
6. Octavia
4.7
Exceptional(2624)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Pacific Heights
Booked 17 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 Trestle restaurant
7. Trestle
4.8
Exceptional(2769)
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.
A photo of The Harlequin restaurant
8. The Harlequin
4.4
Awesome(94)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • SOMA
Booked 14 times today
Step into the glamorous world of The Harlequin in San Francisco's dynamic SOMA district, where the spirit of the 1920s thrives through its exceptional cocktail bar. Renowned for its "elevated cocktail program," The Harlequin offers a cocktail experience that is both authentic and innovative, blending fine craftsmanship with a touch of historical elegance. Guests rave about the "killer martini" and the "delicious mezcal cocktail," with one patron noting, "Every bartender makes a killer martini and they know their stuff." Whether it's the bustling happy hour or a cozy date night, The Harlequin promises a vibrant atmosphere complemented by "great music and romantically lit" surroundings. Ideal for both casual drinks and special occasions, The Harlequin stands out as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts seeking quality, creativity, and a touch of old-school charm in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of One Market Restaurant restaurant
9. One Market Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(4367)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 21 times today
One Market Restaurant, nestled in the bustling Financial District/Embarcadero of San Francisco, epitomizes the essence of high-quality American cuisine with its blend of classic dishes and innovative culinary twists. Diners rave about the authenticity and diversity of the menu, describing the saffron risotto with shrimp and chorizo as "to die for!" and praising the perfectly cooked roast prime rib. The ambiance, combined with impeccable service, makes every meal memorable, with one guest noting, "Every course and dish we ordered was perfectly prepared." One Market stands out not only for its food but also for the warmth and professionalism of its staff, like Tonya, their award-winning sommelier, who enhances dining experiences with her expert pairings. This gem is consistently lauded for its dedication to delivering a superb dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best of American dining in San Francisco.
A photo of Spruce restaurant
10. Spruce
4.8
Exceptional(5405)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Presidio Heights
Booked 79 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!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jenny
    San Francisco Bay Area •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    The Rotunda is delightful. It's old-charm in a modern setting, nostalgic for its past but decidedly modern and hip. The light that comes through the windows is cheerful and the waitstaff nothing but classy. The booth-like seating is comfy and decor is pleasant. I had the rockfish sandwich for lunch and devoured every saucy bite of it. Reserve a table in advance -- dropping in will be a long wait. It's a great place to do lunch on union square!
    More info
    The Rotunda at Neiman Marcus - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.8
  • Tim
    Los Angeles •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    These are innovative, awake and aware professionals. The original energy and spirit of the restaurant are alive and evolving. Service: Excellent. Food: Excellent. Ambience: Excellent, energetic, present, engaging. This is what an exceptional experience feels like. Thanks to everyone at The Progress.
    More info
    The ProgressPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Western Addition
    •
    4.8
  • Brian
    California Central Coast •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a great time here! Great food, awesome vibe, everything was really good! There were 4 of us and we had the Burger, Steak Dianne, Beef Cheek Stroganoff and the Rigatoni (which IS freshly, house -made rigatoni, despite what the "Karen" from TX wrote/reviewed) and then we split an amazing Creme Brulee! Definitely recommend!!
    More info
    Wayfare TavernPrice: Moderate• American• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.6
  • AudreyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    All the staffs are very courteous, nice, friendly and notice details quickly. From the starter, Oysters were fresh, and with the seaweed vinaigrette, it elevated the oyster a lot. With the frog leg, the meat is so tender and juicy. Sauce on the side offers a nice acidity touch for fried dish. I loved the fact that they took inspiration from Nashville Hot Chicken and curated to their own version, everything on the plate were seasoned perfectly even with the pickle they served on the side. Grilled half sea bream was wonderful, I can taste the charbroiled flavor. Fish was very crispy,meaty, juicy and buttery. With the Meyer lemon herb salad, it definitely made the dish more refreshing. Overall, I really enjoyed the whole experience. Thank you for everything and for sure I will come back soon.
    More info
    Angler San FranciscoPrice: Very Expensive• American• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.7
  • Thomas
    Washington, D.C. Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Good place to meet friends and eat. Service is very good. However was somewhat noisy. Otherwise would recommend.
    More info
    ProspectPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• SOMA
    •
    4.6

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in SOMA

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant SOMA district of San Francisco Bay Area. This locale is a culinary hotspot, where a diverse array of restaurants masterfully blends traditional American flavors with modern culinary techniques, creating innovative and memorable dining experiences. Each restaurant in the area showcases a commitment to quality, from the use of locally-sourced ingredients to expertly curated menus that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. The dining scene in SOMA is characterized by its dynamic atmosphere and a strong emphasis on providing exceptional service and a welcoming ambiance, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a sophisticated dining adventure, the restaurants here promise to deliver not just meals, but culinary experiences that are both engaging and satisfying. Reflecting the diversity and innovation of San Francisco itself, these dining establishments ensure every guest leaves with a taste of genuine Contemporary American culinary artistry.

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