Best American Restaurants in San Francisco (94105)
9 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Boulevard
8.8
Nancy Oakes’ landmark on the Embarcadero delivers polished, seasonal Californian cooking in the historic Audiffred Building. Locals lean on it for special-occasion dinners and business celebrations with waterfront energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-grilled pork chop, Dungeness crab salad (seasonal), Caramelized scallops
#2
Waterbar
8.6
Signature Bay Bridge views meet a deep oyster program and sustainably sourced seafood. It’s a go-to for out-of-towners and locals seeking celebratory waterfront dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Raw oyster selection, Seafood tower, Grilled whole fish (market)
#3
EPIC Steak
8.5
Modern waterfront steakhouse with prime dry-aged cuts and a strong cocktail list, framed by postcard Bay Bridge views. Popular for client dinners and milestone nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime ribeye, Bone marrow with toast, Lobster mashed potatoes
#4
Prospect
8.2
From the Boulevard team, Prospect serves market-driven New American plates in a sleek dining room just off the waterfront. Consistent execution and a savvy bar program make it a reliable pick for evenings near Rincon Hill.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fried chicken (rotates), Day-boat scallops, Chocolate "Snickers" bon bon
#5
The Bird
8.0
Counter-service fried chicken sandwiches with a peppery crust and soft buns, moving lines quickly on workdays. An office-area staple for affordable, satisfying lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original fried chicken sandwich, Spicy fried chicken sandwich, Curly fries
Worthy Picks
#6
Terrene
7.9
1 Hotel’s ground-floor restaurant leans California-Mediterranean with wood-kissed vegetables, shareables, and a breezy patio. It’s a stylish choice for brunch, cocktails, and light, seasonal plates near the Embarcadero.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wood-fired flatbread, Grilled seasonal vegetables, Citrus-marinated olives
7.8
All-day neighborhood spot for hearty American comfort—big salads, pot pies, and breakfast plates—in a warm, wood-paneled room with extended hours. Ideal for groups and families around Moscone.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken pot pie, French toast, Cobb salad
7.7
Old-school waterfront shack slinging sourdough-bun burgers, beer, and breakfasts with Bay Bridge views. Casual, cash-friendly comfort that’s uniquely San Francisco.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double cheeseburger on sourdough, Breakfast sandwich, Fish & chips
7.6
Transbay neighborhood market with a robust deli—rotisserie chickens, hot bar, salads, and made-to-order sandwiches. A practical, fresh option for quick meals and park-side picnics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rotisserie chicken plate, Italian combo sandwich, Seasonal salad bar