Best American Restaurants in The Castro (94114)
10 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Frances
8.8
Chef-owner Melissa Perello’s refined neighborhood spot balances technique with comfort. Seasonal California cooking, polished service, and a cozy room make it a Castro destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Beignets, Grilled Bavette Steak, Seasonal Farmers’ Market Salad
What makes it special: Technique-driven seasonal menu from acclaimed chef-owner Melissa Perello.
8.6
Tiny Castro institution (since 1977) serving spot-on seafood—oysters, chowder, cioppino—in a classic counter setting. Locals line up for simple, impeccably fresh plates and old-school hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oysters on the Half Shell, New England Clam Chowder, Cioppino
What makes it special: Castro legacy counter famed for pristine shellfish and cioppino.
8.5
Bustling Castro standby blending California comfort with Asian touches and the signature Millionaire’s Bacon. Locals line up for well-executed staples in a lively room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Millionaire’s Bacon, Ricotta pancakes, Eggs Benedict
What makes it special: California-meets-Asian brunch anchored by Millionaire’s Bacon.
#4
Firefly
8.4
Noe Valley stalwart (since 1993) for heartfelt California comfort with chefy touches. Warm service and neighborly energy make it a reliable weeknight or low-key celebration choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Seasonal Soup, Braised Short Rib
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood kitchen marrying comfort cravings with seasonal produce.
#5
Fable
8.2
Garden-patio favorite with a compact, seasonal brunch menu and calm mid-morning pacing. The all-weather terrace is the draw for relaxed, lingering meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shakshuka, Lemon ricotta pancakes, Smoked salmon Benedict
What makes it special: Heated multi-deck garden patio with seasonal brunch plates.
#6
Starbelly
8.1
Sunny neighborhood California kitchen with a popular patio and balanced brunch menu. Efficient service and a mix of comfort and lighter plates keep it in regular rotation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Eggs Benedict, Breakfast pizza, Cinnamon French toast
What makes it special: Patio-friendly brunch with California flavors and balanced plates.
8.1
Retro Castro diner turning out griddled burgers, patty melts, and fries alongside breakfast-all-day comforts. Open late (24 hours on weekends) and beloved since the late ’70s, it’s the reliable post-bar burger fix with no pretense.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ortega Burger, Patty Melt, Chili Burger
What makes it special: Long-running Castro diner serving late-night burgers and breakfasts.
Worthy Picks
#8
Hi Tops
7.9
Castro’s OG gay sports bar (since 2012) with TVs everywhere, lively crowds, and wing nights that dovetail with drink deals. Wings lean classic—think buffalo—with speedy bar service ideal for game-time bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo wings, Loaded nachos, Fried chicken sandwich
What makes it special: Wing specials during happy hour in a true sports-bar setting.
7.9
Wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas at the Church & Market gateway with a warm, neighborhood feel. Balanced toppings and a light-charred crust make it an easy weeknight or small-group choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita (San Marzano, fior di latte, basil), Mortadella & Burrata with pistachio and arugula, Campanelle Bolognese
What makes it special: Wood-fired pies with Italian pantry touches (think burrata, pistachio).
#10
Memento SF
7.8
Newer Noe Valley New American with globally inflected plates and a neighborhood-warm room. Balanced cocktails and a concise menu show care and polish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Curry Chicken, Pan Seared Salmon, Basque Ube Cheesecake
What makes it special: Contemporary neighborhood spot marrying California produce with global flavors.