Best American Restaurants in The Excelsior (94112)
5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.4
Old-school drive-in flipping juicy, made-to-order burgers and classic shakes since 1962. Locals line up for half-pound patties, crinkle or curly fries, and a neon-signed slice of Ocean Avenue history.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half-Pounder with Cheese, Rocket Burger, Chocolate Shake
What makes it special: Old-school roadside stand with space-age sign and reliably great smash-style burgers.
8.2
Evening pop-up inside Rocks Den serving Asian-inspired smashburgers with big flavor. Think longanisa patties, kimchi-kalbi sauce, and glossy buns—creative without losing the juicy smash appeal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kimchi Smash Burger, Wasabi Aioli Smash, Furikake Fries
What makes it special: Crispy-edged smashburgers with bold, Asian-leaning flavor profiles.
8.1
Vibes:
Brewery & Beer Garden Republic
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
Comfort Food Classics
Neighborhood ale house with a thoughtful tap list and seasonal pub fare. The menu leans comfort—patty melts, fish & chips, wings—executed with better-than-average ingredients and care.
Must-Try Dishes:
Okie Onion Burger, Patty Melt, Hand-Cut Fries
What makes it special: Taproom energy with burgers built for serious pub fare cravings.
Worthy Picks
7.9
Neighborhood counter for hearty salads, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh juices near Crocker Amazon. Portions are generous, ordering is quick, and the menu leans lighter without feeling spartan.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cobb Salad (build-your-way), Chicken Tostadas, Avocado Bacon Egg Sandwich
What makes it special: Balanced, customizable salads and breakfast staples done reliably fast.
7.9
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Business Lunch Power Players
Mission Terrace deli turning out hefty Dutch-crunch sandwiches and hot specials since the 1970s. Expect fast counter service, fair prices, and sandwiches built for game days and park picnics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roxie Special (turkey, pastrami, jack, veggies), BBQ Beef Sandwich, Italian Salami Sandwich
What makes it special: Old-school deli turning out SF-sized, customization-friendly sandwiches.