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Best Trendy American Restaurants in Russian Hill (94109)

6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

$$$ Lower Nob Hill
Hawaiian-rooted New American from chef-owner Ravi Kapur with bright, layered flavors and a lively dining room. The menu balances raw seafood, smoky grilled meats, and shareable plates.
Must-Try Dishes: Tuna Poke, Steamed Beef Tongue Buns, Fried Rice
What makes it special: Hawaiian flavors filtered through a modern California lens.
$$$$ Van Ness
Since 1949, this landmark carves 21-day aged prime rib tableside with classic English trimmings. Locals book far ahead for consistent roasts, martinis, and old-school service that runs like a ritual.
Must-Try Dishes: House of Prime Rib Cut, Creamed Spinach, Yorkshire Pudding
What makes it special: Prime rib carved from roving silver carts with full classic sides.
$ Polk Gulch / Nob Hill
Historic 18-stool seafood counter serving pristine local shellfish, chowder, and sashimi-style plates. Expect a wait—counter service and day-boat freshness are the draw.
Must-Try Dishes: Oysters on the half shell, Dungeness crab Louie, Clam chowder
What makes it special: Impeccably fresh raw bar served at an iconic marble counter.
$$$$ Nob Hill
Old-school steakhouse known for dry-aged Midwestern beef, a deep wine list, and live jazz in the lounge. It’s a quieter, white-tablecloth alternative for prime cuts along Van Ness.
Must-Try Dishes: Dry-Aged Porterhouse, Bone-In New York ‘Harris’, Steak Diane
What makes it special: Dry-aged USDA Prime program and nightly live jazz in a classic room.

Worthy Picks

$ Lower Nob Hill
Railcar-turned diner slinging late-night burgers and Portuguese-American plates until the wee hours. A beloved after-hours stop for comfort food with character.
Must-Try Dishes: Grubstake Burger, Patty Melt, Chocolate Shake
What makes it special: Century-old SF diner serving burgers deep into the night.
$$$$ Van Ness / TenderNob
Maximalist brunch spot known for floral decor, colorful lattes, and sweet-savory plates. Expect a wait and plenty of photo-ops alongside American breakfast favorites with Asian accents.
Must-Try Dishes: Bear-shaped pancakes, Crab cake benedict, Ube latte
What makes it special: Garden-themed plating and desserts designed to be photographed.