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Best Trendy Restaurants in Walnut Creek (94596)

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

Notable Picks

$$ Mt. Diablo Blvd Corridor
Small-plates bistro with a leafy patio steps from the main drag. While known for wine, the flexible menu and outdoor seating make it workable for families who like to share.
Must-Try Dishes: Beet & Burrata, Seared Scallops, Truffle Fries
What makes it special: Tapas-style menu and patio make sharing easy with kids.
$$$ Downtown Core
Third-floor terrace with Mt. Diablo views offering coordinated private-event options. The setting shines at sunset; crowd-pleasers like tuna tartare, truffle fries, and seared scallops keep larger groups happy.
Must-Try Dishes: Tuna Tartare, Truffle Parmesan Fries, Seared Scallops
What makes it special: Sunset-view terrace with coordinated private-event menus and staffing.
$$$ Mt. Diablo Corridor
Second-floor Spanish spot with a lively room, fast tapas pacing, and reliable paellas for sharing. It handles groups smoothly and keeps lunch moving without feeling rushed.
Must-Try Dishes: Croquetas de jamón, Paella Valenciana, Gambas al ajillo
What makes it special: Shareable tapas and paellas that scale perfectly for teams.
$$$ Locust Street Corridor
Modern Thai with bright, balanced flavors and a sleek dining room that stays conversation-friendly at lunch. Dishes arrive fast and travel well for teams splitting plates.
Must-Try Dishes: Crispy basil duck, Pad Thai, Khao soi
What makes it special: Refined Thai plates with quick pacing and clean presentation.
$$$$ North Main / Downtown Core
Downtown lounge with a full dinner menu that transitions into a late-night scene on weekends. Cocktails and seafood-forward plates suit lingering, post-theater hangs.
Must-Try Dishes: Oysters Rockefeller, Lamb chops, Seafood fettuccine
What makes it special: Weekend late hours with a cocktail-driven lounge and full kitchen.

Worthy Picks

7.9
$$ North Main / Downtown Core
Burmese staples in a modern space, led by the signature tea leaf salad. Bright, textural plates and curries draw steady downtown crowds.
Must-Try Dishes: Tea leaf salad (gf prep available), Ginger salad (gf), Tofu & vegetable curry with coconut rice (gf)
What makes it special: Burmese classics with gluten-aware prep and clear staff guidance.