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The 16 Best Most Expensive Restaurants in San Francisco

When seeking the ultimate dining experience in San Francisco, look no further than the most expensive restaurant options the city has to offer. These establishments go above and beyond in providing luxurious settings, exceptional service, and of course, exquisite cuisine. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a culinary masterpiece, these top-tier restaurants are sure to exceed your expectations.

With so many high-end dining choices available in San Francisco, it can be overwhelming to decide which most expensive restaurant to choose. That's where this curated list comes in handy. Compare the different services and key points of each establishment to find the perfect option for your next fine dining experience.

Embark on a culinary journey like no other by exploring The 16 Best Most Expensive Restaurants in San Francisco below. Delight your senses and treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the city by the bay.

How we chose and ordered them

To put together this guide to most expensive restaurants in San Francisco, we looked at what each business really focuses on, how its customers rate it over time and what it shows about its work on its own channels. The order is ours and we review it regularly.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Lazy Bear
4.81,006 reviews
#2
Birdsong
4.8394 reviews
#3
Atelier Crenn
4.7628 reviews

All options

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Lazy Bear, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • The staff is welcoming and friendly, creating a fun and casual dining atmosphere.

  • The food is not only beautifully presented but also tells an intriguing story behind the ingredients used.

  • Customers appreciate the attention to detail in both food and service, making it a memorable dining experience.

Lazy Bear

4.81,006 reviews
3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Lazy Bear is a popular New American restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for its great coffee and great dessert, it offers a variety of dining options such as dinner and dessert. The atmosphere at Lazy Bear is described as cosy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, catering to different preferences.

With a rating of 4.8 stars, it's no surprise that customers rave about their experience at Lazy Bear. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a unique dining experience that combines exquisite food with a welcoming ambiance, Lazy Bear is the place to be. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a fantastic meal, Lazy Bear promises an unforgettable experience.

Birdsong, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • This was such a wonderful experience! Every dish was meticulously crafted with distinct flavors that went well together. The service was impeccable, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. Highly recommended!

  • From start to finish, everything was well thought out and beautifully presented. The staff worked in unison, providing an intimate and impressive dining experience. Seriously worth the price!

  • Celebrating special occasions at Birdsong is highly recommended. The impeccable food, presentation, and synchronized service make it perfect for memorable moments.

  • Despite some disappointments with specific dishes, the overall experience was good. The ambiance, servers, and certain dishes were highlights. However, the expectation for a 2-star Michelin restaurant was not fully met.

Birdsong

4.8394 reviews
1085 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Birdsong is an iconic American restaurant located in San Francisco. Known for its incredible dining options and atmosphere, customers rave about the unforgettable experience they had. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.8 and 394 reviews, Birdsong continues to impress diners with its outstanding service options and offerings. If you're looking for a cozy, romantic, and trendy dining spot with top-notch cuisine, Birdsong is the place to be!

Atelier Crenn, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • A customer mentioned that the 19 bites they had at Atelier Crenn were worth every cent, with terrific balances and complex flavors.

  • Another patron highlighted the impeccable attention to detail, perfect food portions, and unique flavors experienced during their anniversary dinner.

  • One review praised the presentation, taste, and portions, describing it as the best Michelin 3 Star experience they've had.

  • A guest was blown away by the creative use of ingredients and flavors, mentioning the perfect balance between vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Atelier Crenn

4.7628 reviews
3127 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

Atelier Crenn is a renowned restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a dining experience like no other. The establishment is known for its great cocktails, coffee, desserts, and wine list, making it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable evening out.

With a rating of 4.7 stars and a loyal following of satisfied customers, Atelier Crenn continues to impress with its exquisite dishes, exceptional service, and elegant atmosphere.

Benu, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Loved the menu, very filling and tasty. Friendly staff.

  • An absolute culinary journey with memorable dishes and delightful staff.

  • Very creative use of Asian ingredients. Amazing food, wines, and service.

  • Impeccable service and good food, but underwhelming for the price.

Benu

4.7616 reviews
22 Hawthorne St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Benu is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its creative use of Asian ingredients and flavors, Benu offers an unforgettable culinary experience. The menu, heavily influenced by Korean cuisine with Chinese flairs, delights customers with its innovative dishes that are both visually appealing and delicious.

Customer reviews highlight the amazing staff, the delightful dining experience, and the innovative dishes that set Benu apart as a destination for those seeking an exceptional culinary adventure.

Quince, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • Amazing food with seasonal California ingredients

  • Attentive service, though some rooms for improvement

  • Beautiful decor and classy ambiance

Quince

4.7583 reviews
470 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Quince is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services such as dine-in, and they are especially popular for their dinner menu. The restaurant prides itself on being wheelchair-accessible and providing a range of vegetarian options for their customers.

Customers have left positive reviews for Quince, highlighting key points such as:

With a rating of 4.7 and a loyal customer base, Quince continues to delight diners with their exquisite dishes and top-notch hospitality. Visit their website for reservations and more information on this exquisite dining experience.

Kiln, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • High quality products and attention to detail

  • Artistic and delicious 18-course meal experience

  • Perfect experience with exceptional food and service

  • Humble chef with deep, layered food creations

Kiln

4.874 reviews
149 Fell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Kiln is a fine dining restaurant in San Francisco that offers a dining experience like no other. Known for its attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and beautifully presented dishes, Kiln aims to provide a memorable and exquisite culinary adventure for its patrons. The restaurant prides itself on its creative and delicious offerings, including a popular dinner menu and exceptional drink selections that include wine and spirits.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service, attention to detail, and the overall dining experience at Kiln. Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.8 stars, it's no surprise that Kiln is on the path to earning well-deserved Michelin stars. Customers praise the restaurant for its impeccable service, innovative menu offerings, and the cozy yet trendy atmosphere, making it a must-visit for any fine dining enthusiast.

Gary Danko, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Great service, food, and atmosphere, perfect for a memorable dining experience.

  • Delicious food and wine pairings, with desserts rated highly. Service is top-notch, but valet parking would be a nice addition.

  • Excellent food and service, generous portions, and tasty dishes. Only downside is the close proximity of tables.

  • Amazing birthday celebration with exceptional staff, fantastic dishes, and a special birthday dessert. A must-visit spot in San Francisco.

Gary Danko

4.61,921 reviews
800 North Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Gary Danko is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco. Offering a variety of dining options such as delivery, dine-in, and great dessert selections, this restaurant is popular for its exquisite dinner experience. The atmosphere is described as cosy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a special night out.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service, outstanding food, and delightful atmosphere at Gary Danko. Some key points from recent reviews include:

With a rating of 4.6 stars and over 1900 reviews, Gary Danko is a top choice for fine dining in San Francisco. Make sure to book your reservation early to experience this culinary gem.

Boulevard, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • The 3-course dinner was exceptional, and the ambiance was perfect for a birthday celebration.

  • Great food, drinks, and a chill atmosphere make it an ideal spot for date nights.

  • The impeccable service and delicious dishes make every visit memorable and enjoyable.

  • The Art Nouveau theme and welcoming staff create a comfortable and inviting dining experience.

Boulevard

4.61,524 reviews
1 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Boulevard is an iconic American restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. Known for its impeccable services and delicious food, this restaurant has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

With a rating of 4.6 based on 1524 reviews, Boulevard promises a delightful experience for those looking to enjoy fantastic meals in a cozy and historic setting. Explore their website for more details on their offerings and make a reservation to indulge in a culinary masterpiece at Boulevard!

MLocal choice
#9
What it does well

  • Beautiful venue with attentive service

  • Delicious food options, some perfect for sharing

  • Great ambiance and modern interior

  • Attentive service sometimes a bit overwhelming

Mourad

4.61,567 reviews
140 New Montgomery St #1, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Mourad is a Fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a variety of services and features to its customers. The restaurant is known for its Great coffee, Great dessert, and Great tea selection, making it a popular spot for Dinner and Solo dining experiences.

Customers have left positive reviews, praising the delightful atmosphere, flavorsome dishes, and top-notch service. Some have highlighted the exquisite flavors of the food and the attention to detail in the culinary execution. Overall, Mourad promises a memorable dining experience for anyone looking to indulge in upscale comfort style cuisine.

Saison, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • Customers are thoroughly impressed by the culinary artistry at Saison, with dishes like Oyster kiwi pairing, Caviar with Geoduck, and Uni sourdough toast standing out.

  • They praise the impeccable service and delightful dining atmosphere, comparing Saison to some 3-star restaurants.

  • Several reviewers highlight the exceptional courses, such as rabbit, antelope, and wagyu, executed to perfection.

  • Many patrons appreciate the interactive dining experience, where they can witness the chefs and staff at work, enhancing their overall enjoyment.

Saison

4.6528 reviews
178 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Saison is a renowned New American restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a unique dining experience that combines elegance and comfort. With a rating of 4.6, it has garnered 528 reviews from satisfied customers.

The restaurant offers service options for delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, along with great coffee and a tea selection. Saison is also popular for its dinner menu and offerings that include alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, spirits, and wine. Additionally, it provides a cosy, romantic, trendy, and upmarket atmosphere for diners to enjoy. With these offerings and exceptional customer reviews, Saison stands out as a top dining destination in San Francisco.

Sons & Daughters, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • An absolutely beautiful dining experience with lovely surroundings and top-tier service.

  • Outstanding food that celebrates natural flavors with a fusion of Nordic and California influences.

  • Unique flavors, attention to detail, and welcoming staff that create an unmatched dining experience.

  • One of the must-try restaurants in SF with exceptional food, top-notch wine pairings, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sons & Daughters

4.6311 reviews
Between Mason &, 708 Bush Street, Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Sons & Daughters is a fine dining restaurant in San Francisco that offers an extraordinary culinary experience. The restaurant is known for its fireplace and great coffee that create a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Customers rave about the top-tier service and the meticulously prepared dishes that highlight a sustainable approach to dining.

Alexander's Steakhouse, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • Varied quality of steaks with some being undercooked and lacking flavor

  • Unique and flavorful dishes that stand out

  • Great service and atmosphere for a memorable dining experience

  • Customers find the pricing worth it for the quality of food and service received

Alexander's Steakhouse

4.51,041 reviews
448 Brannan St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Alexander's Steakhouse is a renowned steak house located in a prime spot in San Francisco. The restaurant offers a range of service options like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, making it convenient for customers with different preferences. Known for its great coffee and tea selection, it is popular for solo dining and dinner experiences.

Customers have left varied reviews about the restaurant. Some highlight the disappointing aspects like undercooked steaks and bland flavors, while others rave about the tasty and creative dishes served at Alexander's Steakhouse. Here are key points summarizing the reviews:

Bouche, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • Customers highly recommend the bread plate, which offers a perfect contrast of soft pillowy insides with a toasted crisp crust.

  • The Chantilly cake is a favorite for its perfectly crispy edges and just the right weight to end a rich meal.

  • The atmosphere at Bouche is described as intimate and cozy, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a solo dining experience.

Bouche

4.5578 reviews
603 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Bouche is a charming French restaurant located in San Francisco, known for its amazing food and fantastic attention to detail. The staff, like Gregory, are always ready to help patrons make selections and find the perfect wine to accompany their meals.

With a rating of 4.5 based on 578 reviews, Bouche is a popular choice for both locals and tourists alike. Offering a range of services like takeaway, dine-in, delivery, and kerbside pickup, Bouche ensures that their customers have a delightful dining experience. Don't forget to try out their great dessert and exquisite menu offerings like beer, cocktails, and wine. Visit their website to make a reservation and indulge in a truly delightful French dining experience at Bouche.

Osso Steakhouse, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • Customers rave about the beautifully decorated restaurant, amazing food, and exceptional wait staff.

  • The bone-in ribeye is highlighted as one of the best steaks ever had, worth every penny.

  • Visitors recommend splurging on this dining experience while in San Francisco.

Osso Steakhouse

4.4695 reviews
1177 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Osso Steakhouse is a renowned restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a range of services to cater to every diner's needs. From a great beer selection to a romantic and trendy atmosphere, this restaurant has it all.

With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 695 reviews, Osso Steakhouse continues to impress diners with its top-notch service and delicious offerings. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience in the heart of the city.

LUCE, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • A pleasant birthday meal with knowledgeable servers and excellent wine pairings.

  • Delicious food, strong drinks, and top-notch service during SF restaurant week.

  • Intriguing flavors and unique dishes, although service could be improved in terms of noise level and cleanliness.

  • Great food and service, representing good value for special occasions or visits to the city.

LUCE

4.4322 reviews
888 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

LUCE is a premier Modern European restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including Takeaway and Dine-in options, making it convenient for customers with different preferences. The restaurant is known for its Great coffee and Great dessert selections, providing a delightful dining experience.

With a solid rating of 4.4, LUCE has managed to impress customers with its culinary offerings and inviting atmosphere. For a memorable dining experience in San Francisco, LUCE is highly recommended.

Mastro's Steakhouse, San Francisco#16
What it does well

  • Exceptional service and great wine selection

  • Perfectly cooked dishes, including juicy swordfish and flavorful ribeye

  • Elegant and delicious food with live music entertainment

  • Attentive and friendly staff, making every visit special

Mastro's Steakhouse

4.3669 reviews
399 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Mastro's Steakhouse is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in San Francisco, known for its impeccable service and exquisite cuisine. With a rating of 4.3, it is highly praised by its patrons for a number of reasons:

Customers have raved about the memorable experiences they've had at Mastro's Steakhouse, from celebrating birthdays with personalized touches to savoring exceptional dishes like filet mignon and lobster mac. The ambiance is described as luxurious, with a cozy and romantic atmosphere that elevates the dining experience. Whether you're looking for a solo dining experience or a place to celebrate a special occasion with loved ones, Mastro's Steakhouse promises a memorable and delightful meal for all.

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Lazy Bear 4.81,006
#2Birdsong 4.8394
#3Atelier Crenn 4.7628
#4Benu 4.7616
#5Quince 4.7583
#6Kiln 4.874
#7Gary Danko 4.61,921
#8Boulevard 4.61,524
#9Mourad 4.61,567
#10Saison 4.6528
#11Sons & Daughters 4.6311
#12Alexander's Steakhouse 4.51,041
#13Bouche 4.5578
#14Osso Steakhouse 4.4695
#15LUCE 4.4322
#16Mastro's Steakhouse 4.3669

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Map of Most Expensive Restaurants in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, boasting unique and luxurious dining experiences. From innovative tasting menus to opulent surroundings, the city is home to some of the most expensive restaurants in the country. Explore our map to discover these top establishments and indulge in a world-class dining experience in the heart of San Francisco.

How to pick Most Expensive Restaurants in San Francisco

  1. Exclusive wine pairings.
  2. Michelin-starred chefs.
  3. Unique tasting menus.
  4. Breathtaking views.
  5. Impeccable attention to detail.

Common questions

What makes the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco stand out?

The most expensive restaurant in San Francisco stands out for its impeccable service, exquisite menu selections, and luxurious atmosphere. From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with top-tier hospitality and attention to detail that sets it apart from other dining experiences in the city. The menu features high-quality, locally sourced ingredients expertly crafted into innovative dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The restaurant's ambiance is also worth noting, with elegant decor, stunning views, and a sophisticated vibe that adds to the overall dining experience. All of these elements combined make it a standout destination for those looking to indulge in a truly memorable meal.

What are some menu highlights at the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco?

Some of the menu highlights at the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco include: These are just a few examples of the exquisite dishes you can expect to find on the menu at the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco. Truffle Risotto: Made with imported truffles and creamy Arborio rice, this dish is a decadent delight. Wagyu Beef Carpaccio: Thinly sliced wagyu beef served with a drizzle of truffle oil and topped with shaved Parmesan. Foie Gras Terrine: A luxurious appetizer made with velvety foie gras, seasonal fruit compote, and toasted brioche.

Is the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco worth the price?

The most expensive restaurant in San Francisco is definitely worth the price for those seeking an unparalleled dining experience. While the cost of dining at this establishment may be higher than other restaurants in the city, the quality of the food, service, and overall experience more than justifies the price tag. Guests can expect top-tier ingredients, expertly crafted dishes, and a memorable dining atmosphere that make for a truly special meal. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a gourmet dining experience, the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco offers a culinary adventure that is worth every penny.

How far in advance should reservations be made for the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco?

Reservations for the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco should ideally be made well in advance, especially for weekend evenings and special occasions. Due to the popularity of this dining destination, reservations can fill up quickly, so it's recommended to book at least a few weeks ahead of your desired dining date. This ensures that you secure a table at the most expensive restaurant in San Francisco and can enjoy the ultimate dining experience at a time that works best for you.

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