California is an extraordinary state that is home to an array of fantastic restaurants. Its iconic cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, showcase a diverse culinary scene featuring cuisines from all around the globe. From delectable international flavors to the classic pizzerias you would expect in America, these cities have it all when it comes to satisfying your taste buds.
Get to know about 8 Best rated restaurants in California in 2023:
1. N/Naka
It is no small thing, the best rated restaurant in all of California on Tripadvisor is N/Naka, specializing in Japanese food. The effort put in by chef Niki Nayama, born in Los Angeles, earned her two stars from the Michelin Guide. But since that might mean little if you’re not a restaurant connoisseur, go by the reviews: “Probably the best Japanese restaurant I’ve ever been to,” or “the service is exceptional and has the best sake or wine pairing.” The only challenge is getting a reservation, so plan ahead. N/Naka is located in the heart of Los Angeles.
2. Raffaello Ristorante
True to the Italian tradition, Raffaello Ristorante serves vast dishes ideal for sharing with family or friends. It is located in Los Angeles, near San Pedro, so you will have to drive and spend some time in traffic if you come from the center of the city. But the trip is worth it, and while this restaurant has no Michelin Guide recognition, but reviews highlight the generous portions, reasonable prices, and seasoning typical of southern Italian cuisine.
3. Brent’s Deli
Brent’s is a true American deli-diner serving what are probably the best emperadas and pastrami sandwiches in all of Los Angeles. Reviews on Tripadvisor suggest you order the pastrami sandwich on rye bread. The only downside is that it’s about 45 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, but it’s worth the trip.
4. Mersea
Mersea serves American food and the mix of cuisines you find in a city as cosmopolitan as San Francisco. However, the real charm of this place located on Treasure Island is the view: a fantastic panorama of the Bay Bridge and Alcatraz. It is an ideal place to have a drink after work and meet friends for dinner. It has outdoor spaces, but due to the strong winds blowing in the area, you may want to eat inside the adapted industrial containers.
5. Eight Am
If you’re in San Francisco and you wake up craving a waffle, Eight Am is your best option. Still, the truth is that there are plenty of options for lunch, from a typical American breakfast with pancakes and fruit, to something a little more delicatessen, like a salmon bagel. It is located near the pier, close to Fisherman’s Wharf, so if you choose to have breakfast outside, be aware that the wind could be strong.
6. The Pacific Cafe
Perhaps the best place to eat seafood in San Francisco in a casual setting. The Pacific Cafe has a history dating back 45 years, so it’s practically a landmark in the city. The place opens at 5:00 pm and it is likely that if you arrive at that time you will find a long line of diners, but don’t worry, the service is worth it and the food is great. Still, once inside, Pacific Cafe eases your wait with a complimentary glass of wine. Ideal to whet your appetite!
7. Ambrogio15
Several of Ambrogio15′s reviews describe it as the best pizza restaurant in all of San Diego, which is no small feat. The truth is that the selection of Milan-style pizzas is superb, and the wine list has enough options to satisfy even the most demanding. It is a place designed to go with family or friends, because in addition to the pizzas, several of the dishes are designed to be shared. Giacomo, the owner of the restaurant, usually supervises the service, and if he sees you doubtful, it is likely that he will come over to make a suggestion. That is attention.
8. Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Oceana Coastal Kitchen is the restaurant of the Catamaran hotel, located on Mission Boulevard, in San Diego. It is an elegant place that you could make a reservation to celebrate a special occasion. The prices are not cheap, but they are not exorbitant either. The specialty is marine cuisine, and the wine list is immense. Also, the view of the bay is incredible, and if you plan to go with children, they will probably be fascinated by the jellyfish inside the restaurant (adults will also be fascinated). Just make sure you book.
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