Californios

San Francisco, US

• No.14 North America's 50 Best Restaurants 2025

Named after the Mexican and Spanish explorers who brought their cuisines to the land now known as California in the late 1700s, Californios is a celebration of the history and bounty of the Bay Area. Led by chef Val Cantú, who draws inspiration from his family's Mexican cuisine and modern ingredients from Californian farmers (every farmer and purveyor is called out by name on the menu), the fine-dining restaurant showcases ambitious interpretations of Mexican staples such as corn, chiles, and beans. While the menu features one-word dish descriptions like Tamal, Aguachile, and Empanada, each dish is a nuanced creation that simultaneously respects tradition and explores innovation. Set in an artful space featuring the chef's personal library and vibrant artworks, the tasting menus are served in the dining room and at the bar.

Key Information

• Tasting menu from $325
• Dinner: Tues – Sat
• +1 415 757 0994
• Visit Californios's Website

Location

355 11th Street, Mission District, San Francisco, CA 94103