Californios in San Francisco: photos, reviews

About

MICHELIN

Two Stars: Excellent cooking

Californios, located in San Francisco's lively SoMa district, is a dining experience like no other. Known for its exquisitely cozy atmosphere, this restaurant artfully combines modern and traditional Mexican cuisine in an intimate setting. With inventive tasting menus that delight the senses, guests are treated to a culinary journey that could only be enhanced by small-batch wines and expertly crafted cocktails. The allure of their famed tortillas alone makes it a destination worth every penny.

Whether you're starting your day with a memorable breakfast or indulging in an elegant dinner, Californios caters to a variety of dietary preferences, with organic and vegetarian options available. The service is impeccable, ensuring that every visit is not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience. Guests have the flexibility to dine indoors or outside, with reservations highly recommended to secure a spot in this popular locale. Perfect for tourists and locals alike, Californios stands out in the vibrant dining scene of San Francisco as a beacon of exceptional taste and hospitality.

Price

$$$$ 100+ $

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Cuisines

Modern, Mexican

Services

Delivery, Takeaway, Reservations available, Outdoor seating, Dine-in, Reservations required, Reservations recommended

Dietary options

Vegetarian options, Organic options

Offering

Serving alcohol, Serving desserts, Serving cocktails, Serving beer, Serving wine, Serving coffee

4.8

based on 496 reviews

Google

4.8/5 496 reviews

ManifestiV

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

This was like stepping into a dank posh cloud of warmth & light. Simply stopping in for a drink before a goth show at DNA next door, I not only had my chair pulled out for me w/each seat, I also tasted the BEST n/a beer (a local Sausalito IPA) I ever have, noticed their cucumber 🥒 essence water (ambient in refrigeration, not directly garnished, so even danker) & palo santo nightly sage. To top it off: a single origin pour over coffee that set me off in the best way to dance my booty off next door. Also: omw out, they allowed a distanced vape (& brought an ashtray in case I smoked) AND turned the heater on right as it became brisk outside. The bathrooms also pamper to the abyss and back, both gender neutral ⚧️ & each with a glorious display of perfectly preserved beetles 🪲 in one & butterflies 🦋 in the other, crowned with the rare luxury (in the 🇺🇸 that is) of a heated 🚽 seat & individually rolled towels to dry. Olivia, Ivan, Johnny, and another sweetheart whose name I’ll ask for next time who complimented my custom “dreamrest” tattoo, all established greater-than-genuine connections, talking about our careers, life in general, dank coffees (like Olivia’s suggestion to spritz espresso w/tonic water 🤤) and where we’re each from. Needless to say, this place made me feel more at home than any place except home itself, and I WILL return, with a reservation, to try the food. It looked so dank, yet I wasn’t quite eager to go dance on a full stomach afterwards. Next time!!!

Gaurav Bali

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

We visited Californios for dinner on a weekday for a special occasion. Start to finish, the experience was the most fabulous I've had at a fine dining restaurant. While we waited for our table, we visited the bar and ordered drinks. The staff took good care of us due to the wait time. The meal was divine. You can taste the freshness in every bite. The flavor was bursting in every bite. It was well balanced from the notes in each course and built up quite beautifully. The atmosphere was inviting and upbeat. Ambiance is perfect for all occasions. It was a fun environment. By the time we got to dessert, I had to force myself to eat and could not turn it down given how great each and every menu item was. I would recommend Californios and I will definitely be back without having to wait for a special event.

Jack Brown

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Really beautiful meal, fantastic service and great music. The first bite (beans and serrano cream in a soft corn shell) and the strawberry empanadas were some of the best bites I’ve ever had. Wine pairing was good but left something to be desired, although the sommelier was excellent. Highly recommend for a special celebration.

What is the address of Californios?
Californios is located at 355 11th St, 94103, San Francisco, SoMa, USA.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Folsom St & 11th St (139 m walk)
- Bus stop 11th St & Harrison St (76 m walk)
- Bus stop 11th St & Bryant St (202 m walk)
- Bus stop Harrison St & 9th St (255 m walk)
How is Californios rated by visitors?
Californios has an average rating of 4.8 based on 496 reviews across platforms such as Google, Facebook.
What is the average price for a meal at Californios?
The average price for a meal is 100+ $ (it is very expensive - $$$$).
Does the venue offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian or vegan dishes are available on the menu.

Californios in San Francisco