Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
oChef » Californios – San Francisco
Californios - San Francisco
Photo from Californios
Californios at a glance
San Francisco West SoMa
- 🥂 Fine Dining Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 77 of the guests
#492 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#7 Fine Dining Restaurant out of 18 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
593
Reviews
80.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Inventive cuisine
- Artistic presentation
- Attentive service
Frequently criticized
- Expensive experience
- Ambience issues
- Service lapses
The restaurant Californios, a premier Fine Dining establishment in San Francisco’s vibrant West SoMa neighborhood, invites you to an unforgettable culinary journey. You’ll discover an atmosphere that is both upscale and romantic, yet cozy and trendy.
Prepare yourself for an exquisite experience, especially if you appreciate a great dessert to perfectly cap off your meal. This is where sophisticated flavors meet a welcoming ambiance.
Overview: Introducting Californios
Californios offers a distinctive dining experience, often praised for its spectacular flavors and artistic presentation of Mexican cuisine. Guests frequently commend the inventive dishes and the thoughtful approach to traditional elements, making for a memorable meal.
The culinary team clearly aims to deliver a unique perspective on familiar tastes. While the culinary journey is a highlight, some diners have noted concerns regarding the overall price point.
However, the attentive staff and elegant ambiance generally contribute positively to the experience, though occasional remarks about the music or location suggest minor areas for refinement.
Excellent
8.2
out of 10
593
Reviews
80.6%
Satisfaction
86
negative
29
neutral
478
positive
Californios earns a solid overall score of 8.2, reflecting a generally positive reception from diners. Customer satisfaction stands at a strong 80.6%, indicating that most guests leave pleased with their experience.
This positive sentiment is drawn from a substantial 593 customer observations, with 478 positive remarks outweighing 86 negative ones. The culinary offerings truly shine, with Food scoring an excellent (8.7), frequently described as inventive and flavorful.
Service also performs well, rated good (7.8), with staff often noted for their knowledge and attentiveness. The restaurant’s Ambience contributes positively to the experience, scoring a good (8.2), creating an elegant yet relaxed setting.
However, the Value (4.9) is perceived as average, suggesting that for some, the cost may not fully align with the overall experience.
What people like
- Inventive Mexican dishes
- Stunning food presentation
- Knowledgeable, attentive service
What people don't like
- High price perception
- Ambience: music, location
- Occasional service disinterest
Californios offers a culinary journey that often impresses with its creative take on Mexican flavors and beautiful plating. If you prioritize an inventive menu and attentive service in an elegant setting, this restaurant is likely to deliver a memorable experience.
However, be prepared for a significant investment, as the value proposition is a point of contention for some. With a strong recommendation score of 8.6, Californios is certainly worth considering for a special occasion, provided you are comfortable with the higher price point.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Californios
Food (8.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
The food at this establishment truly shines, earning an impressive score of 8.7 and satisfying a remarkable 86.4% of customers. With 279 positive remarks out of 323 total, guests consistently praise the culinary brilliance and flavorful interpretations. Many found dishes crafted to perfection with unique flavor profiles, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
However, not every bite was a complete triumph, with 25 negative comments highlighting some mediocre initial courses or lackluster desserts. A few patrons felt certain dishes were not tasty or too sweet, indicating occasional inconsistencies in an otherwise stellar menu.
Food
323
Reviews
86%
Satisfaction
25
negative
19
neutral
279
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Culinary brilliance shines
- Unique flavor profiles
- Dishes crafted perfectly
What people don't like
- Some courses mediocre
- Desserts lack luster
- Dishes not tasty
Often praised
- foodThey were friendly and conversational, and the kitchen tour at the end was a delightful touch, though we understood the need to limit disruption to the chefs. The food was spectacular, a perfect blend of elevated familiar dishes like quail al pastor tacos and choco tacos, alongside inventive creations such as a caviar course and ceviche. The flavors were unapologetically bold and spicy, with dishes feeling authentic and true to Mexican culture and cuisine.
- dishesI was so impressed that I'd be surprised if they didn't receive a third Michelin star this year. Every dish was delicious. As someone with celiac disease, I was thrilled with how they handled my dietary needs, providing thoughtful modifications that stayed true to the original intent of each dish.
- wine pairingThey presented a number of fresh ideas for how to fuse Central/South American cuisine. The wine pairing also had a few gems, though I wish I had been a bit braver and had the mezcal pairing.
- flavorsMy first experience at a 2 Michelin star restaurant was at Californios, and it was truly memorable. The chef and his team presented 13 courses of amazing flavors, hitting all five senses. The service was top-notch, and the atmosphere was enhanced by great artwork and an excellent curated playlist.
- Mexican foodThe way they present Mexican food was something worth to be proud of
- dishThe service was top-notch, and the atmosphere was enhanced by great artwork and an excellent curated playlist. The attention to detail and the work put into each dish were evident, resulting in beautiful and flavorful creations. The staff took the time to explain each dish and its ingredients, which was greatly appreciated.
- presentationIt’s a three-hour experience that left me feeling so happy for days afterwards. The stunning taste and presentation and hospitality were truly memorable and world-class.
- tacosMost memorable was the tacos. Not just because you rarely get tacos at a Michelin star restaurant, but because there were five different masterfully executed flavors.
- mealUnlike the year before the meal was mercifully smaller and more targeted.
- menuThe artistry in presentation is visually stunning, mirroring the explosion of tastes that follow. The menu is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the depth and richness of Mexican culinary heritage. The service was exceptional, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff enhancing the overall dining pleasure.
Frequently criticized
- wine pairingWe experienced maximum disinterest from the staff, with no background information provided on the dishes or wines. To make matters worse, a wine in the wine pairing was served incorrectly. The handling of this mistake was utterly amateurish: the forgotten wine was then served belatedly alongside another wine, which was completely inappropriate.
- dessertthe dessert also wasn’t super strong: it had a fun presentation but was too sweet
- dishesmost lacked the diversity and at such an establishment
- French style quail and steakit wasn’t tasty, none of us finished that dish
- Mexican cuisineWe were unimpressed with our experience and cannot recommend this restaurant, particularly to minorities or those seeking authentic culinary experiences. The establishment falls short in its representation of Mexican cuisine, coming across as superficial rather than genuine.
- Michelin restaurantshaven’t enjoyed a lot of the Michelin restaurants
- coursesthe initial 4 courses were very mediocre
- dessert itemyummy sounding dessert item in the paper menu I’m given at the start of the meal, and not getting it on my table
- dessertsdesserts were lack luster
- fish in aguachileThe fish in the aguachile was way too firm
If you're looking for an inventive and largely delicious culinary journey, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. While a few dishes might not hit every mark, the overwhelming majority of the menu promises an exceptional and memorable experience.
Service (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 85% of the guests
Overall, the service here is quite impressive, earning a 7.8 score and a solid 74.3% customer satisfaction. Many guests rave about the impeccable service, attentive staff, and personal touches like kitchen tours or special celebration acknowledgments. With 104 positive remarks out of 140 total, it's clear the team often goes above and beyond, making you feel truly welcome.
However, not every experience is flawless. About 32 comments pointed out issues with pacing, long waiting times between courses, or inconsistent service. Some found explanations mumbled or felt a general disinterest from staff, suggesting there might be occasional off-nights or areas where the team could refine their delivery.
Service
140
Reviews
74%
Satisfaction
32
negative
4
neutral
104
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Impeccable, attentive staff
- Personalized touches
- Kitchen tours offered
What people don't like
- Inconsistent pacing
- Mumbled explanations
- Service missteps
Often praised
- serviceHaving dined at fine establishments across Asia, Europe, and the US, Californios stands out as the second-best place I've ever experienced, with only Gaggan Anand in Bangkok surpassing it. The restaurant excels in every aspect: excellent service, a supremely well thought-out and mouth-watering menu, beautiful food presentation, and amazing drinks/cocktails. It was challenging to pick favorite dishes because every single one elicited a 'wow' reaction.
- staffThe menu is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, showcasing the depth and richness of Mexican culinary heritage. The service was exceptional, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff enhancing the overall dining pleasure. The ambiance, an elegant yet unpretentious setting, contributed to an intimate and immersive experience.
- ServiceThe Service was a perfect 5/5
- serversAll the servers were incredibly friendly and seemed passionate and knowledgeable
- chefsThe service was on point, with detailed explanations of each dish, including wine pairings and suggested ways to enjoy them for the full experience. We even had the chance to meet the chefs and see the wine vault at the end of our meal. I will definitely recommend this place.
- service staffservice staff were attentive without being overbearing
- kitchen tourthe kitchen tour I got at the end of the meal
- reservationsPretty easy to get reservations
- Chef Val CantuChef Val Cantu is hospitable and kind.
- StaffStaff are very courteous and engaging
Frequently criticized
- serviceThe wine pairing at Lazy Bear was trash, whereas Californios offered an expansive and delicious selection. Service at Lazy Bear was disjointed, but at Californios, it was impeccable. I can see Californios moving to 3 stars, while Lazy Bear deserves to drop to 1 star.
- explanationsThe explanations I got for its absence were confused and confusing
- serverhalfway through our meal our server changed he disappeared for a long long time
- background informationUnfortunately, the service on the evening of our visit was nonexistent. We experienced maximum disinterest from the staff, with no background information provided on the dishes or wines. To make matters worse, a wine in the wine pairing was served incorrectly.
- cancellation policyrather us come in and get their customers and staff sick than allow us to cancel
- chefThe chef visited several tables before reaching ours, as we were seated in the corner nearest to the entrance. He was as cool as his impressive full tattooed arm, he neither explained nor attempted to make us feel more at ease. We were unimpressed with our experience and cannot recommend this restaurant, particularly to minorities or those seeking authentic culinary experiences.
- coursealmost skipped a course
- disinterestmaximum disinterest from the staff
- empty glassmy empty glass from the previous pairing was not cleared when a new wine was poured.
- food pacingfood pacing was so good at the start but by the last 2-3 courses before dessert, the space between courses felt a bit too long
If you're looking for a dining experience where the staff often shines with attentiveness and personalized touches, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that a few guests have noted occasional inconsistencies in pacing or service delivery, so manage your expectations for a perfectly seamless experience.
Ambience (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 69% of the guests
The ambience here truly shines, earning a strong 8.2 score and an impressive 83.7% customer satisfaction. Guests frequently rave about the wonderful atmosphere, beautiful décor, and overall positive vibe, making it a truly unique experience. With 87 positive comments out of 104, its clear many find the setting perfect for a special night out, often described as relaxed yet elegant.
However, a few of the 14 negative comments point to areas for improvement. Some found the lighting inside a bit off, while others mentioned the restaurants location or surrounding area as less desirable. There were also a couple of remarks about the music being uninspired or not fitting the mood, and some felt the decor could be better.
Ambience
104
Reviews
83%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
87
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Elegant, relaxed atmosphere
- Unique dining experience
- Vibrant Mexican art
What people don't like
- Inconsistent indoor lighting
- Undesirable location
- Uninspired music choices
Often praised
- atmosphereYou could not ask for more helpful, knowledgeable, friendly and respectful wait staff. The atmosphere was at once relaxed and elegant; the décor, dinner wear and plating, unique. We were so well looked after.
- ambianceThe service was exceptional, with a knowledgeable and attentive staff enhancing the overall dining pleasure. The ambiance, an elegant yet unpretentious setting, contributed to an intimate and immersive experience. Californios' commitment to culinary brilliance is evident in every aspect, making it a destination for those seeking an unparalleled exploration of Mexican flavors.
- experienceMy experience at Californios was exceptional, as it's a restaurant that truly excels in both food and experience. Chef Val Cantu and his team delivered amazingly unique dishes and impeccable service in a trendy yet relaxing environment. Every dish was a delight for the senses, beautifully plated with amazingly balanced flavor combinations.
- ambienceI especially enjoyed the ambience; it felt like I was in a tropical nightclub
- Atmospherethe Atmosphere was a perfect 5/5
- courtyardThe accommodation was excellent, and the ambiance was convivial. The children will be able to access it easily thanks to a flat and well-maintained courtyard. There's a clearly indicated parking spot with enough space for easy parking, and it's free.
- dining roomThe dining room is spotless and modern
- kitchenCalifornios’ kitchen was spotless
- musicMy experience at this restaurant was truly wonderful. I had a beautiful meal with fantastic service and great music. The first bite, featuring beans and serrano cream in a soft corn shell, and the strawberry empanadas were some of the best bites I’ve ever had.
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was the best meal and food and dining experience I have had in my 6 decades of life. The wonderful staff contributed to a relaxed beautiful vibe. It’s a three-hour experience that left me feeling so happy for days afterwards.
Frequently criticized
- locationBe prepared to set aside a significant amount of time, as we were served at least ten courses in three hours, but we left feeling very satiated! I do admit that Californios was not in the best location, but we were allowed to wait for our ride at a lounge inside the restaurant. I still dream about the caviar tostada!
- musicThe music isn’t right. Hip-hop / trap is the last thing I want to hear
- area surroundingthe area surrounding it is a bit sketch
- atmosphereVibe is a bit corny
- bathroom experienceSome other dishes, however, like the prawn dish, felt like they needed a bit of refinement. The ambience was decent, but I expected a more premium bathroom experience. The mezcal flight was a bit of a disappointment as, to my inexperienced palate, these tasted similar to a $40 mezcal.
- cleaning floorstarted cleaning and scrubbing the floor
- crowdedit may feel a little crowded
- decorthe decor leaves a lot to be desired
- health riskrather us come in and get their customers and staff sick
- lighting insidethe lighting inside was a little too hush and bright for us.
If you're seeking a truly special atmosphere for a memorable experience, this place is a strong contender. While minor notes on lighting or music exist, the overall ambience is highly praised and will likely elevate your visit, especially for a special occasion.
Value (4.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 18% of the guests
The overall sentiment regarding value is a bit of a mixed bag, with an average score of 4.9 and a poor customer satisfaction of 30.8%, based on 26 total remarks. However, some guests genuinely felt the experience was absolutely worth the price, even if the meal was expensive. Many remarked it felt worthy of the price tag, offering good value for money.
These 8 positive remarks highlight that for some, the price was justified. However, the majority of feedback, with 15 negative comments, points to significant concerns. Many found the restaurant to be simply expensive, with the price point not reflecting the overall experience.
Some felt the tasting menu or wine pairing price was too high, and the amount of money spent wasnt worthy. There were even issues with the check' itself.
Value
26
Reviews
30%
Satisfaction
15
negative
3
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the price
What people don't like
- Too expensive
- Poor value
- Billing issues
Often praised
- priceWill it be worth the price? Californios is worth every penny. The food is packed with flavor, and the menu seems thoughtfully planned.
- mealthe meal was expensive, but well worth it.
- price per personPrice per person:$10–20
- price tagfelt worthy of the price tag
- value for moneyit worths every cent
Frequently criticized
- priceThe price does not reflect the overall experience
- MarkupMarkup = 280% (or 300% w/ a $66 base of value)
- amount of moneyfor the amount of money we did not find this worthy
- billto close out our bill
- checkcheck had two additional drinks on there that we didn't order
- expensiveIt is of course expensive
- expensive restaurants3rd or 4th most expensive restaurants I've ever eaten at
- mealit was a $500/p meal that was worth about $150/p
- price pointfor a Michelin star and the price point, not great
- tasting menu$395 tasting is a bit pricy
If youre considering this spot, be prepared for a significant investment. While some find the price absolutely justified for the meal and experience, many others feel its simply too expensive and doesnt deliver enough value for money. Go if youre ready to splurge and hope for the best, but be aware that satisfaction is low.
How are the prices at Californios?
You’re looking at roughly 109 per person – reported by 77 diners. That puts it in the $101+ category. For a Fine Dining Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at the data, it’s clear that prices cluster heavily at the higher end, with the vast majority of guests spending $101+ or more.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 77 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for a Fine Dining Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair, especially considering where most guests are spending their money.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Californios
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Spectacular Experience at Californios!
My experience at Californios was truly exquisite. They were able to accommodate gluten-free (Celiac) and dairy-free dietary needs. The ambiance, service, food, and drinks were all spectacular.
We had such a fun and delicious time!
- gluten-free10
- dairy-free10
- ambiance10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Fine Dining Experience in SF
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional, offering one of the best meals I've ever had. It felt like being transported back to Mexico City for a fine dining experience, all without leaving San Francisco. The entire experience was absolutely amazing, from the luxe, modern entry and bar to the perfectly executed cocktails.
Each of the 14 courses was delivered with impeccable attention. Every dish was delicate and beautiful, yet packed a memorable taste and texture that photos cannot capture.
- meals10
- experience10
- entry and bar9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Food and Relaxed Fancy Vibe
My experience at Californios was amazing! The food was creative and full of flavor, with every dish feeling special. The tasting menu offered a fun way to try a little bit of everything.
The staff were friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed yet still felt fancy. It's a great spot for a memorable meal!
- food10
- dish9
- tasting menu8
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Loud
2
Disappointing Michelin Experience
My experience at this restaurant was a letdown, especially considering its Michelin rating. I would advise saving your money and finding another Michelin-rated establishment. The service was inconsistent, and while the food was decent, it was nothing extraordinary for the price of $850, including the service fee.
- food6
- service4
- price3
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Food and Service!
I had the best time with my friend at this restaurant. The food was amazing, and the staff, especially the young lady who served us, was super sweet and helpful. The whole vibe felt special but not stuffy.
We are definitely coming back!
- food10
- staff10
- young lady10
What Californios offers
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Californios?
At Californios, you can anticipate an upscale, romantic, cozy, and trendy atmosphere perfect for a memorable evening. You’ll enjoy a full dinner service with table service, culminating in a delightful dessert. Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot for this sought-after experience.
Does Californios cater to specific dietary preferences or offer a variety of beverages?
Yes, Californios offers organic dishes and vegetarian options to accommodate various dietary needs. For beverages, you’ll find a comprehensive selection including hard liquor, wine, coffee, beer, and expertly crafted cocktails, alongside a great wine list.
What is the overall dining experience like at Californios?
Californios generally provides a good dining experience, with an overall score of 8.2 and 80.6% customer satisfaction. Guests particularly praise the Food (8.7), Service (7.8), and Ambience (8.2), though Value (4.9) is perceived as average.
Does Californios offer an authentic Mexican culinary experience?
Many diners appreciate Californios’ inventive approach to Mexican cuisine, highlighting bold flavors and unique dishes. While some find it authentic and true to Mexican culture, a few opinions suggest it can sometimes feel superficial rather than genuinely traditional.
Is Californios considered a good value for money?
Opinions on value are mixed. While some guests feel the experience is “worth every penny,” others find the price point high and believe it doesn’t always reflect the overall experience, leading to an average score for Value (4.9).