Californios

Mexican Restaurant $$$$ 4.7 (462)


Californios is a highly praised destination for diners seeking an authentic Mexican culinary experience. Many patrons highlight the unique interpretation of traditional dishes, expertly crafted by Chef Val Cantu, showcasing rich flavors and regional ingredients that exemplify the essence of Mexican cuisine. Although the atmosphere and service generally receive high marks, some reviews point to occasional inconsistencies.

Overall:

4.6

(381 reviews)

Authenticity:

4.7

Atmosphere:

4.6

Service:

4.5


Restaurant website: Website

Phone number: (415) 757-0994

Address: 355 11th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA

Opening hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Photo gallery

Service options

  • Dine-In Available
  • Takeout Available
  • Delivery Available
  • Reservable

Offerings

  • Dinner
  • Beer
  • Wine
  • Cocktails
  • Dessert
  • Coffee
  • Vegetarian Options Available

Amenities

  • Outdoor Seating
  • Restroom Available

Payment options

  • Credit Cards

Parking options

  • Paid Street Parking

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
  • Wheelchair Accessible Restroom
  • Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Top Recent and Curated Reviews (10)

**Some reviews are curated to assist in analyzing authenticity, atmosphere, and service. These reviews enhance user feedback and help us provide better insights. Your genuine reviews make all the difference—share your experience today to enhance our ratings!**

" The experience at Californios was simply lovely! From the warm welcome to the creative presentations, it was obvious that attention to detail was paramount. Each dish explored unique ingredients and balances that made for a beautiful tasting experience! The quail was exquisite and completely redefined how I view this dish. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this place to anyone, particularly if you're looking for something out-of-the-box to celebrate. Although the timing of serving was a bit unsteady, it did not detract too much from the overall experience. " (*Curated Review*)

" Exceptional dining experience! From beautifully presented dishes to attentive service, Californios set a high standard for a fine dining establishment. The emphasis on the authentic Mexican roots of every dish was evident and deeply appreciated. I found the drink pairings to be on point as well, enhancing each bite we took. Just note: this isn’t a quick in-and-out meal; it’s an experience that takes hours, but it's worth dedicating the time for food this good! " (*Curated Review*)

" Lovely restaurant with a unique approach to the Mexican menu! The bright flavors and seam of creativity, along with the lovely service, made for an enjoyable meal. Each course was thought out, bringing elements of surprise which kept me engaged throughout the evening. Only downside is the parking; it could be a bit tricky, so I would suggest an Uber. Overall, a delightful experience when you seek something different yet familiar. Highly recommend the signature cocktails too! " (*Curated Review*)

" If you’re considering a visit to Californios, you won’t regret it! This restaurant redefines Mexican dining with its vibrant flavors and inventive takes on traditional dishes. We went for the tasting menu and were continuously delighted with each course. The cocktails were a highlight, providing incredible pairings with our food. Though there were periods where we felt hurried through certain dishes, the overall experience was fantastic. I hope to return again soon—there’s still so much more to taste! " (*Curated Review*)

" I recently celebrated an anniversary at Californios, and it was the best choice! The aesthetic is modern yet warm, with lovely art pieces that add character to the dining experience. What stood out the most were the unique dishes; for example, their quail & pineapple taco was incredibly delicious and presented beautifully. The service was commendable—we felt like valued guests and received prompt attention without feeling rushed. Everything from the ambience to the stunning dishes made it a magical night. Highly recommend if you’re looking to celebrate something special! " (*Curated Review*)

Archived Reviews (371)

" A delightful blend of tradition and modernity. The thoughtful design of the dishes and consistent flavors made dining at Californios an unforgettable experience! The various dishes showcased not just skill but also a genuine commitment to highlighting authentic Mexican culture through gastronomy. The service was warm and eager to assist, which added to the experience tremendously. The ambiance was stylish but relaxed enough to not feel formal. I would happily recommend this restaurant to anyone who loves this culinary style! " (*Curated Review*)

" Visiting Californios was a treat! The atmosphere had a stylish yet cozy feel, which made it perfect for date nights. Every dish was introduced with a captivating story which added personal touch to the meals. The diverse flavors and textures were noteworthy, with the highlights being the fish tacos that were incredibly fresh and vibrant. My only point of critique was the slow service at the beginning which had us waiting for our drinks a bit too long, but once everything was underway, it was a delightful evening overall! " (*Curated Review*)

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