The Best Michelin-Starred Restaurants in San Francisco (2025)
Discover the best Michelin-starred restaurants in San Francisco, from three-star icons like Benu to one-star newcomers like Kiln. Personal picks from a local fine dining enthusiast.
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After collecting over 45 Michelin stars worth of meals in San Francisco’s fine dining scene over the last decade, here are my personal picks for the best Michelin-starred restaurants in SF — broken down by star level. Whether you’re splurging for a special occasion or just hunting for incredible cooking, these are the spots I’d recommend to friends, or locals looking for their first Michelin meal.
Best Three-Star Michelin Restaurant in San Francisco
Benu
Led by chef Corey Lee, Benu is consistently one of the best fine dining experiences in San Francisco. Every dish is technically flawless and beautifully presented — including one of the best soup dumplings I’ve ever tasted. A standout detail: all their fermented sauces, including a barrel-aged soy sauce, are made in-house. If you’re going to pick just one three Michelin-starred restaurant in San Francisco, this is the one.
Best Two-Star Michelin Restaurant in San Francisco
Californios
A modern Mexican fine dining destination that uses local, seasonal ingredients — think fresh masa made in-house and deeply flavorful moles. Californios is currently Reddit’s most recommended Michelin-starred restaurant in San Francisco, and for good reason. Its balance of warmth, creativity, and execution makes it a must-visit in the two-star category.
Best One-Star Michelin Restaurants in San Francisco
Kiln: A recent addition to the Michelin Guide San Francisco, and already my favorite one-star restaurant in the city. Expect two-star prices but equally elevated service, presentation, and flavor. I wouldn’t be surprised if they earn a second star soon.
San Ho Won: Another standout from Corey Lee, offering a Michelin-quality take on classic Korean BBQ in San Francisco. Great value for the quality and consistency of the food.
The Progress and State Bird Provisions: Both from chef Stuart Brioza, and both worth your time. The Progress leans toward family-style sharing plates, while State Bird Provisions brings dim-sum-style small dishes directly to your table for a fun, choose-your-own-adventure meal.
- Eddie Lo, June 2025
Eddie Lo has hosted a nightly Dumpling Dinner Party in San Francisco since 2022. Learn how to make your own dumplings at San Francisco's top rated cooking class, or give the gift of dumplings. Learn more >
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