Most Affordable Michelin Restaurants in San Francisco

1. State Bird Provisions

Prices starting at: $45

Address: 1529 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

State Bird Provisions, run by Chefs Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, brings guests a unique dim-sum-style dining experience with an emphasis on Californian cuisine. The menu includes a variety of small plates, such as steamed egg tofu, duck liver mousse and almond financiers, and pork pansotti, alongside inventive vegetable and meat dishes. 

State Provisions has an à la carte menu starting at just $45 to $48 for two to three courses. Large groups can also choose a set menu consisting of three courses and a range of snacks. Located in the Fillmore District, the restaurant’s lively atmosphere and creative menu make it a standout destination.

2. The Progress

Prices starting at: $50

Address: 1525 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

The Progress is a project by Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, the team behind State Bird Provisions. The restaurant is located in an old theater with the same name, which opened in 1909. The Progress’ menu features family-style dishes designed for sharing, such as roasted duck with mission figs and grilled beef with fermented chile. 

The Progress offers an à la carte menu, with a second-course selection priced at just $50, making it an accessible option for food enthusiasts wanting to try Michelin-star cuisine. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design, with an open kitchen and communal tables, encourages a convivial dining experience.

3. Kin Khao

Prices starting at: $60

Address: 55 Cyril Magnin St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Kin Khao, under the direction of Chef Pim Techamuanvivit, brings authentic Thai flavors to downtown San Francisco. The restaurant received its first Michelin star just 18 months after opening (in 2014) and has maintained it ever since. 

Kin Khao’s à la carte menu, starting at $60 for two courses, features a variety of traditional Thai dishes, such as khao soi and pad kee mao, reimagined with a modern twist. The vibrant and casual setting of Kin Khao makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking bold and delicious Thai cuisine.

4. Sorrel

Tasting menu: $95

Address: 3228 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Sorrel, located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood, is a contemporary American restaurant led by Chef Alexander Hong. With a background that includes training at the Culinary Institute of America and experience at Michelin-starred establishments such as Jean-Georges, Chef Hong brings a wealth of culinary expertise to Sorrel. The restaurant brings guests a refined dining experience with a focus on local-Californian cuisine infused with vibrant Italian influences. 

The menu changes weekly to highlight the freshest, seasonal ingredients sourced from Bay Area farmers markets. Signature dishes include King Salmon Crudo with cucumber and plum, or Burrata Ravioli with ‘nduja sausage and rapini. Sorrel’s five-course menu is priced at $95 and showcases the highlights of the restaurant’s seasonal creations.

5. San Ho Won

Tasting Menu: $118

Address: 2170 Bryant St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

San Ho Won specializes in a unique Korean BBQ experience in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District. The restaurant is a collaboration between Chef Corey Lee, of Benu fame, and Chef Jeong-In Hwang. The menu features meats grilled over lychee wood charcoal, such as double-cut galbi and spicy chicken tteokbokki, highlighting traditional Korean flavors with a modern twist. 

The minimalist, industrial décor, designed by Charles Hemminger, creates a clean and inviting space, with an open kitchen where diners can watch their meals being prepared. San Ho Won’s commitment to detail and quality makes it a standout in the city’s dining scene​. 

San Ho Won’s House Menu is priced at $118 and includes five courses with the option to add small portions of signature dishes. 

6. Mr. Jiu’s

Tasting menu: $125

Address: 28 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

In the center of Chinatown, Mr. Jiu’s combines traditional Chinese techniques with modern culinary artistry. Chef Brandon Jew, a San Francisco native, trained under renowned chefs such as Judy Rodgers at Zuni Café and Michael Tusk at Quince. His menu includes rolled chow fun and tea-smoked duck, utilizing local and seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant’s elegant design blends classic Chinese elements with modern aesthetics, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Mr. Jiu’s offers a refined dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Chinatown while embracing modern innovation.

The popular tasting menu, priced at $125, combines individual and shared dishes, featuring local ingredients and seasonal produce. Inspired by Chinese banquets, the meal ends with a shared entrée, placing the focus of the experience on community and dining together. 

7. Nari

Tasting menu: $125

Address: 1625 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

At Nari, Chef Pim Techamuanvivit presents an innovative take on Thai cuisine. Located in the Japantown district, Nari brings a dining experience that balances traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Chef Pim’s background in traditional Thai cooking and her dedication to using high-quality ingredients are evident in every dish.

Nari has a two-course à la carte menu, and a Chef’s Menu, priced at $125 per person, featuring dishes recommended by Chef Techamuanvivit. The menu features a sophisticated take on Thai flavors, making Nari a must-visit for lovers of Southeast Asian cuisine.

8. Angler SF

Prix fixe menu: $138

Address: 132 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Chef Joshua Skenes’ Angler SF is a seafood-centric restaurant that emphasizes live-fire cooking. Situated on the Embarcadero, Angler offers stunning views of the Bay Bridge alongside a menu that highlights the finest seafood and seasonal produce. Guests can savor dishes such as whole roasted fish and grilled abalone, prepared with precision and creativity. The restaurant’s rustic yet refined décor, with an open kitchen, creates a captivating atmosphere.

Angler’s Cook For You menu is priced at $138 and is designed for parties of 8 to 11 guests. This prix-fixe menu evolves daily and is curated especially for guests upon their arrival, featuring both Angler classics and the latest seasonal dishes. Chef Skenes’ approach to sourcing the finest ingredients, including live tanks for the freshest seafood, ensures an exceptional dining experience.

9. Acquerello

Prix fixe menu: $165

Address: NEAR VAN NESS &, 1722 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

In the Nob Hill area, Acquerello offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on contemporary Italian cuisine. With two Michelin stars, the restaurant’s menu highlights the finest ingredients with dishes such as risotto with seasonal truffles and a variety of house-made pastas. 

Acquerello has two tasting menus and an affordable prix fixe menu, priced at $165. The prix fixe menu consists of four set courses and two optional supplemental courses. 

The sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service make Acquerello a top choice for special occasions, further enhanced by its extensive wine list featuring rare Italian vintages.