15 Best Restaurants in Brentwood, CA

Welcome to Brentwood, California - a city that boasts beautiful landscapes, a rich history, and a diverse culinary scene!

I've been living here for years, and one of my favorite things about this city is the abundance of fantastic restaurants that cater to every palate.

Whether you're craving a juicy burger, a bowl of comforting pasta, or a spicy curry, Brentwood is the place to be.

And let me tell you, I've tried just about every spot in town, so I'm confident that the list of the 15 best restaurants in Brentwood, California, that you're about to read will not disappoint.

So, join me on this mouthwatering journey through the most exquisite dining experiences that Brentwood has to offer!

Shutters Brasserie

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Shutters Brasserie, and it easily became one of my favorite spots in town.

The seasonal French cuisine was a major draw and I wasn't disappointed.

The ambiance is simply amazing, with a live piano player providing entertainment, candlelight, and linen tablecloths – no plastic in sight!

It felt like a very European experience, with each course served in its own time.

The flavors reminded me of Eastern France, and I was particularly impressed by the amazing sauces and the fresh, perfectly cooked vegetables.

For appetizer, we ordered the flavorful butternut squash ravioli.

I enjoyed the New York steak, which was so abundantly portioned that I took more than half of it home.

My husband opted for the rack of lamb, which was the perfect amount for his appetite.

The mashed potatoes were creamy and delicious, and the overall experience felt like something you'd find in a Michelin-rated restaurant in San Francisco.

It's a good idea to make a reservation, especially on weekends when they have live jazz performances.

The price point is a bit higher than other restaurants in the area, but it's worth every penny.

I can't wait to go back to Shutters Brasserie and try more of their fantastic menu options.

It truly is a wonderful place to have a memorable dining experience.

Attraversiamo

Let me tell you about the fantastic experience I had at Attraversiamo for my 12th wedding anniversary.

My spouse and I wanted to try a new spot, and since I follow them on Instagram, I knew they had a unique menu and outstanding drinks.

I'm 7 months pregnant, so I was delighted to learn that they could turn any fancy drink into a non-alcoholic version.

I ordered a refreshing mocktail that hit the spot perfectly.

My husband, a military man, wasn't initially sure about the menu, but he eventually settled on the steak and fries, while I opted for a shrimp dish.

Before our entrees arrived, we enjoyed the most incredible octopus appetizer with beets, pork belly, mustard sauce, and toasted wild rice.

It was a flavor combination like no other, beautifully plated in a crescent moon shape.

The shrimp dish was just as amazing, with garlic and a buttery wine sauce that delighted my taste buds.

My husband thoroughly enjoyed his steak plate, which featured tender, flavorful meat alongside grilled peppers and mouth-watering fries topped with chives and Parmesan.

He usually doesn't finish his fries, but he couldn't resist this time!

Our waitress was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the restaurant and its farm-to-table approach.

She explained that the menu changes seasonally, with ingredients all sourced from local farms within 100 miles of the establishment.

Even the fish is caught by the restaurant!

As a special treat, they gifted us a delicious New York cheesecake to celebrate our anniversary.

I can't recommend Attraversiamo enough; it's an outstanding dining experience that left both my husband and me raving about the food and atmosphere.

I can't wait to visit again and see what new flavors their seasonal menu has to offer.

Dim Sum Basket

Last weekend, I decided to give the Dim Sum Basket a try, and I was not disappointed!

This locally owned and family-operated to-go-only restaurant specializes in a variety of Dim sum and baked goods made fresh daily.

I opted for their popular dishes such as shrimp dumplings, shu mai, steamed pork buns, BBQ pork puff pastry, lotus leaf-wrapped rice, turnip cake, and an egg tart.

The shrimp dumplings were small but packed with flavor, and the steamed pork bun was fluffy yet filling.

The BBQ pork puff pastry and shu mai were also solid choices that I'd definitely order again.

The lotus leaf-wrapped rice and egg tart were good too, although not extraordinary.

Since it's a to-go-only place, I took my delicious dim sum treats to a nearby park, Creekside Park, which is only a short drive away and has picnic tables.

The location of Dim Sum Basket is quite convenient, as it's situated in the same plaza as Safeway, making parking widely available.

Overall, my experience at Dim Sum Basket was delightful, and I can't wait to go back for more.

Just a tip for future visits – make sure to arrive early if you want to snag some pineapple buns, as they tend to sell out quickly!

Taquiza Limon

Just the other day, I was out running errands and had a sudden craving for some Mexican food.

I remembered hearing about Taquiza Limon and decided to give it a try.

I noticed the fun decor inside and a steady stream of takeout orders coming in – it seemed like they have a loyal customer base.

I ordered a couple of street tacos with steak, which was only $2.50 each and ready within 5-10 minutes.

I was pleased with the quality and taste of the tacos, especially for the affordable price.

While enjoying my meal, I overheard another customer raving about the vegan tacos, which were piled high with grilled veggies, avocado, and beans.

They also mentioned how the complimentary chips and salsa were a cut above the usual sides you get at other spots.

After my satisfying meal, I noticed a few customers talking about their previous catering experience with Taquiza Limon.

Although the crispy tacos suffered a bit in a styrofoam box, they said that the food tasted much better when eaten fresh in the restaurant.

I made a mental note to keep this in mind for future events.

MJ's Downtown Cafe

Just the other day, I decided to treat myself to a hearty breakfast at MJ's Downtown Cafe.

This comfy neighborhood cafe is a go-to spot for locals like me who enjoy all-day breakfast options alongside a generous lunch menu of sandwiches and salads.

As soon as I walked in, I could feel the welcoming, family-oriented ambiance that MJ's is known for.

I went for the country-fried steak, which was perfectly cooked without being overly greasy.

The portion size was just right, and I also couldn't resist trying their massive French toast, which was like an entire loaf of bread!

The hash browns were crispy, just as they should be, and the waffles were fluffy and light.

Although the bacon could have been a bit crispier, it didn't take away from the overall deliciousness of my breakfast.

To satisfy my sweet tooth, I decided to grab a Danish from their bakery case on my way out.

Let me tell you: it was one of the best I've ever had!

I've visited MJ's Downtown Cafe a couple of times, and I can confidently say that they never fail to deliver a delightful dining experience.

While they may not have a gluten-free menu, their wide variety of delicious dishes still makes it a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.

Sweeney's Grill and Bar

As a resident of Pittsburg, I find myself driving to neighboring cities like Concord or Walnut Creek to enjoy a good meal.

However, one day, my husband and I decided to explore the dining scene in Brentwood, and that's when we discovered Sweeney's Grill and Bar.

This legendary place, in business since 1876, offers a charming atmosphere and a wonderful selection of classic Italian eats, steak, and seafood.

We decided to give Sweeney's a try and were pleasantly surprised when they let us in 15 minutes before the official opening time.

We started off with a bowl of creamy clam chowder, which had an incredible taste, possibly because they used smoked clams.

It was accompanied by fresh bread served with garlic, butter, olive oil, and balsamic vinaigrette - all of which were so delicious that we went through three baskets of bread!

For our main course, we took Hector's advice and ordered the Chicken Parmesan.

The dish was absolutely epic – the chicken was moist, lightly breaded, crispy, and buttery, topped with fresh mozzarella and a seemingly homemade marinara that was not too acidic.

The perfectly cooked pasta and steamed asparagus complemented the meal beautifully.

Our experience at Sweeney's Grill and Bar was nothing short of amazing.

Brentwood Cafe

Just the other day, I decided to treat myself and my family to a delicious meal at Brentwood Cafe, a charming diner known for its old-school atmosphere and family-style portions of rustic American fare.

The moment we stepped in, we were enveloped in the storied surroundings that made us feel nostalgic and at home.

We loved the variety of dishes, and it took us quite a while to finally decide on what we wanted.

My family and I shared a few appetizers - the mozzarella sticks were crispy and cheesy, the onion rings were perfectly seasoned, and the Buffalo wings were finger-licking spicy, just how we like them.

For our main course, I opted for the juicy and tender prime rib, while my spouse savored the classic meatloaf, and my kids enjoyed the generous portions of spaghetti with marinara sauce, BBQ bacon cheeseburger, and french toast.

The food was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were rich and comforting.

What stood out to me, besides the delicious food and cozy ambiance, was the exceptional service we received.

Fuji Grill

The other day, I decided to give Fuji Grill a try, as it's only minutes from my home.

I called in and placed an order for take-out, opting for chicken fried rice.

To my delight, the food was ready in just 12 minutes, and it smelled absolutely delicious!

When I got home and dug in, I was instantly reminded of Benihana's chicken fried rice, but with larger chunks of chicken, which was a definite plus.

The dining area at Fuji Grill is quite cozy, with three tables featuring four seats and one table with two seats.

Zephyr Grill & Bar

I recently decided to join my two daughters at Zephyr Grill & Bar for a birthday lunch.

As soon as we walked in, I knew it was going to be a wonderful experience.

We were greeted by really friendly hostesses, and the restaurant was super nice, clean, and had a good layout.

We were seated on the patio, which has a beautiful courtyard setting, perfect for enjoying the weather.

We started with the Tempura Asparagus, which was delicious.

The bread they gave us came with three different types of delicious butter as well.

For our main course, I had the fish sandwich, which was one of the best I've ever had.

My daughters enjoyed the Chicken Marsala and the Pear Salad.

To celebrate my daughter's birthday, we shared an amazing Blueberry Cheesecake for dessert.

During our visit, we also found out that Zephyr Grill & Bar has the best Happy Hour in Brentwood.

It's available 7 days a week, from 3-6 pm on weekdays and 10-6 pm on weekends.

The drink deals are a steal at only $7!

Chelsea Fusion

Chelsea Fusion might look small, but don't let its size fool you – the quality of the sushi here is absolutely amazing.

I particularly loved that their sushi is not overloaded with sauces, allowing you to savor the fresh and natural flavors of the fish.

I dined in, but I've heard that their takeout service is just as excellent, with the food quality remaining consistent.

My favorite part of the meal was the nigiri, which had a great selection, including bluefin, yellowtail belly, salmon belly, and some seasonal offerings.

They also have a fantastic sake selection, which complemented the sushi perfectly.

Aside from sushi, Chelsea Fusion offers a variety of other dishes, such as salmon teriyaki – which I tried on a previous visit – and it was delicious, albeit a bit on the pricier side.

I haven't had the chance to try their mango salad yet, but I've heard great things about it and will definitely be giving it a try during my next visit.

Cap's Oak Street Bar & Grill

From the moment I walked into Cap's Oak Street Bar & Grill, I was transported to a different era, surrounded by beautiful chandeliers and antiques.

The atmosphere was perfect for enjoying a night out with friends, family, or even a date.

I highly recommend making reservations ahead of time, as it tends to get packed on comedy nights.

As for the food, I was absolutely blown away.

I indulged in the lamb shank, which was fall-off-the-bone tender, and the accompanying salad was refreshing.

The restaurant also offers a wide variety of drinks at their bar for those looking to enjoy a nightcap.

My friends and I couldn't resist trying some desserts, and the bananas foster, made right in front of us, was a major highlight.

Not only is Cap's Oak Street Bar & Grill an upscale dining experience, but it also offers a taste of San Francisco right here in Brentwood.

Kyuzou

As someone who loves sushi, I have been to many restaurants in the area, but Kyuzou in Brentwood is a true hidden gem that I recently discovered.

During my visit, I decided to try out some of the popular dishes: the caterpillar roll with tuna instead of eel, and my husband ordered the chicken teriyaki.

The flavors were absolutely amazing, and the miso soup was light and flavorful, unlike other places where it can taste too artificial or fishy.

The ambiance at Kyuzou is really inviting, with dimmed lighting, wooden tables, and stylish black chopsticks.

We also tried some of their appetizers, like the Gyoza and Chicken Karaage.

The Gyoza was fried to perfection, crisp on the outside, and soft in the middle, and the Chicken Karaage had a deliciously light breading.

The sushi rolls, like the Warrior Roll, Brentwood PD Roll, and French Kiss Roll, were all incredibly fresh, and the Toro Fatty Tuna Nigiri was the best piece of raw fish I've ever had.

While the prices at Kyuzou might be a bit higher than average, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience makes it worth every penny.

Misaka Sushi

The other day, I decided to indulge my sushi cravings at Misaka Sushi, located in a nice shopping plaza with ample parking.

The ambiance inside the restaurant was modern and chic, with plenty of large tables making it a great place for big parties.

I decided to go for the Wakame seaweed salad as an appetizer and the black garlic ramen as my main.

The salad was a generous portion compared to other restaurants I've been to, and the ramen was absolutely delicious and full of flavor.

As a sushi enthusiast, I couldn't resist trying their sushi rolls as well.

I ordered the Lion King roll, which turned out to be simply amazing.

The sushi chefs took their time to prepare my order, ensuring the rolls were made to perfection in both quality and presentation.

I was also impressed with the variety of options on their menu.

They even had Pho, which was available either with rib-eye steak or yellow chicken.

While dining, I noticed that Misaka Sushi offers indoor dining at limited capacity on a first-come, first-served basis.

I really enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere at lunchtime.

Yummy House

Last weekend, I decided to try out Yummy House for lunch.

I had heard great things about their menu from a few friends, and I was eager to experience it for myself.

When I arrived, I found ample parking right in front of the restaurant, which was a definite plus.

As I walked in, I was immediately impressed by the variety of options on their menu.

I ended up ordering the Tonkotsu Ramen, Lumpia, and Hawaiian BBQ Chicken.

The ramen was absolutely delicious, with a rich, flavorful broth and generous portions of meat and noodles.

The Lumpia, a Filipino snack made of savory pork and vegetables, was cooked to perfection and tasted fantastic.

The Hawaiian BBQ Chicken was also really good and tasted both fresh and flavorful.

While I was dining in, I noticed that they also had a great selection of beverages, including ramen and Hawaiian Sun drinks.

Some of my fellow diners were enjoying their poke bowls, and I overheard them raving about the quality and taste of the salmon and tuna.

I made a note to try their poke bowls on my next visit.

Ramen 101 Brentwood

I decided to visit Ramen 101 in Brentwood, a cozy little joint nestled near the high school and Safeway.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted by friendly and helpful staff who were more than happy to recommend their popular dishes.

I couldn't resist trying their miso ramen, and I was glad they asked if I wanted it spicy, as I'm not a fan of too much heat.

The portion size was quite generous and could easily have been shared with friends or family.

To accompany my ramen, I also ordered some lumpia, which came with six pieces in order.

I was delighted to find them crispy and not greasy at all, making them the perfect side dish.

What caught my attention next was their black garlic ramen, a dish that truly stood out from the rest.

The broth was incredibly flavorful, and I could tell everything was prepared fresh to order.

Their fried chicken was equally delicious, especially when dipped in their special sauce.

I also noticed their Hawaiian BBQ plates, which looked absolutely mouthwatering.

I made a mental note to come back and try them the next time I'm in the mood for some island-inspired cuisine.

Visiting Ramen 101 in Brentwood proved to be a great decision.

Final Thoughts

The culinary scene in Brentwood is truly exceptional and offers something for everyone - from classic Italian cuisine to fresh sushi and from mouth-watering dim sum to vibrant Mediterranean dishes.

Each restaurant has its unique charm and flavors, making it a delightful experience to explore the diverse food options in our city.

So next time you find yourself in Brentwood, make sure to indulge in these gastronomic gems and relish the diverse culinary experiences they have to offer.

Bon appétit!