21 Best Restaurants in San Ramon, CA
So, whether you're a foodie or just looking for a fantastic meal, let me guide you through some of the best restaurants in San Ramon, California.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in San Ramon that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Dare Devil Dogs
I've always been a huge fan of hot dogs, and I finally got the chance to visit Dare Devil Dogs last week.
I had been wanting to try this place for a while, and it did not disappoint.
My partner and I decided to order a couple of Chicago dogs with grilled onions and shared an order of fries.
The ambiance of the place was like a little hometown sports bar, with friendly service, different games, and a good music selection.
While waiting for our food, I enjoyed a beer from their impressive selection of local brews.
The wait for the food was only about 10 minutes, and when we tried the Chicago dogs and fries, we were blown away.
The fries were crispy and well-seasoned, and the dogs had everything you could want on them and more.
We loved their spin on the traditional Chicago-style dog.
Shish Grill
Shish Grill has always been a local favorite.
I recently had the opportunity to stop by and try it for myself, and I was not disappointed.
The flavors were incredible, and the service was top-notch.
One thing that stood out for me was their Chicken Shawarma Sandwich.
It was served with thin flatbread and a subtle, delicious garlic sauce.
The chicken was complemented perfectly by the pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Even though I'm not a big fan of pickles, these were crisp and tasty.
Their lentil soup was another pleasant surprise.
I never thought I would enjoy lentil soup so much, but Shish Grill has truly mastered the art of making it flavorful.
In addition to the fantastic food, the restaurant was clean and open, offering outdoor dining as well.
They even serve baklava on their menu!
Fieldwork Brewing Company
Just the other day, I decided to treat myself to an evening at Fieldwork Brewing Company in San Ramon.
As soon as I entered, I was amazed by the variety of flavors and textures of the beers on offer.
As I enjoyed my drinks, I couldn't help but feel immersed in the high-quality environment and first-class service that the brewery provided.
The food at Fieldwork Brewing Company is just as impressive as their beers.
I decided to go for some appetizers and a Detroit-style pizza, which did not disappoint.
The flavors were bold and paired perfectly with my beer selections.
The atmosphere at Fieldwork Brewing Company is just the right blend of laid-back and lively, making it an ideal hangout spot for locals and visitors alike.
Ukai Japanese Bistro
I'm happy to say that I've found a fantastic sushi restaurant that offers excellent value for money right here in the East Bay.
Ukai Japanese Bistro has quickly become one of my favorite spots for delicious Japanese cuisine.
The moment you walk in, you'll notice the modern yet cost-conscious interior.
It's a clean and pleasant environment that sets the stage for a great dining experience.
While nothing may truly blow you away on the menu, I can assure you that everything is way above average.
The sushi is always fresh, and the hwoe-dup-bap is both plentiful and generous.
I particularly love their tonkatsu, which is made to perfection.
When you factor in the reasonable prices, it's hard not to appreciate Ukai on a whole other level.
I'm not the only one who loves Ukai Japanese Bistro – fellow locals and visitors alike have had nothing but good things to say about it.
One of the best deals you can find here is their lunch special.
The spicy beef is reminiscent of Korean spicy pork, and the tempura is light and fluffy.
I also highly recommend trying the potato croquettes and agedashi tofu – they're always hot and made to perfection.
If you're looking for a quality sushi stop with innovative appetizers, like their Salmon Caprese, and plenty of rolls to choose from, you won't be disappointed at Ukai Japanese Bistro.
Their Trifish roll is awesome, and the Salmon Teriyaki combo meal comes with a generous serving of food.
Canyon Lakes Brewery
One weekend morning, I decided to treat myself to a delicious breakfast at Canyon Lakes Brewery, and I must say, it was worth every penny.
I chose to sit outside on their patio, soaking in the beautiful view of the golf course while enjoying my meal.
I could immediately tell that the food was prepared by someone who is passionate about cooking.
Every dish I tasted, from the main entrée to the sides, was intensely flavorful and amazing.
The potatoes that accompanied the dish were so good that I couldn't help but eat every last bite.
But what really made my day was their raspberry beignets – they were simply mind-blowing.
I also tried the strawberry basil chicken sandwich during another visit, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The beer selection at Canyon Lakes Brewery is always top-notch, with great quality brews to satisfy everyone's taste.
Pho Sam
I absolutely love visiting Pho Sam for a comforting bowl of pho.
I've been going there every weekend, and it's become my go-to spot for a delicious and healthy chicken noodle soup.
The pho has a clear and tasty broth that's very refreshing, and I can't get enough of their special spicy sauce, which I believe is imported because I haven't been able to find it anywhere else.
The family-owned restaurant is always clean and well-maintained, which I appreciate.
In addition to the pho, they also serve rice and vermicelli plates/bowls made to order, and their coffee/teas are an absolute treat.
Sakura Japanese Cuisine
I must admit, it took me a while to finally give Sakura Japanese Cuisine a try, but I'm so glad I did!
The moment I stepped inside this cozy Asian café, I was impressed by their relaxing atmosphere.
The food was absolutely delicious, and the portions were quite generous.
I am somewhat of a sushi snob, and I am happy to say that Sakura's sushi rolls indeed met my high expectations.
In addition to their sushi, I would highly recommend trying the Popcorn Edamame and the Hawaiian Pearl - both of which were amazing.
While some people might find the prices to be a bit high, I personally think the quality of the food and the overall experience makes it worth every penny.
Gianni's Italian Bistro
Gianni's Italian Bistro has become one of my favorite spots for an exceptional Italian meal.
The moment I stepped inside, I felt like I was transported to a quaint little Italian trattoria.
The food at Gianni's is simply amazing.
I absolutely adore their potato gnocchi – it's to die for!
Their refined take on classic dishes is a refreshing change from generic Italian restaurants, and they also offer a low-calorie menu for those watching their diet.
I've taken my family here multiple times, and I find it to be a perfect spot for date nights as well as family dinners.
The ambiance is cozy yet lively, which makes for a fantastic dining experience.
The octopus appetizer was a standout dish the last time I visited, and it was hands down the best octopus I've had in years.
Thai Taste Restaurant
Thai Taste Restaurant has become one of my favorite spots for a delicious meal.
My friends and I often visit this small yet cozy place for its amazing dishes.
One of my friends recommended their catfish with garlic sauce, but since catfish wasn't available during our last visit, we tried it with another fish fillet, and it was still fantastic.
We also enjoyed their green papaya salad and eggplants with basil.
What I particularly love about Thai Taste is that they cater to the tastes of both adults and kids.
My kids are huge fans of Thai yellow curry, and they absolutely loved it here.
My personal favorite has to be the Tom Yum soup, which is always rich in flavor and comes in generous portions.
Zalla Kabob House
Just last week, I decided to try some new cuisine and ended up at Zalla Kabob House, and I must admit, it was an incredible experience.
Let me tell you all about it.
The ambiance was lovely, and I could see that the place was packed, which only made me more excited to try their food.
The service was quite fast, even with a full house, which was impressive.
Being relatively new to Afghan cuisine, I decided to order based on the recommendations from the reviews.
I ordered the Lawand with chicken and Sabzi, and I was blown away by the flavors and authenticity of the dishes.
I also tried the bolanis, which were simply delicious.
The pumpkin kadu was another dish I was eager to taste, having heard so much about it from friends, and I was not disappointed.
The chicken lawand, in particular, was just phenomenal, and I can see why people rave about it.
Mendocino Farms
Whenever I crave a delicious and healthy meal, I find myself heading to Mendocino Farms in the San Ramon City Center.
Its location is perfect, right next to the kid's play area, making it a convenient spot for families to grab a quick and satisfying bite.
I love taking my meal outside, soaking in the warm sun, and watching people (and their dogs) pass by, all while enjoying my favorite Mendocino Farms dishes.
The Pink Lady Beet and Goat Cheese Salad with the Chicken Pesto Caprice sandwich is one of my go-to combinations, and I can't recommend it enough.
The flavors are absolutely mouth-watering, and I can truly taste the freshness of the local and seasonal ingredients used in their dishes.
This particular Mendocino Farms location is among my top 3 favorites.
The outdoor seating area facing the grassy center of the complex makes it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a meal.
And for those with children, there's a booth right next to the iconic blue cow, complete with crayons to keep the little ones entertained.
If you're new to Mendocino Farms and unsure what to try, I suggest going for the Avocado Quinoa with Chicken.
It's a refreshing and flavorful dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Cha Thai Bistro
One place I keep coming back to for a delicious meal is Cha Thai Bistro.
I love their variety of Thai curries, which never disappoint in flavor and quality.!
I'm also a big fan of their basil fried rice and pineapple fried rice, and they are always willing to accommodate my request for soft tofu instead of the fried option.
One of the best things about Cha Thai Bistro is how the food always arrives piping hot and loaded with flavor.
I've tried their crispy calamari, angel crispy shrimp, basil-pad kra pow thai spicy with chicken, and pad thai with shrimp and chicken, and all have been absolutely delicious.
Poke Don
I've been to Poke Don a few times.
The first time I went, I enjoyed the build-your-own poke bowl concept, and the atmosphere was quite mellow.
It's a small, simply outfitted place, but it's cozy.
The dishes were fresh and delicious, especially the tuna and salmon.
I know what good, fresh fish should taste like, and Poke Don has been fantastic in that department.
Their customer service has always been great.
Katy's Korner
One of my favorite places to grab breakfast in San Ramon is Katy's Korner, a charming family-run restaurant that offers incredible eggs Benedict, among other breakfast and lunch staples.
I've been coming here for years, and I can't get enough of their California Benedict with potatoes on the side.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a kids' playroom that makes it perfect for family outings.
My most recent visit to Katy's Korner was on my first wedding anniversary.
The food was, as always, A+++ quality, and we left with full bellies and huge smiles on our faces.
And with their impressively fast service, it's become my go-to spot for a quick breakfast before work or a leisurely weekend brunch with friends.
Primavera Ristorante
Recently, I decided to treat myself to a dinner at Primavera Ristorante, a classic Italian eatery known for its traditional cuisine and old-school luxury vibe.
From the moment I walked in, I could sense the warm and inviting atmosphere that the restaurant had to offer.
I started my meal with their meatball antipasto, and I must say, it was divine.
The meatballs were light and flavorful, served with a chunky marinara sauce that was simply out of this world.
For my main course, I went with the cheese tortellini accompanied by a creamy garlic sauce, peas, mushrooms, and prosciutto.
My partner decided on the carbonara, and we both agreed that the dishes were reminiscent of our travels to Italy.
The salad dressings were well-balanced and not overly acidic, and the bread served was warm and crusty, fresh from the oven.
The dipping sauce was a delightful mix of olive oil, garlic, capers, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano.
We couldn't resist trying their desserts - we indulged in a cold creme brulee with a perfect sugar top and a delicious tiramisu.
While dining alfresco, we enjoyed a picture-perfect evening.
The service was attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience.
Fat Maddie's Grille
Whenever I feel like grabbing a quick yet delicious meal, I often find myself heading to Fat Maddie's Grille in San Ramon.
Their inventive burgers, sandwiches, and salads always hit the spot, and I appreciate the counter-serve setup with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
I've tried a variety of dishes on their menu, but my personal favorite has to be the bread bowl with clam chowder.
It's just the perfect comfort food, especially on a chilly day.
Another great option is their half-crab sandwich with soup — the crab meat is generous, and the bread is toasted with just the right amount of butter.
Plus, their Maui Maui IPA beer is a unique and refreshing drink to pair with any meal.
Other Restaurants Nearby
The Peasant & The Pear (Danville)
Recently, I found myself drawn to The Peasant & The Pear, a local gem in downtown Danville that's been gaining popularity for its delicious Californian-Med comfort food.
The warm and intimate cafe, with its sunny yellow walls and cozy patio, instantly made me feel at home.
I have to admit that I fell in love with the place the moment I tried their pulled pork sandwich.
The quality of the food was exceptional, and the portions were generous.
In fact, I've been back several times since then for their amazing Bishop Ranch salad and the mouthwatering chicken salad sandwich.
Despite facing challenges during the pandemic and having to close a few of his restaurants, Rodney has managed to keep The Peasant & The Pear thriving, and it has quickly become one of my favorite go-to spots in Danville.
Incontro Ristorante (Danville)
I recently decided to treat myself to a night out and chose to dine at Incontro Ristorante in Danville.
The sustainable Italian fare and warm ambiance drew me in, and I was not disappointed.
Their menu is limited, but the food is simply delicious and fresh.
I even had my drink customized to my liking!
The indoor ambiance was lovely with exposed stone, but I opted for outdoor seating to enjoy the pleasant live music.
I must say that the restaurant offers plenty of space indoors and outdoors, so it's perfect for walk-ins or reservations.
I savored a special pasta dish with sausage and a creamy tomato sauce while others at my table enjoyed chicken piccata and lasagna.
The salad had fresh and flavorful dressing, making the overall experience even better.
Bridges Restaurant and Bar (Danville)
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Bridges Restaurant and Bar for a celebration lunch, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations!
This lively standby has a lounge and patio area, and it serves Asian-influenced Californian fare in a contemporary setting.
You can find more about their menu and location on their website here.
The service was excellent, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable meal.
I was hesitant about parking, but it turned out there was ample parking space available.
I started with a Bridges Manhattan cocktail, which was delightful, and for appetizers, we had a variety of delicious options.
For my entree, I went with the stir-fried Mexican prawns with Thai red curry sauce.
The dish was quite large, with a generous portion of thin noodles.
The prawns were sizeable, and the curry sauce was fantastic.
The restaurant is also famous for its appearance in the movie Mrs.Doubtfire, which adds a fun nostalgic touch.
The surrounding area has a historic and charming vibe, which makes me want to explore more of it.
China Paradise Restaurant (Danville)
Whenever I'm too tired to cook, my go-to place for takeout is China Paradise Restaurant.
This family-owned restaurant serves delicious Hunan and Sichuan dishes and always offers a friendly and relaxed environment.
One of the dishes I can't get enough of is their lemon chicken, and their sizzling rice and egg drop soups are also the best I've ever had.
I usually order takeout, so I haven't had the chance to dine in.
Similan Thai Cuisine (Danville)
I recently decided to give Similan Thai Cuisine a try, as I love Thai food and heard good things about this family-owned eatery.
Located in a strip mall, the atmosphere was casual and inviting, which was perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends.
Upon entering, I found the service to be friendly and faster than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise.
The menu offered a variety of traditional Thai dishes, along with gluten-free and vegetarian options.
I was quite satisfied with the overall taste of the food, although I did find the rice to be a bit dry and more fried than I would have liked.
The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great option for a budget-friendly meal.
Final Thoughts
Living in San Ramon has not only provided me with a great quality of life but also a wide variety of fantastic dining options.
I've enjoyed the diverse range of cuisines, from savoring the delicious Thai food at Thai Taste Restaurant and Similan Thai Cuisine to indulging in the comforting Italian dishes at Gianni's Italian Bistro and Primavera Ristorante.
San Ramon's food scene is a true reflection of its diverse and vibrant community, and I couldn't be happier to call this city home.
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