TL;DR summary: San Francisco Chronicle critics MacKenzie Chung Fegan and Cesar Hernandez reveal the Bay Area's definitive restaurant rankings live at the SF Design Center on Henry Adams. Popup heavyweights feed the room while the countdown unfolds in what is widely considered the culinary industry's most competitive evening on the calendar. With incredible food, wine, and cocktails, it is a must-attend event for serious foodies looking to taste the region's best in a single room.
San Francisco is undeniably one of the greatest food cities in the world. For locals who pride themselves on discovering culinary gems, the ultimate night out isn't just a dinner reservation—it is the Top 100 Restaurants Party.
Hosted annually by the San Francisco Chronicle, this thrilling event is a staple of San Francisco's elite cultural scene. It is the one night a year where the culinary industry's heavy hitters gather under one roof to celebrate the definitive ranking of the Bay Area's best dining experiences.
The Main Event at the SF Design Center
Taking place at the spectacular SF Design Center on Henry Adams, the evening is much more than just an awards ceremony. It is a massive, immersive tasting party.
While critics MacKenzie Chung Fegan and Cesar Hernandez guide the crowd through the highly anticipated live countdown, attendees are treated to an all-inclusive feast. The room is anchored by popup heavyweights—including cult favorites like El Garage, Hết Sẩy, Petit Américain, and Tacos Sincero. Whether you usually spend your weekends hunting down the best taquerias in San Francisco or indulging in Michelin-starred tasting menus, the sheer quality of the food, free-flowing wine, and craft cocktails make this an unforgettable experience.
A Launchpad for Neighborhood Food Tours
The true beauty of the Top 100 list is how it highlights the staggering diversity of the region's food scene. Past winners (like Oakland's acclaimed Burdell) prove that world-class dining exists in every pocket of the Bay, and each year's new list is anyone's guess.
If the event inspires you to embark on a localized food tour, you can use the newly revealed list to branch out. Spend a weekend testing out the favorite restaurants in South Beach, comparing notes on the top restaurants in Mission Bay, or diving into the fantastic dining and entertainment in the East Cut.
Insider Logistics for the Party
Because the wine and cocktails are a major draw of the evening, we highly recommend planning your transportation ahead of time. Before exploring the vibrant life of downtown San Francisco, review our San Francisco public transportation guide to map out your Muni or rideshare route to the Design District.
The morning after the party, you'll likely need a pick-me-up. Thankfully, the city's café culture is just as robust as its restaurant scene, so you can easily cure your post-party fatigue by tapping into San Francisco's coffee buzz.
And if experiencing the absolute best of the Bay Area's culinary talent makes you want to live closer to the action, be sure to browse our comprehensive San Francisco Bay Area neighborhood guide to find a home that puts you steps away from the city's next top-ranked restaurant.
FAQ: Top 100 Restaurants Party
What is the Top 100 Restaurants Party?
It is an annual event hosted by the San Francisco Chronicle where restaurant critics reveal the definitive rankings of the Bay Area's best restaurants via a live countdown.
Where is the event held?
The party takes place at the SF Design Center, located on Henry Adams Street in San Francisco's Design District.
Will there be food at the event?
Yes! The event features a curated lineup of some of the Bay Area's best popup restaurants and vendors serving food, alongside free-flowing wine and cocktails.
Do I need a ticket to attend?
Yes, this is a highly anticipated, ticketed event. Passes typically sell out quickly, so it is recommended to secure them well in advance.