Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Hayes Valley | Upscale & High Protein

30 restaurants in Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Hayes Valley | Upscale & High Protein

• Kippu — Japanese · rated 5/5: Kippu invites guests into a lively haven where the savory aroma of glazed teriyaki mingles with the crisp, golden crunch of freshly fried tempura. From the communal warmth of steaming sukiyaki pots to the dramatic presentation of signature rolls like the Flaming Dragon, every dish captures a perfect balance of traditional Japanese comfort and contemporary culinary artistry.
• Festa Wine & Cocktail Lounge — Italian · rated 5/5: Festa Wine & Cocktail Lounge invites guests into a chic, dimly lit sanctuary where the clinking of crystal and a vibrant energy set the stage for an evening of refined indulgence. The bar artfully blends East and West through sophisticated libations, ranging from the delicate floral sweetness of a Lychee Martini to the crisp, effervescent snap of a Toki Highball. Every pour, from the velvety Strawberry Saketini to the refreshing Yuzu Shochu, celebrates the artistry of the cocktail within a modern, polished social haven.
• Woods Lowside — American · rated 4/5: Tucked away like a hidden neighborhood gem, this vibrant haunt pairs the flaky, golden-brown crunch of artisanal empanadas with a rotating tap list of botanical and experimental brews. Savory fillings like earthy mushroom and spiced beef find their perfect match in effervescent pours of hibiscus-infused ales or honey-kissed lagers, creating a laid-back sanctuary for bold flavors and casual conversation.
• The Beer Hall — American · rated 4/5: The Beer Hall pulses with the convivial energy of a modern public house, where communal tables invite long conversations over frothy pints and elevated comfort fare. The kitchen reimagines classic tavern bites, pairing salt-dusted pretzels and velvety Welsh rarebit with sophisticated plates of crispy potato rösti topped with delicate roe. From the snap of a Chicago dog to the decadent crunch of a fried chicken sandwich, every dish celebrates the joy of unpretentious, soul-warming flavors in a vibrant, social sanctuary.
• Pokebola — Japanese · rated 4/5: Pokebola serves as a bright, inviting retreat where the comforting steam of artisanal soups meets the vibrant, clean energy of the Pacific. Velvety ladles of spiced pumpkin and hearty meatball-studded red pepper soup offer a soul-warming embrace, perfectly balanced by the crisp, colorful artistry of glistening ahi tuna and salmon bowls. It is a culinary crossroads where nourishing warmth and coastal freshness harmonize, inviting guests to linger over a meal that feels both indulgent and revitalizing.
• Hayes Street Grill — Seafood · rated 4/5: This iconic San Francisco institution captures the quintessential spirit of Northern California, where the briny snap of Hog Island oysters and the smoky aroma of grilled calamari fill a space alive with timeless, bustling charm. The kitchen transforms the season’s finest local bounty into vibrant, sensory-driven plates, from the peppery crunch of smoked trout toasts to the velvety warmth of roasted butternut squash soup. It is a sanctuary of fresh, honest flavors that celebrates the region’s harvest with an elegance that feels both sophisticated and deeply welcoming.
• Souvla — Greek · rated 4/5: This vibrant Greek rotisserie hums with energy as the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats spinning on the spit fills a bright, airy space. Succulent lamb, pork, and chicken are tucked into warm, pillowy pitas or tossed into crisp, herb-flecked salads, complemented by golden fries dusted in salty feta or potatoes glistening with rich pan drippings. It is a contemporary reimagining of the classic Mediterranean grill, offering a sun-drenched dining experience where rustic tradition meets modern, effortless style.
• Afterwork Bar — American · rated 4/5: Afterwork Bar hums with the vibrant energy of the post-shift crowd, offering a lively sanctuary where the clinking of glasses meets the irresistible aroma of spice and salt. Tables overflow with indulgent, golden heaps of fully loaded tater tots and crispy wings tossed in a fiery mango habanero glaze, creating a sensory playground of bold flavors and satisfying crunches. It is a place where shared plates of charred corn ribs and stacked nachos foster easy conversation, turning a simple evening wind-down into a well-earned celebration.
• The Bird — American · rated 4/5: This high-energy spot celebrates the art of the perfect crunch, where the sizzle of the fryer gives way to golden-brown perfection and the irresistible aroma of buttery, house-made biscuits. Guests can dive into towering fried chicken sandwiches or succulent wings tossed in vibrant glazes like sweet-and-spicy mango habanero, all paired with seasoned curly fries for a soulful, satisfying meal that captures the essence of elevated comfort food.
• Sam's American Eatery — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood destination reimagines the classic American diner through a spirited Korean lens, where the sizzle of kimchi fried rice and the aroma of honey-mint lattes fill a bright, welcoming space. Whether tucking into a crispy fried chicken benedict or sharing a colorful flight of mimosas, diners experience a playful harmony of bold spices and comforting traditions that turn every meal into a celebratory fusion of East and West.
• Churchill — American · rated 3/5: Churchill serves as a sophisticated sanctuary where the clink of crystal and the low hum of conversation set the stage for an evening of refined indulgence. Expertly balanced libations like the velvety Gilbert's Law Milk Punch and the smoky Islay flow from the bar, showcasing a mastery of both timeless mixology and adventurous, tropical-leaning creations. Whether settling in with a crisp Cucumber Gimlet or a bold PX Old Fashioned, guests are transported to a polished space where every pour is a celebration of craft and character.
• Metro Caffe — Italian: Metro Caffe serves as a vibrant neighborhood anchor where the irresistible aroma of sizzling beef and golden-fried appetizers creates an immediate sense of comfort. Friends gather around tables laden with crispy, hand-breaded zucchini and zesty wings, while the kitchen crafts towering, juice-dripping burgers that anchor a menu built for indulgence. It is a welcoming retreat where the casual energy of a local haunt meets the soul-satisfying crunch of perfectly seasoned comfort food.
• Nara — Japanese: Nara invites diners into a world of refined Japanese artistry, where the delicate silkiness of truffle-kissed hamachi and the briny brightness of Miyagi oysters take center stage. The atmosphere hums with a sophisticated energy as plates of golden-crisped chicken karaage and earthy mushroom tempura emerge from the kitchen, offering a playful balance of textures and bold, clean flavors. Every dish, from the vibrant salads topped with crackling salmon skin to the inventive specialty rolls, celebrates a harmonious blend of traditional precision and modern culinary flair.
• Yakiniku Shodai — Japanese: At Yakiniku Shodai, the air is thick with the savory aroma of premium cuts searing over an open flame, inviting guests into a sleek space where the interactive art of Japanese grilling takes center stage. The curated Shodai Set Menu showcases a parade of marbled meats and rich flavors, best enjoyed alongside the crisp, golden effervescence of a Suntory draft beer or a refreshing Calpis soda. It is a destination of communal warmth and culinary precision, where every sizzle on the grate promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that lingers long after the final bite.
• Turtle Tower — Vietnamese: Turtle Tower captures the soulful essence of Northern Vietnamese street food, where the crackle of house-made crab chips and the smoky aroma of grilled oysters set the stage for a vibrant culinary journey. The kitchen balances the crunch of golden-fried imperial rolls and Hanoi-style wings with the cooling freshness of papaya salad and delicate spring rolls filled with tender vinegared beef. It is a space where traditional textures and bold, aromatic flavors converge, offering a dining experience that feels both deeply authentic and exhilaratingly fresh.
• Menya Kanemaru — Japanese: Menya Kanemaru transforms the traditional bento into a vibrant mosaic of Japanese artistry, where the satisfying crunch of golden-fried tonkatsu and the tangy zest of chicken namban meet the delicate, buttery richness of miso-marinated gindara. Each meticulously arranged box offers a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, inviting diners to savor a multi-course feast captured in a single, elegant frame.
• Duboce Park Cafe — American: Bathed in natural light and the gentle hum of the neighborhood, this sun-drenched corner spot serves as a vibrant gathering place where the aroma of freshly pulled espresso mingles with the crisp morning air. Diners tuck into hearty, golden-yolked breakfast sandwiches and colorful Buddha bowls overflowing with fresh greens, while the kitchen turns out comforting classics like thick-cut French toast and savory pastrami on rye. Whether you are lingering over a velvety cappuccino or grabbing a spice-kissed curried chicken salad sandwich for a picnic in the park, the atmosphere captures the effortless charm of a perfect city morning.
• Espetus Churrascaria — Steakhouse: The air at Espetus Churrascaria is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats, where the rhythmic parade of gaucho-style service brings the vibrant, high-energy spirit of Southern Brazil to life. Succulent cuts like the signature salt-crusted picanha and tender, bacon-wrapped filet mignon are carved tableside directly from skewers, glistening with natural juices and charred to smoky perfection over an open flame. Between helpings of flame-kissed beef, guests explore a lush landscape of gourmet hot dishes and crisp seasonal salads, creating a celebratory dining experience that is as bountiful as it is refined.
• Shizen — Japanese: Shizen invites diners into a serene, nature-inspired sanctuary where the earthy aromas of simmering miso and toasted garlic set a tranquil tone for a refined culinary journey. Artfully plated dishes celebrate the bounty of the land, from the delicate, silken textures of yuba and nameko mushrooms to the bright, citrusy zing of a vibrant plant-forward ceviche. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of traditional Japanese techniques and modern innovation, creating an atmosphere that feels both deeply soulful and elegantly contemporary.
• Sanppo Sushi — Japanese: Sanppo Sushi invites diners into a vibrant, welcoming space where the rhythmic chop of the sushi chef’s knife sets the stage for a feast of Japanese comfort classics. Golden, pan-seared gyoza and steaming bowls of udon provide a savory prelude to an array of signature rolls, where fresh seafood and bold sauces are artfully draped over perfectly seasoned rice. Whether sharing an indulgent meat platter or savoring the decadent layers of a Lion King roll, every plate captures a harmonious balance of tradition and playful modern flair.
• Sheba Piano Lounge — Ethiopian: The air at Sheba Piano Lounge hums with the soulful resonance of live jazz, drawing guests into a dimly lit sanctuary where the rich heritage of Ethiopia meets the sophisticated charm of a classic cocktail lounge. Crispy sambussas filled with spiced lentils or savory sirloin offer a satisfying crunch that gives way to a burst of aromatic heat, while creative small plates like pomegranate-glazed meatballs and bourbon-infused sliders bridge the gap between traditional flavors and modern indulgence. It is a place where rhythmic melodies and bold, spice-forward bites come together, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for lingering over a drink and a plate of creamy ayib.
• Nojo Ramen Tavern — Japanese: This bustling urban retreat hums with energy as steam rises from deep bowls of velvety paitan broth, inviting guests to settle in for a soul-warming Japanese feast. The kitchen masterfully balances bold heat and savory depth, serving up everything from spicy miso-infused noodles to golden, pan-seared gyoza and creative small bites that redefine modern comfort food.
• Pink Onion — Italian: This vibrant neighborhood gem pulses with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of golden garlic knots and the convivial clinking of glasses from a rotating craft tap. Hand-tossed pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts take center stage alongside bowls of rich, slow-simmered bolognese that offer a soulful embrace in every bite. It is a place where casual sophistication meets the timeless comfort of a shared meal, making every visit feel like a spirited local celebration.
• RT Rotisserie — American: The air at RT Rotisserie is thick with the savory aroma of golden, slow-turning chickens and the irresistible, salty scent of umami-dusted fries. Here, the humble rotisserie is elevated to an art form, where succulent meats and charred, seasonal vegetables are tucked into crusty sandwiches or served alongside vibrant, herb-flecked salads. It is a modern sanctuary of comfort food that balances rustic soul with refined technique, offering a warm and bustling atmosphere for a truly satisfying meal.
• Nakama Sushi — Japanese: Nakama Sushi invites diners into a vibrant atmosphere where the irresistible sizzle of A5 Wagyu on hot stones mingles with the savory aroma of garlic-flecked edamame and charred seafood. The kitchen masterfully balances the delicate crunch of golden-fried tempura and chicken karaage with the silken comfort of agedashi tofu, creating a communal dining experience that feels both spirited and refined. Each plate arrives as a celebration of texture and heat, perfect for those seeking a lively journey through the bold, soul-warming flavors of Japanese cuisine.
• Baiano Pizzeria — Italian: Baiano Pizzeria invites diners into a vibrant space where the scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred dough fills the air, setting the stage for a masterclass in artisanal pies. The kitchen balances bold, savory classics with inventive pairings, drizzling spicy sausage with golden honey and topping crisp crusts with clouds of indulgent, creamy burrata. Whether sharing a zesty, feta-laden Greek salad or a vibrant pesto-swirled pie, guests find a welcoming retreat that celebrates the soulful art of the perfect slice.
• Nightbird — American: Nightbird unfolds as an intimate, moonlit sanctuary where the boundaries of fine dining are explored through ever-evolving nightly tasting menus tailored for every palate. Each course is a masterclass in seasonal storytelling, harmonizing with a sophisticated beverage program that ranges from the effervescence of Charles Heidsieck Brut to thoughtfully curated non-alcoholic pairings. The result is a soulful, immersive journey where the clink of crystal and the artistry of the kitchen create an evening of quiet elegance and culinary discovery.
• Suppenküche — German: This lively communal hall transports diners to the heart of Bavaria, where the clinking of heavy glass steins provides a rhythmic backdrop to a spirited, rustic atmosphere. Golden, salt-dusted pretzels and savory sausage platters anchor the experience, while the kitchen turns out comforting classics like tender sauerbraten and crisp potato pancakes that celebrate the robust, soulful flavors of traditional German fare.
• Hazie's — American: Hazie’s pulses with a convivial energy, drawing guests into a stylish space where the aroma of warm pretzel knots and bubbling Oaxacan cheese fundido sets the stage for a spirited, communal gathering. The kitchen crafts a playful tapestry of flavors, balancing the zesty brightness of shrimp ceviche and pickled garden vegetables against the indulgent, honey-glazed crunch of crispy chicken sliders. It is a destination where sophisticated small plates and rustic comforts collide, creating an atmosphere that feels both effortlessly chic and warmly welcoming.
• Patxi's Pizza — Italian: This lively neighborhood haunt hums with a welcoming energy, where the air is thick with the scent of toasted garlic and savory sausage rolls emerging hot from the kitchen. The experience centers on communal indulgence, featuring everything from the decadent, molten layers of their signature "SMMC" mac to vibrant, crisp salads and zesty artichoke dip perfect for sharing. It is a place where bold, comforting flavors meet a relaxed atmosphere, making every meal feel like a spirited celebration of classic pizzeria fare.