While California may be known for its avocados and acai bowls, it’s also home to some of the best steakhouses in America—especially if you care about quality meat. Across the state, chefs are doubling down on locally sourced, grass-fed beef, elevating the classic steak dinner into something that feels both refined and rooted in tradition.
Whether you’re by the foggy coast, in sun-soaked wine country, or driving through Central Valley farmland, these spots prove that California cuisine isn’t just about kale and tofu. It’s about knowing where your food comes from—and treating it right.
If you’re craving a perfectly charred ribeye, a juicy filet, or a no-frills tri-tip done just right, these 12 steakhouses are where locals and chefs alike go when they want the real thing.
Harris’ Restaurant – San Francisco
Nestled in the vibrant streets of San Francisco, Harris’ Restaurant offers a dining experience steeped in tradition. Known as “The San Francisco Steakhouse,” this establishment is synonymous with classic luxury. The rich decor, featuring dark wood and leather, sets the tone for an unforgettable meal.
At Harris’, the beef is always local and grass-fed, ensuring each bite is both tender and flavorful. Their acclaimed prime rib is a must-try, drawing steak lovers from all corners of the city.
A visit here is more than just a meal; it’s a step back into a time of elegance and refinement.
Bear & Star – Los Olivos
In the heart of Los Olivos, Bear & Star pays homage to California’s ranching roots. The restaurant is named for the state symbols, highlighting a commitment to local heritage. With an innovative approach, they serve beef that is not only local but entirely produced on the Fess Parker Home Ranch.
The menu is a celebration of farm-to-table excellence, featuring creative dishes that appeal to both traditionalists and adventurers.
Bear & Star’s dedication to sustainability and quality makes it a unique destination for those seeking more than just a delicious meal.
The Hitching Post II – Buellton
Famous for its role in the movie “Sideways,” The Hitching Post II in Buellton is a must-visit for steak aficionados. Here, the art of cooking over an open flame is perfected, creating flavors that are both complex and comforting.
The beef, sourced locally and grass-fed, is grilled to perfection, making each dish a testament to California’s rich culinary traditions.
With its unpretentious atmosphere and focus on quality, The Hitching Post II captures the essence of a classic American steakhouse, where every meal feels like a celebration.
House of Prime Rib – San Francisco
San Francisco’s House of Prime Rib stands as a beacon of tradition and taste. Since 1949, this establishment has specialized in serving prime rib, a dish that has become legendary among locals and tourists alike.
The beef, sourced from local farms, is grass-fed and aged to perfection, ensuring a melt-in-the-mouth experience with every bite.
Dining here is a grand affair, with waiters in crisp uniforms and tableside carving adding to the allure. The House of Prime Rib is not just a meal; it’s a cherished San Francisco institution.
Jocko’s Steakhouse – Nipomo
In the small town of Nipomo, Jocko’s Steakhouse offers a dining experience that is both charming and hearty. Known for its no-frills approach, Jocko’s serves up some of California’s best steaks, cooked to perfection over an oak wood fire.
The beef is sourced locally and grass-fed, providing a rich and authentic flavor that keeps patrons coming back.
Jocko’s is a place where community and tradition meet, making it a beloved spot for locals and travelers seeking a genuine taste of California hospitality.
Gwen – Los Angeles
Gwen, located in Los Angeles, is a culinary masterpiece that combines the allure of a steakhouse with the innovation of a modern restaurant. The establishment is the brainchild of celebrity chef Curtis Stone, who brings a touch of Hollywood glamour to every dish.
The beef, sourced from local ranches, is grass-fed and dry-aged, ensuring unparalleled flavor and texture.
Gwen is not just about food; it’s about an experience that tantalizes all the senses, making it a top choice for those seeking something extraordinary.
Cattlemens – Multiple Locations
Cattlemens is a beloved institution with multiple locations across California, known for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere. The steakhouse prides itself on serving local, grass-fed beef, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Each location offers a unique vibe, but the commitment to quality remains consistent, making it a favorite among families and steak lovers.
With a menu that caters to all tastes, Cattlemens is the perfect place for a casual night out or a special celebration, where the food is always the star.
The Ranch Restaurant – Anaheim
Located in Anaheim, The Ranch Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience that is both elegant and welcoming. Known for its impeccable service and exquisite cuisine, the restaurant sources its beef from local farms, ensuring it is grass-fed and full of flavor.
The menu is a testament to culinary excellence, with each dish crafted to delight the senses.
The Ranch is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination where guests are treated to a memorable night out, complete with exceptional food and ambiance.
Cole’s Chop House – Napa
Nestled in the heart of wine country, Cole’s Chop House in Napa is a destination for lovers of both steak and vino. The restaurant pairs its grass-fed, locally sourced beef with an extensive wine list, offering a dining experience that is truly Californian.
The ambiance is both sophisticated and warm, inviting guests to relax and savor each bite.
Whether it’s a special occasion or just a delightful night out, Cole’s Chop House promises a meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul, embodying the spirit of Napa Valley.
Buckhorn Steakhouse – Winters
Located in the quaint town of Winters, Buckhorn Steakhouse is a gem that combines history with gastronomic delight. The building itself is steeped in history, adding to the charm of this beloved establishment.
The steakhouse is renowned for its grass-fed, locally sourced beef, cooked to perfection and served in generous portions.
A visit to Buckhorn is not just a meal; it’s a journey through time, where every dish tells a story of tradition and passion for quality food.
Selanne Steak Tavern – Laguna Beach
Selanne Steak Tavern in Laguna Beach offers a unique blend of elegance and coastal charm. Founded by hockey legend Teemu Selanne, the restaurant is a testament to his passion for exceptional cuisine.
The beef, sourced locally, is grass-fed and expertly prepared, providing a taste that is both fresh and flavorful.
Whether dining inside the chic tavern or enjoying the ocean view on the patio, guests are treated to an experience that is both relaxing and memorable, making it a must-visit in Southern California.
1880 Union Hotel Restaurant – Los Alamos
The 1880 Union Hotel Restaurant in Los Alamos is a historic treasure that offers more than just a meal. With its charming Victorian architecture, the restaurant transports guests to a bygone era.
The menu features locally sourced, grass-fed beef, prepared with skill and dedication, ensuring each dish is a delight to the senses.
Dining here is a journey into the past, where history and flavor meet to create an unforgettable experience, making it a standout destination for steak lovers and history buffs alike.