11 of the Most Instagrammable Restaurants in California

California is rich with restaurants where the aesthetics are as pleasing as the food. The more you explore, the more you’ll realize that every nook and cranny of the state is filled with picturesque spots that make for incredible content creation. You won’t have to go through a lot of trouble to find the perfect spot for a snapshot, nor do you need to rearrange the whole table for one good shot at these Instagrammable restaurants. Between the great food and gorgeous interiors, these eye-catching eateries in California will give you content for days.

Most Instagrammable restaurants in NorCal

1. Villon

Location: 1100 Market Street, San Francisco

Situated inside the Proper Hotel, Villon is an elegant restaurant that will liven your social media accounts. With its checkerboard floors and floor-to-ceiling library shelves, this Instagrammable restaurant doesn’t miss a single detail. The aesthetics and good taste extend to the food as well—the mussels and chorizo dish will send your taste buds to food heaven. Feel free to judge this book by its cover.

2. Christy Hill

Location: 115 Grove Street, Tahoe City

Just 100 feet above the shoreline of Lake Tahoe sits the gorgeous Christy Hill. Offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding hills, this Instagrammable restaurant wows at every turn. No matter where you choose to sit, you’ll have uninterrupted views of Northern California’s vibrant sunset. Did we mention the food is as gorgeous as the vistas? Order the pan-roasted gnocchi for a food experience unlike any other.

3. The Cavalier

Location: 360 Jessie Street, San Francisco

If you’re in San Francisco and searching for an Instagrammable restaurant near you, The Cavalier in Hotel Zetta won’t disappoint; Everyone who’s anyone has at some point dined at this reputable restaurant. Everything in this diner comes with a British twist, whether it be the red and blue walls or the tufted banquettes. The interior might be on point, but the food is even better. Try the classic steak tartare for an Instagram-worthy and mouth-watering dinner. 

4. The Soule Domain

Location: 9983 Cove Street, Kings Beach

Have you ever dined inside a century-old cabin? At The Soule Domain, you’ll have the opportunity to have an old-school dinner experience in Kings Beach. Whether you choose a window seat or prefer to remain closer to the fireplace, you’ll definitely feel the cozy atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind restaurant. The Instagrammable food is a different story. Not only is every dish created with artistic care, but the ingredients are also all fresh and organic, delivering a taste you’ll remember for days. Try the shrimp scampi for an appetizer and the filet mignon as your main dish.

5. The Firehouse Restaurant  

Location: 1112 2nd Street, Sacramento

Can you think of a romantic thing to do in California that’s better than dining in one of its historic landmarks? The Firehouse Restaurant, once home to the Sacramento No. 3 firehouse, was the first building restored in Old Sacramento. The interior of the restaurant features wood brick walls and elegant chandeliers, reflecting its rich past. While the setting of this Instagrammable restaurant provides great photo ops, you should make sure to leave room for the food photos as well. The seared day boat scallops are both aesthetically pleasing and delicious.

6. The Sardine Factory

Location: 701 Wave Street, Monterey

The Sardine Factory is one of Monterey's most elegant dining establishments. Ever since it opened its doors in the 1960s, the Factory has been a spot where the rich and famous gather for late-night dinner meetings. Sophisticated is the least we can say about this restaurant with green and gold striped walls, silk curtains, silver chargers, and a glassed-in greenhouse that serves as a conservatory. Add this Instagrammable restaurant to your list of unique things to do in Monterey and get ready to snap away!

Most Instagrammable Restaurants in SoCal

7. THEBlvd

Location: 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills

As you walk down Rodeo Drive—a universally iconic L.A. street—a certain sidewalk patio might catch your attention. That would be one of L.A.’s hottest dining spots: THEBlvd. Here, you can choose to hide from the crowds in the indoor sitting area with lofty ceilings, large windows, and plush sofas, or watch them from the outdoor patio. Adorned with art-deco style motifs, this coveted spot offers a wide range of Instagrammable and mouth-watering dishes. The porcini-crusted beef tenderloin at this Instagrammable restaurant in L.A. is a showstopper.

8. Yamashiro Hollywood

Location: 1999 North Sycamore Avenue, Los Angeles

Yamashiro Hollywood is undeniably one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in L.A. The landmark restaurant sits on the eastern edge of Hollywood Hills and boasts breathtaking views of the area. Inside, are a labyrinth of dining rooms, halls, and an interior courtyard with stone pools and gardens that beg to be snapped. Step outside and you’ll find a charming koi pond and breathtaking backdrops. Order the salmon and tuna tartare and your choice of any of the specialty sushi rolls and you’ll be satisfied beyond your expectations with both taste and presentation.

9. Escena Lounge And Grill

Location: 1100 Clubhouse View Drive, Palm Springs

If there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s that finding an Instagram-worthy restaurant near you is never a problem in Palm Springs. Exhibit A? Escena Lounge And Grill. Located just minutes away from downtown, this beautiful restaurant combines retro vibes, famous Palm Springs-style architecture, and gorgeous views of the towering San Jacinto Mountains. For an unforgettable dining experience, order the balsamic and fig glazed chicken—you’re in for one delicious adventure.

10. Bella Vista

Location: 1260 Channel Drive, Santa Barbara

Bella Vista is one of the most romantic spots for an unforgettable date night in Santa Barbara. Located in the reputable Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore, this Instagrammable restaurant serves the best Italian-inspired dishes. The chic and romantic dining area boasts unobstructed views of Butterfly Beach, which is one of Santa Barbara’s best beaches.

11. The Marine Room

Location: 2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla

The phenomenal food and breathtaking views at The Marine Room make it the perfect place for a unique date with your boo. What makes The Marine Room one of the best restaurants in San Diego is its location within a luxury resort in the La Jolla enclave. The best time to visit the restaurant for great photos is during sunset when different shades of red decorate the Pacific sky. Expect a long list of Instagrammable food during your visit and make the pan-seared shrimp and scallops a priority.