Where live fire meets San Francisco waterfront sophistication, Angler SF transforms the ancient art of flame cooking into a contemporary culinary spectacle. This seafood-focused destination from Saison Hospitality showcases Chef Joshua Skenes's mastery of open-fire techniques in a more accessible format than his three-Michelin-starred flagship, creating San Francisco fine dining that feels both primal and refined.

Launched in September 2018 on the Embarcadero, Angler emerged from Skenes's vision to democratize his fire-cooking philosophy without sacrificing quality. Executive Chef Nicolas Ferreira translates this ethos daily, earning recognition as Esquire's Best New Restaurant of the Year and James Beard semi-finalist honors. The restaurant represents Saison Hospitality's commitment to ingredient-driven cuisine, where every dish bears the kiss of live flame from the dramatic 30-foot wood-burning hearth that dominates the space.

Angler's menu celebrates the marriage of pristine seafood and select game, all transformed by fire's alchemy. The raw bar showcases California's coastal bounty—spot prawns, sea urchin, and cured Amberjack—while the hearth produces signature dishes like blush-pink bigeye tuna enhanced with shiso and chilled tomato jelly, and ultra-tender hot fried quail with crispy pepper coating. Even vegetables receive star treatment, as seen in the meticulously roasted cauliflower floret seasoned with vadouvan and lime. The à la carte format encourages sharing, with dishes ranging from $12 to $48, making this level of craftsmanship surprisingly approachable for best restaurants San Francisco standards.

The dining experience unfolds across two plush rooms that evoke a hunter's cabin gone Nordic-chic, complete with authentic taxidermy and rich textiles that create warmth without stuffiness. The open kitchen design ensures the mesmerizing dance of flames remains visible throughout the meal, while 1980s music provides an unexpectedly perfect soundtrack. Wine director Mark Bright curates an Old World-focused list emphasizing Burgundy and California icons, designed to complement the smoky, complex flavors emerging from the hearth. Two bars offer the full menu in a more casual setting, while The Game Room provides intimate private dining for 30 guests.

Angler SF reservations should be secured well in advance for this Michelin star restaurants San Francisco experience that bridges fine dining sophistication with genuine hospitality. The restaurant's commitment to live-fire cooking, premium ingredients, and waterfront views creates an unforgettable evening where ancient techniques meet modern luxury, concluding perfectly with their signature salted caramel soft-serve sundae topped with cocoa nibs.