15 Best Walnut Creek Restaurants

Looking for where to eat in Walnut Creek? Then you are in for a treat!  The food scene is as vibrant and diverse as the community. It has stunning natural beauty, rolling hills, tree-lined streets, and abundant parks and trails.  

And when it comes to dining, there are various food places in Walnut Creek. This charming city has everything from classic American fare to international cuisine and everything in between. 

It’s the perfect place to explore before or after your meal, with options for hiking, biking, and even hot air balloon rides.

So whether you’re a local looking to try something new, or a visitor seeking to explore what it has to offer, be sure to check out our list of the Best Walnut Creek Restaurants.

Best Walnut Creek Restaurants

1. Best Seafood Restaurant – Walnut Creek Yacht Club

The Walnut Creek Yacht Club serves seafood and is one of the restaurants in Walnut Creek, CA. It opened in 1997 and has served seafood and other cuisines for over 20 years.

The restaurant is well-known for its fresh seafood offerings, including oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, and various fish dishes. They also have a complete bar with a large wine selection, artisan beers, and cocktails.

When you enter, you will be greeted by nautical-themed surroundings, complete with sailboat models, charts, and other marine decors. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and a patio overlooking a fountain and pond. 

The best time is during the lunch or dinner hours when the restaurant is at its busiest. It is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure a table. The restaurant also offers weekday happy hour specials from 3 pm to 6 pm. 

What to Eat:

For starters, their Seafood Gumbo is a great food. It is a New Orleans-style gumbo with shrimp, fish, and Andouille sausage, served with white rice. They also serve Cioppino,  a hearty seafood stew made with clams, mussels, shrimp, fish, and tomato broth, served with garlic bread.

Another must-try is their freshly grilled swordfish. And save room for the classic dessert, Key Lime Pie, a Florida dessert made with tangy key lime custard in a graham cracker crust.

2. Best Mediterranean Cuisine- Manakish Oven & GrillRestaurant 

Manakish Oven & Grill, located in Walnut Creek, California, is a Mediterranean restaurant. The restaurant specializes in Lebanese cuisine, with a wide range of meals produced fresh every day using high-quality ingredients.

This restaurant in Walnut Creek provides a warm and welcoming ambiance with modern Mediterranean decor. The interior is exquisitely designed, with mosaic tiles, hanging lanterns, and brilliant hues. There is comfortable seating available, including tables and booths, as well as outdoor seating.

Manakish Oven & Grill is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. The restaurant can get quite busy during peak hours, so making a reservation is best, especially on weekends. Lunchtime is less crowded than dinnertime, so it’s an excellent time to go if you like a more relaxed atmosphere.

What to Eat:

One of the must-try items on the menu at Manakish Oven & Grill is their namesake dish, the Manakish. This is a traditional Lebanese flatbread made fresh in-house and comes with various toppings such as za’atar, cheese, or meat. 

Other popular dishes include the Shawarma Wrap, Falafel Plate, and Grilled Chicken Kabob.

3. Best Italian Cuisine-Massimo Ristorante

Massimo Ristorante is a well-known Italian restaurant in Walnut Creek, California located at 1604 Locust St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596.

This Walnut Creek restaurant serves a broad traditional Italian food menu emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu has pasta meals, seafood, meat, and vegetarian options. 

The restaurant has a welcoming environment with modern Italian decor. The interior features a mix of contemporary and classic design elements, resulting in a trendy yet comfortable ambiance. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and a large outside patio for those who like to dine al fresco.

Massimo Ristorante is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. It is a popular destination for informal and formal eating, with a lively atmosphere that gets busier during peak hours. If you prefer a casual dining experience, go during the weekdays or earlier hours.

What to Eat:

Some of the must-try delicious food include homemade gnocchi, classic lasagna, and grilled lamb chops. For seafood lovers, the restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood options, including pan-seared scallops and the linguine alle vongole. 

The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring Italian and Californian wines, which pair well with the food. Don’t forget to try the tiramisu for dessert, which is one of the restaurant’s specialties.

4. Best Californian Cuisine-Main Street Kitchen & Bar

Main Street Kitchen & Bar is a popular downtown Walnut Creek, California restaurant. The restaurant serves a varied menu of American cuisine, emphasizing fresh, locally produced ingredients. 

A selection of appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees is available on the menu. Some of the popular dishes include the roasted beet salad, the Main Street Burger, the braised short rib, and the salmon bowl.

The rustic design of the restaurant creates a pleasant and welcoming ambiance. The interior features wooden details, vintage lighting, and a spacious full bar area. For those who prefer to dine outside and have a birthday dinner, there is additional outdoor seating.

Main Street Kitchen & Bar is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. It is a popular destination for both casual and upscale dining, with a lively ambiance that gets busier during peak hours. 

What to Eat:

Some of the must-try dishes include the crispy Brussels sprouts, the truffle and garlic fries, and the grilled cheese sandwich. Try the braised lamb shank or NY steak for a heartier meal.

The restaurant also has an extensive wine list featuring local and international wines and a selection of craft beers and signature cocktails.

5. Best Chinese Cuisine- Modern China Cafe

Modern China Cafe opened in 2008 and is one of the top walnut creek restaurants, which has become a popular Walnut Creek dining destination. A Chinese family owns and operates the restaurant in order to highlight the diversity and richness of Chinese cuisine.

Tony Guan, the restaurant’s chief chef, has over 20 years of experience in Chinese cooking. He has experience working in restaurants all throughout the world, including China, Japan, and the United States.

The restaurant has a trendy, attractive interior combining Chinese and modern design elements. Dark wood details, beautiful lighting, and artwork embellish the inside. For those who prefer to dine outside, there is additional outdoor seating.

Modern China Cafe is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. It is a popular spot for casual and upscale dining, with a lively atmosphere that tends to get busier during peak hours. Customers who want to eat at home can order takeout or have their food delivered.

What to Eat:

Some of the must-try dishes include spicy wontons, Shanghai soup dumplings, and dry-fried green beans. Try the Peking duck or Mongolian lamb for a more substantial meal. The restaurant also has an extensive wine and cocktail list featuring Asian-inspired drinks.

Other popular dishes include pork soup dumplings, Sichuan dan dan noodles, crispy orange chicken, and Kung Pao shrimp.

6. Best Californian-Style Cuban Dishes- Havana Restaurant

Havana Restaurant, located in Walnut Creek, California, serves Cuban food. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner and also provides catering for events and private parties. It is also in a good Walnut Creek location.

In addition to the regular menu, Havana Restaurant offers daily specials and seasonal dishes, showcasing the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available.

The ambiance is bright and colorful, with murals and paintings depicting Cuban culture. The lighting and seating are soft and comfy, creating a warm and friendly ambiance. The restaurant also has live music and entertainment on select nights, which adds to the whole experience.

As for the best time to visit, they can get busy during peak hours, so make a reservation beforehand, especially on weekends. Besides, lunchtime is often less crowded, and prices are lower than during dinner service.

What to Eat:

The menu at Havana Restaurant features a variety of traditional Cuban dishes, such as ropa vieja (shredded beef stew), picadillo, lechon asado (roast pork), and arroz con pollo (chicken and rice). 

They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options, such as plantain tostones and the yucca fries. They serve classic Cuban sweets like flan, and tres leches cake for dessert.  Make sure to pair it with their classic Cuban cocktails for drinks, such as the mojito and daiquiri.

7. Best Burmese Cuisine- Burma 2

Burma 2 is a restaurant serving Burmese cuisine in downtown Walnut Creek, California. It is the second establishment of the well-known Burma Superstar restaurant chain, with multiple locations throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

The dishes at Burma 2 are known for their bold and complex flavors, which combine spicy, sour, and savory elements. The ingredients used in the dishes are fresh and locally sourced whenever possible

With wooden tables and chairs, vivid murals, and a lively environment, the ambiance in the restaurant is cozy and easygoing. The restaurant is also popular for lunch and dinner and appropriate for casual and formal occasions.

Burma 2 is best visited during off-peak hours, as the restaurant can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends. Lunchtime is less congested and offers excellent value. However, they also provide takeout and delivery. Additionally, they feature a private dining area for up to 40 people.

What to Eat:

Try their variety of Burmese dishes, which are influenced by Chinese, Indian, and Thai cuisine. 

Some of the most popular items on the menu include the tea leaf salad, the samosa soup, the Burmese-style curry, and the noodle dishes, such as the ohn no khauk swe (coconut chicken noodle soup) and the mohinga (fish noodle soup).

8. Best Steak Restaurant- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Fleming’s top Steakhouse & Wine Bar is an upscale restaurant that serves top cuts of meat and good wines. The restaurant opened in 1998 in Newport Beach, California, and has spread to other locations around the United States.

Fleming’s décor is sophisticated and appealing, with dark wood furnishings, plush seats, and subdued lighting creating a warm and welcoming environment. The restaurant is noted for its excellent service, with well-trained waitstaff who are knowledgeable about the cuisine and wine menus.

The restaurant is best visited during dinner service when it is busiest, and the atmosphere is at its liveliest. Reservations are strongly advised, particularly on weekends or for large parties. Guests can also reserve one of the restaurant’s private dining rooms for a more intimate dining experience.

What to Eat:

Try their Prime Ribeye, a  16-ounce cut that is a house specialty and considered one of the best steaks on the menu. Their classic cut of filet mignon beef is a favorite at Fleming’s, served in various sizes and cooked to perfection.

They also serve Lobster Mac & Cheese. A decadent take on the classic macaroni and cheese, this dish is made with cavatappi pasta, tender lobster, and a three-cheese sauce. A perfect way to end the meal is a Warm Apple Crisp made with baked apples, streusel topping, and vanilla ice cream.

9. Best American Comfort Foods- Black Bear Diner

The iconic family-friendly food chain’s Walnut Creek outpost, Black Bear Diner, is cozy and inviting. This site on North Main Street is popular with both locals and visitors.

They also have many typical American comfort cuisine on their menu.

The atmosphere of Walnut Creek’s Black Bear Diner is comfortable and rustic, with pleasant service and bear-themed decorations around the restaurant. The ambiance is family-oriented and hospitable to all customers, making it an excellent choice for a relaxed supper with loved ones.

Breakfast and brunch are the finest times to visit Black Bear Diner since the restaurant serves a selection of classic breakfast dishes and specialty pancakes. However, they also provide a variety of tasty lunch and dinner selections. The restaurant might get crowded at peak dinner times, so arrive early or make a reservation if possible. 

What to Eat:

Try their Huckleberry Pancakes, a unique and delicious take on traditional pancakes made with huckleberries and topped with whipped cream. They also have the chicken avocado club made with grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, and tomato on toasted sourdough bread.

And don’t forget the Bear Claw. Black Bear Diner’s signature dish features a huge cinnamon roll served warm with a cream cheese frosting.

10. Best Vegan Options- True Food Kitchen

True Food Kitchen is a health-focused restaurant in Walnut Creek, California, that attempts to give its guests nutritious and delicious meal options.  This is one of the places to eat in Walnut Creek, and it first opened its doors in 2008 and has since expanded to other locations around the United States.

They create a modern and elegant ambiance with an open kitchen and natural wood accents.  They also have a friendly and experienced staff eager to assist visitors in making smart dining selections.

True Food Kitchen is best visited during lunch or dinner, when the restaurant is busiest, and the atmosphere is liveliest. Reservations are strongly advised, particularly on weekends or for large parties.

Weekend brunch is especially popular at the restaurant, with dishes including the Seasonal Ingredient Scramble and the Banana Pancakes. Reservations are strongly advised, particularly during peak hours.

What to Eat:

For starters and salads, they have Kale guacamole, edamame dumplings, cauliflower polenta, seasonal salad, ancient grains bowl, Tuscan kale salad, chopped salad, and shrimp avocado salad.

For pizza options, they have Margherita pizza, butternut squash pizza, and kale and mushroom pizza. Other popular options are their Bowls and Greens raging from ancient grains bowl, teriyaki quinoa bowl, Mediterranean bowl, seasonal ingredient bowl, and spicy panang curry bowl.

11. Best Gluten-free Restaurant- Lettuce Restaurant & Catering

Chef-owner Hassan Jarane, who has over 20 years of culinary experience, owns and operates Lettuce Restaurant & Catering.

Lettuce Restaurant & Catering offers lunch and dinner service and catering services for events and private parties and is easily accessible from major roads and public transportation.

Their meals are noted for their robust and innovative flavors, highlighting Chef Jarane’s culinary expertise and passion for using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Gluten-free items on their menu are labeled with a “GF” sign for easy identification. Grilled octopus, roasted beet salad, seared scallops, and braised short ribs are some of their gluten-free options. They also provide gluten-free spaghetti as an alternative to their pasta recipes. 

Lettuce Restaurant & Catering is committed to accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences, and they are happy to work with customers to create customized menus that suit their needs.

What to Eat:

Their entrees are customer favorites,  from butternut squash ravioli, seared scallops, pan-roasted chicken breast, braised short ribs, and seared salmon.

Get their side dishes Truffled mac and cheese, crispy Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted root vegetables. They also serve decadent Warm chocolate cake, and seasonal fruit crisp, with affogato

12. Best for Breakfast- Sunrise Bistro And Catering

Sunrise Bistro & Catering has been serving the neighborhood since 1981 and is owned and operated by Chef-owner Rick Rubin, who has over 30 years of culinary experience.

The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and catering services for events and private parties. The restaurant’s menu includes various French-inspired American meals produced using fresh and seasonal ingredients.

The restaurant has a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, with rustic and lovely decor that evokes the warmth and hospitality of a traditional French bistro. 

Sunrise Bistro & Catering is best visited during off-peak hours, as the restaurant can get busy during peak hours, especially on weekends. Breakfast and brunch are popular times to visit because the restaurant serves a selection of robust and delicious dishes that are ideal for starting the day. 

What to Eat:

They have a Sunrise Omelette, which is a hearty breakfast dish made with three eggs, cheese, avocado, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham.

For a vegetarian option, get their Veggie Scramble featuring scrambled eggs with mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes, and goat cheese. Another must-try is their Chicken Pesto Panini, a popular lunch option. This sandwich features grilled chicken, pesto, mozzarella, and tomatoes on ciabatta bread.

13. Best Pizzeria – California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen in Walnut Creek, California is a popular restaurant chain known for its creative and innovative pizzas and a variety of other dishes inspired by California cuisine.

The ambiance is casual and modern, with an open kitchen and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant features an outdoor patio, providing a good spot for dining al fresco during warmer months. The staff is knowledgeable and has great customer service.

The best time to visit California Pizza Kitchen is during lunch or dinner hours when the restaurant offers a wide range of menu options. They also offer a popular weekend brunch, with dishes like the California Sunrise Pizza and the Breakfast Flatbread. 

The restaurant can get busy during peak meal times, so arriving early or making a reservation is recommended.

What to Eat:

Some of the standout dishes that are highly recommended to try to include the BBQ Chicken Pizza. This is a classic CPK dish with BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, cilantro, and smoked gouda cheese.

Their Thai Crunch Salad is another must-try. This refreshing salad is made with greens, cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and crispy wontons, tossed in a spicy peanut dressing.

14. Best for Desserts- The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory is a popular restaurant chain known for its extensive menu of dishes and signature cheesecakes.

They have an upscale, elegant interior with dark wood furnishings, elegant lighting, and a luxurious atmosphere. The restaurant also features a bar and lounge area, perfect for enjoying a drink or appetizer before dinner.

The menu features over 250 dishes, from appetizers and salads to sandwiches, pizzas, pasta, and seafood. The restaurant also offers a range of gluten-free and vegetarian options and a variety of cocktails and drinks. 

But the real stars of the menu are their desserts, including their famous cheesecakes in flavors such as Oreo, strawberry, and pumpkin.

The best time to visit The Cheesecake Factory in Walnut Creek is during lunch or dinner hours when the restaurant offers a wide range of menu options.

What to Eat:

Their Chicken Madeira is popular with chicken breast, asparagus, mozzarella cheese, and mushrooms, topped with Madeira wine sauce.

They also have healthy Thai Lettuce Wraps filled with chicken, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and green onions, served with a sweet chili sauce. Their Godiva Chocolate is a  decadent cheesecake made with layers of chocolate cake, chocolate cheesecake, and chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.

15. Best for Wines- Va de Vi Bistro & Wine Bar

Va de Vi Bistro & Wine Bar is one of the wonderful restaurants in Walnut Creek CA. This restaurant is recognized for its extensive wine selection and tapas-style menu of globally inspired small plates.

The menu includes cheese and charcuterie boards, salads, sandwiches, seafood, and vegetarian alternatives. The restaurant’s wine list is particularly impressive, with over 150 wines by the glass and bottle worldwide.

The ambiance at Va de Vi Bistro & Wine Bar is upscale yet relaxed, with warm lighting, stylish decor, and a welcoming atmosphere. The best time to visit is during dinner hours when the restaurant offers a wide range of small plates and entrees that are perfect for sharing.

What to Eat:

Their Grilled Octopus is a must-try. It’s a  flavorful seafood dish on a  tapas-style plate that features tender grilled octopus with garlic and lemon aioli. Their Ahi Tuna Tartare features diced raw ahi tuna with avocado, citrus, and sesame oil for a refreshing small plate.

Don’t forget to try their Wagyu Flat Iron Steak, a luxurious entree, this dish features tender Wagyu beef with chimichurri sauce, served with roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts.

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Resources:

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