The Top Most Expensive Restaurants in the Peninsula for a Luxurious Dining Experience

For those seeking a high-end culinary experience, the Peninsula offers some of the finest and most expensive restaurants in the Bay Area. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, hosting an important business dinner, or indulging in a once-in-a-lifetime meal, these elite restaurants deliver exceptional cuisine, world-class service, and an unforgettable ambiance.

Here are the top luxury dining spots in the Peninsula, where price is no object but excellence is guaranteed.

1. The French Laundry – The Ultimate Fine Dining Experience

📍 Location: Yountville (Worth the drive from the Peninsula)
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Tasting menu: $500+ per person
⭐ Michelin Stars: Three Stars
🍽 Why it’s great: Considered one of the best restaurants in the world, Thomas Keller’s French Laundry offers an exquisite nine-course tasting menu featuring ultra-premium ingredients like A5 Wagyu beef, black truffles, and Osetra caviar. Reservations are nearly impossible to get, but those who secure a seat enjoy one of the finest gastronomic experiences in the U.S.
🔥 Pro tip: Book months in advance through Tock, and be prepared for a three-hour dining experience.

2. Manresa – A Culinary Masterpiece

📍 Location: Los Gatos
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Tasting menu: $365+ per person
⭐ Michelin Stars: Three Stars
🍽 Why it’s great: Manresa is one of the most prestigious restaurants in California, offering a meticulously crafted multi-course tasting menu that blends Japanese precision, French technique, and California’s freshest ingredients. Each dish is an artful expression of seasonality, making every visit unique.
🔥 Pro tip: Go for the wine pairing—their sommeliers curate a selection that perfectly complements the meal.

3. Selby’s – Classic Luxury & Old Hollywood Glamour

📍 Location: Redwood City
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Entrées from $50, Tasting Menu: $250+
⭐ Michelin Guide Recommended
🍽 Why it’s great: Designed as a throwback to the golden age of Hollywood, Selby’s delivers impeccable service, beautifully plated dishes, and a top-tier steak and seafood menu. The interior is opulent and moody, making it perfect for special occasions.
🔥 Pro tip: The off-menu burger is one of the most exclusive items—only available at the bar.

4. Madera – Stunning Views & Michelin-Star Dining

📍 Location: Menlo Park (Rosewood Sand Hill)
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Entrées from $60, Tasting Menu: $275+
⭐ Michelin Stars: One Star
🍽 Why it’s great: Located inside the ultra-luxurious Rosewood Sand Hill hotel, Madera is a favorite among Silicon Valley executives. The restaurant features a massive open kitchen, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a panoramic view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The dishes are ingredient-driven and masterfully plated, with a focus on wood-grilled meats and seafood.
🔥 Pro tip: Book a sunset dinner—the golden-hour views are unbeatable.

5. The Village Pub – A Cozy Yet High-End Experience

📍 Location: Woodside
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Entrées from $50, Tasting Menu: $195+
⭐ Michelin Stars: One Star
🍽 Why it’s great: A Michelin-starred institution, The Village Pub offers a refined yet relaxed fine dining experience. With plush seating, dim lighting, and a stellar wine list, this spot is perfect for romantic evenings or celebratory dinners. The menu highlights seasonal Californian cuisine with French influences.
🔥 Pro tip: Try their dry-aged duck breast—it’s one of their signature dishes.

6. Sushi Shin – The Ultimate Omakase Experience

📍 Location: Redwood City
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Omakase: $295+ per person
⭐ Michelin Stars: One Star
🍣 Why it’s great: If you’re a sushi purist, Sushi Shin delivers an authentic, Edo-style omakase experience. The fish is flown in daily from Japan, and the intimate setting (only 10 seats) makes it a truly exclusive dining experience.
🔥 Pro tip: Reservations are a must—book well in advance.

7. The Plumed Horse – Michelin-Starred Romance

📍 Location: Saratoga
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Tasting Menu: $275+
⭐ Michelin Stars: One Star
🍽 Why it’s great: The Plumed Horse is a Michelin-starred fine dining destination known for its elegant ambiance and a menu filled with luxurious ingredients like truffle, caviar, and Wagyu beef. The restaurant is a go-to spot for high-profile guests in Silicon Valley.
🔥 Pro tip: Their black truffle risotto is an absolute must-try—it’s legendary.

8. Alexander’s Steakhouse – Japanese-Inspired Fine Steakhouse

📍 Location: Cupertino
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Wagyu & A5 Steaks from $150+
⭐ Michelin Guide Recommended
🥩 Why it’s great: Alexander’s Steakhouse takes the classic American steakhouse experience and elevates it with Japanese flavors and techniques. With premium cuts like Japanese A5 Wagyu, dry-aged tomahawk steaks, and truffle-infused sides, this is a meat lover’s paradise.
🔥 Pro tip: Try the Hamachi Shots—they’re a signature dish that diners rave about.

9. Wakuriya – Kaiseki Fine Dining

📍 Location: San Mateo
💰 Price: $$$$$ – Kaiseki Menu: $275+ per person
⭐ Michelin Stars: One Star
🍣 Why it’s great: One of the few true Kaiseki restaurants in the Bay Area, Wakuriya offers a multi-course seasonal menu crafted with traditional Japanese precision. Each dish is served with artistic presentation and deep flavors.
🔥 Pro tip: Very limited seating—reservations book up months in advance.

Would you like recommendations based on a specific cuisine (French, Japanese, steakhouse, etc.)?

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