The 20 Best International Restaurants in California

Terzo is an intimate Cow Hollow neighborhood restaurant offering seasonal, Mediterranean-influenced cuisine with a focus on fresh, often farm-sourced ingredients. Small plates and mains such as hummus with house-baked pita, Moroccan-spiced dishes, and seafood are prepared with care and balanced flavors. An elegant yet comfortable setting and attentive, well-paced service create a refined but relaxed dining experience.

Rich Table is a Michelin-selected restaurant known for seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine and thoughtful flavor combinations. Dishes such as black cod and duck confit are prepared with care and presented with attention to detail. Warm, attentive service, knowledgeable guidance on pairings, and a comfortable atmosphere complete the experience.

Stella offers rustic yet refined cuisine with Mediterranean and contemporary American influences, from hummus and falafel to thoughtfully prepared salmon, steak, and chicken. Guests note the abundance of gluten-free options and satisfying vegetarian choices like roasted cauliflower. The atmosphere is cozy and polished, while the staff is described as gracious and accommodating throughout the meal.

Willi's Wine Bar pairs a broad selection of wines, including flights, with a menu of shareable small plates and desserts. Guests highlight the thoughtful combinations of flavors, from fresh salads to richer dishes and sweets. A heated patio offers comfortable outdoor seating, while attentive staff contribute to an inviting dining experience.

The Black Trumpet Bistro Tapas & Wine Bar offers a tapas-driven menu with Mediterranean and Spanish influences, including seafood paella and shared small plates. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, sangria, beer, and wine alongside dishes such as ahi tartare and house olive tapenade. A jazz-themed interior, bar seating overlooking the open kitchen, and outdoor tables create an inviting atmosphere for relaxed, upscale dining.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station offers an expansive brewery and beer garden experience with indoor halls, a spacious patio, and bocce courts. Guests explore a wide range of Stone craft beers, plus select guest brews, often guided by knowledgeable staff. Casual fare, including large Bavarian pretzels, rounds out the lively atmosphere.

Scopo Divino is a corner wine bar and bistro known for its extensive selection of California and international wines, including curated flights. Sidewalk tables and a cozy interior create a relaxed, European-style café atmosphere for sharing charcuterie, small plates, and comforting brunch dishes like beignets and eggs Florentine. Attentive, knowledgeable staff guide guests through the wine list and contribute to an inviting experience.

Sweet Basil California Eatery offers a varied menu that combines Californian fare with Italian-inspired dishes such as chicken parmesan, flat iron steak with pasta, and build-your-own pastas. Guests describe the portions as satisfying and the flavors well balanced, from appetizers to desserts. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with attentive service and an owner who actively engages with diners.

Skadi offers contemporary, Nordic-influenced cuisine in a sleek dining room accented with Norwegian artifacts. Dishes such as house-cured gravlax, venison and smoked trout highlight careful preparation, balanced flavors and refined presentations. Attentive, personable service and an engaged chef contribute to an intimate, memorable experience.

Compline is a discreet spot in downtown Napa offering a wine-centered dining experience in an unassuming setting. Guests enjoy carefully prepared dishes, including house-made pasta and notable desserts, alongside a thoughtful wine selection. Occasional themed supper events add variety, while attentive service and a cozy indoor–patio ambiance contribute to a relaxed, European-style wine bar feel.

The Iron Gate offers classic steak and seafood dishes in an elegant, old-world atmosphere suited to special occasions. Guests highlight generously portioned, well-prepared plates, from salmon and steak to seasonal fish specials and refined desserts like Grand Marnier soufflé. Attentive, courteous service and live music in the bar on weekends contribute to a leisurely, traditional dining experience.

Zov's offers a varied menu of contemporary American dishes with subtle Mediterranean touches, featuring items like lamb burgers, chicken paillard salad, and braised short ribs. Guests note flavorful preparations and thoughtfully presented desserts, including options suitable for different dietary needs. The restaurant accommodates both intimate meals and larger groups, with generally attentive, welcoming service that contributes to a comfortable dining experience.

Zov's Irvine offers Mediterranean-inspired American cuisine in an eclectic, inviting setting. Guests highlight flavorful dishes such as salmon, lamb burgers, and classic mezze like hummus and tabbouleh. The restaurant features both an expansive patio and a redesigned interior with an enlarged bar. Attentive, knowledgeable service contributes to a relaxed, sit-down dining experience.

Chinois On Main is a longstanding Santa Monica restaurant known for its inventive Asian-inspired cuisine in an elegant, lively setting. Signature items such as duck or lobster spring rolls and the Chinois chicken salad highlight bold, balanced flavors. Attentive, knowledgeable service and a consistent dining experience keep guests returning over the years.

Nectar Café specializes in plant-based cuisine with an extensive menu of hot and cold options, from hearty tacos and enchiladas to soups and inventive sandwiches. Dishes such as Buffalo cauliflower and tempeh Reuben showcase satisfying flavors that appeal to a wide range of diners. A casual setting and a pet-friendly patio add to the relaxed, welcoming experience.

Garden Creamery serves small-batch ice cream featuring inventive, globally inspired flavors, with a notable emphasis on Asian and tropical influences. Guests can sample a wide range of options, from tea-infused scoops to fruit-forward combinations. The shop is known for its smooth textures, fresh-tasting ingredients, and accommodating, patient staff.