The West’s Best Restaurants of 2018

If you’re looking for new places to eat in 2019, start crossing these restaurants off your list. OpenTable--one of the most highly used online reservation systems--has revealed the year’s most popular restaurants in the western states, from hidden gems to top-notch foodie favorites.

For OpenTable diners, American and Italian cuisines were the most popular, closely followed by French, Japanese, Mediterranean, and others. Hyperlocal spots were also popular, with California and Hawaiian cuisine ranking highly. Check out the western favorites below, and what reviewers loved about each spot.

• AgriVino

“A dining experience that everyone should try. Amazing Italian food that is paired with exceptional Italian wine: a feast for the senses! The chef is entertaining and informative.” - DaveF, San Francisco

• The Arthur J

“I have had many a steak in my life, but the filet was the best I have ever had! My wife loved the béarnaise sauce, but frankly it would have been a crime to put anything on the steak I got. It's expensive, but well worth it. The noise levels can be a little high for some, so if you are hard of hearing, you may be a little annoyed.” - MikeR, Orange County

• Auberge du Soleil

“Lovely. You can have a tasting menu, [dine] a la carte, or just stop by the lovely bar for drinks, a light bite and a gorgeous view. Very welcoming, with impeccable service.” - Maureen, Los Angeles

• Benu 

“Fabulous tasting menu! Went to Benu for a mini-reunion of college friends! Lobster Xiao Lao Bao bursted with umami flavor in my mouth that is out of the world. Each dish is unique and unforgettable. Staff and service are impeccable.” - Foodie, Palm Springs

• Cafe Monarch

“Best fine dining experience in Scottsdale/Phoenix. Everything from the ambience, food, drink, and service were top-notch. And we got full, which for some unknown and, quite frankly, infuriating reason seems to be elusive in the high-end prix fixe world. Furthermore, they were more than accommodating to my wife’s dietary requests. Highly recommend and excited to go back.” - WPOIV, Nashville

• Chi SPACCA

“Food was delicious but [dishes were] all large and incredibly rich. The restaurant was certainly perfect for a romantic date but would also be great for a group of 4 to 6 people as some of the dishes were geared toward serving 4 to 6. We thoroughly enjoyed the charcuterie, burrata, focaccia, braised goat, and cauliflower. If we lived in L.A. we would have brought home leftovers that would have lasted a week!” - AaronP, Washington DC

• Frances

“We had a fantastic birthday dinner here for 4 people. The tasting menu was just right, it allowing us to sample a bit of everything. Loved the beignets, the Brussels sprouts, and the chickpea fritters, the red snapper, and the Babette. Our waiter was outstanding and knew the menu and wine list to a T. Friendly, intimate neighborhood spot. Will definitely return.” - MelissaG, San Francisco

• Geronimo

“The Asian-Southwest fusion of flavors was a pleasant surprise. Everything was delicious!” - Anonymous

• Il Segreto

“Great pasta and sauces. The pasta alla Norma is one of the best in town and the Bolognese sauce is excellent. We had the frito misto as an appetizer. The calamari, shrimp, and scallops were fried perfectly as were the zucchini slices which came with it. On this visit we sat outside, which was quite lovely since we could all talk and hear each other, which is sometimes not possible inside on a crowded night.” - Giamia, Los Angeles

• Koi

“I'm a sushi lover. When I travel to new places I always look for new and interesting sushi restaurants. This is an amazing place!! If you’re hesitant about it, just go. Order the Koi crispy rice with filet mignon for a starter, then order the dragon roll. If that's not enough, you can keep ordering as you eat and it comes out so fast. Oh and the dessert is insane. Go here.” - JustinL, Los Angeles

• Kokkari Estiatorio

“First time here on a recommendation. Loved everything about it. Great food, outstanding waiter, classy ambiance. We shared a number of starters including grape leaves, lamb meatballs, pita bread with different sauces, lamb riblets. All were outstanding. Drank a nice glass of Greek wine on waiter’s recommendation and had their Greek donuts and caramel ice cream with hot caramel sauce for dessert. Terrific experience and we will be back.” - Selli5, San Francisco

• Mama’s Fish House

“Recommended as a must-visit during any trip to Maui, and I couldn’t agree more. Eclectic restaurant with beachfront views, craft cocktails, fresh ingredients, and great service. Pricy, but worth every penny for a special-occasion dinner. Can’t wait to come back.” - Jaylo

• Market Restaurant and Bar

“We have eaten at Market more than once. Entree, appetizers, and desserts are always creative and exceptionally delicious. The mini cornbread muffins are perfectly baked, not too much cornmeal or flour. Service is superb.” - itastebuds, San Francisco

• Matsuhisa Denver

“What a fantastic restaurant with excellent service! Marissa. our waitress. was so educated on the menu and led us through a wonderful culinary experience. The caviar she recommended was awesome. It was then followed by sashimi beef and then a cod dish that melted in your mouth. To top it off was an outstanding lamb. By far the best dining experience we’ve had in Denver! And that’s saying a lot.” - MarkG, Denver

• Mistral - Sherman Oaks

“We had a late lunch business meeting, hoping to have a quiet lunch. The second seating after us was amazing. They ended up getting another 7 tables after we came in. We left at 3:30pm and we were still not the last ones out. The service was impeccable and the food was delicious. Would definitely recommend for an upscale meal with old-world charm.” - Californiatraveler, Los Angeles

• Quince

“Absolutely one of the best restaurants in the world. The service, food, wine, hospitality, decor are all home runs. Quince deserves every single one of their 3 Michelin stars and then some. The risotto is deftly finished tableside where truffles are shaved tissue-thin, floating like flakes of snow on top of the risotto. This dish is a sight to behold and ethereal to taste. The wine pairings were total perfection, complementing each bite of food. Pours were appropriate and the quality of the wines superb. Quince is utter bliss.” - TheToothsomePalate, New York

• Rich Table

“Dinner was delicious - the porcini doughnuts lived up to the hype, and many other dishes surpassed expectations. Service was extremely hospitable and generous, and our server was very good at reading our group and guiding our dining experience. Thank you for a wonderful time!” - CReyes, San Francisco

• SHU - Sushi House Unico - Bel Air

“I really love this place. My local go-to for some of the best sushi, etc in L.A. Omakase is always spot-on, and there are always some wonderful specials. I'm comfortable dropping in solo for a quick bite after work, or bringing a group of any size for a special dining experience.” - MikeC, Los Angeles

• Sushi Kappo Tamura

“Sushi Kappo Tamura is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Seattle. The quality of ingredients is superb and the service is wonderful too.” - Nikkicola, Seattle

• Terzo

“Great! Everything from the Monterey Bay calamari (fresh, not the typical breaded/fried variety) and tagliatelle carbonara to the grilled coho salmon and flourless chocolate cake with cocoa nibs. Freshest ingredients, well prepared. And unparalleled service.” - KG28, San Francisco

• Toscana

“Been eating here for 20+ years. Always great. Order the carciofi salad the "old" way for a simple sliced artichoke and parmesan salad. The chicken paillard with arugula, yum. And the ribeye is the best in town, bar none!” - GEORGIE, London