At the heart of San Francisco's vibrant culinary scene, Hilda and Jesse offers a fresh take on modern dining. Situated on Union Street, this restaurant provides an inviting space where contemporary design meets a welcoming atmosphere. The interior features thoughtful decor that combines clean lines with cozy accents, creating an environment that is both stylish and comfortable.

Hilda and Jesse has attracted attention for its innovative approach to classic dishes, presenting familiar flavors with a creative twist. The presentation emphasizes attention to detail, with dishes that are visually appealing and thoughtfully composed. The menu reflects a commitment to using quality ingredients, highlighting seasonal produce and locally sourced items whenever possible.

Recognized by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand distinction, Hilda and Jesse stands out for offering high-quality cuisine at an excellent value. This recognition underscores the restaurant's dedication to delivering an exceptional dining experience without excessive formality. While not associated with a specific chef, the culinary team collaborates to bring a cohesive vision to the table.

The restaurant's philosophy embraces a balance of innovation and tradition, aiming to delight guests with dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Frequent ingredients include fresh vegetables, artisanal meats, and thoughtfully selected accompaniments that showcase the best of Californian fare. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring that offerings remain fresh and aligned with local availability.

Guests can expect an atmosphere that encourages leisurely dining, where the ambiance complements the culinary offerings. The space is designed to be open and inviting, allowing for both intimate meals and convivial gatherings. Hilda and Jesse provides a setting where diners can enjoy thoughtfully prepared food in a relaxed yet refined environment.

In a city celebrated for its diverse culinary landscape, Hilda and Jesse contributes a unique perspective that values quality, creativity, and accessibility. The restaurant's approach to modern dining makes it a noteworthy destination for those seeking a memorable meal in San Francisco.

The Heart of Hilda and Jesse

What started as a brunch pop-up has evolved into one of San Francisco’s most imaginative Michelin-starred restaurants.

Founded by partners Ollie K.C. Liedags and Rachel Sillcocks, Hilda and Jesse first made waves as a brunch-focused pop-up before opening its brick-and-mortar location in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood in late 2021. The name is a tribute to Ollie's grandmother and Rachel's grandfather—Hilda and Jesse—honoring their roots while pushing culinary boundaries.

Described by the duo as “modern #FunLuxury,” the restaurant embraces whimsy without sacrificing depth. Designed by acclaimed interior designer Noz Nozawa, the vibrant dining room—complete with bright-red bar stools, checkered floors, and clashing patterns—mirrors Liedags’ bold culinary style: eclectic, thoughtful, and delightfully surprising.

What began as a crowd-pleasing brunch destination has grown into a fully-fledged tasting-menu experience, with highlights like Pancakes Without Borders, tempura sweet potato avocado “toast,” and more experimental dinner offerings, such as trout with avocado and citrus gelée or cucumbers topped with crispy duck skin. The restaurant also showcases Liedags’ distinctive beverage vision, incorporating playful elements like carrot juice, mead, and unexpected pairings.

Liedags draws from a wide range of inspirations—California, Asia, the Mediterranean—but rejects any single framework. “There are no guidelines,” they say, and that ethos permeates the menu, the space, and the culture.

A proudly queer-owned restaurant, Hilda and Jesse champions inclusivity and individuality, cultivating a collaborative workplace that values mental health, self-expression, and creative freedom. In 2024, the restaurant was awarded its first Michelin star, along with recognition for outstanding service.