California Leads OpenTable's 2026 National Ranking With 19 Entries
Three Los Angeles spots, including the 107-year-old Musso & Frank Grill, joined a list based on 11 million diner reviews and reservation data.
By Alessia Romano ·
OpenTable released its 2026 list of the 100 best restaurants in America on Wednesday, and the data reveals a distinct geographic concentration. California claimed 19 spots, more than any other state, placing the Golden State at the top of the national tally. The selection process diverges from traditional critical reviews by prioritizing direct consumer behavior and feedback.
The platform analyzed more than 11 million reviews from verified diners. The dataset covered the period from September 2025 to August 2026. OpenTable weighted several specific metrics to calculate an overall score for each location. These factors included overall diner ratings, the percentage of five-star reviews, and search frequency. The algorithm also measured the number of alerts set for available tables.
Additional data points included how far in advance reservations were made and the percentage of seating capacity booked. Restaurants had to meet a minimum review threshold and maintain good standing with the platform to qualify. The final 100 entries are not ranked by position; the numerical distinction merely indicates inclusion in the group.
Three Los Angeles establishments made the cut. Musso & Frank Grill, which has operated on Hollywood Boulevard since 1919, joined the list. The venue is known for its red-jacketed waiters, leather booths, and a menu featuring steaks, martinis, and chicken pot pie. Its long history adds a classic dimension to the 2026 roster.
Providence, led by Chef Michael Cimarusti, also appeared on the list. Located on Melrose Avenue, the restaurant focuses on seafood and serves an elaborate tasting menu. It received three Michelin stars in 2025. The establishment contrasts sharply with the older institution nearby, offering a modern fine-dining experience centered on ingredients from the sea.
Dunsmoor, opened in 2022 in Glassell Park, rounded out the Los Angeles contingent. Chef Brian Dunsmoor operates a wood-fire restaurant that leans into American cooking traditions. The menu draws inspiration from various regions of the country, with dishes prepared over an open flame. This spot represents a newer, fire-based approach to the national scene.
Other California entries include Bar Cecil in Palm Springs, Callie and Cesarina in San Diego, Naisho Omakase in Costa Mesa, and Strong Water in Anaheim. The full list spans multiple states, with New York claiming 14 spots, Colorado seven, and Pennsylvania seven. Chicago and Denver each contributed several entries, though none matched California's total count.
The methodology relies on reservation activity and review volume rather than anonymous inspections or critic scores. This approach aims to reflect actual diner preference and availability trends. The data provides a snapshot of popularity and service demand across the United States for the past year.
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