Best French Restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

31 restaurants available nearby

1. Bon Delire

4.7

Exceptional(114)

Price: Expensive

• French • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 68 times today

Bon Délire is a standout destination for authentic Bistro cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District along the Embarcadero. With its chic Parisian-inspired ambiance, this charming spot transports diners to the streets of France, offering a perfect blend of classic and innovative dishes. Guests rave about the “superb steak frites & oysters” and the “best French Bistro in the Bay Area.” The service is consistently praised as “warm, friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable,” making every dining experience memorable. Whether indulging in the delicious steak tartare or savoring a delightful croque monsieur, Bon Délire promises a taste of France with every bite.

2. Petite Left Bank

4.5

Awesome(426)

Price: Expensive

• French • Tiburon

Booked 22 times today

Petite Left Bank, nestled in the delightful downtown Tiburon, offers a Bistro experience that transports diners straight to the heart of France. Renowned for its authentic French flavors, this charming eatery captures the essence of Paris with every dish. Guests rave about the “wonderful, very tasty, and authentic French bistro food,” and the “exquisite” service that makes each visit memorable. The ambiance, reminiscent of a true French café, is perfect for everything from casual brunches to special occasions. With its delightful mix of handcrafted French classics and modern bistro flair, Petite Left Bank is a must-visit gem in Marin County.

3. Cote Ouest

4.9

Exceptional(741)

Price: Moderate

• French • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Booked 5 times today

Côte Ouest Bistro is a contemporary French bistro led by partners Laurent Monchicourt & Martin Sarraih. In April, 2021, the pair transformed the former Baker Street Bistro into a modern 21st century neighborhood gem. Nestle into one of our bay window seats and enjoy conversation over a plate of charcuterie with the perfect glass of Bordeaux. Chef Sarraih's prepares seasonal specialties as well as favorite French classics like Steak Frites, and Duck Confit. And the custard soaked Croissant French Toast is not to be missed if you stop by for brunch on our sunny terrace.

4. Le Central

4.7

Exceptional(2137)

Price: Expensive

• French • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 15 times today

Opened in 1974, Le Central has been serving traditional French cuisine for five decades, boasting the honor of being San Francisco’s most historic French bistro. Located on the edge of the Financial District, Union Square, and Chinatown in a rare one story brick building adorned with its iconic pink neon sign and crowned by a vintage “Tabac” sign. Step into this charming restaurant and be transported to a Parisian brasserie. With exposed brick walls, original imported brass bar, stained glass features, and cozy banquettes topped with brass railings. The atmosphere invites you to unwind and enjoy delicious French fare and exceptional wines and cocktails in an upscale, yet casual environment. Enjoy French classics like steak-frites, escargot, onion soup, and our world famous Cassoulet. Le Central’s cuisine is comforting yet sumptuous. Le Central is the downtown stop for locals and visitors looking for a taste of “La Belle Vie”!!!

5. Chouquet's

4.8

Exceptional(1717)

Price: Moderate

• French • Pacific Heights

Booked 28 times today

Chouquet's in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a delightful haven for those seeking authentic Contemporary French cuisine. Nestled on Fillmore Street, this charming bistro offers a "taste of French lifestyle and cuisine" that transports diners straight to Paris. The menu boasts exquisite dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and duck confit, complemented by "an eclectic wine list" featuring over 20 wines by the glass. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and the "exceptional and friendly" service, making every visit a memorable affair. Whether you're indulging in their famous crème brûlée or savoring a steaming bowl of onion soup, Chouquet's promises a truly satisfying culinary experience.

6. Florio

4.8

Exceptional(1757)

Price: Moderate

• French • Pacific Heights

Booked 36 times today

Florio in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine, making it a must-visit for Italian food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s dedication to using local, seasonal, and organic ingredients shines through in their house-made seasonal pasta and comforting Italian favorites like Veal, Pork & Ricotta meatballs. "Florio always delivers," rave patrons, who are consistently impressed by the "excellent food and service" and the warm, sophisticated ambience that strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. With a well-curated wine list featuring Italian specialties, Florio offers a true taste of Italy right in your neighborhood.

A photo of Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar restaurant

7. Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar

4.1

Excellent(779)

Price: Expensive

• French • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 10 times today

Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar in San Francisco’s Financial District is a beacon of exceptional French cuisine, seamlessly blending Mediterranean influences with authentic French flavors. The restaurant’s “exquisite and attentive service” and “beautifully plated and lavishly seasoned” dishes are frequently lauded by diners, making it a must-visit. The menu features a variety of expertly crafted French classics with a modern twist, such as thin-sliced octopus and perfectly prepared seafood, which are all beautifully presented. The “genuine hospitality” and “out of this world” ambiance of Ula create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of French culinary art.

8. Bouche

4.6

Exceptional(1918)

Price: Expensive

• French • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 8 times today

Bouche, nestled in the vibrant Downtown/Union Square of San Francisco, masterfully captures the essence of Provencal cuisine, offering a truly authentic and delightful dining experience. Renowned Parisian Chef Jeremy Blaringhem crafts a seasonal menu that features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, embodying the true spirit of Provence. Diners consistently rave about the "delicious and creative food" and "impeccable service," noting the restaurant's ability to transport them to a cozy French bistro. The charming ambiance, friendly staff, and exquisite dishes like "The adventurous" make Bouche a standout spot. Visit Bouche to indulge in a culinary journey that’s both authentic and unforgettable!

9. Le Parc Bistrobar

4.8

Exceptional(116)

Price: Expensive

• French • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 8 times today

Le Parc Bistrobar is a delightful French restaurant in Union Square, San Francisco, nestled within the Galleria Park Hotel. Led by the renowned 2-star Michelin Chef Bruno Chemel, this bistro offers a culinary escapade that perfectly complements the city's refined tastes. The menu at Le Parc Bistrobar is a tribute to classic French cuisine, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring out the rich, traditional flavors in every dish. The lounge bar provides a wide variety of wines and cocktails to enhance the gourmet experience.

10. Cafe de la Presse

4.5

Awesome(1916)

Price: Moderate

• French • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 11 times today

Cafe de la Presse is a shining beacon of authentic Bistro cuisine nestled in the heart of Downtown San Francisco near Union Square. Embracing a Parisian flair, this charming establishment invites diners to savor traditional French classics like Coquille St. Jacques and eggs Benedict amidst an atmosphere reminiscent of a French café. "A San Francisco gem," it effortlessly combines exquisite cuisine with attentive service, creating a delightful dining experience. Patrons rave about the "deliciously wonderful" offerings and the "vibrant atmosphere" that make it a go-to spot for brunch or a leisurely meal. Whether indulging in a flaky croissant or sipping a steaming café au lait, Cafe de la Presse delivers an authentic taste of France, right in the heart of San Francisco.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
KeithVIP
Phoenix / Arizona •46 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Le Central is a San Francisco classic. I’ve been going for 30 years and the food remains delicious and the service helpful and attentive. For the first time I had the roasted chicken, at our waiter’s recommendation. Outstanding. Accompanied by delicious string fried potatoes and delicious Brussels sprouts. A hit!
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Le CentralPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
•
4.7
J
James
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Was there on New Years Day at 1 pm. Perhaps the best Omelet I have ever had (has Raclette cheese inside). We sat at the bar. I recommend the bar for the "ambience."
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Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.7
M
Mimi
San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Cozy cafe with friendly and attentive service. I can’t say I liked how the croque madame was served. It was a giant, wide slice of bread so the egg looked a bit sad and small on it. Not a lot of cheese on it and it had been placed under a broiler so the thin, top layer of cheese was browned taking all the warm, gooey cheesiness away making it dry. Give me stacked bread with cheese in the middle AND on top and let that egg dominate the top visually. My friend liked her quiche okay. The star was the boeuf bourguignon which was flavorful and delicious. Cocktails were tasty. Overall a positive experience and we’ll go back.
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Chouquet'sPrice: Moderate• French• Pacific Heights
•
4.8
OT
OpenTable DinerVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
This is such a cozy and romantic venue. Set in the tranquil and idyllic Village of Tiburon. The petit left bank is everything you’d want from a little French bistro. The menu is really good. I’ve gone there at least 10 times and the service and food have always been excellent. Looking forward to our next visit.
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Petite Left BankPrice: Expensive• French• Tiburon
•
4.5
I
IvyVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •24 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 27, 2024
Simple but great menu options. The food was delicious. Service was quick and friendly. This was our second experience. Will return. Merci!
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Cote OuestPrice: Moderate• French• Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
•
4.9

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31 restaurants available nearby

1. Bon Delire

2. Petite Left Bank

3. Cote Ouest

4. Le Central

5. Chouquet's

6. Florio

7. Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar

8. Bouche

9. Le Parc Bistrobar

10. Cafe de la Presse

See what locals rave about

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