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Best French Restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

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26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bouche restaurant
1. Bouche
4.6
Exceptional(1937)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 7 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!
A photo of Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar restaurant
2. Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar
4.0
Excellent(798)
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.
A photo of Cafe de la Presse restaurant
3. Cafe de la Presse
4.6
Exceptional(1920)
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.
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
4. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.7
Exceptional(481)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 4 times today
O' by Claude Le Tohic in San Francisco’s Downtown/Union Square offers a truly exceptional French dining experience. Chef Claude Le Tohic, a recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France and a James Beard Award winner, brings his mastery of French cuisine to life with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "exquisite and creative" dishes and "impeccable service," which combine to deliver a dining experience that's "on par with two and three Michelin star establishments." The restaurant’s elegant ambiance, paired with a selection of over 1000 wines, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and special" occasion.
A photo of Bombay Brasserie restaurant
5. Bombay Brasserie
4.1
Excellent(51)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 7 times today
Bombay Brasserie in San Francisco's Union Square is a culinary gem for Contemporary Indian cuisine, where the essence of India meets French innovation. Praised as a "true five-star gustatory experience," this restaurant masterfully marries the traditional flavors of India with elegant French techniques, offering diners a unique and sophisticated menu. Standout dishes like the Lobster Thermidor and Tandoori Salmon are celebrated for their creativity and exquisite taste. Guests rave about the “harmonious blend of two world-renowned cuisines,” highlighting the exceptional service and inviting ambiance. For those seeking an unforgettable dining adventure, Bombay Brasserie promises a symphony of flavors and elegance.
A photo of Elements Bar at ONE65 restaurant
6. Elements Bar at ONE65
4.1
Excellent(46)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 3 times today
One of the city's few upper floor bars, ELEMENTS Bar & Lounge is a sophisticated destination bar serving an extensive range of cocktails, fine wines, whiskies and large variety of spirits in a luxurious, intimate setting. A special menu designed for the lounge provides a selection of inviting food options designed to enjoy with drinks. ELEMENTS Bar & Lounge is located on the 4th floor of the innovative culinary destination - ONE65. The bar offers Happy hour from Tuesday to Saturday. Live DJ sets by our Resident DJs every Friday and Saturday.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
7. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.7
Exceptional(7390)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 26 times today
Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF offers an exceptional taste of Californian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center neighborhood. Known for its "consistently fabulous" dining experience, Absinthe impresses with a menu that highlights the best of local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Diners rave about dishes like the "unbelievably delicious sole meunière" and "decadently delicious" offerings that showcase the rich flavors and farm-fresh produce synonymous with Californian cooking. The ambiance is both "cozy and elegant," complemented by a "beautifully curated wine list" and a staff that ensures "superb service." Absinthe is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine!
A photo of Bon Delire restaurant
8. Bon Delire
4.6
Exceptional(222)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 64 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.
A photo of Le Parc Bistrobar restaurant
9. Le Parc Bistrobar
4.9
Exceptional(239)
Price: Moderate
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 13 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.
A photo of Le Central restaurant
10. Le Central
4.7
Exceptional(2165)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 21 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”!!!

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Discover best French restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

Discover the essence of French cuisine right in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, near Union Square, where a variety of French-themed restaurants offer a diverse dining experience. From classic Parisian bistros to innovative French fusion, each venue promises an authentic taste of France, catering to both traditional and contemporary palates. The dining scene in this vibrant area is characterized by its high-quality service, sophisticated ambience, and a commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're craving the rich, comforting flavors of a traditional French meal or the exciting blend of French-Vietnamese dishes, there's something to satisfy every taste. Patrons consistently praise these restaurants for their culinary authenticity, meticulous attention to detail, and the genuinely inviting atmosphere they provide. Dining in Downtown San Francisco offers not just a meal, but a delightful culinary journey through France's diverse gastronomic landscape. This area is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to explore the rich flavors and refined culture of French cuisine.

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