Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best French Restaurants in The Castro

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of L'Ardoise restaurant
1. L'Ardoise
4.8
Exceptional(3395)
Price: Expensive
• French • The Castro
Booked 14 times today
L'Ardoise, nestled in the charming Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, offers an authentic European dining experience that transports you straight to the heart of France. Known for its "exceptional food" and "perfect celebratory ambiance," this cozy bistro consistently impresses with its "delicious and authentic French cuisine." Diners rave about the impeccable service, with standout dishes like duck confit and coq au vin making every visit memorable. The intimate setting creates a "romantic experience" ideal for special occasions or a delightful evening out. With a "fantastic wine list" and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, L'Ardoise is a must-visit for European cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Catch French Bistro restaurant
2. Catch French Bistro
4.4
Awesome(85)
Price: Expensive
• French • Daly City
Booked 8 times today
Catch French Bistro in Daly City, San Francisco, is a true haven for seafood lovers, offering an exceptional dining experience that emphasizes quality and authenticity. Their seafood dishes, like the exquisite cioppino filled with fresh, tender seafood in a rich broth, receive rave reviews. Diners often praise the "perfectly cooked salmon," both crisp on the outside and moist inside, as well as the "superb calamari appetizer" that includes crispy shrimp. With a menu that seamlessly blends classic French cuisine and modern flair, Catch French Bistro ensures that every dish is crafted with care and precision, making it a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
3. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.8
Exceptional(7383)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 18 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
4. Bon Delire
4.6
Exceptional(185)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 41 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 Aquitaine - San Francisco restaurant
5. Aquitaine - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(342)
Price: Moderate
• French • Noe Valley
Booked 6 times today
Aquitaine - San Francisco in Noe Valley is a delightful haven for tapas and small plates enthusiasts, offering an authentic taste of southwest France. Guests rave about the "amazing" culinary delights, with standout mentions of the cauliflower "beignets" that are hailed as "the best ever." The restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity shines through each dish, making diners feel as if they are experiencing a bistro in the heart of Paris. With a cozy atmosphere complemented by attentive and friendly service, Aquitaine is indeed a gem, offering a unique and flavorful journey into French cuisine that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of Florio restaurant
6. Florio
4.7
Exceptional(1769)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 19 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 Bistro Central Parc restaurant
7. Bistro Central Parc
4.7
Exceptional(952)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 15 times today
Bistro Central Parc in North Panhandle, San Francisco, is a true gem for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience with great value. Guests rave about the "fantastic food and service" and describe it as a "neighborhood gem" with a "romantic atmosphere." The restaurant is known for its early bird specials, praised as a "great deal," allowing diners to explore a diverse menu. The attentive and caring staff ensures every visit is memorable, making it a beloved spot for locals and newcomers alike. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual dinner, Bistro Central Parc promises a warm and delicious American experience.
A photo of Chouquet's restaurant
8. Chouquet's
4.7
Exceptional(1735)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 24 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.
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
9. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.8
Exceptional(477)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 3 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 Le Central restaurant
10. Le Central
4.7
Exceptional(2153)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 8 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”!!!

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • BradfordVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Another amazing meal at our favorite French bistro in San Francisco. Sit at the bar for more room and great people-watching. We had the most perfect escargot and steak frites that we have ever eaten anywhere in the world. Do not come here expecting a restaurant. It is a traditional french cafe/bar with incredible food and service.
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.6
  • Stephen
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Valentine's Day 2025. Food and service were phenomenal (as has always been my experience). Although the menu was similar (if not an exact replica) to what was offered in 2024, the food is so delicious and there are enough options offered that they could keep it the same for 3 years and you'd still have options to try something new. One key "rave" is that last year they had no non-alcoholic beverages to offer, but we were both pleasantly surprised and extremely happy that they heard our feedback and had a few non-alcoholic options available this year, including a non-alcoholic virgin champagne which was *very* good. 10/10 would recommend, and would of course come back for more.
    More info
    L'ArdoisePrice: Expensive• French• The Castro
    •
    4.8
  • Terry
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    A lovely Valentine's Day experience. Good food, nice ambience. Slightly cold on a chilly night.
    More info
    Catch French BistroPrice: Expensive• French• Daly City
    •
    4.4
  • SusanVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Oe if the best restaurants in San Francisco--always delicious food, amazing service, welcoming and warm
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    •
    4.8
  • KatherineVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •94 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Florio is a fabulous neighborhood restaurant. Great food,great service, and atmosphere that doesn’t stop, all in a very nice, casual setting. Felipe was a wonderful waiter, and the bartender knows how to make the perfect drink. You cannot go wrong here. You will drink well, dine well, and end up having conversations that bring you into the fold of the neighborhood. Really, we keep going back again and again.
    More info
    FlorioPrice: Moderate• French• Pacific Heights
    •
    4.7

Discover best French restaurants in The Castro

Explore the essence of French dining in the heart of San Francisco's Castro district, a neighborhood celebrated for its diverse and vibrant dining scene. Our curated selection of French restaurants offers a delightful experience, capturing the authentic flavors and sophisticated ambiance reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. Each restaurant boasts a unique blend of traditional and innovative French cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable culinary adventure for every palate. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening, a casual brunch, or a fine dining experience, these establishments cater to all occasions with exquisite menus and impeccable service. Patrons consistently praise the high quality of the dishes, the elegant settings, and the knowledgeable staff, enhancing the overall dining experience. Enjoy the charm and elegance of French cuisine right in the cultural melting pot of The Castro, making every meal a memorable event. Perfect for food enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike, our selection promises to meet your dining expectations with a touch of Parisian flair.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo