10 Best Traditional French Restaurants In San Francisco Bay Area

1. Le Central

4.7

Exceptional(2153)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional 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”!!!

2. Bombay Brasserie

3.9

Excellent(46)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 3 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.

3. Cafe de la Presse

4.6

Exceptional(1919)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional french • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 22 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.

4. Bon Delire

4.6

Exceptional(185)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 40 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.

5. Chapeau

4.8

Exceptional(3751)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Richmond District

Booked 13 times today

Chapeau! SF is a shining example of authentic Bistro cuisine nestled in San Francisco's Richmond District. This beloved eatery has been "capturing the essence of a classic French bistro" since 1996, offering a delightful fusion of traditional and modern French dishes. Chef Philippe Gardelle's attention to detail shines through in every dish, from the "perfectly cooked duck confit" to the "rich, creamy lobster bisque." The restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. Guests consistently rave about the "wonderful experience," with many calling it "a true gem" in the neighborhood.

A photo of Catch French Bistro restaurant

6. Catch French Bistro

4.4

Awesome(85)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional 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 Aquitaine - San Francisco restaurant

7. Aquitaine - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(342)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional 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 Hyde Street Seafood House & Raw Bar restaurant

8. Hyde Street Seafood House & Raw Bar

4.1

Excellent(775)

Price: Moderate

• Traditional french • Russian Hill

Hyde Street Seafood House & Raw Bar shines as a quintessential American seafood haven nestled in the charming Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco. Revered for its "phenomenal" seafood dishes, this local gem combines the artistry of French 'En Papillote' cooking with classic American flair. Diners are treated to "absolutely wonderful seafood" that highlights the authentic flavors and freshness of the sea. Guests rave about the "fantastic" food and "friendly, outstanding service," making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether enjoying the "outstanding blackened mahi" or indulging in happy hour oysters, this restaurant promises a delightful American dining experience.

A photo of Bistro La Chaumière restaurant

9. Bistro La Chaumière

4.2

Awesome(26)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 6 times today

Bistro La Chaumière is bringing authentic French Mediterranean cooking to Divisadero Street, the gourmet corridor in San Francisco’s North of the Panhandle neighborhood.Initially opened in 2023 as Crêperie La Sarrasine and renowned for authentic Breton galettes, Bistro La Chaumière’s menu now expands with interpretations of iconic bistro dishes inspired by a Mediterranean culinary heritage and seasonal ingredients ~ from lunchtime favorites like Croque Monsieur, Œufs Cocotte and Galettes Bretonnes to bistro dinner staples like Soupe à l’Oignon, Moules-Frites, Bouillabaisse, Confit de Canard, Boeuf Bourguignon and Steak au Poivre.La Chaumière’s airy space, inspired by classic French bistro interiors,opens to sunny sidewalk tables and a sheltered parklet, offering the perfect perch to observe the buzzing neighborhood.

10. Petite Left Bank

4.6

Exceptional(438)

Price: Expensive

• Traditional french • Tiburon

Booked 14 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.

Best Traditional French Restaurants in San Francisco Bay Area

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Top Rated

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Award-winning

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10 restaurants available nearby

1. Le Central

2. Bombay Brasserie

3. Cafe de la Presse

4. Bon Delire

5. Chapeau

6. Catch French Bistro

7. Aquitaine - San Francisco

8. Hyde Street Seafood House & Raw Bar

9. Bistro La Chaumière

10. Petite Left Bank

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