Best of 27 French restaurants in San Francisco

Discover our curated list of top-ranked French restaurants in San Francisco, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Zazie, Café de la Presse, Chez Maman East, Chez Maman West, Bouche. Let's explore together!

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1. Zazie

A charming French bistro in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    8 AM to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (3124 Review by google)
  • Address:

    941 Cole St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers brunch and dinner, Vegetarian and vegan options available, Cozy and dog-friendly atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Reservations may be hard to get, Cash only, Small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    French toast, Omelets, Duck confit
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website
Zazie
Highly recommended by a friend, Zazie did not disappoint. Despite catering for a whole wedding party, the staff provided excellent service. The surprisingly large portions were packed with flavor, truly top-notch. On the menu, the buttermilk cinnamon pancakes stole the show with their deliciousness, though the French toast fell a bit short. The extensive menu showcases their commitment to quality. Additionally, their no-tipping policy in favor of providing a decent living wage for their staff is a refreshing and commendable approach in the US.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Celebrations
  • High-End

2. Café de la Presse

Authentic French café experience in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    8 AM to 6 PM

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (1474 Review by google)
  • Address:

    352 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Charming French café atmosphere, Excellent coffee and espresso, Wide selection of pastries and sandwiches
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, Can be quite busy during peak hours, Prices slightly higher than some other coffee shops
  • Popular Menu:

    Café au Lait, Almond Croissant, Ham and Cheese Croissant
  • Price Range:

    $3 - $10
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in an enchanting culinary journey at Café de la Presse, where each bite is a reminiscent taste of classic French perfection. Steeped in charm and timeless elegance, this iconic establishment has been a cherished dining destination for over 15 years. The menu boasts a delectable array of traditional French dishes that promise to tantalize your taste buds, while the selection of cakes and wines is nothing short of exceptional.
Returning to Café de la Presse after a hiatus feels like reuniting with an old friend – comforting, familiar, and always a delight. The impeccably curated breakfast and lunch offerings never fail to impress, with each dish reflecting a commitment to using only the finest, high-quality ingredients. The service strikes the perfect balance between laid-back and attentive, ensuring that every visit is a seamless and unforgettable experience. Situated in the heart of Union Square and Market Street, the restaurant's prime location adds an extra layer of allure to its undeniable appeal.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options

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3. Chez Maman East

Romantic date spot with a warm and welcoming feel

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (1414 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1401 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

  • Pros:

    Cozy atmosphere, friendly service, delicious French cuisine
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can be crowded, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, Croque Monsieur, Moules Frites
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Looking for a taste of authentic French cuisine to satisfy your cravings? Look no further than Chez Maman East! From the moment you step inside, you are transported back to the charming bistros of France. The mouthwatering dishes will evoke memories of your travels, with each bite bursting with exquisite flavors and traditional flair. Impeccable service adds to the overall dining experience, making it a top choice for a delightful meal.
While Chez Maman East excels in delivering delectable French classics, the freshness of the baguette fell short of expectations. However, the rich and flavorful soups, including the French onion and cream of mushroom varieties, more than made up for it. Indulge in a culinary journey through France with each spoonful of these delightful soups, that will leave you craving for more.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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4. Chez Maman West

Hidden gem in the city with authentic French dishes

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1667 Review by google)
  • Address:

    401 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Warm and cozy atmosphere, Friendly staff, Delicious French cuisine
  • Cons:

    Small portions, Limited seating, No reservations accepted
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, Croque Monsieur, Moules Frites
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
At Chez Maman West, indulged in a delightful salmon burger complemented by a crisp green salad. The ciabatta bread was a standout, although a beef burger might have elevated the experience. The creamy, delectable mussels were almost too irresistible - I found myself tempted to savor every last drop of that rich broth but managed to exercise restraint.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options

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5. Bouche

High-end French dining in a cozy setting

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (571 Review by google)
  • Address:

    603 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Known for French and European cuisine, cozy atmosphere, excellent service
  • Cons:

    Pricey, small portions, reservations may be required
  • Popular Menu:

    Escargot, Foie Gras, Bouillabaisse
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in exquisite French cuisine at Bouche, nestled in Union Square. Perfect for romantic evenings or celebratory dining, this culinary gem offers a dynamic menu that evolves bi-weekly. The succulent chicken dish was a standout during my recent visit, elevating the dining experience. While online reservations proved elusive, contacting the restaurant directly secured a charming table indoors or al fresco, treating my husband and me to an unforgettable French dining adventure.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range

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6. Frances

A charming French bistro tucked away in the Mission District

  • Time:

    5:15 to 9:15 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (645 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3870 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

  • Pros:

    Known for delicious French cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service.
  • Cons:

    Reservations may be difficult to obtain, prices can be high for some, and the location may be challenging to find.
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq Au Vin, Steak Frites, and Tarte Tatin
  • Price Range:

    $$$
Phone Directions Website
I am a frequent visitor at Frances, drawn back time and time again by their consistently satisfying dishes. While the menu may be limited at times, recent additions such as outdoor seating have made securing a reservation much easier. Despite being away for three years, returning to this establishment reaffirmed its status as one of my top choices in San Francisco. The impeccable service, emphasis on seasonal ingredients, and charming ambiance all contribute to an unforgettable dining experience. Truly delightful!

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range

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7. ONE65 San Francisco

Upscale French cuisine in a modern and elegant setting

  • Time:

    8 AM to 8 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (575 Review by google)
  • Address:

    165 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Centrally located, high-end dining options, offers various tasting menus
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, small portion sizes, reservations may be hard to get
  • Popular Menu:

    French Tasting Menu, Vegetarian Tasting Menu, Wine Pairing
  • Price Range:

    $150 - $350 per person
Phone Directions Website
At ONE65 in San Francisco, a vertical culinary adventure awaits with multiple options across different floors. While we only experienced the ground floor bakery during our Sunday visit, the anticipation of revisiting the restaurant is palpable. The reopening of The Bistro at ONE65 is a delightful sight after its prolonged closure. Despite being a loyal fan of the exquisite pastry offerings on the lower level, the recent exploration of the upper floors proved to be a revelation of culinary excellence.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Italian Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots

8. Chouquet's

High-end French patisserie with Instagrammable desserts

  • Time:

    10 AM to 8:45 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (509 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2500 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

  • Pros:

    Stylish atmosphere, Creative and delicious desserts, Friendly service
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, Limited seating, Small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Macarons, Cronuts, Crepe Cakes
  • Price Range:

    $5 - $20
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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9. Monsieur Benjamin

Classic French dishes with a modern twist

  • Time:

    Closed

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (966 Review by google)
  • Address:

    451 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Elegant atmosphere, High-quality french cuisine, Friendly service
  • Cons:

    Pricey, Limited vegetarian options, Reservations can be hard to get
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, Escargot, Foie Gras
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Celebrations
  • Dinner

10. Petit Crenn

Female-owned, farm-to-table, Michelin-starred restaurant

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (573 Review by google)
  • Address:

    609 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    High-end French cuisine, excellent service, cozy and intimate atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, limited seating, limited menu options
  • Popular Menu:

    Seasonal Tasting Menu, Whole Fish, Seafood Risotto
  • Price Range:

    $100-$200 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Cheap Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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11. L'Ardoise Bistro

Authentic French bistro experience in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (639 Review by google)
  • Address:

    151 Noe St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

  • Pros:

    Warm and cozy atmosphere, Friendly service, Excellent French cuisine
  • Cons:

    Reservations may be necessary, Limited vegetarian options, Noise level can be high
  • Popular Menu:

    Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, Crème Brûlée
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range
  • Celebrations

12. Chapeau

Affordable and tasty French-Belgian inspired brunch spot

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (648 Review by google)
  • Address:

    126 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

  • Pros:

    Friendly service, cozy atmosphere, delicious crepes and waffles
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash only, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Nutella and banana crepe, Smoked Salmon and cream cheese crepe, Liege waffle
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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13. Restaurant Jeanne D'Arc

Upscale dining experience with a cozy ambiance

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (184 Review by google)
  • Address:

    715 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Highly-rated French cuisine, elegant atmosphere, good for special occasions
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, small portion sizes, reservations may be required
  • Popular Menu:

    Bouillabaisse, Steak Frites, Coq au Vin
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Corporate Events
  • High-End

14. Routier

French cuisine in a charming Victorian house

  • Time:

    5:30 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (196 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2801 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent service, delicious food, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can be pricey, limited parking, small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, Escargots, Onion Soup
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

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15. Aquitaine Wine Bar & Bistro

Exclusive selection of French wines and cuisine in a cozy bistro setting

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (243 Review by google)
  • Address:

    216 Church St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of French wines, Cozy and romantic atmosphere, Friendly and knowledgeable staff
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some customers, Limited food options, Reservations may be necessary
  • Popular Menu:

    Charcuterie and cheese plates, Duck confit, Steak frites
  • Price Range:

    $$
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options

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16. Rue Le Pic French Restaurant

features a rotating menu of classic French dishes

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (234 Review by google)
  • Address:

    900 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Elegant atmosphere, Excellent service, High-quality French cuisine
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, Limited vegetarian options, Dress code enforced
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq au vin, Escargot, Bouillabaisse
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots

17. Gamine

Elegant French bistro in the heart of Cow Hollow

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (185 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2223 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

  • Pros:

    Charming atmosphere, delicious French food, extensive wine list, good for groups and special occasions, pet-friendly patio
  • Cons:

    Can be expensive for dinner, reservations may be difficult to get, limited parking options
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq au Vin, Steak Frites, Moules Frites
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

18. Bistro Central Parc Restaurant

French-inspired bistro with a lively atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (371 Review by google)
  • Address:

    560 Central Ave, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, good for groups, offers vegetarian and vegan options, full bar available, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, can be noisy, prices on the higher side, small portions, hit-or-miss food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, Croque Madame, French Onion Soup
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range

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19. Côte Ouest Bistro

French Riviera-inspired dishes in a romantic setting

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 2:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (266 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2953 Baker St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

  • Pros:

    Elegant atmosphere, Friendly service, Fresh and flavorful seafood
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some, Reservations may be required, Limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Seared scallops, Lobster bisque, Bouillabaisse
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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20. Hazie's

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Social Gatherings
  • Celebrations

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21. ChouChou French Bistro

Authentic French bistro experience in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    4 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (311 Review by google)
  • Address:

    400 Dewey Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94116, United States

  • Pros:

    ChouChou French Bistro offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere, attentive service, and delicious French cuisine with vegetarian and gluten-free options.
  • Cons:

    Parking can be limited and expensive, reservations are recommended, and some dishes may be too rich for some diners' tastes.
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq au Vin, Ratatouille, and Crème Brûlée
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Hidden Gems
  • Late Night

22. Café Bastille SF

French-inspired cafe with cozy atmosphere in downtown SF

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (461 Review by google)
  • Address:

    44 Belden Pl, San Francisco, CA 94104, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, friendly staff, great coffee and pastries
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, can get crowded, pricey for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Café au Lait, Almond Croissant, Avocado Toast
  • Price Range:

    $3-$10
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Rooftop
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots
  • Suburban

23. Le Central

Authentic French bistro fare in a historic building

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (320 Review by google)
  • Address:

    453 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Central location, good for groups, offers happy hour
  • Cons:

    Some complain of slow service, hit-or-miss food quality, expensive for the area
  • Popular Menu:

    Steak Frites, French Onion Soup, Escargots
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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24. Cocotte

Authentic French cuisine in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (293 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1521 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of French dishes, cozy atmosphere, excellent service
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some, limited parking, small portion sizes
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq au Vin, Steak Frites, Bouillabaisse
  • Price Range:

    $31 - $60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Indian Cuisine
  • Asian Cuisine
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Dinner

25. Mathilde French Bistro

Authentic French bistro in the heart of San Francisco

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (490 Review by google)
  • Address:

    315 5th St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent French cuisine, romantic atmosphere, attentive service
  • Cons:

    Pricey, small portions, reservations may be needed
  • Popular Menu:

    Coq au Vin, Escargots, Steak Frites
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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26. La Société Bar & Café

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Mid-Range

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27. O' by Claude Le Tohic

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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