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Best French Restaurants in The Castro

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28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of L'Ardoise restaurant
1. L'Ardoise
4.9
Exceptional(3369)
Price: Expensive
• French • The Castro
Booked 19 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of The Castro in San Francisco, L'Ardoise is a beacon of authentic French cuisine. With its cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a quaint Parisian bistro, this delightful spot is praised for delivering traditional and exquisite European fare. Patrons rave about the "mouthwatering escargot in parsley sauce" and the "tender, flavorful duck," often remarking that dining here is "like being in Paris." The service is consistently described as "attentive and professional," creating an inviting dining experience that keeps guests returning. Whether it's for the perfectly crisped potatoes or the praised wine list, L'Ardoise promises a true taste of Europe with every dish.
A photo of Catch French Bistro restaurant
2. Catch French Bistro
4.3
Awesome(73)
Price: Expensive
• French • Daly City
Booked 7 times today
Catch French Bistro in San Francisco offers a delightful mix of authentic French cuisine with a unique seafood twist. Located at 2362 Market Street, this charming venue is celebrated for its sophisticated atmosphere and live piano music, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Diners rave about the "exquisite seafood dishes" and consistently "excellent cuisine," highlighting specialties like the Seafood Stew and Quiche Lorraine. With glowing reviews such as "the salmon risotto was amazing" and "the best clam chowder I have ever had," Catch French Bistro not only promises but delivers a taste of France with every dish. The welcoming staff and "unbelievably friendly" service make every visit a pleasure, ensuring that Catch French Bistro is a standout destination in the Castro district. Join us for a meal that will transport you straight to the heart of French culinary excellence.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
3. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.8
Exceptional(7355)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 29 times today
Absinthe Brasserie and Bar in San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness neighborhood is a celebration of French cuisine, consistently lauded for its authenticity and excellence. Diners rave about the "consistently delicious food" and "excellent wait staff," creating an atmosphere that's both inviting and distinctly French. From the Sole Meunière to the Duck Confit, each dish is "beautifully prepared and delicious," making every meal a delightful culinary journey. The Salade Lyonnaise and Cassoulet are crowd favorites, often described as "outstanding" and akin to "a quick trip to France." With accolades for its "Michelin-rated quality" food and a "timeless and stunning" decor, Absinthe stands out as not just a meal, but an immersive French dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Aquitaine - San Francisco restaurant
4. Aquitaine - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(335)
Price: Moderate
• French • Noe Valley
Booked 5 times today
Aquitaine in San Francisco's Noe Valley is a beacon for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike, offering an authentic slice of southwest France. Esteemed for its "fabulous French fare," the restaurant has been commended for having "The Best Mussels in the Bay Area" by Michael Bauer of The San Francisco Chronicle. Aquitaine's wine bar stands out by offering an extensive selection of wines that are meticulously chosen to complement their Gascon-inspired cuisine. Guests rave about the "great selection of wines, affordable and well-paired with food," highlighting the restaurant's ability to create a cozy, European-like ambiance that makes every visit memorable. Whether it's the delicious wine, the inviting atmosphere, or the excellent service, Aquitaine provides an exceptional dining experience that echoes the charm of a true French wine bar.
A photo of Bon Delire restaurant
5. Bon Delire
4.6
Exceptional(107)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 74 times today
Bon Délire’s chic yet approachable atmosphere draws inspiration from the cafés, lounges, and bistros of Paris. The interior boasts a sculpted horseshoe-shaped wooden bar, plush banquettes, and vibrant, European-imported furnishings that invite intimate dining and lounging. Guests can enjoy indoor seating with views of the Bay Bridge, or relax at the outdoor cafe-style seating, framed by planter boxes and umbrellas, perfect for people-watching along the Embarcadero.At night, the space comes alive with flickering projections of vintage French films and a relaxed, nostalgic soundtrack of throwback French and American tunes, making Bon Délire a sophisticated yet cozy setting for private and semi-private events.
A photo of Florio restaurant
6. Florio
4.8
Exceptional(1754)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 20 times today
Florio, nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, is a celebrated haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of its offerings, highlighting dishes like the "amazing" pasta Bolognese and "exceptional" cioppino that showcase Florio's commitment to traditional Italian flavors. The restaurant's ambiance is frequently described as "cozy" and "casual," perfect for a romantic evening or a lively dinner with friends. Critics and regulars alike commend Florio for its "excellent food and service," with one guest noting, "The bolognese pasta was the best I’ve ever had." This neighborhood gem continues to impress with its well-crafted menu and warm, inviting atmosphere.
A photo of Bistro Central Parc restaurant
7. Bistro Central Parc
4.7
Exceptional(931)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 17 times today
Bistro Central Parc in the North Panhandle of San Francisco is a treasure trove of authentic American cuisine, delighting locals and visitors alike. With its cozy ambiance and attentive staff, the restaurant consistently serves up a culinary experience that resonates deeply with diners. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one noting, "I've gone two times now... The first time, I ordered the pasta, and I thought it was the best pasta dish I've ever had" – a testament to the quality and authenticity of their dishes. Known for its excellent service and fantastic early bird specials, Bistro Central Parc is described as a "quintessential neighborhood restaurant" where every meal is both a comfort and a discovery. This gem not only offers great value but also a heartfelt connection to the essence of American dining.
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
8. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.8
Exceptional(468)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 2 times today
O' by Claude Le Tohic, located in the vibrant heart of Downtown/Union Square San Francisco, offers an exceptional dining experience that epitomizes the best of Contemporary French cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant, under the expert helm of Chef Claude Le Tohic, presents a culinary journey with its meticulously crafted tasting menus. Guests rave about the harmonious blend of flavors and textures, with dishes described as "works of art." Notably, the restaurant's service is consistently lauded as "impeccable" and "attentive," enhancing the luxurious yet welcoming ambiance. Whether it's the delicate arrangement of a five-course meal or the grandeur of the nine-course feast, each bite at O' is a celebration of modern French gastronomy at its finest. As one diner put it, "The best meal of my life - worth every penny!!", O' by Claude Le Tohic stands as a beacon of culinary excellence in San Francisco.
A photo of Chouquet's restaurant
9. Chouquet's
4.8
Exceptional(1714)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 18 times today
Nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Chouquet's presents a delightful culinary experience highlighting the best of Contemporary French cuisine. This cozy bistro offers a refined yet casual ambiance, perfect for any dining occasion. Guests rave about signature dishes like the boeuf bourguignon and duck confit, each prepared with a modern twist while honoring traditional French flavors. With glowing reviews, one diner exclaimed, "The food was unbelievable!!" and another praised the perfect pairing of the "delicious" smoked salmon Benedict with a side salad, stating it was "Very French." Whether you're indulging in their famous crème brûlée or enjoying the lively atmosphere at their sidewalk tables, Chouquet's consistently delivers an authentic French dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Le Central restaurant
10. Le Central
4.7
Exceptional(2132)
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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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Wayne
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    ------ they even have an absinthe list for all the different kinds of absinthe that they sell to diners ! the one i picked had a slight licorice taste . our waiter knew that i would like a slightly less sweet riesling, so he brought a sample for me to try. super service . . .
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    •
    4.8
  • joseph
    San Francisco Bay Area •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A wonderful holiday, prix fixe, menu with many, many options for our Christmas Eve party of eight . Deliciously prepared and beautifully presented by our primary staff person, Amira. Wines and champagne were also quite good. It’s our second vist since ownership change and we all pleased by the experience.
    More info
    Catch French BistroPrice: Expensive• French• Daly City
    •
    4.3
  • GraceVIP
    Houston •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    RUN to eat here. The best meal I’ve had in SF after 7 years. Better than Quince, Rich Table, Osito, Earnest, Saison. I’m not even kidding and yes, I know those are different cusisines. The food is divine. Authentic French food and service (if they liked Americans).
    More info
    L'ArdoisePrice: Expensive• French• The Castro
    •
    4.9
  • Marcia
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    It was a very special Christmas Eve dinner! I first heard about this restaurant when it was reviewed in the SF Chronicle 11/3/24. It was as good as it possibly could be. The food was absolutely delicious. My daughter & I ordered the steak & frites & I asked for my frites to be very crispy & for 2 dishes of aioli to dip them in & they easily accommodated me. The steak with peppercorn sauce was tender and a perfect medium rare.
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable DinerVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great food, great ambience. Service could’ve been more attentive given that we were the only people in the restaurant for the most part.
    More info
    Aquitaine - San FranciscoPrice: Moderate• French• Noe Valley
    •
    4.8

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.

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