Best French Restaurants in Cole Valley

27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant

1. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF

4.8

Exceptional(7358)

Price: Expensive

• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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 Bistro Central Parc restaurant

2. Bistro Central Parc

4.7

Exceptional(933)

Price: Moderate

• French • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 14 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.

3. L'Ardoise

4.9

Exceptional(3374)

Price: Expensive

• French • The Castro

Booked 16 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.

4. Bon Delire

4.7

Exceptional(114)

Price: Expensive

• French • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 68 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

4.7

Exceptional(3735)

Price: Expensive

• French • Richmond District

Booked 17 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.

6. Florio

4.8

Exceptional(1757)

Price: Moderate

• French • Pacific Heights

Booked 34 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.

7. Chouquet's

4.8

Exceptional(1717)

Price: Moderate

• French • Pacific Heights

Booked 30 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.

8. Cote Ouest

4.9

Exceptional(741)

Price: Moderate

• French • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Booked 6 times today

Côte Ouest Bistro is a contemporary French bistro led by partners Laurent Monchicourt & Martin Sarraih. In April, 2021, the pair transformed the former Baker Street Bistro into a modern 21st century neighborhood gem. Nestle into one of our bay window seats and enjoy conversation over a plate of charcuterie with the perfect glass of Bordeaux. Chef Sarraih's prepares seasonal specialties as well as favorite French classics like Steak Frites, and Duck Confit. And the custard soaked Croissant French Toast is not to be missed if you stop by for brunch on our sunny terrace.

A photo of Catch French Bistro restaurant

9. Catch French Bistro

4.3

Awesome(74)

Price: Expensive

• French • Daly City

Booked 3 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 O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant

10. O' by Claude Le Tohic

4.8

Exceptional(469)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 11 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.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
Chris
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We had a great experience and food! We will come back.
More info
Bistro Central ParcPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Panhandle / USF
•
4.7
J
James
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Was there on New Years Day at 1 pm. Perhaps the best Omelet I have ever had (has Raclette cheese inside). We sat at the bar. I recommend the bar for the "ambience."
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Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.7
J
John
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Our party of four was seated in a window niche with a view of the sidewalk- perfect! Our party had two terrific specialty cocktails- a Red Swan and an Unwinding Salve, both delicious 😋. For entrees we had Parisian gnocchi in a cream sauce, mushroom tagliatelle, and the Absinthe burger with truffle cheese and fries- all were delicious. The best dessert was the Pot de Crème, a dense chocolate pudding with a dense whipped cream topping! Yummy. Our waiter was engaging and helpful in making choices. Overall, we had a fun, enjoyable, and satisfying dining experience before a concert at SFJAZZ around the corner. We’ll be returning to this French restaurant again!
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Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
•
4.8
I
IvyVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •24 reviews
5.0
Dined on 27 Dec 2024
Simple but great menu options. The food was delicious. Service was quick and friendly. This was our second experience. Will return. Merci!
More info
Cote OuestPrice: Moderate• French• Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
•
4.9
G
GraceVIP
Houston •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on 25 Dec 2024
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

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Best French Restaurants in Cole Valley

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27 restaurants available nearby

1. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF

2. Bistro Central Parc

3. L'Ardoise

4. Bon Delire

5. Chapeau

6. Florio

7. Chouquet's

8. Cote Ouest

9. Catch French Bistro

10. O' by Claude Le Tohic

See what locals rave about

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