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Best French Restaurants in Downtown

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Dobson's Bar & Restaurant restaurant
1. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1428)
Price: Moderate
• French • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 5 times today
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant in downtown San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter is renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings, firmly establishing itself as a culinary gem over the past 40 years. The standout dish, the mussel bisque, has been described as something to "think of heaven" and "absolutely out of this world," making it a must-try for anyone visiting. Additionally, diners consistently praise the sea bass and scallops for their excellence. The cozy and intimate setting of Dobson’s, combined with its innovative California cuisine that infuses elements from Italian, French, Spanish, and Asian influences, ensures a unique and delightful dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Dobson’s promises not only a meal but a memorable seafood adventure in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of Tapas & Beers restaurant
2. Tapas & Beers
4.9
Exceptional(486)
Price: Moderate
• French • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 3 times today
Tapas & Beers, nestled in Downtown San Diego's historic Spreckels building, offers a mouthwatering farm-to-table experience that captures the essence of French and Spanish cuisine. Each dish is crafted from scratch with fresh, mostly organic ingredients, ensuring that every bite is of the highest quality. Patrons rave about the authenticity and flavor of the menu, with reviews highlighting the "delicious, shareable dishes" and the fresh take on classic recipes. The restaurant's dedication to using local, sustainable ingredients is a testament to their commitment to quality and authenticity, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Whether you're enjoying a quiet dinner or gathering for a pre-show meal, Tapas & Beers delivers an unforgettable farm-to-table dining experience right in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of Mister A's restaurant
3. Mister A's
4.9
Exceptional(8615)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 59 times today
Mister A's in downtown San Diego is an emblem of farm-to-table excellence, offering a dining experience that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also celebrates the local bounty. Known for its breathtaking rooftop views and sophisticated ambiance, Mister A's prides itself on selecting the finest local farm produce to craft dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Patrons rave about the freshness and flavor of the cuisine, with one guest exclaiming the food is "exceptional" and the service "exemplary." The culinary team's commitment to homemade, scratch-made selections showcases their dedication to quality and authenticity in every dish, making Mister A's a must-visit for anyone seeking a true farm-to-table experience in San Diego.
A photo of Little Frenchie restaurant
4. Little Frenchie
4.7
Exceptional(1415)
Price: Moderate
• French • Coronado
Booked 21 times today
Step into Little Frenchie, located in the charming neighborhood of Coronado, and experience a slice of Paris with its chef-driven bistro offerings. Praised as "the best French cuisine place in the west," diners are enchanted by dishes such as the braised short rib, described as "made to perfection." With a rotating menu that showcases Provencal classics, an impressive selection of imported cheeses, and an extensive wine collection, authenticity shines through every detail. Patrons rave about the "authentic French cuisine" and the feeling of being "back in Paris." Enjoy the beautiful pastries and the commendable service that make Little Frenchie a must-visit for a genuine French dining experience.
A photo of Parc Bistro-Brasserie restaurant
5. Parc Bistro-Brasserie
4.8
Exceptional(3078)
Price: Moderate
• French • Banker's Hill
Booked 31 times today
Parc Bistro-Brasserie, nestled in the heart of Bankers Hill, San Diego, is a celebrated haven of French cuisine, meriting its spot on OpenTable’s “100 Best Neighborhood Gems in America for 2021.” Renowned for its seafood-focused approach, the bistro expertly balances classic French dishes with global inspirations. Patrons rave about the "outstanding jumbo shrimp cocktail & steak frites" and the brunch that has been crowned as the "Best Brunch in San Diego." The allure of Parc Bistro-Brasserie is enhanced by its "exceptional food" and ambiance that transforms a meal into a "Paris escape." With glowing reviews like "By far my favorite French restaurant in San Diego! The food is superb!", it's clear that Parc Bistro-Brasserie is a culinary gem that continuously captivates both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
6. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2630)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Park
Booked 22 times today
At The Smoking Goat in North Park, San Diego, French cuisine is redefined with a Californian touch, earning it the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego for three consecutive years. Executive Chef Fred Piehl, a Le Cordon Bleu Paris alumnus, masterfully blends rustic yet refined French techniques with San Diego's freshest ingredients. Patrons rave about the authentic French flavors with a local twist, describing dishes like the "perfectly cooked duck" and "incredible mussels and duck fat fries" as culinary marvels. The ambiance is consistently praised as "cozy and nice," making The Smoking Goat a must-visit for an authentic and delightful French dining experience.
A photo of Wormwood restaurant
7. Wormwood
4.7
Exceptional(786)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • North Park
Booked 27 times today
Wormwood in North Park, San Diego, is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience in a setting that balances French elegance with bohemian charm. This outstanding Cocktail Bar is celebrated for its unique cocktails with a twist on classics, guided by a passion for the storied history of Absinthe. Patrons are enveloped in an atmosphere akin to a Parisian bistro yet uniquely Californian, where the "Secret Garden" speakeasy bar offers a secretive allure with its enchanting cocktail menu. Reviews consistently praise Wormwood, noting that the mixology is "ambitious, delicious, and stunning," and the ambiance is "perfect for an intimate evening." Experience the allure of Wormwood, where every sip is a story, and every visit is a cherished memory.
A photo of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant restaurant
8. Farmer's Bottega Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1586)
Price: Moderate
• French • Mission Hills
Booked 34 times today
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Farmer's Bottega Restaurant, a beacon of French culinary excellence nestled in the heart of Mission Hills, San Diego. Celebrated for its authentic farm-to-table approach, this quaint eatery offers a slice of French countryside with its fresh, vibrant flavors and impeccable craftsmanship. Patrons rave about the "unforgettable and flavorful dishes," such as the tender short rib entree and the sophisticated limoncello dessert, each a testament to the chef's dedication to quality. With its cozy European bistro ambiance and stellar service, Farmer's Bottega isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey through the heart of France, earning glowing reviews for creating memorable dining experiences. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their celebrated Cacio E Pepe or the exquisite salmon with lemon risotto. As one diner puts it, "You need to go."
A photo of Et Voilà! French Bistro - San Diego restaurant
9. Et Voilà! French Bistro - San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(2507)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Park
Booked 38 times today
At Et Voilà! French Bistro in North Park, San Diego, steak lovers are in for a treat. This vibrant neighborhood bistro not only captures the essence of French culinary tradition but elevates it with Chef Vincent Viale’s modern twist on classics, including the celebrated Steak Frites. Patrons consistently rave about the quality of the steak, describing it as "always outstanding" and a highlight of their dining experience. The steak's preparation, which focuses on local and seasonal ingredients, ensures a freshness that can be tasted in every bite. One diner enthused, "Many of the other guests loved their flank steak and fries." It's no wonder that Et Voilà! is often recommended for those seeking not just a meal, but an authentic French culinary experience right in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of La Bonne Table restaurant
10. La Bonne Table
4.9
Exceptional(1400)
Price: Moderate
• French • Hillcrest
Booked 6 times today
LA BONNE TABLE is a cozy and intimate restaurant in the heart of the bustling neighborhood of Hillcrest. We serve country french food in a bistro fashion. Our menu consists of classic french dishes, a modest but excellent selection that will change with the seasons. We offer a romantic atmosphere and elegant setting, full bar and french beer on tap. Reservations are recommended as seating is very limited in this exclusive restaurant. ​Bon Appetit!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Gregvip
    San Diego •42 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Special lunch with granddaughter. Everything was fantastic.
    More info
    Parc Bistro-BrasseriePrice: Moderate• French• Banker's Hill
    •
    4.8
  • John
    San Diego •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Mr. A's treats you like you are the only one they are there to serve. Food and drink are exceptional, not to mention the sunset view and continuous airshow. Excellent for a special occasion. Israel our server is tops.
    More info
    Mister A'sPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French / American• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.9
  • funda
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Exceptional. Food, service, our waiter Juan was awesome. We were a table of 6, overlooking the restaurant by the railing. Such a beautiful venue and great atrmosohere. Once they changed the music to more jazz, Sinatra etc it really made the place shine. Nice work Dobson’s. Can’t wait to come back.
    More info
    Dobson's Bar & RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Californian• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.6
  • Teresa
    San Diego •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 11 Nov 2024
    Unpretentious with casual ambiance. Server was fantastic, exuded upbeat & engaging energy throughout our dining experience. I never felt rushed. My reservation changed from 2, 4,5 back to 2 - the host was unbothered each time & more than accommodating to update the number of guests ( a portion of the party had a fender bender while en route). The smoked salmon tartine deconstructed was excellent - the salmon was delicious & buttery! French onion soup stock was rich and comforting. The blood orange spritzers with a sprig of rosemary was served in a healthy glass & complimented my afternoon break from reality!
    More info
    Little FrenchiePrice: Moderate• French• Coronado
    •
    4.7
  • Michael
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 10 Nov 2024
    The French Burger and the Steak Frites were fantastic. The service was delightful and timely. All in all, a great dining experience.
    More info
    Tapas & BeersPrice: Moderate• French• Downtown / Gaslamp
    •
    4.9

Discover best French restaurants in Downtown

Discover the charm of French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, where a variety of restaurants offer a delightful fusion of local ingredients and French culinary traditions. These establishments, each with their unique flair, promise an authentic dining experience that perfectly blends French gastronomic finesire with San Diego’s dynamic food scene. From classic French dishes to innovative Franco-inspired creations, the culinary offerings are diverse and cater to a range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious fine dining atmosphere or a cozy, bistro-style setting, Downtown San Diego’s French restaurants provide exceptional service, high-quality ingredients, and meticulously crafted menus. Diners can expect expertly paired wines, enhancing the sensory pleasure of their meal. The dining scene here is not just about food; it's an immersive experience that combines stunning city views, elegant interiors, and a welcoming ambiance. Each restaurant’s commitment to excellence is evident in their attention to detail, from the selection of fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients to the artful presentation of each dish. This culinary enclave in Downtown San Diego is a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable French dining experience. Reservations are recommended to secure a spot in these popular destinations, ensuring a splendid culinary journey through the tastes of France right in the heart of San Diego.

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