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Best French Restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

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28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
1. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.9
Exceptional(469)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 13 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.
A photo of Bouche restaurant
2. Bouche
4.6
Exceptional(1920)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 25 times today
Bouche, nestled in the vibrant Downtown/Union Square of San Francisco, masterfully captures the essence of Provencal cuisine, offering a truly authentic and delightful dining experience. Renowned Parisian Chef Jeremy Blaringhem crafts a seasonal menu that features fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, embodying the true spirit of Provence. Diners consistently rave about the "delicious and creative food" and "impeccable service," noting the restaurant's ability to transport them to a cozy French bistro. The charming ambiance, friendly staff, and exquisite dishes like "The adventurous" make Bouche a standout spot. Visit Bouche to indulge in a culinary journey that’s both authentic and unforgettable!
A photo of Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar restaurant
3. Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar
4.1
Excellent(781)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 17 times today
Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar in San Francisco’s Financial District is a beacon of exceptional French cuisine, seamlessly blending Mediterranean influences with authentic French flavors. The restaurant’s “exquisite and attentive service” and “beautifully plated and lavishly seasoned” dishes are frequently lauded by diners, making it a must-visit. The menu features a variety of expertly crafted French classics with a modern twist, such as thin-sliced octopus and perfectly prepared seafood, which are all beautifully presented. The “genuine hospitality” and “out of this world” ambiance of Ula create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of French culinary art.
A photo of ONE65 Bistro restaurant
4. ONE65 Bistro
4.5
Awesome(176)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 9 times today
Located in the vibrant heart of Union Square, ONE65 Bistro offers a sublime Californian dining experience that truly stands out. The bistro's dedication to showcasing local, seasonal ingredients in its prix fixe menus ensures that every dish is a celebration of authentic Californian flavors. Guests rave about the "exquisite execution" and the "impeccably prepared food," noting how each bite is a testament to the fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced locally. With options to enjoy the lively ambiance by the open kitchen or the relaxed main dining room, ONE65 Bistro promises a memorable meal that reflects the best of Californian cuisine.
A photo of Cafe de la Presse restaurant
5. Cafe de la Presse
4.6
Exceptional(1917)
Price: Moderate
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 27 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.
A photo of Bombay Brasserie restaurant
6. Bombay Brasserie
3.9
Excellent(42)
Price: Very Expensive
• 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.
A photo of Elements Bar at ONE65 restaurant
7. Elements Bar at ONE65
4.4
Awesome(45)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 5 times today
One of the city's few upper floor bars, ELEMENTS Bar & Lounge is a sophisticated destination bar serving an extensive range of cocktails, fine wines, whiskies and large variety of spirits in a luxurious, intimate setting. A special menu designed for the lounge provides a selection of inviting food options designed to enjoy with drinks. ELEMENTS Bar & Lounge is located on the 4th floor of the innovative culinary destination - ONE65. The bar offers Happy hour from Tuesday to Saturday. Live DJ sets by our Resident DJs every Friday and Saturday.
A photo of Le Central restaurant
8. Le Central
4.7
Exceptional(2144)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 28 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”!!!
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
9. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.8
Exceptional(7361)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 44 times today
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 Bon Delire restaurant
10. Bon Delire
4.6
Exceptional(131)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 95 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Marie
    London •18 reviews
    4.0
    Dined today
    Overall a really lovely meal. We went with the 3 course option. The starters were amazing, the beetroot starter and the octopus. The cook on the seafood in our paellas was spot on. The wine was very good with lots of options. The desserts were ok, I couldn’t taste the chestnut in my chestnut pie. On making the reservation, Open Table asked if we were celebrating anything, I mentioned that it was our wedding anniversary but it wasn’t acknowledged so not sure it was worth mentioning. The service was really good but what was really lovely was the ambiance. We had a lovely evening and I am really happy that we chose one65 for our special celebration.
    More info
    ONE65 BistroPrice: Very Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.5
  • PeterVIP
    Minneapolis - St. Paul •1 review
    5.0
    Dined today
    Absolutely love Bouche. Spectacular service, great food, and a very thoughtful and curated wine selection. Will definitely be back!
    More info
    BouchePrice: Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.6
  • Ron
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    - Food was very good - tapas allowed us to try multiple small dishes - and we enjoyed them all - Service was attentive, but not obsequious - Decor was interesting in a good way
    More info
    Ula Restaurant & Tapas BarPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.1
  • Miguel
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great food and service, we went for brunch and love it. Perfect location for just walk around after or before eating.
    More info
    Cafe de la PressePrice: Moderate• French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.6
  • didierVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 3 Jan 2025
    Clearly one of the best restaurants in the Bay Area. We had the 9-course tasting menu, chef Claude’s signature. Usually for such menus there’s always one or two less interesting. Not here, no miss, everything was exquisite. Very polite and knowledgeable service staff. Quiet. Really a fantastic experience.
    More info
    O' by Claude Le TohicPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.9

Discover best French restaurants in Downtown / Union Square

Discover the essence of French cuisine right in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, near Union Square, where a variety of French-themed restaurants offer a diverse dining experience. From classic Parisian bistros to innovative French fusion, each venue promises an authentic taste of France, catering to both traditional and contemporary palates. The dining scene in this vibrant area is characterized by its high-quality service, sophisticated ambience, and a commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're craving the rich, comforting flavors of a traditional French meal or the exciting blend of French-Vietnamese dishes, there's something to satisfy every taste. Patrons consistently praise these restaurants for their culinary authenticity, meticulous attention to detail, and the genuinely inviting atmosphere they provide. Dining in Downtown San Francisco offers not just a meal, but a delightful culinary journey through France's diverse gastronomic landscape. This area is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to explore the rich flavors and refined culture of French cuisine.

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