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Best French Restaurants in SOMA

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29 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mathilde French Bistro restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2441)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • SOMA
Booked 7 times today
At Mathilde French Bistro, nestled in the SOMA district of San Francisco, the essence of Parisian dining comes to life, offering diners an authentic French culinary adventure. Celebrated for its "voted best in town French onion soup" and traditional delights like baked escargots and duck confit, Mathilde is a gateway to French gastronomy. Patrons consistently praise its offerings, with one declaring, "the service was impeccable, and the duck confit was perfection." Another review highlights, "From start to finish Mathilde is always 5⭐️'s." The cozy ambiance, complemented by a romantic, heated patio, ensures a year-round dining pleasure that makes every visit feel like a special occasion. This bistro not only serves excellent cuisine but also embodies the spirit of French dining with "a lovely bottle of Cotes de Beaune" to toast to an unforgettable experience.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7353)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 27 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 Bon Delire restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(105)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 54 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 Le Central restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2130)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 29 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 O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(466)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 3 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 Saison Cellar & Wine Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(29)
Price: Expensive
• French • SOMA
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the vibrant SOMA district of San Francisco, Saison Cellar & Wine Bar is a paradise for oenophiles and gourmands alike. Lauded for its "out-of-this-world good" wine list, Saison showcases an intricate collection that "leans heavily into France" while also honoring remarkable global and local Northern Californian producers. Patrons are treated to an enticing French wine bar fare, perfectly paired with a meticulously curated wine selection by Mark Bright and his team of sommeliers. The ambiance, described as classic "Saison blue," along with regular winemaker events, crafts a truly immersive experience. A patron praised, "the wine matches were paired and delivered beautifully," highlighting the exceptional quality and authenticity of Saison’s wine offerings, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exemplary wine bar experience.
A photo of Le Parc Bistrobar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(100)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 15 times today
Le Parc Bistrobar is a delightful French restaurant in Union Square, San Francisco, nestled within the Galleria Park Hotel. Led by the renowned 2-star Michelin Chef Bruno Chemel, this bistro offers a culinary escapade that perfectly complements the city's refined tastes. The menu at Le Parc Bistrobar is a tribute to classic French cuisine, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients that bring out the rich, traditional flavors in every dish. The lounge bar provides a wide variety of wines and cocktails to enhance the gourmet experience.
A photo of L'Ardoise restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3364)
Price: Expensive
• French • Castro
Booked 6 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 Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar restaurant
4.1
Excellent(773)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 14 times today
Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar, located in the vibrant Financial District / Embarcadero area of San Francisco, is a gem for those seeking authentic French cuisine with a European Mediterranean twist. This exquisite dining spot offers a seafood-centric menu praised for its variety and flavor, with dishes like Branzino and crème brûlée receiving glowing reviews for their perfect execution. The atmosphere is described as "beautifully decorated with beautiful undersea decorations" and is perfect for a prelude to a night at the SFJazz or a nostalgic trolley ride through the heart of the city. Patrons consistently laud the "exquisite and attentive service" and the "delicious tapas selections" that make every dining experience memorable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply in search of a delightful meal, Ula promises an enchanting evening with its superb French offerings.
A photo of Bouche restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1915)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 13 times today
Bouche, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Francisco near Union Square, is a culinary treasure that artfully blends Californian flair with French elegance. This intimate "hole in the wall" restaurant, led by the acclaimed Parisian Chef Jeremy Blaringhem, offers an ever-evolving seasonal menu that captivates with its authenticity and high-quality local ingredients. Diners rave about the unique dining experience, with one describing it as "nothing fancy... Simply expect real food, real ingredients, real people, real laughs... a love experience." Guests consistently praise the "incredible experience" and the exceptional value of the $55 seasonal 3-course Prix Fixe menu, highlighting dishes like the adventurous "The Adventurous" blind dish that challenges palates. Bouche's commitment to small producer wines from California ensures each meal is paired perfectly, enhancing the authentic Californian dining experience. A visit to Bouche is a journey through the best of Californian cuisine, served with passion and a smile.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Audrey
    San Francisco Bay Area •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Loved it! Service was very attentive and they had wonderful suggestions from their menu. The steak tartare was delicious served on homemade potato chips. The deviled eggs were a wonderful surprise served upside down with a sauce and caviar on top. The Caesar salad was amazing…I shared this but won’t next time I return…it was delicious with the crunchy topping. We shared the roast chicken, which was so tender and had the most delicious pan gravy. And don’t leave without trying the Soft Serve dessert. It checks all the boxes…caramel, toasted hazelnuts, poached pears and ice cream.
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    4.7
  • EmilyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •21 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent lunch, excellent cocktails, warm and thoughtful service. Our server asked right away if we were going to a performance and made sure we got there on time, without any sense of rushing. Highly recommend!
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.8
  • Julie
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This was my first visit to Le Central and I'm now a big fan! The food was delicious, the wait staff and others were friendly and helpful, and it wasn't annoyingly loud. This is what fine dining was meant to be, at least in my opinion. I look forward to going back so I can try their other options!
    More info
    Le CentralPrice: Expensive• French• Downtown / Union Square
    4.7
  • Judy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wonderful menu variety and consistent quality of food. Everything served is detailed and there is a priority to consistency. Delicious.
    More info
    Mathilde French BistroPrice: Very Expensive• French• SOMA
    4.8
  • SilviaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 12 Dec 2024
    I am so excited to have found my neighborhood wine bar!!! Love it all: the wine, the nibbles, the ambiance and the lovely and attentive people that work there!
    More info
    Saison Cellar & Wine BarPrice: Expensive• Wine Bar• SOMA
    4.5

Discover best French restaurants in SOMA

Discover the essence of French dining in the vibrant SOMA district of San Francisco, a neighborhood renowned for its dynamic dining scene and cultural richness. Here, you'll find a variety of French restaurants that capture the authentic flavors and sophisticated ambiance reminiscent of a Parisian bistro. Each establishment offers a unique interpretation of French culinary traditions, skillfully blending classic techniques with local influences to create dishes that satisfy both traditional and adventurous palates. Patrons can expect to indulge in a range of French specialties, from exquisite escargots to perfectly prepared duck confit, all accompanied by a selection of fine wines. The dining experience in SOMA is not just about food; it's about creating memorable moments. The attentive service and elegant settings contribute to an overall atmosphere that's both welcoming and distinctly French. Whether you're a connoisseur of French cuisine or exploring it for the first time, the French restaurants in SOMA promise an exceptional dining experience that highlights the best of culinary craftsmanship and local hospitality. This area truly offers a slice of France in the heart of San Francisco, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to savor the richness of French dining.

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