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Best Bistros in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bon Delire restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(202)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 61 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.
A photo of Villon restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1268)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 7 times today
Villon in Downtown San Francisco offers an outstanding American dining experience that seamlessly blends authenticity with a modern twist. Situated in the elegant San Francisco Proper Hotel, Villon focuses on California cuisine, spotlighting seasonal vegetables and local ingredients. Diners rave about its "inventive and delicious" dishes, with standout items like the artichoke soup and lamb shoulder earning high praise. The atmosphere complements the exquisite menu, described as "plush and swanky" yet welcoming, making it perfect for special occasions or pre-theater dinners. With attentive service and a creative cocktail menu, Villon is truly "a gem" in the heart of the city.
A photo of Scopo Divino restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(14)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Pacific Heights
Booked 8 times today
Scopo Divino is an award-winning restaurant and wine bar in San Francisco, California. It serves dinner, weekend brunch, daily oyster happy hour, and frequent live music. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with an extensive bar for socializing and drinking wine. The walls are adorned with hand-painted golden maps highlighting the wine-growing regions of the world. The menu features a variety of dishes, including larger dishes like the Bergey Burger and Rib Eye Steak, alongside unique bar bites such as beef & chorizo stuffed empanadas. The restaurant also has a wide selection of wines from all around the world. Scopo Divino is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal and a glass of wine with friends or family.
A photo of Chapeau restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(3755)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Richmond District
Booked 14 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.
A photo of Cafe de la Presse restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1918)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 6 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 Saison Cellar & Wine Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(38)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • SOMA
Booked 14 times today
Saison Cellar & Wine Bar in SOMA, San Francisco, offers an unforgettable journey into authentic French cuisine, seamlessly blending exquisite flavors with an impressive wine selection. Guests rave about the "perfect French bistro fare" and "delectable menu of small bites and charcuterie," capturing the essence of France with every bite. The croque monsieur is so remarkable, it "makes you think you're in France." The menu shines with traditional Croque Monsieurs, Pâté en Croûte, and a robust Charcuterie and Cheese program. Paired with a "wine list out-of-this-world good," this charming spot invites you to "relax and indulge" in a truly French experience.
A photo of Isa restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2819)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 5 times today
Isa, located in San Francisco's vibrant Marina District, is a standout gem in Bistro cuisine. With a remarkable 4.9-star rating from over 2800 OpenTable reviews and a legacy celebrated for 25 years, Isa's allure lies in its "impeccable blend of sophistication, VALUE, and consistent QUALITY." Chef Luke Sung, a James Beard Foundation nominee, crafts deeply flavored French-inspired dishes with a California twist, making dining here a "delightful experience." The ambiance, whether in the cozy front room or lively back courtyard, complements the exquisite flavors perfectly. With accolades from top culinary lists, Isa promises an "outstanding and delicious" dining adventure.
A photo of Zevi Café & Bistro restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • SOMA
Zevi Cafe, nestled in San Francisco's Union Square, offers an inviting and cozy escape. With warm wood decor and soft lighting, it's perfect for coffee breaks or intimate gatherings. They pride themselves on quality coffee sourced from local roasters, expertly brewed by passionate baristas. Delectable pastries and fresh sandwiches complement the drinks. Friendly staff and free Wi-Fi make it ideal for work or study. In the evening, it transforms into a charming spot with soft jazz music. Zevi Cafe captures the essence of the city's culture, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Petite Left Bank restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(439)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Tiburon
Booked 15 times today
Petite Left Bank, nestled in the delightful downtown Tiburon, offers a Bistro experience that transports diners straight to the heart of France. Renowned for its authentic French flavors, this charming eatery captures the essence of Paris with every dish. Guests rave about the “wonderful, very tasty, and authentic French bistro food,” and the “exquisite” service that makes each visit memorable. The ambiance, reminiscent of a true French café, is perfect for everything from casual brunches to special occasions. With its delightful mix of handcrafted French classics and modern bistro flair, Petite Left Bank is a must-visit gem in Marin County.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • robertVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •71 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    From the arrival to our conclusion of the evening the service by Courtney was impeccable. We started with appetizers which consisted of the escargot, oysters, and salad. All quite delicious. We ordered bread to dip into the garlic sauce from the escargot a recommendation. Entrees consisted of delicious chicken and three entrees of sole mangiere over a bed of spinach. We had to have the truffle frees tow orders again delicious! The wine of Sauvignon blanc was delicious Desserts were two orders of pot de creme with butterscotch Great find for our first time eating here!
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    4.6
  • Heidi
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Great accordion music! Go for the meatballs and a glass of wine.
    More info
    Scopo DivinoPrice: Expensive• Bistro• Pacific Heights
    4.8
  • April
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Excellent meal and ambiance, always a consistent experience eating here. We were really surprised to learn that Villon had stopped dinner service as this is my husbands favorite restaurant for dinner before the shows at Orpheum and Golden Gate theatres, for the delicious innovative dishes. We went for breakfast on a Saturday and as usual the service, food and ambiance were excellent. Would highly recommend, the price point is worth it. We were pleased to learn that the restaurant is working on reopening dinner service - we will be back for dinner when they do.
    More info
    VillonPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    4.2
  • SherylVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Isa is truly a gem of a restaurant, one of our favorite places. The food is always fantastic, the service is outstanding, and the ambiance, especially on the back patio, is special. There are two waiters that have been working there for over 20 years each, and they are the best! Also, the owner comes by to check on the guests and makes sure everyone is happy. This weekend we came for my mother's 92nd birthday, and they made it a very special night, they were so attentive and made her feel special. We all loved our meals (seabass, lamb, duck and truffle risotto). Highly recommend!
    More info
    IsaPrice: Moderate• French / American• Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
    4.7
  • Gabriel
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 18, 2025
    Stellar wine list and an incredible staff!! Bring everyone that’s near and far
    More info
    Saison Cellar & Wine BarPrice: Expensive• Wine Bar• SOMA
    4.6
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