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Best French Restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

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29 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cote Ouest restaurant
1. Cote Ouest
4.9
Exceptional(698)
Price: Moderate
• French • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 33 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 Chouquet's restaurant
2. Chouquet's
4.8
Exceptional(1698)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, Chouquet's presents a delightful culinary experience highlighting the best of Contemporary French cuisine. This cozy bistro offers a refined yet casual ambiance, perfect for any dining occasion. Guests rave about signature dishes like the boeuf bourguignon and duck confit, each prepared with a modern twist while honoring traditional French flavors. With glowing reviews, one diner exclaimed, "The food was unbelievable!!" and another praised the perfect pairing of the "delicious" smoked salmon Benedict with a side salad, stating it was "Very French." Whether you're indulging in their famous crème brûlée or enjoying the lively atmosphere at their sidewalk tables, Chouquet's consistently delivers an authentic French dining experience right in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
3. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.8
Exceptional(7340)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 29 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 Florio restaurant
4. Florio
4.8
Exceptional(1742)
Price: Moderate
• French • Pacific Heights
Booked 13 times today
Florio, nestled in the charming Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, is a celebrated haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of its offerings, highlighting dishes like the "amazing" pasta Bolognese and "exceptional" cioppino that showcase Florio's commitment to traditional Italian flavors. The restaurant's ambiance is frequently described as "cozy" and "casual," perfect for a romantic evening or a lively dinner with friends. Critics and regulars alike commend Florio for its "excellent food and service," with one guest noting, "The bolognese pasta was the best I’ve ever had." This neighborhood gem continues to impress with its well-crafted menu and warm, inviting atmosphere.
A photo of L'Mida restaurant
5. L'Mida
4.3
Awesome(91)
Price: Moderate
• French • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 4 times today
L'Mida, nestled in the vibrant Marina district of San Francisco, is a culinary gem that brings the authentic taste of Morocco to the Bay Area. Patrons rave about the "extraordinary" baklava and the "amazing, flavorful" lamb couscous, emphasizing both the high quality and authenticity of the cuisine. The restaurant's ambience, adorned with handmade mosaics and murals, transports diners straight to Morocco, enhancing the dining experience with a "comfortable feel" reminiscent of Moroccan craftsmanship. Reviewers consistently highlight the exceptional service and the warm hospitality typical of Moroccan culture. With its expertly prepared traditional dishes and a curated wine selection, L'Mida offers an authentic Moroccan dining experience that is both inviting and unforgettable. As one diner put it, "This restaurant is so family-friendly... and truly the best of Moroccan hospitality!"
A photo of Le Central restaurant
6. Le Central
4.7
Exceptional(2108)
Price: Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 31 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 L'Ardoise restaurant
7. L'Ardoise
4.8
Exceptional(3354)
Price: Expensive
• French • Castro
Booked 24 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 Bon Delire restaurant
8. Bon Delire
new
4.6
Exceptional(67)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 53 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 O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
9. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.8
Exceptional(457)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 12 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 Chapeau restaurant
10. Chapeau
4.7
Exceptional(3708)
Price: Expensive
• French • Richmond District
Booked 19 times today
Immerse yourself in the delectable world of Contemporary French cuisine at Chapeau! SF, a cherished gem since 1996, located in the vibrant Richmond District of San Francisco. This esteemed bistro serves up authentic French dishes with a modern twist, earning rave reviews such as "probably the best French restaurant in San Francisco." Patrons are enamored by the cozy ambiance and the "absolutely fantastically delicious" food, highlighting favorites like the onion soup and French toast dessert. With its flexible prix fixe and à la carte menus, Chapeau! SF promises an exquisite dining experience that captures the essence of France, making every visitor feel like part of the family.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Deborahvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    “It was just like being at a café in France!” Exclaimed our 89 year old aunt who loved her steak frites with pepper corn sauce. The food is outstanding here. Service equally wonderful. The short ribs tender and flavorful. Apple tartin had the right amount of tartness and paired well with our lattes. “If I still lived in SF I’d be here every week.”
    More info
    Chouquet'sPrice: Moderate• French• Pacific Heights
    •
    4.8
  • Ruthvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •156 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We love this reliably delicious restaurant. I just wish that this and other restaurants in the area were open later. We were able to go after the symphony this evening only because it was a short concert, but usually the opera and symphony conclude too late for us to have dinner here. I realize restaurants are reluctant to commit to later hours given concerns over demand, but I think the ones in this neighborhood would do better business if they did so. We love to eat in this area after a performance, and this is one of the better options. The food is decadently delicious, the atmosphere is cozy and elegant, and the service has never disappointed. They know what they're doing.
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    •
    4.8
  • Scott
    California Central Coast •20 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Absolutely delighted with our dining experience for a special event with my daughter! The occasion was made even more memorable by the exceptional service, outstanding food, and beautiful atmosphere. A heartfelt thank you to Jonas for his impeccable attention and to the entire staff for their support in making our time truly special.
    More info
    L'ArdoisePrice: Expensive• French• Castro
    •
    4.8
  • Hangry4Food
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    WOW what an experience! The food & wine, ambiance, staff, restaurant seating- everything was fantastic! I would highly recommend this restaurant to any and everyone. The owner shook our hands as we left the restaurant and they were so friendly and engaging. The Duck Confit was amazing. The wines and bread, Kale salad and desserts were exceptional. Everything was spot on! Can't wait to come back again. Keep doing what you're doing Cote Ouest, don't change a thing! Cheers!
    More info
    Cote OuestPrice: Moderate• French• Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
    •
    4.9
  • Barryvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •101 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    We were amazed at how busy Florio was on a Wednesday night at 630. The staff handled it well, however.
    More info
    FlorioPrice: Moderate• French• Pacific Heights
    •
    4.8

Discover best French restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Explore the charm of French cuisine right in the heart of the Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio district in San Francisco. This vibrant area is renowned for its diverse dining scene, offering a delightful array of French restaurants that cater to every palate, from casual bistros to upscale dining experiences. Each establishment brings a touch of French culinary excellence, featuring menus filled with classic dishes such as escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée, crafted with authentic ingredients and traditional techniques. The ambiance of these restaurants ranges from cozy and intimate to elegantly sophisticated, providing the perfect backdrop for both romantic dinners and social gatherings. Patrons can expect impeccable service and an extensive selection of French wines that perfectly complement the cuisine. This locale not only promises a culinary journey through France but also ensures a memorable dining experience with its blend of culinary expertise and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're a lover of French gastronomy or looking to explore new flavors, the French restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio are sure to enrich your dining experience in San Francisco.

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