Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best French Restaurants in South San Francisco

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

26 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Chouchou French Bistro Burlingame restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(219)
Price: Moderate
• French • Burlingame
Booked 10 times today
Embark on a Parisian culinary journey at our cherished 20-year-old French Bistro, nestled in the heart of Burlingame at 401 Primrose Rd, CA. Experience an intimate ambiance and relish signature dishes like Cassoulet, Duck, Escargot, Bone Marrow, French Onion Soup, and Beef Bourguignon and more! Our extensive wine selection perfectly complements this authentic French cuisine. Join us to create lasting memories and savor the essence of France on your plate. Bon appétit!
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7357)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 45 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 Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1188)
Price: Moderate
• French • Burlingame
Booked 6 times today
Trapeze Restaurant in Burlingame is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, expertly crafted by the talented Chef Jose Rodriguez, who brings his extensive experience from Michelin Star-awarded kitchens in the Bay Area. Known for his creative flair, Chef Rodriguez delights diners with a menu that balances approachable simplicity and sophisticated elegance. Guests rave about the “outstanding” food and “impeccable” service, describing it as a “cut above” the rest. The restaurant's warm, welcoming atmosphere complements the exquisite flavors, making each dining experience truly special. Trapeze Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine French culinary excellence.
A photo of Bon Delire restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(121)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 78 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 L'Ardoise restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3374)
Price: Expensive
• French • The Castro
Booked 16 times today
L'Ardoise, nestled in the charming Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, offers an authentic European dining experience that transports you straight to the heart of France. Known for its "exceptional food" and "perfect celebratory ambiance," this cozy bistro consistently impresses with its "delicious and authentic French cuisine." Diners rave about the impeccable service, with standout dishes like duck confit and coq au vin making every visit memorable. The intimate setting creates a "romantic experience" ideal for special occasions or a delightful evening out. With a "fantastic wine list" and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, L'Ardoise is a must-visit for European cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Chou Chou Bistro restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2381)
Price: Moderate
• French • Forest Hill / West Portal
Booked 9 times today
Chou Chou Bistro, nestled in San Francisco's charming Forest Hill, masterfully blends Contemporary French and American cuisine, offering a "robust menu" that delights the senses. Guests rave about the "outstanding" onion soup and "delectable" crab/avocado salad. The prix-fixe menu is a culinary journey, featuring classics like Boeuf Bourguignon with a sauce reduction that's "sublime," and a perfectly cooked duck breast. With its "elegant, refined" atmosphere, Chou Chou captures a slice of Paris with every dish. The attentive staff ensures an “unforgettable dining experience,” making it an ideal spot for both special occasions and casual nights out. Bon Appetit!
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
4.8
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 Saison Cellar & Wine Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(33)
Price: Expensive
• French • SOMA
Booked 21 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 Le Central restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2141)
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 Bistro Central Parc restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(934)
Price: Moderate
• French • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 10 times today
Bistro Central Parc in North Panhandle, San Francisco, is a true gem for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful dining experience with great value. Guests rave about the "fantastic food and service" and describe it as a "neighborhood gem" with a "romantic atmosphere." The restaurant is known for its early bird specials, praised as a "great deal," allowing diners to explore a diverse menu. The attentive and caring staff ensures every visit is memorable, making it a beloved spot for locals and newcomers alike. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual dinner, Bistro Central Parc promises a warm and delicious American experience.
‘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
  • NadirVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Bon Delire does a great job of bringing a little slice of France to the Embarcadero. The decor and ambiance is decidedly very French, in a good way! The food is excellent and reasonably priced by San Francisco standards, the service is friendly and welcoming and the vibe is lively and fun! Highly recommend the deviled eggs, the escargot and the roast chicken but honestly, we loved everything we ordered! We can't wait to return!
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    4.7
  • JanetVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Server was attentive, but not overly so. Had great recommendations, no questions when we wanted to share a dish. Cocktails are always top notch. Scallops with bacon and balsamic was delicious! Although not what we thought we would order, the burger was also amazing.
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.8
  • Sherrie
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 28, 2024
    We had a lovely experience, from being accommodated on our early arrival to having excellent suggestions regarding food and wine by our knowledgeable and charming server Flo. The atmosphere was warm and cozy and our food (including Escargots, Hanger steak, Coq au Vin, Floating Island) was delectable. I’m so glad we found L’Ardoise Bistro. We will make this a regular stop when visiting our daughter in San Francisco.
    More info
    L'ArdoisePrice: Expensive• French• The Castro
    4.9
  • Robert
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 28, 2024
    This French restaurant, at the corner of Primrose and Chapin Aves in Burlingame, is well worth a 5-star rating on all counts. Modern, yet subtle, decor, unobtrusive period music in the background, excellent and varied selections, ample portions, and fantastic service provide a reason to return time and time again. Our party of three enjoyed the rack of lamb, the lobster ravioli, and the cassoulet. Each dish showed the attention and skills of a master chef. In addition to a la carte choices, they offer a prix fixe menu at $65 that provides an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert, with no menu exceptions, for this very sensible price. The restaurant offers a broad selection of wines and beer but does not have a full bar so anyone in need of a cocktail before dinner may feel temporary disappointment. Nonetheless, Chou Chou is fine dining!
    More info
    Chouchou French Bistro BurlingamePrice: Moderate• French• Burlingame
    4.6
  • Veronica
    California Central Coast •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 28, 2024
    Loved the entire experience, everything from the ambience, appetizers, cocktails, main course, to dessert in the friendly staff was the cherry on top. Thank you for a fantastic evening. Will see you soon.
    More info
    Trapeze Restaurant - BurlingamePrice: Moderate• Italian• Burlingame
    4.6
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo