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Best Contemporary French Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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7 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Chouquet's restaurant
1. Chouquet's
4.7
Exceptional(1855)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Pacific Heights
Booked 41 times today
Chouquet's in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is a delightful haven for those seeking authentic Contemporary French cuisine. Nestled on Fillmore Street, this charming bistro offers a "taste of French lifestyle and cuisine" that transports diners straight to Paris. The menu boasts exquisite dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and duck confit, complemented by "an eclectic wine list" featuring over 20 wines by the glass. Guests rave about the "incredible ambiance" and the "exceptional and friendly" service, making every visit a memorable affair. Whether you're indulging in their famous crème brûlée or savoring a steaming bowl of onion soup, Chouquet's promises a truly satisfying culinary experience.
A photo of Cote Ouest restaurant
2. Cote Ouest
4.9
Exceptional(1117)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 44 times today
Côte Ouest Bistro is a contemporary French bistro led by partners Laurent Monchicourt & Martin Sarrailh. In April 2021, the pair transformed the former Baker Street Bistro into a modern 21st century neighborhood gem. At the heart of Laurent and Martin's partnership lies a shared dream: to create a restaurant that embraces guests like family, offering a haven where they can delight in delectable food and wine, surrounded by warm companionship. Nestle into one of the bay window seats and enjoy conversation over a plate of charcuterie with the perfect glass of Bordeaux. Chef Sarrailh prepares seasonal specialties as well as favorite French classics like Steak Frites and Duck Confit. The custard-soaked Croissant French Toast is not to be missed if you stop by for brunch on the sunny terrace. Côte Ouest Bistro has been featured in Forbes magazine and The Infatuation and was named one of the "Top 100 Brunch Restaurants in the Nation 2024" by Open Table.
A photo of Zazie restaurant
3. Zazie
4.8
Exceptional(1173)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Cole Valley
Booked 24 times today
Zazie is a neighborhood French bistro in Cole Valley specializing in the country cooking of Southern France. The well heated garden patio has a louvered roof, and is a delightful place to enjoy a casual, relaxed meal with friends and family. Our menu is seasonal, featuring slow braised rabbit, cassoulet, grilled fresh fish, and a variety of vegetarian options. Zazie invites dog lovers to bring their pup to dinner on the heated, covered patio on Monday nights and take $10 off any bottle of wine on our list. Tuesday nights are no corkage nights; bring as many bottles as you can gracefully handle! We are famous for our American style brunch seven days/ week as well, although reservations are not accepted for brunch. Zazie is proudly Tip Free! Our menu prices include a living wage, profit sharing, and full benefits for ALL our hard working staff.
A photo of Chapeau restaurant
4. Chapeau
4.8
Exceptional(3844)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Richmond District
Booked 22 times today
Chapeau! SF is a shining example of authentic Bistro cuisine nestled in San Francisco's Richmond District. This beloved eatery has been "capturing the essence of a classic French bistro" since 1996, offering a delightful fusion of traditional and modern French dishes. Chef Philippe Gardelle's attention to detail shines through in every dish, from the "perfectly cooked duck confit" to the "rich, creamy lobster bisque." The restaurant's inviting ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. Guests consistently rave about the "wonderful experience," with many calling it "a true gem" in the neighborhood.
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
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5. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.6
Exceptional(585)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 9 times today
O' by Claude Le Tohic in San Francisco’s Downtown/Union Square offers a truly exceptional French dining experience. Chef Claude Le Tohic, a recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France and a James Beard Award winner, brings his mastery of French cuisine to life with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "exquisite and creative" dishes and "impeccable service," which combine to deliver a dining experience that's "on par with two and three Michelin star establishments." The restaurant’s elegant ambiance, paired with a selection of over 1000 wines, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and special" occasion.
A photo of Bombay Brasserie restaurant
6. Bombay Brasserie
4.1
Excellent(111)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 15 times today
Bombay Brasserie in San Francisco's Union Square is a culinary gem for Contemporary Indian cuisine, where the essence of India meets French innovation. Praised as a "true five-star gustatory experience," this restaurant masterfully marries the traditional flavors of India with elegant French techniques, offering diners a unique and sophisticated menu. Standout dishes like the Lobster Thermidor and Tandoori Salmon are celebrated for their creativity and exquisite taste. Guests rave about the “harmonious blend of two world-renowned cuisines,” highlighting the exceptional service and inviting ambiance. For those seeking an unforgettable dining adventure, Bombay Brasserie promises a symphony of flavors and elegance.
A photo of Chou Chou Bistro restaurant
7. Chou Chou Bistro
4.5
Awesome(2342)
$$$$
• Contemporary french • Forest Hill / West Portal
Booked 7 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!
‘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
  • joelGold
    Baltimore / Maryland •34 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    O’ is among my favorite restaurants on planet Earth. Along with Protégé and Auberge de Soleil, which I hold O’ to be on the same level, the entire experience is incredible. Tonight I tried land-last time I tried A5 Wagyu from Hokkaido -this dish was again-outstanding. The 5-course meal was delicious, both in texture, density and surprise to taste. Has my highest recommendation!
    More info
    O' by Claude Le Tohic$$$$• Contemporary French• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.6
  • Amelia
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    As always, amazing food, friendly staff, and excellent service.
    More info
    Chapeau$$$$• French• Richmond District
    •
    4.8
  • Wendy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    It's great to sit outside even on a cooler day. I had the french onion soup and it was delicious. I eat french fries off my dining mate's plate which I should have ordered along with my soup. The service is great and I enjoy coming back to this charming restaurant time and time again!
    More info
    Chouquet's$$$$• French• Pacific Heights
    •
    4.7
  • Charles
    Los Angeles •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    This is our favorite restaurant in San Francisco and has been for many decades.
    More info
    Zazie$$$$• French• Cole Valley
    •
    4.8
  • Saran
    2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 11, 2026
    Another great experience! The manager recognized us immediately, which made us feel so welcome. She recommended some great dishes, the paniyaram and salmon tikka were hits. The crab duo was just okay, and while it was a bit loud since they were busy, we had a wonderful time.
    More info
    Bombay Brasserie$$$$• French / Indian• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.1

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