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Best French Restaurants in San Mateo

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25 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Chouchou French Bistro Burlingame restaurant
1. Chouchou French Bistro Burlingame
4.6
Exceptional(360)
$$$$
• French • Burlingame
Booked 3 times today
Embark on a Parisian culinary journey at our cherished 20-year-old French Bistro, nestled in the heart of Burlingame at 401 Primrose Rd, CA. Experience an intimate ambiance and relish signature dishes like Cassoulet, Duck, Escargot, Bone Marrow, French Onion Soup, and Beef Bourguignon and more! Our extensive wine selection perfectly complements this authentic French cuisine. Join us to create lasting memories and savor the essence of France on your plate. Bon appétit!
A photo of Iron Gate restaurant
2. Iron Gate
4.9
Exceptional(3171)
$$$$
• French • Belmont
Booked 8 times today
Iron Gate in Belmont is a shining gem for lovers of Continental cuisine, offering an unparalleled dining experience with its exquisite table-side and flambé service. The restaurant is renowned for its “superb food and service,” consistently delighting diners with classics like Caesar salad and veal prepared to perfection. Guests rave about the romantic ambiance, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. The soufflés are a must-try, leaving a memorable impression on anyone who indulges. With attentive staff and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Iron Gate is a beloved destination for those seeking authentic and high-quality Continental dining.
A photo of Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
3. Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF
4.8
Exceptional(7476)
$$$$
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 20 times today
Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF offers an exceptional taste of Californian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Civic Center neighborhood. Known for its "consistently fabulous" dining experience, Absinthe impresses with a menu that highlights the best of local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. Diners rave about dishes like the "unbelievably delicious sole meunière" and "decadently delicious" offerings that showcase the rich flavors and farm-fresh produce synonymous with Californian cooking. The ambiance is both "cozy and elegant," complemented by a "beautifully curated wine list" and a staff that ensures "superb service." Absinthe is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Californian cuisine!
A photo of Vida + Bar Loretta restaurant
4. Vida + Bar Loretta
4.8
Exceptional(2929)
$$$$
• French • Menlo Park
Booked 12 times today
Bistro Vida in Menlo Park is a gem for authentic Bistro cuisine, echoing the vibrant spirit of Parisian dining right in the heart of downtown. Since 1998, it has been a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of France with dishes that are “always fantastic” and service that is “top-notch.” The cozy yet lively atmosphere, complete with chic interiors and a welcoming ambiance, makes guests feel like they’ve stepped into a classic French brasserie. With accolades like “the best French Onion soup” and perfectly prepared dishes like mussels and steak tartare, Bistro Vida is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine French flavors.
A photo of Saison Cellar & Wine Bar - San Francisco restaurant
5. Saison Cellar & Wine Bar - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(142)
$$$$
• French • SOMA
Booked 23 times today
Saison Cellar & Wine Bar in SOMA, San Francisco, offers an unforgettable journey into authentic French cuisine, seamlessly blending exquisite flavors with an impressive wine selection. Guests rave about the "perfect French bistro fare" and "delectable menu of small bites and charcuterie," capturing the essence of France with every bite. The croque monsieur is so remarkable, it "makes you think you're in France." The menu shines with traditional Croque Monsieurs, Pâté en Croûte, and a robust Charcuterie and Cheese program. Paired with a "wine list out-of-this-world good," this charming spot invites you to "relax and indulge" in a truly French experience.
A photo of Zola + BarZola restaurant
6. Zola + BarZola
4.6
Exceptional(1392)
$$$$
• French • Palo Alto
Booked 16 times today
Zola + BarZola in Palo Alto shines as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, delighting patrons with a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes. Guests consistently rave about the "outstanding food" and "excellent service," appreciating the welcoming atmosphere that feels "like a comfortable dining room in a friend's home." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its carefully sourced seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared to perfection. Diners are enamored with the "melt-in-your-mouth short ribs" and "exquisite mushroom crepes," making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Zola + BarZola truly offers an authentic American dining experience.
A photo of L'Ardoise restaurant
7. L'Ardoise
4.8
Exceptional(3573)
$$$$
• French • The Castro
Booked 34 times today
L'Ardoise, nestled in the charming Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, offers an authentic European dining experience that transports you straight to the heart of France. Known for its "exceptional food" and "perfect celebratory ambiance," this cozy bistro consistently impresses with its "delicious and authentic French cuisine." Diners rave about the impeccable service, with standout dishes like duck confit and coq au vin making every visit memorable. The intimate setting creates a "romantic experience" ideal for special occasions or a delightful evening out. With a "fantastic wine list" and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, L'Ardoise is a must-visit for European cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
Icon
8. O' by Claude Le Tohic
4.7
Exceptional(597)
$$$$
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 4 times today
O' by Claude Le Tohic in San Francisco’s Downtown/Union Square offers a truly exceptional French dining experience. Chef Claude Le Tohic, a recipient of the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France and a James Beard Award winner, brings his mastery of French cuisine to life with a modern twist. Guests rave about the "exquisite and creative" dishes and "impeccable service," which combine to deliver a dining experience that's "on par with two and three Michelin star establishments." The restaurant’s elegant ambiance, paired with a selection of over 1000 wines, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and special" occasion.
A photo of Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar restaurant
9. Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar
4.5
Awesome(992)
$$$$
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 19 times today
Ula Restaurant & Tapas Bar in San Francisco’s Financial District is a beacon of exceptional French cuisine, seamlessly blending Mediterranean influences with authentic French flavors. The restaurant’s “exquisite and attentive service” and “beautifully plated and lavishly seasoned” dishes are frequently lauded by diners, making it a must-visit. The menu features a variety of expertly crafted French classics with a modern twist, such as thin-sliced octopus and perfectly prepared seafood, which are all beautifully presented. The “genuine hospitality” and “out of this world” ambiance of Ula create an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of French culinary art.
A photo of Bombay Brasserie restaurant
10. Bombay Brasserie
4.1
Excellent(119)
$$$$
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 5 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.
‘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
  • Sungkwon
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We had a wonderful dining experience. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made us feel very welcome. We will definitely come back again!
    More info
    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF$$$$• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    •
    4.8
  • Joe
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Great wine and food! The parfait was excellent! Recommend going!
    More info
    Saison Cellar & Wine Bar - San Francisco$$$$• Wine Bar• SOMA
    •
    4.8
  • LudmilaGold
    San Francisco Bay Area •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 29, 2026
    From the moment we walked into the restaurant to the end of special birthday dinner for our friend, it was exceptional ! The ambience, the music, the service, the food was absolutely GREAT! We had a party of 11 people and they ALL agreed with me and were thanking me for choosing this place for our birthday party. Its not the first time I was there and it will not be the LAST!! Highly recommend.
    More info
    Chouchou French Bistro Burlingame$$$$• French• Burlingame
    •
    4.6
  • CharleneGold
    San Francisco Bay Area •29 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 24, 2026
    Everything is fabulous at the Iron Gate. But be ready for a very leisurely dining experience. It is not an in and out sort of a deal. It is a true dining experience.
    More info
    Iron Gate$$$$• French• Belmont
    •
    4.9
  • RickGold
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 18, 2026
    Bistro Vida has excellent, authentic French style food at a reasonable price. I had the Nicoise Salad which was exceptional, as is the Coq au Vin.
    More info
    Vida + Bar Loretta$$$$• French• Menlo Park
    •
    4.8

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