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Best French Restaurants in Oakland

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27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Left Bank - Jack London Square restaurant
4.5
Awesome(528)
Price: Moderate
• French • Oakland
Booked 19 times today
Left Bank Brasserie in Jack London Square, Oakland, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary French/American cuisine. Nestled by the Oakland waterfront, it offers a culinary journey into the heart of Paris with a menu that features authentic French dishes like beef bourguignon and escargot, crafted with local and organic ingredients. Patrons rave about its "incredible ambiance" and "AMAZING food," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through its extensive cocktail menu and expertly-curated wine selection, complementing the vibrant, social atmosphere that captures the joie de vivre of a true Parisian brasserie. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Left Bank promises a memorable experience with every visit.
A photo of Julia's Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1624)
Price: Expensive
• French • Berkeley
Booked 14 times today
Julia's Restaurant in Berkeley stands as a beacon of French cuisine, offering a delightful array of dishes that transport diners straight to France with every bite. Nestled in the historic Berkeley City Club, the restaurant's ambiance complements its cuisine, providing an elegant backdrop reminiscent of a French château. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of the dishes, with reviews highlighting the "fabulous lamb," "exceptional risotto," and escargot that are "fab!!" served with garlic, parsley butter. The innovative approach to traditional French favorites, like the onion soup with a "fab soup base" topped with melted Compté or Gruyère, showcases Julia's commitment to culinary excellence. As one diner perfectly sums it up, "So glad to experience an excellent French restaurant — a rarity these days."
A photo of Perle Wine Bar restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(154)
Price: Expensive
• French • Oakland
Booked 7 times today
Perle is a neighborhood wine bar, specializing in french-California focused cuisine. We strive to casually exceed our customer's expectations with interesting food options and a wine list that is varied and affordable. Two San Francisco restaurant personalities, Chef Rob Lam from Butterfly & Sommelier Marcus Garcia from Fleur de Lys decided to open a hip and comfortable wine lounge and restaurant loaded with great wines, spirits, craft cocktails and beer... In the small, quaint, Montclair village in the hills of Oakland. House specialties include caviar, oysters, mussels and other gems of the sea... classic fromage and charcuterie... to a burger considered one of Oakland's best! Currently in San Francisco Chronicle's Top French Restaurants!!!
A photo of O' by Claude Le Tohic restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(457)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 14 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 Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SF restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(7340)
Price: Expensive
• French • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 25 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 Bon Delire restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(67)
Price: Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 60 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 Saison Cellar & Wine Bar restaurant
4.5
Awesome(26)
Price: Expensive
• French • SOMA
Booked 18 times today
Nestled in the vibrant SOMA district of San Francisco, Saison Cellar & Wine Bar is a paradise for oenophiles and gourmands alike. Lauded for its "out-of-this-world good" wine list, Saison showcases an intricate collection that "leans heavily into France" while also honoring remarkable global and local Northern Californian producers. Patrons are treated to an enticing French wine bar fare, perfectly paired with a meticulously curated wine selection by Mark Bright and his team of sommeliers. The ambiance, described as classic "Saison blue," along with regular winemaker events, crafts a truly immersive experience. A patron praised, "the wine matches were paired and delivered beautifully," highlighting the exceptional quality and authenticity of Saison’s wine offerings, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an exemplary wine bar experience.
A photo of Bombay Brasserie restaurant
3.9
Excellent(33)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 13 times today
Welcome to Bombay Brasserie, where the vibrant tapestry of Indian cuisine meets the elegance of French culinary artistry in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square. Enjoy a journey through India’s culinary landscape, from the aromatic spices of the North to the coastal flavors of the South, meticulously crafted with a French twist to elevate traditional dishes. Dive into an evening that’s as bold as it is creative and experience a harmonious blend of two world-renowned cuisines, where every bite is a symphony of heritage and sophistication.
A photo of Cote Ouest restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(698)
Price: Moderate
• French • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 32 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 Le Central restaurant
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”!!!

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • 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.
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    Absinthe Brasserie and Bar - SFPrice: Expensive• French• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.8
  • Jeffvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Very good selection of wine, cheeses, and charcuterie. The atmosphere is also awesome. So happy this place provides such a cozy and welcoming vibe! The staff is knowledgeable and attentive, making great recommendations to suit your taste. Whether you’re here for a casual evening or a special occasion, it’s perfect. Highly recommend for wine lovers looking for a charming spot to relax and indulge!
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    Saison Cellar & Wine BarPrice: Expensive• Wine Bar• SOMA
    4.5
  • Lara
    Los Angeles •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    FABULOUS! We did not know what to expect from Julia’s, but we were excited to be in such an historical setting. We got to dinner early (after the Cal game), so we had drinks in their bar, which is adjacent to the restaurant. What a highlight-drinks were spectacular and old school while still being hip and cool. This is a great place for all ages in a stunning location. You really feel a part of the local history. Dinner—OUTSTANDING. All of our orders were different and really a fulfilling experience. The beauty of the building and its facilities makes this space unique, but really the team there, from the bartenders, to the host to the serving staff in the restaurant, are so professional and focused on hospitality—-something that is harder and harder to experience. We will be making this a regular part of our visits to Berkeley.
    More info
    Julia's RestaurantPrice: Expensive• French• Berkeley
    4.8
  • Davidvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •59 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    A wonderful dinner for Beaujolais Nouveau day. We started with salad verte and fried calamari followed by lobster bisque and ended with 1lb moule frites that all was in a garlic, wine & spinach sauce. We ended with a very large & delicious tart au citron with fresh raspberries. Thank you all.
    More info
    Left Bank - Jack London SquarePrice: Moderate• French• Oakland
    4.5
  • Doanvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Great service and food. Creative and delicious. Overall wonderful experience
    More info
    Perle Wine BarPrice: Expensive• French• Oakland
    4.9

Discover best French restaurants in Oakland

Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of French cuisine right in the heart of Oakland, a city renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. The East Bay's French dining establishments offer a delightful array of traditional and contemporary dishes, showcasing the depth and versatility of France's gastronomic heritage. Whether you're craving classic dishes like coq au vin and ratatouille or looking for a modern twist on French gastronomy, Oakland's French restaurants promise an authentic experience. Each venue highlights premium ingredients and the meticulous art of French cooking, all set against the backdrop of warm, inviting atmospheres that echo the charm of Parisian eateries. The dining scene in Oakland, particularly for French cuisine, not only catifies the palate but also enriches the cultural fabric of the city. For anyone seeking a genuine taste of France in the San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland’s French restaurants are a must-visit destination. This summary encapsulates the essence of French dining in Oakland, ensuring diners know exactly what culinary delights await them.

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