Best French Restaurants in Portola Valley

9 restaurants available nearby

1. Zola + BarZola

4.7

Exceptional(1214)

Price: Expensive

• French • Palo Alto

Booked 22 times today

Zola + BarZola in Palo Alto is a gem for those seeking exemplary American cuisine with a unique twist. The restaurant consistently receives glowing reviews for its "delicious food" and "impeccable service," making it a local favorite. One diner raved, "The entire experience was wonderful," emphasizing the quality from the atmosphere to the food preparation. The menu, rich with expertly sourced meats and produce, features standout dishes like the perfectly prepared halibut and Beef Bourguignon, complemented by an "excellent" selection of cocktails and wines. Zola + BarZola is truly a culinary delight, perfect for a memorable dining experience, as echoed by many who promise, "Will definitely be back!"

A photo of Left Bank Menlo Park restaurant

2. Left Bank Menlo Park

4.4

Awesome(2818)

Price: Moderate

• French • Menlo Park

Booked 20 times today

Inspired by the birthplace of the original Parisian brasseries along the Left Bank of the Seine River, Left Bank Brasserie is an authentic Parisian-style brasserie by Chef Roland Passot. Left Bank pays homage to the joiede vivre that is synonymous with the Left Bank neighborhood in Paris. Guests are invited to step intoFrench culture, in a vibrant, social atmosphere that captures all the charm of traditional brasseriesand iconic alfresco dining of France. An all-day menu features authentic French cuisine utilizingseasonal, local and organic ingredients, and consists of iconic lighter fare such as oysters, tartare andprawns provençal, in addition to heartier classics like coq au vin and beef bourguignon. Inspired by theParisian-style Bar Américain, an extensive cocktail menu features classics of a bygone era, along with awide range of rotating taps, seasonal drafts and bottled beer, and an expertly-curated wine selection.

3. Bistro Vida

4.8

Exceptional(2743)

Price: Moderate

• French • Menlo Park

Booked 13 times today

Bistro Vida stands out as a gem in Menlo Park, bringing the essence of Parisian bistro culture right to the heart of the Bay Area. Since 1998, this charming establishment has been synonymous with top-notch French cuisine, creating an inviting atmosphere that echoes the "joie de vivre." Patrons rave about classics like the "best French onion soup" and perfectly executed scallops risotto, highlighting both the authenticity and the hearty satisfaction of the meals. With its elegant yet comfortable decor and a focus on community and enjoyment, Bistro Vida consistently earns accolades for its "fabulous" service and culinary excellence, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Bistro Vida promises a delightful dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors and simple pleasures of French bistro dining.

4. Firehouse Bistro

4.8

Exceptional(464)

Price: Expensive

• French • Woodside

Booked 1 time today

Firehouse Bistro in Woodside, California, exemplifies the epitome of French cuisine with an authentic flair that leaves diners raving. Patrons consistently praise the restaurant for its "delectable" dishes crafted by Chef Esperry, highlighting favorites like the sea bass and seafood risotto as "amazing." The atmosphere is described as "quaint, quiet, and charming," with a "Sinatra inspired vibe" that enhances the dining experience. The service, led by servers like Angeles and Cameron, is repeatedly hailed as "excellent," making every visit memorable. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy dinner, Firehouse Bistro's commitment to quality and authenticity in its French offerings makes it a must-visit destination.

5. Chez TJ

4.8

Exceptional(1530)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Mountain View

Booked 5 times today

Chez TJ in downtown Mountain View offers a truly authentic French dining experience that resonates with both the heart and palate. This Michelin Starred venue stands out for its “outstanding” courses and “artistic” service within a Victorian home setting. Executive Chef Stan Michalski, who has been described as bringing “next-level” culinary expertise since January 2024, utilizes locally-sourced ingredients to craft a Chef’s Tasting Menu that is both nuanced and innovative. Diners consistently praise the exceptional wine pairings and the intimate, cozy ambiance that makes every meal feel special. According to one glowing review, “Every bite was unique, nuanced, complex and packed with flavor,” showcasing Chez TJ’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of French cuisine.

A photo of La Fontaine Restaurant restaurant

6. La Fontaine Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(884)

Price: Moderate

• French • Mountain View

Booked 7 times today

La Fontaine Restaurant in Mountain View offers a sublime taste of French cuisine that truly stands out. Diners rave about the authentic French flavors, with dishes like the "best ever" smoked salmon crostini and exquisite beef Wellington capturing the essence of France. The ambiance is praised as "amazing" and perfectly complements the culinary experience. Friendly and attentive service further enhances the dining experience, making every visit memorable. As one delighted customer put it, the food is "exquisite" and "highly recommended." Whether you're enjoying the warmly recommended pastas or the chef's special salmon entree, La Fontaine promises a truly authentic French dining experience right in the heart of Mountain View.

A photo of La Boheme - Palo Alto restaurant

7. La Boheme - Palo Alto

4.5

Awesome(177)

Price: Moderate

• French • Palo Alto

Booked 8 times today

La Boheme in Palo Alto is a gem for anyone seeking authentic French cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay area. Known for its "amazing level" of French classics and an ambiance that transports you straight to Paris, patrons rave about dishes like the grilled duck breast with green peppercorn sauce and the unforgettable brunch options. Reviews highlight the "best croissants in Palo Alto" and the "delicious lamb shank," underscoring the consistency and quality of the food. With a "very warm and friendly" staff and a setting perfect for any occasion, La Boheme stands out as a top destination for both locals and visitors eager for a true French dining experience.

8. Bistro Elan

4.7

Exceptional(22)

Price: Expensive

• French • Palo Alto

Booked 3 times today

Located in the heart of Palo Alto, Bistro Elan offers an authentic French dining experience that delights with its meticulous use of locally-sourced ingredients and a cozy, intimate setting perfect for any special occasion. Celebrated for its "brilliant cuisine" and "stellar service," the restaurant presents a menu that showcases the freshness and seasonality of its offerings. As one patron raved, the "scallops and mustard sauce was unusual but highly successful," highlighting the creative culinary skills that define Bistro Elan. With its "wonderful locally sourced fresh seasonal food" and a carefully curated international wine list, each meal is an exploration of French flavors that are both traditional and innovative. Whether dining inside amidst the charming ambiance or outside enjoying the Palo Alto breeze, Bistro Elan consistently promises an "outstanding" experience.

9. Iron Gate

4.8

Exceptional(3044)

Price: Very Expensive

• French • Belmont

Booked 22 times today

Iron Gate in Belmont stands out as a pinnacle of Continental cuisine, offering an exceptional dining experience with its unique tableside and flambé services. Esteemed for its "perfectly seasoned" Caesar salad and the "spectacular" Steak Diane, both prepared right at your table, Iron Gate transports diners to a realm of culinary delight. Patrons rave about the "outstanding" service and the quality of dishes like the Petrale sole and the unforgettable chocolate soufflé. The restaurant's ambiance is described as "old-world, always great service," making every visit memorable. Whether it's a special occasion or a desire for top-tier Continental fare, Iron Gate consistently delivers an unparalleled 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

S
Sonnyvip
San Francisco Bay Area •59 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Food was very good as was service. Staff remembered our dietary preferences that were noted when we made reservations. Made modifications to entrees to deal with our allergies, etc. Nice selection on entrees with several different fish dishes Small, comfortable room, only about 10 tables seating 40-45. People. Good place for special occasions ( we went on anniversary) Can be a bit difficult to find at night. We live nearby and have passed the Bistro numerous times, yet on dark night was hard to find. Suggest you make a scouting trip if possible. Only open Tues- Sat 5-9pm. We do plan to go back
More info
Firehouse BistroPrice: Expensive• American• Woodside
•
4.8
J
Jo Bell
San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We ate dinner at 2pm on Thanksgiving. The food was very good with quite a few choices. Service was prompt and attentive. We were seated in a quiet area. Seating in both outside and inside areas worked well as we were crowded into an area with too many people and too much noise.
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Bistro VidaPrice: Moderate• French• Menlo Park
•
4.8
D
Debravip
Nashville •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Love this restaurant. Better food than we had during our recent 4weeks in France. And what an amazing menu —all of our French favs.
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La Boheme - Palo AltoPrice: Moderate• French• Palo Alto
•
4.5
D
Danvip
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Really excellent food. Short ribs were fork tender and so tasty, as were scallop crudo and brussel sprouts. Noise level was actually not as bad as I thought it would be. Excellent friendly service. Gonna be a regular place for me.
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Zola + BarZolaPrice: Expensive• French• Palo Alto
•
4.7
M
Monicavip
Singapore •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
We had a lovely dinner and my sole was one of the best I've had
More info
Left Bank Menlo ParkPrice: Moderate• French• Menlo Park
•
4.4

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Portola Valley

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Best French Restaurants in Portola Valley

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9 restaurants available nearby

1. Zola + BarZola

2. Left Bank Menlo Park

3. Bistro Vida

4. Firehouse Bistro

5. Chez TJ

6. La Fontaine Restaurant

7. La Boheme - Palo Alto

8. Bistro Elan

9. Iron Gate

See what locals rave about

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