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Best Bistros in Berkeley

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Reve restaurant
1. Reve
4.9
Exceptional(2552)
Price: Very Expensive
• Bistro • Lafayette
Booked 8 times today
Rêve, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Lafayette, is a delightful escape to a classic French bistro right in the heart of the suburbs. Helmed by the acclaimed Chef Paul Magu-Lecugy, Rêve has been consistently recognized for its superb culinary offerings, including accolades like the Michelin recognition in 2021 & 2022, and being an Open Table guest favorite from 2017-2023. The restaurant's authentic French cuisine, such as the perfectly cooked scallops and the sumptuous lamb stew, has been lauded by diners for its authenticity and excellence. With glowing reviews like "the most delicious food in a 50-mile radius" and "every single table... thoroughly enjoying themselves," it's clear that Rêve is a standout for those seeking a genuine taste of Contemporary French cuisine. The combination of a warm, inviting atmosphere, impeccable service, and dishes that transport you straight to Paris make Rêve a must-visit culinary destination.
A photo of Mathilde French Bistro restaurant
2. Mathilde French Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(2441)
Price: Very Expensive
• Bistro • SOMA
Booked 3 times today
At Mathilde French Bistro, nestled in the SOMA district of San Francisco, the essence of Parisian dining comes to life, offering diners an authentic French culinary adventure. Celebrated for its "voted best in town French onion soup" and traditional delights like baked escargots and duck confit, Mathilde is a gateway to French gastronomy. Patrons consistently praise its offerings, with one declaring, "the service was impeccable, and the duck confit was perfection." Another review highlights, "From start to finish Mathilde is always 5⭐️'s." The cozy ambiance, complemented by a romantic, heated patio, ensures a year-round dining pleasure that makes every visit feel like a special occasion. This bistro not only serves excellent cuisine but also embodies the spirit of French dining with "a lovely bottle of Cotes de Beaune" to toast to an unforgettable experience.
A photo of Bon Delire restaurant
3. Bon Delire
new
4.7
Exceptional(105)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 46 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. Saison Cellar & Wine Bar
4.5
Awesome(29)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • SOMA
Booked 6 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 Villon restaurant
5. Villon
4.1
Excellent(1259)
Price: Expensive
• Bistro • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 6 times today
Nestled in the bustling heart of San Francisco's Downtown / Union Square neighborhood, Villon delights diners with its exemplary take on American cuisine, focusing on California’s rich tapestry of local and seasonal ingredients. Praised as "nothing short of exceptional" and "a perfect gem with fabulous food and drink," Villon offers a culinary experience that merges classic American dishes with inventive Californian flair. Guests rave about dishes like the "phenomenal" artichoke soup and the perfectly cooked lamb, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to quality and creativity. The atmosphere is described as "wonderful inside," making Villon a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining experience in San Francisco.
A photo of Cafe de la Presse restaurant
6. Cafe de la Presse
4.6
Exceptional(1913)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 35 times today
At Cafe de la Presse, nestled in the bustling Downtown/Union Square of San Francisco, the essence of Parisian charm is vividly alive. This delightful eatery captures the spirit of French cafes, where "the food and service always dazzle" and the atmosphere invites you to linger over "the best eggs Benedict in town" or indulge in their "amazing onion soup." Patrons rave about the authentic French flair, noting it as "the most authentic feeling French restaurant" they've encountered. With accolades like "thumbs up for the Eggs Benedict" and "croissants are excellent," Cafe de la Presse stands out as a gem for those seeking a genuine taste of France in the heart of San Francisco.
A photo of Zevi Café & Bistro restaurant
7. Zevi Café & Bistro
4.9
Exceptional(4)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • SOMA
Booked 4 times today
Zevi Café & Bistro in SOMA, San Francisco, epitomizes the charm of a quintessential Bistro with its cozy ambiance, heartwarming cuisine, and the delightful blend of local flavors. Praised for its "very authentic" dishes and "excellent food," this spot stands out with its "best club sandwich" and "delicious Turkish and Mediterranean food." Reviewers rave about the "amazing experience" and highlight the "friendly service," making every meal memorable. Whether it's the "best coffee in San Francisco" or the "tasty and huge plates," Zevi's commitment to quality and authenticity shines, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine Bistro 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
  • Audrey
    San Francisco Bay Area •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Loved it! Service was very attentive and they had wonderful suggestions from their menu. The steak tartare was delicious served on homemade potato chips. The deviled eggs were a wonderful surprise served upside down with a sauce and caviar on top. The Caesar salad was amazing…I shared this but won’t next time I return…it was delicious with the crunchy topping. We shared the roast chicken, which was so tender and had the most delicious pan gravy. And don’t leave without trying the Soft Serve dessert. It checks all the boxes…caramel, toasted hazelnuts, poached pears and ice cream.
    More info
    Bon DelirePrice: Expensive• French• Financial District / Embarcadero
    •
    4.7
  • Lee Ann
    Greater Boston •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Every table had a fun cracker to pull and adorable nutcrackers on the table. Tea was delicious and the little sandwiches and desserts were perfect and tasty. Loved the rainbow cookies and the macarons. Definitely would do this again.
    More info
    VillonPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown / Union Square
    •
    4.1
  • Judy
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Wonderful menu variety and consistent quality of food. Everything served is detailed and there is a priority to consistency. Delicious.
    More info
    Mathilde French BistroPrice: Very Expensive• French• SOMA
    •
    4.8
  • T.G.
    Tahoe / Reno Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 14, 2024
    Reve is such a local gem. Excellent service, prompt and efficient. They nailed the moules frites and and scallop risotto. Very easy to make pretty good, it takes skill to make it sublime. A round of clicks for the chef!
    More info
    RevePrice: Very Expensive• French• Lafayette
    •
    4.9
  • SilviaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 12, 2024
    I am so excited to have found my neighborhood wine bar!!! Love it all: the wine, the nibbles, the ambiance and the lovely and attentive people that work there!
    More info
    Saison Cellar & Wine BarPrice: Expensive• Wine Bar• SOMA
    •
    4.5

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