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Nob Hill’s Amélie Wins With Wine and Ambiance
mélie is a modern wine lounge with worldly flair. Its extensive wine list globe-trots from California to Europe to South America, and pairs off perfectly with delectable cheese plates, charcuterie, and favorites like Raviole du Royan — stuffed ravioli with chanterelles and Gruyère — and the indulgent grenadine caramelized onion flatbreads.
Get cozy on vintage theater seats with a glass of wine for a romantic rendezvous, mingle with chic locals at the bar, or sit down with a booth full of friends at this lively Nob Hill spot. Whether you go stag or you arrive with company, the engaging and lively international staff — all expert sommeliers — are reason enough to stop in for a wine and cheese pairing, and perhaps, sharpen your Française.
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Brenda’s Comfort Food Has French Soul
idering this gem is among the Top 5 Bold Newcomers from the New York Times and one of Travel & Leisure's Top 50 US Restaurants of 2009, the hour wait is no surprise.
Since 2007, Brenda Buenviaje has charmed the city with her closet-sized open kitchen, a total of seven tables, and an old-fashioned diner-style counter. Her New Orleans fare never rises above $10 and the portions are served with a heavy hand and plenty of love. And that’s exactly what you’ll get here, along with the best beignets west of France (try the Godiva chocolate or paprika crawfish). Wash it all down with Brenda’s special watermelon sweet tea and you’d swear you’re in the French Quarter.
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An Intoxicating Experience at Absinthe
Bar in charming Hayes Valley has a vintage french wine list (Wine Spectator 2009's Award of Excellence Winner to be fair) and assortment of fine cheeses alone that will impress even the most discerning of foodies. Except how could anyone not be further enticed by menu items like Steak Tartare with poached quail egg and habanero or Charoula-Rubbed Lamb Loin with cucumber relish. Feeling like a French royale? Absinthe serves Tsar Nicoulai Farm-Raised Osetra Caviar for $75 an ounce.
In addition to the fine dining, and for the upscale foodie on a budget, Absinthe has a separate Belle Epoque-inspired bar space featuring designer cocktails and cafe style small plates. Pair the strength of Absinthe's atmosphere with a "Sacred Heart" tequila/absinthe cocktail and this brasserie will have you seeing "la fee verte".
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La Folie
This small french restaurant is just the right size. The intimate atmosphere is a great spot to take your family for a real treat. The dining room is a little bit of luxury with beautiful woodworking, plenty of mirrors and gorgeous drapes. Choose from french favorites like quail and foie gras lollipops, roasted rabbit or sauteed halibut. There are also plenty of vegetarian options if you'd rather stay that route.