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Catch French Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Catch French Bistro
8.4
Cozy Castro bistro plating French comforts—think beef bourguignon, cassoulet, and classic onion soup—in a warm, photo-friendly room with fireplace glow. Locals lean on polished service and nicely composed plates for date nights and small celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Bourguignon, Duck Leg (truffle mash, broccolini), French Onion Soup
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Classic French comfort dishes presented with modern, romantic polish.
Who should go: Date-night diners and Francophile comfort seekers
When to visit: Early evening for golden light and shorter waits
What to order: Beef bourguignon; cassoulet; French onion soup
Insider tip: Ask for a table near the fireplace for the best photos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be tight on weekends after 6pm, but nearby garage at 16th & Market is a reliable backup.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine if paired with a nice shirt or jacket; many guests dress up slightly for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—pleasant buzz from the dining room but you can comfortably hear your date or small group conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations highly recommended for prime hours 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating or a short 5–10 minute wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several entrée and appetizer options like mushroom risotto and goat cheese salad.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 customizable dishes; staff can adapt sides or salads upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several gluten-free mains available and staff are knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. The cozy fireplace, soft lighting, and polished but unpretentious service make it one of the Castro’s best first-date settings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early or late, but risky on weekends. Call ahead or book online; the small dining room fills fast after 6:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—menu and atmosphere cater to adults and couples. Teens would be fine for family dinners.
Best For
Better for: Romantic dinners and cozy group gatherings where ambiance and plating matter as much as flavor.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quick, casual meal or strict vegan options—lighter bistro fare may suit you better elsewhere.
Catch French Bistro
8.2
A polished Castro bistro serving French comfort hits—onion soup, mussels, cassoulet—alongside a strong cocktail and wine program. It’s a go-to for celebratory dinners and group occasions where classic flavors meet a lively room.
Must-Try Dishes:
French Onion Soup Gratinée, Moules-Frites, Cassoulet
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Lively French bistro classics with refined plating and cocktails.
Who should go: Celebration groups and classic-French fans
When to visit: Prime-time weekends: reserve; late-evening walk-ins fare better
What to order: Onion soup; moules-frites; cassoulet
Insider tip: The three-course prix fixe offers the best menu coverage.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Market and 17th fill fast after 6pm, but nearby residential streets can open up after 9pm. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; button-downs or nice tops recommended. Jeans are fine if paired with dress shoes or heels.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak hours; fine for conversation at smaller tables, but large groups add volume on weekends.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations recommended for parties of 4+.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or short walk-in availability before 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — options like French onion soup, salads, and vegetable cassoulet.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 adaptable dishes; kitchen can accommodate with advance notice.
Gluten-free options: Several dishes are naturally gluten-free (mussels, grilled proteins); bread and pastries are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the softly lit room and French bistro energy make it ideal for first or second dates, especially at smaller two-tops near the bar.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can try for late seating after 8:30pm; earlier times often book up. Bar seating is first come, first served.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — no kids’ menu and a more adult crowd; fine for older teens during early dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Classic French comfort dishes with elevated plating and stronger cocktails than most nearby bistros.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet fine dining or tasting menus; this spot leans lively and social rather than hushed or formal.