0 Followers
Frances
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Frances
8.8
Chef-owner Melissa Perello’s refined neighborhood spot balances technique with comfort. Seasonal California cooking, polished service, and a cozy room make it a Castro destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Beignets, Grilled Bavette Steak, Seasonal Farmers’ Market Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Technique-driven seasonal menu from acclaimed chef-owner Melissa Perello.
Who should go: Refined California cuisine fans
When to visit: Book ahead; early week is easier
What to order: Bacon beignets, market salad, bavette steak
Insider tip: Bar seats release day-of and can be the quickest way in.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be challenging after 6pm, especially on 17th Street and Noe. Nearby paid garages are available on Castro and 18th.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale — dress shirts or elegant tops recommended; jeans fine if polished.
Noise level: Moderate; lively hum but still comfortable for conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically booked solid; bar seats may open 20–40 minutes after 5:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; dinner only service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple seasonal dishes often designed around local produce.
Vegan options: Limited; kitchen can modify some items on request but menu skews toward butter and cream.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free options; staff knowledgeable and careful about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for a first or special date — cozy, softly lit, and refined without feeling stiff. The service and pacing help create an easy rhythm for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely on weekends; a few bar seats are released day-of and can be claimed by arriving early before 5:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — geared toward adults and date nights. No kids’ menu or booster seats; better suited for older teens or special family occasions.
Best For
Better for: Romantic, ingredient-driven California cuisine with Michelin-level finesse in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking a casual group meal, loud energy, or large portions — Frances is about refinement and intimacy.
Frances
8.7
Chef Melissa Perello’s acclaimed California-American spot with refined neighborhood energy. Known for bacon beignets and seasonal menus, it balances destination cooking with a welcoming tone for earlier family dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Applewood-Smoked Bacon Beignets, Local Black Cod, Lumberjack Cake
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Critically recognized California-American cooking with signature bacon beignets.
Who should go: Families celebrating or food-focused diners
When to visit: Book early; first seating is calmest for kids
What to order: Bacon beignets, black cod, lumberjack cake
Insider tip: Walk-in counter seats sometimes pop up right at open.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on 17th and Market fill quickly after 6pm. Nearby garages on Collingwood or Castro typically have availability after dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual — upscale neighborhood dining means polished attire fits best. Jeans are fine if paired with nice shoes or a blazer.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational during early seatings; grows lively later without being overwhelming.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats occasionally open at 5pm.
Weekday lunch: Lunch service is limited; early dinner reservations have minimal waits if booked a week ahead.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple composed vegetarian mains and sides using seasonal produce.
Vegan options: Limited — typically one entrée and a few small plates can be modified upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — several naturally gluten-free dishes and careful preparation noted by staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. Frances balances intimacy and energy with attentive service and refined but comfortable surroundings — ideal for an impressive, conversation-friendly first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally. The bar and a few counter seats are held for walk-ins right at opening, but prime weekend times are typically booked weeks in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Best suited for older kids or teens; early seatings are calm, and staff accommodate families with patience, though there are no dedicated kids’ menus or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Frances outperforms neighborhood spots on chef-driven precision and service consistency while maintaining warmth uncommon at fine dining peers.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking large group seating, casual pricing, or spontaneous late-night dining — this is a reservation-oriented, special-occasion venue.