Discover Frances in San Francisco's Castro District: A Culinary Gem with Seasonal Californian Flair.

Name: Frances
Address: 3870 17th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, USA, San Francisco, 94114, US
Telephone: (415) 621-3870
Price range: $$

Nestled in the vibrant Castro neighborhood of San Francisco, Frances offers a captivating dining experience defined by its dedication to the freshest seasonal ingredients and inventive New American cuisine. Chef Melissa Perello curates a thoughtfully changing menu that celebrates the best of California's local produce, creating each dish as a delightful work of culinary art.

A Cozy Atmosphere Meets Gourmet Excellence

From the moment you step inside Frances, you’ll be embraced by a warm, intimate ambiance that perfectly complements the menu’s creativity. The restaurant’s inviting decor and attentive service create an ideal setting for a memorable dinner, whether it's a special occasion or a casual evening out. Diners frequently commend the attentive staff and the cozy vibe that makes every visit feel special.

Signature Dishes and Seasonal Delights

Frances' menu showcases standout dishes such as the Applewood Smoked Bacon Beignets, Panisse Frites, and the much-loved Lumberjack Cake dessert. Each plate is crafted to highlight bold, fresh flavors — from the citrusy accents of the aji cristal aguachile to the comforting richness of the carnaroli risotto with sage. The kitchen’s commitment to quality ensures an exceptional tasting journey every time you visit.

Does Frances accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made through OpenTable, helping you secure your spot in this popular Castro dining destination.
What are Frances' operating hours? Frances is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday, from 5:15 PM to 9:15 PM, and is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Is there a corkage fee at Frances? Yes, Frances charges a $25 corkage fee per 750ml bottle, with a limit of two bottles per reservation.

What Makes Frances Special

Frances stands out for its dedication to serving a compact, market-driven menu that celebrates the Californian culinary landscape. The restaurant’s philosophy emphasizes fresh, local sourcing and seasonal creativity, which resonates deeply with food lovers and locals alike. Whether indulging in the tasting menu paired with carefully selected wines or savoring an a la carte meal, diners leave with a fond appreciation of Frances' culinary artistry and vibrant atmosphere.

Community Sentiment

The Frances community highly regards this restaurant for its exceptional food quality, attentive service, and cozy ambiance. The rotating seasonal menu and local ingredient focus earn consistent praise, making Frances a beloved culinary gem nestled in the heart of The Castro.

A história do restaurante Frances em São Francisco

Fundado em 2009, o restaurante Frances ocupa um lugar especial no bairro Castro de São Francisco. Nomeado em homenagem à avó da chef Melissa Perello, o espaço rapidamente se consolidou como um favorito local, oferecendo uma experiência culinária que homenageia o melhor da cozinha americana contemporânea.

Uma trajetória marcada pelo reconhecimento e inovação

Ao longo de sua história, Frances destacou-se por sua culinária sazonal de estilo New American, conquistando o paladar de moradores e visitantes. Sua proposta combina ingredientes frescos e técnicas modernas, criando pratos que refletem a diversidade e criatividade da gastronomia local.

Eventos marcantes na história do Frances

2009: Abertura do Frances no bairro Castro, marcando sua presença como um novo espaço de alta gastronomia em São Francisco.
2022: Reabertura do restaurante após um fechamento de 27 meses devido à pandemia, demonstrando resiliência e compromisso com seus clientes.
2024: Promoção do chef Ricky Chu a chef de cuisine, trazendo novas influências e renovando o cardápio com toques inovadores.

Hoje, o Frances continua sendo um símbolo de inovação, tradição e excelência culinária no coração de São Francisco, atraindo um público diversificado em busca de experiências gastronômicas únicas e memoráveis.

Frances at a glance

Located at 3870 17th St, San Francisco, CA, Frances is a compact restaurant that offers a delightful culinary journey through Californian flavors. Known for its seasonal and locally sourced menu, Frances has garnered attention for its exceptional food quality and inviting atmosphere.

Pros

Exceptional food quality
Attentive and friendly service
Cozy and inviting ambiance
Seasonal and locally sourced menu
Signature dishes like bacon beignets and lumberjack cake
Extensive wine selection

Cons

Limited seating capacity
Reservations can be difficult to secure
Higher price point may not suit all budgets
No lunch or brunch service
Limited operating hours

Ideal for

Frances is perfect for intimate dinners, special celebrations, or a romantic evening out. Its cozy ambiance and exceptional service make it a great choice for food enthusiasts and couples alike.

Things to know before visiting

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.
Parking options include both free and paid street parking.
The restaurant does not serve lunch or brunch.

Overall impression

Frances offers a unique dining experience that combines exceptional cuisine with a warm, inviting atmosphere. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the quality of food and service justifies the price for many diners. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a night out, Frances is a culinary destination worth visiting in San Francisco.