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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's iconic Castro district, Frances restaurant has been a beloved neighborhood favorite since its grand opening in 2009. Named as a tribute to Chef Melissa Perello's grandmother, Frances has carved a distinctive reputation for delivering seasonal New American cuisine that beautifully showcases the freshest local ingredients.
Frances opened its doors in 2009, quickly becoming a culinary gem in San Francisco’s food scene. From the start, the restaurant’s focus on a concise, market-driven menu allowed guests to enjoy expertly crafted dishes that highlighted seasonal produce and artisanal flavors. The elegant yet inviting ambiance coupled with impeccable service made it a go-to spot for locals and visitors seeking an authentic Californian dining experience.
Like many beloved establishments, Frances faced a significant challenge when it temporarily closed for 27 months during the global pandemic. This extended closure tested the resilience of the team and the community’s loyalty. However, in 2022, Frances triumphantly re-opened its doors, reinvigorating the local dining scene with its signature seasonal New American cuisine and renewed energy.
In 2024, Frances welcomed an exciting new chapter with Chef Ricky Chu taking the helm as chef de cuisine. His promotion brought fresh perspectives and influences to the menu while maintaining the restaurant’s commitment to creative, seasonal dishes. This blend of tradition and innovation ensures Frances remains a dynamic and compelling destination for food lovers seeking the best of Californian flavors in a cozy yet sophisticated setting.
- 2009 Frances opened in San Francisco's Castro district, marking the beginning of a culinary landmark.
- 2022 After a 27-month closure due to the pandemic, Frances re-opened with renewed vitality and dedication to excellence.
- 2024 Chef Ricky Chu was promoted to chef de cuisine, infusing new inspiration and flavors into the seasonal menu.
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.
- 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
- 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
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.
- 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.
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.
Tucked away on 17th Street in vibrant The Castro neighborhood, Frances is a culinary gem that offers an intimate dining experience showcasing the best of Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This compact and sought-after restaurant is renowned for its thoughtfully curated, market-driven menu that celebrates fresh, local ingredients.
The star offering at Frances is the seasonal tasting menu priced at 95 USD, designed for those who appreciate culinary artistry and diverse flavors. Served family-style, the menu highlights the finest Californian produce, masterfully blended with Mediterranean influences to create dishes that are both innovative and comforting. Diners rave about the crisp Hokkaido scallop crudo, the delicate aji cristal aguachile with its bright citrus notes, and the rich Carnaroli risotto enhanced by sage and sherry.
For an additional 50 USD, Frances offers expertly curated wine pairings that complement each course of the tasting menu. These selections feature top wines from California and Europe, carefully chosen to enhance the flavors of the food and provide a harmonious dining experience. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass, these pairings bring an added layer of sophistication to your meal.
Frances boasts a cozy yet elegant atmosphere that makes every visit feel special. The warm decor and inviting ambiance create the perfect backdrop for intimate dinners or special occasions. Guests praise the attentive and knowledgeable service that ensures a smooth and memorable dining experience. Outdoor seating is available for those who prefer to enjoy their meal with fresh air and Castro district vibes.
- Market-driven Californian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist.
- Seasonal tasting menu served family-style.
- Curated wine pairings from California and Europe to enhance your dining experience.
- Cozy and elegant ambiance with attentive service.
- Outdoor seating available for fresh air and neighborhood views.
Frances is best enjoyed with a reservation due to its popularity and intimate size. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, with a menu that caters to vegetarians and those seeking refined Californian dishes. Parking options include both free and paid street parking nearby. Payment is convenient with credit and debit cards accepted, and the ambiance is well-suited for a memorable meal, though it's not designed for large groups or children.
