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San Francisco

L'Ardoise Bistro is praised for its authentic French cuisine, cozy ambiance, and attentive service. Signature dishes like Duck Confit and Tiger Prawn Ravioles are frequently highlighted. The intimate setting is ideal for romantic dinners, though the space can be tight during peak hours. Reservations are recommended.

Discover the Charm of L'Ardoise Bistro in San Francisco

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's charming Duboce Triangle neighborhood, L'Ardoise Bistro invites food enthusiasts, couples, and local gourmets to experience authentic French dining in an intimate setting. This neighborhood gem offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its elegant menu, showcasing traditional French cuisine with a modern twist.

welcomes diners to an intimate setting where the essence of French home cooking shines. The bistro’s carefully curated wine list, including standout selections like Red Sancerre, pairs beautifully with signature dishes such as Duck Leg Confit and Tiger Prawn Ravioles. Guests often praise the impeccable sauces, fresh salads, and the famously delicious pommes landaises — a simple yet extraordinary side dish that elevates every meal.

Whether celebrating a special milestone or enjoying a solo date at the bar, visitors appreciate the attentive, French-accented staff and the thoughtful touches like a clever door curtain that keeps the ambiance cozy. While the service is sometimes described as authentically European—meaning guests may need to be proactive—the overall atmosphere fosters a sense of community and warmth that makes every visit memorable.

 served in a cozy neighborhood bistro setting.

 perfect for date nights and special celebrations.

 that complements every dish exquisitely.

 in San Francisco’s picturesque Duboce Triangle neighborhood, with free street parking available.

What are the operating hours of L'Ardoise Bistro?

 L'Ardoise Bistro operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Does L'Ardoise Bistro accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations are accepted and recommended due to limited seating.

Is there a corkage fee at L'Ardoise Bistro?

 As of December 31, 2022, the corkage fee is $30 per bottle.

Is L'Ardoise Bistro wheelchair accessible?

 Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

 Yes, takeout is available; orders can be placed by calling the restaurant directly.

L'Ardoise Bistro enjoys a warm reputation among San Francisco locals and visitors alike. The community sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with patrons highlighting the restaurant's genuine French flavors, cozy ambiance, and dedicated service team. Many recommend it as a top choice for romantic dinners and memorable celebrations. While it may not feature Michelin-star complexity, the bistro’s satisfying dishes and inviting atmosphere make it a beloved staple in the Duboce Triangle dining scene.

Explore L'Ardoise Bistro to enjoy a taste of France in the heart of San Francisco, where each dish is crafted to delight your palate and every visit feels like coming home.

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United States

Nestled in the heart of Duboce Triangle, L'Ardoise Bistro is a charming French restaurant that captures the essence of Parisian dining. With its intimate ambiance and warm decor, this bistro is a hidden gem that invites you to indulge in traditional French cuisine. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces envelops you, setting the stage for a delightful culinary experience.

The menu at L'Ardoise Bistro is a celebration of classic French dishes, each crafted with care and precision. Start your meal with the **escargot**, delicately prepared in garlic butter and herbs, served with crusty bread that’s perfect for soaking up every drop of the rich sauce. For the main course, the duck confit is a must-try; its tender meat falls off the bone, complemented by a side of crispy potatoes that are simply irresistible. Each dish is a testament to the bistro's commitment to authentic French cooking.

One of the standout features of L'Ardoise is its intimate setting, perfect for romantic dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. The bistro's decor is a blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, making it a delightful backdrop for your dining experience. Fun fact: the restaurant cleverly uses a curtain at the entrance to keep the warmth in, ensuring that guests feel comfortable regardless of the season.

Conveniently located at 151 Noe St, L'Ardoise Bistro is surrounded by the vibrant energy of San Francisco. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Duboce Triangle neighborhood, where charming Victorian homes and lush parks await. Don't miss the nearby Castro District, known for its rich history and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a post-dinner exploration.

L'Ardoise Bistro is celebrated for its authentic French cuisine, particularly its duck confit and escargot.

The bistro offers a cozy atmosphere, exquisite dishes, and a taste of French culture right in San Francisco.

Nearby attractions include the Castro District and various parks, perfect for a post-dinner stroll.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, L'Ardoise Bistro promises a memorable dining experience filled with the flavors of France. Make your reservation today and savor the taste of authentic French cuisine in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

Neighborhood bistro serving elegant dishes of traditional French cuisine in a warm, intimate space.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6NDktSW53RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ59pRbR1-j4ARKfQUFqmo33o/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6NDktSW53RRAB

This cute little place was absolutely a gem ! So happy I found and decided to book our reservation to celebrate my boyfriend’s 55th birthday!
From the amazing ambience, intimacy of the place, service, staff, and the FOOD… everything was impeccably delicious!
Starting with the appetizers, main course, drinks, and desserts! Definitely adding this to one of our favorite places to dine!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3N1kyN2FREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ59pRbR1-j4ARKfQUFqmo33o/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3N1kyN2FREAE

The service and atmosphere was excellent. The sauces on the duck confit, salad, and potatoes were superb. The duck confit was excellent. I thought it could have been more flavorful and more juicy. But overall it was really good. This is an excellent French restaurant. However, there was another French restaurant close by that I thought was better. My tab came to about $45 with taxes and tip. I would recommend coming here for the duck confit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQNjR5bHBnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ59pRbR1-j4ARKfQUFqmo33o/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQNjR5bHBnRRAB

L'Ardoise is a nice, neighborhood restaurant, with the feel of an authentic, French neighborhood bistro.  The food was pretty good but didn't amaze us.  (There were four of us -- all of whom were first-timers.)  We tried the escargot and butter lettuce salad with white anchovy filets as starters.  The escargot sauce was delicious.  The salads were very fresh and had relatively mild, pickeled anchovie filets.

For our main courses, I had rack of lamb, which was fine. My partner had the duck breast, which was a bit dry. The pommes landaises that came with our meals were out of this world -- simple but extraordinarily delicious!  Both of our other dining companions had hanger steak (ordered medium) with pommes frites.  They said that, although the cut of the hanger steaks appeared unusual, they were perfectly prepared, even if they were not terribly tender.  That being said, we all cleaned our plates and shared the "floating island" dessert, which was pleasant and a nice treat.

The service was a bit disjointed.  We actually failed on our first attempts, to get the attention of the servers, to ask them if we could order a drink.  And then, later in the meal, when we wanted to order more wine, had to get our server's attention to ask again.  Perhaps they wanted to give the authentic European service experience. 🙂

I would go again.  I would just lower my expectations regarding the service level and would take more responsibility for ordering and requesting everthing that we want early on.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIb3NyMmt3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ59pRbR1-j4ARKfQUFqmo33o/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIb3NyMmt3RRAB

The food was amazing. I called ahead, and they saved a seat for me at the bar even when I was running late. The wine pairings were nice as well. It is a great spot for a solo date.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6d29MWEhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ59pRbR1-j4ARKfQUFqmo33o/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6d29MWEhREAE

This place has so much to be proud of and to show for.  It's beautiful tucked away in a residential neighborhood of San Francisco.  Just walking there in the evening can give you a bit of a romantic feeling.  The entrance is clever as an old invention to have a curtain on the inside of the door to prevent cold from entering the restaurant.  That gives the guest a pleasant experience and nobody has to shiver regardless how close to the door you are sitting.  The interior is welcoming and warm making you feel you are part of a community.  The menu is short and to the point of being French .  It's your everyday French home cooking done well.  The staff with their French accent is adding to the feeling of being away from home.  We tried their flank steak, coq au vine and lamb .  All making their own home run.  To be clear this is not Michelin Star level of eating but it's satisfying every taste bud and leaves you satisfied all around.  The desserts were also divine and yes of course the wine selection is a great extension of their menu.  Try their Red Sancerre , you will love it on your palette and it will bring out the various main courses even more.

L'Ardoise Bistro: Cozy French Dining in Duboce Triangle, SF

L'Ardoise Bistro, established in 2008, is a French bistro in San Francisco's Duboce Triangle neighborhood. It has been featured in the Michelin Guide and has received positive reviews from Zagat Survey, Yelp, and local publications.

L'Ardoise Bistro: A French Culinary Gem in San Francisco's Duboce Triangle 

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Duboce Triangle neighborhood, L'Ardoise Bistro stands as a testament to authentic French culinary tradition and neighborhood charm. Since its opening in 2000, this cozy bistro has cultivated a loyal following by delivering elegant dishes that reflect the depth and richness of classic French cuisine.

Established at the turn of the millennium, L'Ardoise Bistro quickly became a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike seeking a warm, intimate French dining experience away from the bustling city center. Its location at 151 Noe Street offers a welcoming refuge where traditional French home cooking is celebrated with finesse and authenticity.

Signature dishes and culinary recognition

By 2010, L'Ardoise Bistro had garnered acclaim for standout dishes such as its tender Duck Leg Confit and delicate Tiger Prawn Ravioles. These specialties highlight the bistro's commitment to classic French flavors crafted with skill and care, earning it a reputation as a must-visit spot for French cuisine enthusiasts in San Francisco.

Milestone celebrations and community connection

In 2020, L'Ardoise Bistro commemorated two decades of culinary excellence with a special wine pairing event, celebrating both its heritage and its ongoing dedication to quality dining. This milestone reflected the bistro’s deep roots in the Duboce Triangle community and its role as a cherished neighborhood establishment.

Why L'Ardoise Bistro continues to captivate food lovers

Beyond its savory menu, L'Ardoise Bistro offers an atmosphere that feels like a true French neighborhood spot, complete with warm service accented by authentic French charm. Guests appreciate the bistro’s intimate space, clever design touches such as a door curtain to keep out the chill, and an approachable yet refined dining experience that appeals to both casual diners and connoisseurs.

 - Opened its doors in San Francisco's Duboce Triangle, quickly becoming a neighborhood favorite.

 - Gained recognition for signature dishes like Duck Leg Confit and Tiger Prawn Ravioles.

 - Celebrated with a special wine pairing event honoring two decades of French dining excellence.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Coffee

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

L'Ardoise Bistro is a neighborhood bistro in Duboce Triangle, San Francisco, serving elegant dishes of traditional French cuisine in a warm, intimate space. The bistro is renowned for its inviting ambiance and a menu that celebrates seasonal ingredients, featuring mouthwatering classics such as duck confit and coq au vin.

L'Ardoise Bistro

Authentic French bistro fare in a cozy atmosphere.

Tiger Prawn Ravioles

Warm Bijou Goat Cheese Salad

Escargots en Gueusaille

Soup of the Day

Charcuterie Plate

Butter Lettuce and Boquerones

Brussel Sprouts Salad with Fresh Goat Cheese

Traditional Leg Duck Confit

Braised Bistro Coq Au Vin

Pan Roasted Rack of Lamb

Pan Seared Black Angus Filet Mignon

Pan Seared Black Angus Hanger Steak

Crispy Skin Mary's Chicken Breast

Three Grain Mixed Mushroom and Parmesan Risotto

Vanilla Crème Brûlée

Valrhona Chocolate Fondant

Apple Tarte Tatin

Floating Island

L'Ardoise Bistro Menu

L'Ardoise Bistro Menu Overview - Traditional French Cuisine in San Francisco's Duboce Triangle District.

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's charming Duboce Triangle neighborhood, L'Ardoise Bistro offers an intimate dining experience that captures the essence of traditional French home cooking. This neighborhood gem is perfect for food enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic French culinary journey in a warm, inviting setting. The menu, thoughtfully curated, boasts classic flavors prepared with finesse, reflecting timeless French bistro fare in every dish.

Begin your meal with exquisite starters that awaken the palate with refined flavors and fresh ingredients. The Tiger Prawn Ravioles are delicate parcels filled with succulent tiger prawns, served with a vibrant sauce vierge and an aromatic blend of fresh mixed herbs. For a true French classic, the Escargots en Gueusaille offers tender escargots bathed in a rich garlic and parsley butter, finished with golden breadcrumb topping. Alternatively, the Brussels Sprouts Salad balances crisp sprouts with smoky bacon, shallots, and a tangy mustard vinaigrette for a refreshing yet savory bite.

L'Ardoise Bistro's main courses highlight rich, comforting French preparations crafted with care. The Duck Leg Confit stands out as a signature dish, featuring a tender duck leg slow-cooked in its own duck fat, accompanied by a velvety garlic sauce and the iconic pommes landaises — a simple yet extraordinary potato side that elevates the dish. The Coq Au Vin showcases succulent chicken simmered in a robust red wine sauce with mushrooms, onions, and bacon, embodying rustic French flavors. For mushroom lovers, the Mushroom Risotto is a creamy delight made with arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, parmesan cheese, and a flavorful vegetable broth, offering a satisfying vegetarian option.

Complete your meal with decadent French desserts crafted to satisfy every sweet tooth. The Apple Tarte Tatin is a beautifully caramelized upside-down tart served with buttery puff pastry and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a perfect balance of warm and cold textures. For chocolate aficionados, the Valrhona Chocolate Fondant offers an indulgent molten center made with high-quality Valrhona chocolate, butter, eggs, sugar, and flour. The classic Crème Brûlée tantalizes with its creamy texture, rich cream base, egg yolks, sugar, and fragrant vanilla bean, finished with a crisp caramelized sugar top.

Enhance your dining experience with L'Ardoise's curated selection of wines, including an acclaimed Red Sancerre that perfectly complements the main courses. The bistro also serves beer, coffee, and cocktails to suit various preferences. While the menu focuses on authentic French dishes without a dedicated brunch or breakfast offering, the attentive service and cozy ambiance create an ideal setting for dinner or a solo date night. Though the menu is concise, each item is carefully prepared to deliver a satisfying, flavorful experience true to French neighborhood bistro traditions.

 Tiger Prawn Ravioles, Escargots en Gueusaille, Brussels Sprouts Salad

 Duck Leg Confit, Coq Au Vin, Mushroom Risotto

 Apple Tarte Tatin, Valrhona Chocolate Fondant, Crème Brûlée

 Curated French wines including Red Sancerre, beer, coffee, and cocktails

Savor exquisite French cuisine at L'Ardoise Bistro in Duboce Triangle, San Francisco. Indulge your palate—reserve your table now!

L'Ardoise Bistro: French Dining in Duboce Triangle SF

San Francisco County

Extensive list featuring French and Californian wines.

Wine Selection

Gift Certificates

L'Ardoise Bistro San Francisco French Cuisine Experience at 151 Noe Street Duboce Triangle CA 94114 USA 

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's charming Duboce Triangle neighborhood, 

 offers an authentic French dining experience that feels like a cozy neighborhood retreat. From its intimate ambiance to its well-curated menu, this bistro invites food lovers and Francophiles alike to savor traditional French dishes crafted with finesse and passion.

Delicious traditional French dishes in an intimate setting

L'Ardoise Bistro specializes in classic French home cooking that delights every taste bud. The menu is concise but thoughtfully composed, featuring favorites like 

, rack of lamb, flank steak, and coq au vin, each paired beautifully with savory sauces and sides like pommes landaises that are simply outstanding. Diners praise the escargot and fresh salads, while desserts such as the floating island provide a sweet finish that feels like a special treat.

 Order your favorite dishes to enjoy the rich flavors of French cuisine at home.

 Extensive list featuring French and local wines perfectly paired with your meal.

 Warm, intimate space with French accents and a clever entrance curtain that keeps guests cozy.

 Friendly staff who make you feel at home and enhance your dining experience.

Located at 151 Noe Street in San Francisco's picturesque Duboce Triangle, L'Ardoise Bistro is easily accessible with free street parking available. Whether you prefer dining in their intimate setting or taking your meal to-go, the bistro offers flexible options including takeout and delivery. Payment methods are convenient, accepting credit, debit cards, and NFC payments.

: This bistro is designed for a refined adult dining experience and is not suitable for children. It does not serve breakfast or brunch, focusing instead on delightful lunch and dinner options complemented by a great wine and beer selection.

Guests rave about the impeccable flavors and intimate charm of this hidden gem. From celebrating special birthdays to perfect solo dates, the bistro’s balance of 

 and warm, personal service keeps locals and travelers coming back. Try the duck confit or the pommes landaises—their understated deliciousness is unforgettable.

California

Discover L'Ardoise Bistro in San Francisco's Duboce Triangle, offering exquisite French dishes, cozy ambiance, and a top-rated wine selection.

L'Ardoise Bistro SF - Authentic French Cuisine & Romantic Atmosphere

Experience authentic French bistro fare at L'Ardoise in San Francisco. Enjoy signature dishes like Duck Confit and Tiger Prawn Ravioles in a warm setting.

L'Ardoise Bistro San Francisco - Cozy French Dining & Signature Dishes

Enjoy classic French cuisine at L'Ardoise in SF's Duboce Triangle. A cozy spot known for attentive service, signature dishes, and an extensive wine list.

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