Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
- Fireplace
- Great wine list
oChef » Chapeau – San Francisco
Chapeau - San Francisco
Photo from Chapeau
Chapeau at a glance
San Francisco Jordan Park
- đ„ French Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $81â$90
mentioned by 93 of the guests
#460 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#4 French Restaurant out of 28 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
672
Reviews
82.3%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- French cuisine
- Attentive service
- Warm ambiance
Frequently criticized
- High pricing
- Noisy atmosphere
- Bland dishes
The restaurant Chapeau invites you to discover an authentic French dining experience in San Francisco’s charming Jordan Park neighborhood. You’ll find an upscale and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a special evening out.
With its cozy fireplace and a great wine list, it sets the scene for an unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to indulge in their great dessert options, a highlight that truly completes your visit.
Overview: Introducting Chapeau
Chapeau offers a classic French dining experience, often praised for its delightful food and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the savory dishes and the staff’s welcoming approach, making for a memorable visit.
The overall atmosphere also contributes positively, creating a comfortable setting for a meal. However, some diners have noted concerns regarding the overall price, with a few feeling it didn’t always align with the experience.
There have also been mentions of the menu being less than straightforward, which can lead to unexpected charges. These points are worth considering before you visit.
Excellent
8.2
out of 10
672
Reviews
82.3%
Satisfaction
86
negative
33
neutral
553
positive
Chapeau generally earns high marks, reflected in its solid Restaurant Score of 8.2 and a strong Customer Satisfaction of 82.3%. This indicates a largely positive experience for most patrons.
The 672 customer comments, with 553 positive remarks against 86 negative, paint a clear picture of a well-regarded establishment. Diving deeper, the Service (9) stands out as excellent, with many appreciating the attentive staff.
The Food (8.1) also receives high praise for its quality and execution. While the Ambience (8.2) contributes positively to the dining experience, the Value (4.3) is perceived as average, suggesting some find the pricing a bit steep for what’s offered.
What people like
- Excellent French cuisine
- Attentive, friendly service
- Warm bistro ambiance
What people don't like
- High, deceptive pricing
- Occasional noisy atmosphere
- Bland specific dishes
Chapeau comes with a strong Recommendation Score of 8.3, suggesting it’s a place many would happily revisit. If you’re seeking a classic French experience with generally well-executed dishes and attentive staff, it’s certainly worth considering for your next meal out.
However, be mindful of the pricing structure and potential for a lively, sometimes loud, atmosphere. While the overall experience is often positive, those sensitive to cost or seeking a very quiet dinner might want to manage expectations.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Chapeau
Food (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food, youre in for a treat! With a good score of 8.1 and 83.1% customer satisfaction, diners are clearly loving whats on their plates. Out of 408 remarks, a whopping 339 praise the creative food, traditional French cuisine, and excellent flavor of dishes like Filet Mignon and Escargot.
It sounds like a culinary journey! However, not every bite was perfect, with 49 negative comments. Some found the salmon trio fishy, the ratatouille salty, or the duck confit cassoulet dry.
A few also noted small portions or bland risotto, suggesting some dishes might miss the mark for certain palates.
Food
408
Reviews
83%
Satisfaction
49
negative
20
neutral
339
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Creative French cuisine
- Excellent flavor, taste
- Generous, comforting food
What people don't like
- Dishes lack consistency
- Some food salty
- Portions can be small
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was exceptional. It's an authentic, sophisticated French restaurant with absolutely savory and delicious food. We started with the Hors d'oeuvre: Trio of Salmon and Salade Landaise, both were perfectly executed.
- filet mignonThe dishes were both delicious and beautifully plated, and the team was attentive throughout. Standouts included the soupe Ă lâoignon, filet mignon, mussels, and crĂšme brĂ»lĂ©e.
- escargotWe ordered oysters and the 3-course meal. The escargot and the salmon trio were good, though nothing stood out as amazing. The fresh bread was great, with a crunchy crust and a steamy, fluffy inside.
- cassouletIt's a quiet and elegant French spot, a popular choice in a neighborhood filled with Asian green grocers. They offer a fresh approach to cassoulet and foie gras, and there's a nice selection of fish dishes. The wine list is good, and the gratin potatoes were rich and creamy, complemented by a delicious apple tart.
- dishesChef Philippe brings such fun energy and personally checks in on guests, which I really appreciated. The dishes were both delicious and beautifully plated, and the team was attentive throughout. Standouts included the soupe Ă lâoignon, filet mignon, mussels, and crĂšme brĂ»lĂ©e.
- salmon trioWe ordered oysters and the 3-course meal. The escargot and the salmon trio were good, though nothing stood out as amazing. The fresh bread was great, with a crunchy crust and a steamy, fluffy inside.
- onion soupthe salad, onion soup and salmon trio were nice
- wine listimpressive wine list that perfectly complements the cuisine
- FoodFood:5
- French toastFrench toast is so good!!! The toast was soft inside and crispy on the outside
Frequently criticized
- risottothe risotto which was a huge mistake. The dish was so bland
- cassouletThe cassoulet was pretty poor
- ratatouillethe ratatouille and bouillabaisse weren't great
- salmonthe salmon was crusty but lacking flavor
- French restaurantsOn the positive side, the atmosphere was great and the service from the waitress was also excellent. However, overall, I felt there were better French restaurants in the area, such as Zazie.
- French toastThe French toast was *drowning* in some brown butter sauce, it was basically a not good soup.
- SauceSauce was slightly too salty.
- averageDistinctly, and sadly very, very average
- bad mealNever had a bad meal
- beansThe menu has drastically reduced its French offerings. The cassoulet was quite poor, with overcooked beans and almost off-tasting duck. I found the food to be very, very pricey for what felt like basic Paysan-level French cuisine.
If youre seeking a delightful French culinary experience, the food here generally hits the mark with its traditional yet creative offerings. While a few dishes might be inconsistent, the overall sentiment suggests its definitely worth trying for a memorable meal.
Service (9 out of 10)
mentioned by 83% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot truly shines! With an impressive 9 score and a fantastic 92.5% customer satisfaction, its clear guests are consistently delighted. Out of 161 comments, a whopping 149 praise the experience, highlighting the friendly staff, attentive service, and the welcoming owner/chef who often adds a personal touch.
However, a few of the 9 negative remarks point to some areas for improvement. Concerns included instances of rude service, issues with owners behavior, and occasional waiting time for tables or service. While these are isolated, they suggest that consistency could be a minor challenge.
Service
161
Reviews
92%
Satisfaction
9
negative
3
neutral
149
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Attentive service
- Welcoming owner
What people don't like
- Rude service
- Long waits
Often praised
- serviceWe thoroughly enjoyed everything we ate and drank, especially the delicious handcrafted cocktails. The service was very attentive and genial, and our server's wine recommendation was an excellent pairing for my entree. We started with oysters with a nice mignonette, followed by the onion soup, which was delicious with its melty cheesy topping (worth the burnt tongue from my impatience!), and the tasty escargot.
- staffMy experience at this French restaurant was a true culinary haven. The service was impeccable, with a knowledgeable and friendly staff who made us feel right at home. The food was a gastronomic delight â from escargot to crĂšme brĂ»lĂ©e, each dish was a masterpiece.
- ServiceService was attentive without ever feeling intrusive
- ownerThe owner and I presume head chef greeted us as we walked in and he's a friendly guy too.
- chefThank you chef (who walked around to see how everybodyâs doing and even followed us all the way to the outside and waved us off)
- excellent serviceFor Father's Day dinner was instantly memorable, making it one of my favorite spots in SF. The restaurant offers a warm and cozy ambience, creative cocktails, and excellent service, all complementing the perfect traditional French cuisine. Chef Philippe Gardelle's talent is truly remarkable, evident both in and out of the kitchen.
- hostMy experience at the restaurant was wonderful. I was given a last-minute reservation on a Saturday night by the warmest, friendliest host. The food was delicious; I particularly enjoyed the goat cheese, French onion soup, and pork chops.
- peopleIt truly felt like being at home with family while dining here. The people were great, and the atmosphere was nice and clean.
- waiterOur waiter had an excellent grasp of the menu
- welcomeChapeau is a neighborhood spot that serves classic French cuisine without any gimmicks. It is always prepared with care, and the owner/executive chef, Philippe, is forever present to make sure youâre welcomed and comfortable. We will be back soon!
Frequently criticized
- serviceSo, it is very unpleasant and sad to see such good restaurant in our neighborhood being not as friendly as it should be like this.
- kick us outowner tried to to kick us out
- owner's behaviorif the owner is acting this way
- parkingfinding parking which took more time than expected.
- rude servicevery rude service
- serverOur server last night, 11/04, was not really good and we were quite disappointed.
- wait to beginlong wait to begin
- waiting timeWe had to wait about 20 mins for our table
If youre looking for a dining experience where youll feel genuinely welcomed and well-cared for, this place is definitely worth trying. The overwhelmingly positive feedback on service, especially from the attentive staff and engaging owner, promises a memorable visit, despite a few rare hiccups.
Ambience (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 50% of the guests
Alright, lets talk vibes! The ambience here really hits the mark, scoring a solid 8.2 and boasting a fantastic 80.8% customer satisfaction. It seems most folks absolutely adore the atmosphere, with 59 positive remarks out of 73 total comments.
Many describe it as a true "French bistro dining experience" with an "intimate setting" and a "warm atmosphere, " making it feel like a "cozy place" right out of France. However, its not entirely perfect, as a few of the 9 negative comments point out. Some found it could get a bit noisy or loud, especially when busy, and a couple mentioned the space felt crowded or even too dark.
So, while generally charming, it might not be the quietest spot on a bustling night.
Ambience
73
Reviews
80%
Satisfaction
9
negative
5
neutral
59
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- French bistro charm
- Cozy, intimate setting
- Warm atmosphere
What people don't like
- Can get noisy
- Small, crowded space
- Too dark
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. It's a great place for fine dining with a friendly atmosphere that makes it hard to leave. Philippe, the host, is exceptional, demonstrating grace and professionalism.
- ambianceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by a super ambiance and a very friendly patron. The menu presented a varied choice of dishes, but I noticed there were few options for vegetarians or those who prefer fish over meat.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- experienceEvery part of our experience was fantastic!
- French bistro dining experienceMy experience at this restaurant was truly special. I was looking for an incredible, quality, high-end-yet-unpretentious, romantic French bistro dining experience and I found a place where I felt right at home. The atmosphere was not stuffy, and the food was delicious home-cooked food.
- French experienceThis is a true French experience
- French restaurantAn authentic, sophisticated French restaurant
- ambienceFor Father's Day dinner was instantly memorable, making it one of my favorite spots in SF. The restaurant offers a warm and cozy ambience, creative cocktails, and excellent service, all complementing the perfect traditional French cuisine. Chef Philippe Gardelle's talent is truly remarkable, evident both in and out of the kitchen.
- classic French bistro styledecor reflects a classic French bistro style
- clean placeThe place was clean
Frequently criticized
- ambienceThe space was small, so it felt crowded
- loudWhile it was very good, it didn't quite match the price point. Additionally, the atmosphere was a bit loud.
- noisygets noisy on a crowded weekend night
- atmosphereToo dark
- curb side appealabsolutely no curb side appeal.
- interiorinterior needs some updates
If you're looking for a charming, cozy French bistro experience with a warm, inviting atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that it can get a bit lively and noisy, especially during peak hours, so it might not be your top choice for a super quiet, intimate conversation.
Value (4.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
Despite some positive feedback, the overall perception of value here is quite polarized. A few guests, 6 out of 30 total, found good value and praised the 3 course meal options, noting that prices were reasonable for the quality and area. They felt it was worth every penny, offering good quality and quantity.
However, the overall score of 4.3 (average) and a customer satisfaction of only 20% (poor) indicate a significant divergence in experiences. On the flip side, a substantial 19 opinions highlighted that the price was simply too high and didnt justify the experience. Many complained about "prices charged, " a steep "wine corkage fee, " and deceptive menu practices where "add items" or "sparkling water" costs werent clearly disclosed upfront, leading to unpleasant surprises on the bill.
This significantly impacted the overall perception of value for many diners.
Value
30
Reviews
20%
Satisfaction
19
negative
5
neutral
6
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worthwhile 3-course meal
- Excellent quality value
What people don't like
- Price not justified
- Deceptive menu practices
- High corkage fee
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this upscale French bistro was very positive. I really enjoyed all the food, and it was reasonably priced for the area. I definitely recommended this restaurant.
- 3 course mealFor $65, the 3 course was definitely worth it
- pricesprices are the same year round, which is fantastic
- valueoffers excellent value for the quality and quantity of food provided
Frequently criticized
- priceThe exorbitant price of the meal was not justified
- pricesPrices were a bit too high
- add itemsthey add items and quickly say a price
- add onsshow the add ons clearly w their prices
- billHowever, the menu is purposely deceptive. They add items and quickly state a price, so if you miss it, it will be added to your bill, leading to a "nice surprise" at the end. I felt like I was being taken advantage of, and the experience, despite the food, was not good.
- mealWay too expensive for the lackluster meal
- menuTo be honest, the food is very good. However, the menu is purposely deceptive. They add items and quickly state a price, so if you miss it, it will be added to your bill, leading to a "nice surprise" at the end.
- price pointdidnât seem to align with the price point.
- prices chargedoutrageous prices charged
- risottoFor $38 dollars the risotto needs work because itâs just bad and way too expensive
If youre considering this spot, be very mindful of the menu and clarify all potential add-on costs upfront, as hidden charges are a frequent complaint. While some find the 3-course meal a good deal, many feel the overall experience doesnt justify the high prices. Proceed with caution to avoid disappointment.
How are the prices at Chapeau?
You’re looking at roughly 84 $ per person, reported by 93 diners. That places it comfortably in the $81â$90 range. For a French restaurant in San Francisco, this feels like a solid mid-range option, perhaps leaning towards the higher end.
Interestingly, while 84 $ is the average, our data shows a significant number of guests actually spend more, with the largest cluster of experiences falling into the 101 $+ category. This suggests a premium mix, offering both mid-range and higher-end dining options.
Hereâs a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 93 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a French restaurant of this caliber in San Francisco. It offers options for a comfortable mid-range experience, with the flexibility to indulge in something more premium if you wish.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Chapeau
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Wonderful Place with Superb Food!
My experience at this restaurant was wonderful. The staff were incredibly warm and friendly, and it was evident they loved their job and their customers. To top it all off, the food was superb.
It's truly a lovely place.
- staff10
- food10
- place10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Classic French Cuisine with Care
Chapeau is a neighborhood spot that serves classic French cuisine without any gimmicks. It is always prepared with care, and the owner/executive chef, Philippe, is forever present to make sure youâre welcomed and comfortable. We will be back soon!
- classic French cuisine10
- preparation9
- owner/executive chef10
Price per Person
- $71â$80
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0â5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Outstanding French Cuisine and Service
My experience at Chapeau, a French restaurant in SF, was truly amazing. The food was outstanding, and the service was great. The staff was kind and very attentive, even on a busy night.
We began with the Pate En Croute, Beet Salad, and Salmon Trio Tartar, all of which were very well prepared and tasty. For the main course, the Cassoulet, Branzino, and the Duck Breast were highlights, with the duck breast being particularly outstanding. We enjoyed a bottle of Pommard Rebourgeon, but were too stuffed for dessert.
Reservations are a must for this exceptional dining experience.
- food10
- service10
- staff9
Price per Person
- $21â$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6â15 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Best CrÚme Brûlée Ever!
We stopped by just for dessert, and what can I say? It was the best crĂšme brĂ»lĂ©e Iâve ever had. The waiter was very attentive and responsive.
Definitely recommend!
- crÚme brûlée10
- waiter9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
A New Favorite Obsession!
My experience at this restaurant was superb. The cuisine was truly authentic, and the service was attentive, making me feel truly at home. I also enjoyed the lovely cocktails and the wine list.
It's a place I know I'll be returning to time and time again for years to come. It's my new obsession!
- cuisine10
- service10
- cocktails9
What Chapeau offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Brunch reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Chapeau?
At Chapeau, you can anticipate an upscale, romantic, and cozy French dining experience in San Francisco’s Jordan Park. They offer table service for lunch, brunch, and dinner, with a focus on delicious desserts and a great wine list. You’ll appreciate the inviting atmosphere, complete with a fireplace.
Does Chapeau accommodate dietary needs and offer flexible service options?
Yes, Chapeau provides both vegan and vegetarian options to cater to diverse dietary preferences. For your convenience, they offer dine-in, takeout, delivery, and no-contact delivery services. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially for dinner and brunch, to ensure your seating.
What is the overall dining experience like at Chapeau?
Chapeau generally offers a good dining experience, reflected in its Restaurant Score of 8.2 and Customer Satisfaction of 82.3%. Guests frequently praise the Food (8.1), Service (9), and Ambience (8.2), though Value (4.3) is noted as average.
Is Chapeau a good choice for French cuisine?
Yes, many patrons describe Chapeau as an authentic and sophisticated French restaurant with savory and delicious food. Standout dishes often include the onion soup, filet mignon, and crÚme brûlée, contributing to its high food rating.
Are there any common concerns when dining at Chapeau?
Some diners have expressed concerns about the pricing, noting it can feel high or that the menu might be unclear about additional items. Additionally, the atmosphere can sometimes become loud, especially on crowded evenings.