Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
oChef » O – San Francisco
O - San Francisco
Photo from O
O at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- đ„ French Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 51 of the guests
#554 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#9 French Restaurant out of 28 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
509
Reviews
80.2%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Culinary artistry
- Attentive service
- Elegant atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Value concerns
The restaurant O’, a distinguished French restaurant in San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood, invites you to an unforgettable dining experience. You’ll discover a truly romantic, cozy, and trendy atmosphere perfect for dinner.
This establishment is particularly celebrated for its great dessert, ensuring a sweet conclusion to your meal. With a focus on fine dining, you can expect exceptional table service.
Overview: Introducting O
O offers a refined dining experience where the culinary creations truly shine. Guests consistently praise the exceptional food and the attentive service , making for many memorable evenings.
The elegant ambiance also contributes positively to the overall impression. However, some diners have noted concerns regarding the value proposition, with the price point occasionally feeling like a barrier.
While the experience is often lauded, a few specific aspects of the dining room and occasional service missteps have been mentioned.
Excellent
8.1
out of 10
509
Reviews
80.2%
Satisfaction
82
negative
19
neutral
408
positive
O garners a strong overall Restaurant Score of 8.1, indicating a good dining experience, supported by a good Customer Satisfaction rate of 80.2%. These figures are drawn from 509 customer opinions, with 408 positive and 82 negative remarks.
The Food (8.5) and Service (8.5) topics both achieve excellent scores, reflecting consistent praise from patrons. The Ambience (7.5) also rates well, contributing positively to the experience.
However, Value (4.8) stands out as an area where opinions are more divided, suggesting it’s an average aspect for many.
What people like
- Exceptional culinary artistry
- Polished, attentive service
- Elegant dining atmosphere
What people don't like
- Significant value concerns
If you prioritize exceptional food and polished service for a special occasion, O is certainly worth considering. The culinary artistry and attentive staff often create a truly memorable experience, justifying the visit for many.
However, be mindful of the value aspect, as it’s a point of contention for some. With a solid Recommendation Score of 8.3, O generally delivers, but it’s best approached with an understanding of its premium pricing.
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Verdict: Our expert take on O
Food (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
Alright, let's talk about the food! Overall, it seems like a truly impressive culinary experience. With a solid score of 8.5 and customer satisfaction at a strong 86.2%, guests are consistently raving about the exceptional quality and amazing culinary journey.
Many highlight the perfectly presented dishes, from the exquisite caviar compositions to the delightful desserts, making every bite a work of art. However, out of 290 comments, there were 29 expressing some reservations. A few diners found certain dishes, like the veal, to be tough or even described some food as mediocre.
There were also comments about a lack of cohesion between courses and some plating issues, suggesting that while most dishes shine, a few might miss the mark.
Food
290
Reviews
86%
Satisfaction
29
negative
11
neutral
250
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional quality food
- Amazing culinary journey
- Perfectly presented dishes
What people don't like
- Mediocre food
- No cohesion
- Horribly plated
Often praised
- foodRobert, our back server, was a shining star with infectious enthusiasm, taking immense pride in delivering a top-notch experience. The ambiance in the Fire Room, with its warm glow, combined with incredible food and flawless service, made the whole experience feel truly special. Oâ by Claude is a Michelin-worthy gem, and the service matches the incredible food.
- dessertsThe desserts were almost too stunning to choose from, each one a masterpiece
- mealMy experience at this restaurant was one of the best meals Iâve had. The service was great, and the atmosphere was intimate.
- dessert cartWe didn't encounter any "knock-out" dishes that justified the Michelin star. Out of the five courses, plus an amuse-bouche and dessert cart, only the cod and the incredible dessert cart provided a "wow" factor. We've dined at many incredible restaurants globally at various price points, but this one, while perfectly fine, is not a place we would return to.
- breadThe service was attentive and engaged, and the wines were well paired. Even the bread was outstanding. It was a truly memorable evening, and I offer my highest praise!
- tasting menuThis Michelin-starred restaurant, located on the fifth floor of ONE65, is the crown jewel of Chef Claude Le Tohic's culinary empire. I opted for the multi-course tasting menu, with both five and nine-course options available. Each dish was a work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures designed to tantalize the taste buds.
- wine pairingMy experience at this restaurant was outstanding. We opted for the long menu with the wine pairing, and every dish was executed flawlessly. The Bulgarian caviar, served in three different presentations, was top-notch and perfectly complemented by a glass of excellent French champagne.
- caviarEach dish was a work of art, a symphony of flavors and textures designed to tantalize the taste buds. I particularly enjoyed starting with a generous trio of caviar, each paired with a different type of freshly baked bread, which perfectly whetted my appetite for the culinary journey ahead. Every element on the plate complemented the others, creating a harmonious and unforgettable experience.
- dessertThe final round of dessert is brilliant
- dishMy experience at the restaurant was a decadent and delicious meal! Every dish was a wonderful explosion of flavor. It was pricey but definitely worth it!
Frequently criticized
- coursesThe 1st 3 courses all cream and sauces
- Italian foodI'm not a fan of Italian food, it's way too rich and too heavy
- Michelin star calibernot consider it a Michelin star caliber restaurant
- Vealmain course Veal, texture is disgusting
- Wagyu dishpaid $200 extra for a single Wagyu dish
- chanterelle mushroomsthe choice of mushroom (chanterelle) was dull to see
- chef guidanceI was disappointed that the chef did not have an order which to eat first from the plate to maximize the taste experience
- cohesion between coursesno cohesion between courses
- dishesdishes themselves werenât the least bit memorable
- espressocharged $10 for a double espresso
If you're looking for an exceptional culinary adventure with stunning presentations and high-quality ingredients, this place is definitely worth a visit. While a few specific dishes might not hit perfection for everyone, the overall experience promises to be a memorable one.
Service (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 78% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place truly shines! With a solid score of 8.5 and customer satisfaction at 83.2%, its clear guests often experience something special. Many of the 104 positive remarks praise the impeccable service, attentive and catering staff, and even personal touches from Chef Claude, showing a real attention to detail that makes a difference.
However, its not always perfect, as 17 negative comments point out. Some guests encountered waiting time issues, felt they received bad service, or even perceived biased treatment. A few mentioned staff forgot about it when ordering, suggesting occasional lapses in attentiveness.
Service
125
Reviews
83%
Satisfaction
17
negative
4
neutral
104
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Impeccable, attentive service
- Personalized guest experience
- Chef interaction
What people don't like
- Inattentive, slow service
- Long waiting times
- Inconsistent guest treatment
Often praised
- serviceRobert, our back server, was a shining star with infectious enthusiasm, taking immense pride in delivering a top-notch experience. The ambiance in the Fire Room, with its warm glow, combined with incredible food and flawless service, made the whole experience feel truly special. Oâ by Claude is a Michelin-worthy gem, and the service matches the incredible food.
- staffAttention vegans: I called ahead of time and they were happy to prepare a fully vegan tasting menu! (It was essentially the vegetarian one with modifications.) The service was immaculate, the culinary journey was exquisite, and never once did the staff or experience disappoint. The courses were described, brought out in perfect timing, and presented and plated incredibly.
- Chef ClaudeMy heartfelt thanks go to Chef Claude for his dedication
- ServiceFood, service, and decor were impeccable.
- attention to detailattention to detail were on par with top tier fine dining
- chefThe service was equally amazing; the waiter was attentive, even walking us to the door and waiting for our Uber. We also had the pleasure of meeting the chef. I highly recommend this restaurant for both its incredible food and its impeccable service!
- level of serviceThe level of service we received from the entire staff was exceptional
- staff and serviceWonderful staff and service
- ChefThe Chef is of the finest Star ratings
- Chef Claude Le TohicClaude Le Tohic came out to greet and chat with all the tables
Frequently criticized
- ServiceThe dining room was genuinely abysmal, with a nonsensical design that felt like an open-plan office converted into a hotel breakfast room, creating a distracting and uncomfortable atmosphere with little privacy. Service was spotty; though friendly, it lacked attentiveness, with requests needing repetition, forgotten items, and a surprising lack of menu knowledge and a sommelier on a Saturday. The use of metallic cutlery for the caviar dish and the form-over-function flatware, particularly a strange, flat spoon, detracted from the experience.
- waiting timewaiting time is longer than expected
- additional orderthe waiter keep to ask us to order additional order
- bad servicenever had such bad service
- biased treatmentI think we were treated worse than others because our clothing or our age which was unfortunate.
- chefThe chef showed up awkwardly, and without charm nor grace.
- gift bagwe did not receive a gift bag without asking one while other people there got one without asking and each individual got their own bag while for our group we got only one.
- orderour order was messed up
- ordering drinksHad difficulty ordering drinks
- serviceI felt like service could have been better like when I bought another drink it seems like they forgot about it for a while until I mentioned about it.
If you're looking for a dining experience where staff often go above and beyond, especially for special occasions, this spot is definitely worth trying. Just be aware that a few guests have reported inconsistencies in attentiveness and occasional waiting times, so set your expectations accordingly.
Ambience (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 51% of the guests
Alright, lets dive into the vibe of this place! The ambience here generally hits the mark, scoring a good 7.5, with customer satisfaction also sitting strong at 74.6%. Out of 59 comments, 44 positively highlight the delightful ambiance, atmosphere, and decor, often describing a luxurious and romantic fine dining experience perfect for special occasions.
However, 14 opinions did point out some areas for improvement. Some found the venue and dining room a bit unmemorable or even pretentious. A few guests also mentioned a distracting smell in the elevator or issues with lighting and space' impacting the overall mood.
Ambience
59
Reviews
74%
Satisfaction
14
negative
1
neutral
44
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Luxurious ambiance
- Romantic atmosphere
- Elegant decor
What people don't like
- Unmemorable venue
- Pretentious atmosphere
- Elevator smell
Often praised
- atmosphereThe food, service, and atmosphere created a most memorable experience
- ambianceThe chef's precision and creativity were evident in signature dishes like caviar compositions, seafood broth, and caramelized black cod. The ambiance was elegant yet welcoming, and the attentive service made it ideal for a special occasion. While the price is on the higher side, the exceptional quality of food and presentation ensured a memorable experience.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere is relaxing, beautiful and top notch
- ambienceFrom the ambience, service, cocktails, exquisite food
- experienceAttention vegans: I called ahead of time and they were happy to prepare a fully vegan tasting menu! (It was essentially the vegetarian one with modifications.) The service was immaculate, the culinary journey was exquisite, and never once did the staff or experience disappoint. The courses were described, brought out in perfect timing, and presented and plated incredibly.
- DecorFood, service, and decor were impeccable.
- Michelin kind restaurantCertainly a Michelin kind restaurant!
- Michelin starred restaurantsamong the best Michelin starred restaurants
- bara fine bar at the second
- decorThe decor warm and inviting
Frequently criticized
- atmospherethe atmosphere was severely impacted by a terrible smell in the elevator
- bathroomstwo gendered bathrooms, which is both odd for San Francisco in 2021 and inadequate
- dining roomthe genuinely abysmal dining room
- flatwareform over function. A strange âspoonâ kept appearing, which was completely flat
- kitchenfound them pell mell and frankly, uninspiring
- lighting and spaceMy only criticism is the lighting and the space does not showcase the food/experience.
- metallic cutleryThe caviar dish was served with metallic cutlery
- pretentiousfeeling the restaurant was too pretentious
- restaurant locationa bit tricky to find up on the 6th floor
- smell in the elevatorThe smell in the elevator ruined the mood
If you're seeking a generally elegant and romantic setting for a special night out, this place delivers a memorable experience. Just be mindful that a few guests found the venue itself a tad uninspired or occasionally encountered minor issues like elevator smells.
Value (4.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 29% of the guests
For some diners, the value here truly shines, with many feeling their experience was worth every penny and even finding reasonably priced options they could afford. While the overall score for value sits at an average 4.8, and customer satisfaction is quite low at 28.6%, 10 positive opinions out of 35 total highlight that for a select few, the quality absolutely justified the price. However, a larger group of 22 opinions found the establishment overpriced, citing concerns about the high price tag, hidden add-ons, and a general lack of value for money.
Many felt the cost was comparable to 3-star restaurants, leading to disappointment given the perceived quality and quantity of food.
Value
35
Reviews
28%
Satisfaction
22
negative
3
neutral
10
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth every penny
- Exceptional experience justifies
- Some options affordable
What people don't like
- Hidden add-ons
- Overpriced for quality
- Poor value for money
Often praised
- priceMy experience at the restaurant was perfect. We opted for the 9 course tasting menu and it was worth every penny. It's great that I don't have to travel to Yountville for this caliber meal.
- affordCome back as often as you can afford.
- pennyMy experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. I had the best meal of my life, and it was worth every penny. The staff treated us like royalty, creating a most memorable experience with their impeccable service, outstanding food, and wonderful atmosphere.
- reasonably priced optionsChef Claude himself is an engaging host. While the wine list is indeed expensive, there are ample choices and reasonably priced options by the glass. O' by Claude le Tohic rivals and often surpasses other Michelin-starred restaurants we frequent during our extensive travels.
- worth every pennyMy experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional, offering the best meal Iâve had in all of my life and proving to be worth every penny. It's astonishing how this establishment only holds one Michelin star; it deserves more.
Frequently criticized
- priceEverything was crafted with care and obvious passion. You absolutely get what you pay forâand the price you pay may be a barrier to entry for some. All in all, this is the perfect anniversary or special occasion spot to take your loved one or special friends.
- costCould have gone to a 3-star restaurant for that cost
- Michelin starsthe restaurant is hunting for its first of what it hopes are several stars
- billThe waitress dropped the bill after the strawberry dessert
- fixed menuthe place present their price tag as $195 for the fixed menu
- hidden "add-on"shave hidden their "add-on"s
- hidden chargeHidden charge on menu
- markup420% markup
- moneyIt's just a lot of money!
- overpriceda bit overpriced for what you got
If you're ready to splurge for an exceptional experience, some find it worth every penny. However, be prepared for a high price tag and potential hidden add-ons, as many felt it was overpriced and lacked value for money. This spot is best for special occasions where cost is secondary.
How are the prices at O?
On average, youâll spend around 119 per person â from 51 guests. That puts the restaurant firmly in the $101+ category. For a French Restaurant in San Francisco, thats definitely a higher-end experience.
Whats interesting is that almost all diners are spending in this premium bracket, showing prices cluster at the top end rather than being spread out.
Hereâs a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 51 reviews.
How does this restaurant’s value for money stack up against similar places in San Francisco?
Considering its a French Restaurant in San Francisco, a 119 per person price point suggests a premium dining experience. If the quality of food, service, and ambiance matches, wed say the pricing feels fair for a special occasion or fine dining. It’s not an everyday spot, but could be great value for a memorable meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about O
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Exceptional Service and Delicious Courses
My experience at the restaurant was fantastic! The entire culinary staff demonstrated incredible knowledge about the restaurant's history and each of the courses. Marc was especially fun to chat with, and we thoroughly enjoyed his walkthrough of Chef Claude's cheese selection.
The dessert selection was a perfect capstone to an amazing meal!
- culinary staff10
- Marc10
- Chef Claude's cheese selection9
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0â5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Unique Anniversary Dinner Experience
My wife and I celebrated our anniversary here, and it was a truly unique and special dinner. The atmosphere was top-notch, and the food was absolutely out of this world. The service was equally amazing, with the entire team working together like a well-choreographed act.
Little details, such as all courses arriving at the same time and hitting the table precisely at the exact moment, were impeccable. We even received a little tour of the kitchen. While it's undoubtedly pricey, it was an unforgettable experience that we will continue to talk about for years to come.
- atmosphere10
- food10
- service10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0â5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Anniversary Dinner at O' by Claude Le Tohic
Our 19th-anniversary celebration at O' by Claude Le Tohic was an experience rooted in true hospitality, echoing the ancient Latin meaning of welcoming guests with grace. The cuisine was nothing short of extraordinary. We savored the wagyu, which was so delicate it seemed to dissolve on the tongue, a true triumph of flavor and texture.
The abalone was cooked with flawless precision and ranked among the finest weâve ever tasted. The langoustine impressed with its vibrant freshness and depth. A standout was the lavish serving of caviar, elevating each bite into a decadent indulgence.
The staff's seamless coordination was a marvel; every dish arrived in perfect sync, with subtle glances and silent communication adding artistry to the service. The desserts were almost too stunning to choose from, each a masterpiece of craftsmanship and culinary allure. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Chef Claude for his dedication to San Franciscoâs dining scene and for assembling such an exceptional team.
Every element, from the spotless kitchen to the meticulous care in every detail, reflects a deep passion for excellence. The love for cuisine and commitment to hospitality shine through.
- wagyu10
- abalone10
- langoustine9
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0â5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Experience, Far Exceeding Expectations
My experience at this restaurant was truly outstanding. The staff were incredibly accommodating and welcoming, and as is typical for this type of establishment, they were exceptionally attentive and catering to their patrons. I must admit, I hate to compare, but this experience was 10x better than a recent visit to Modern in NYC.
The chef and their staff have clearly worked diligently to create a wonderful experience, and it absolutely shows. The desserts downstairs were also a delightful treat that can be pre-ordered. Furthermore, the music was perfectly balanced â not overwhelming, but rather enhancing the mood with tasteful tracks.
- staff10
- attentive and catering10
- experience10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0â5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Exceptional Experience, Wish I Had More Time
My experience at this restaurant was truly wonderful from the moment I walked in. The staff treated me like royalty, and the food was incredibly creative and playful with beautiful presentation. While not every dish was to my personal palate, everything was put together exquisitely.
The wine pairings were perfectly created for the experience, and the decor was warm and inviting. My only regret was choosing the 5-course tasting menu; looking back, I wish I had opted for the 9-course to have the complete experience.
- staff10
- food9
- dish7
- tasting menu6
What O offers
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Popular for
- Dinner
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Paid parking garage
Atmosphere
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at O' by Claude Le Tohic?
At O’ by Claude Le Tohic, you can immerse yourself in a romantic, cozy, and trendy atmosphere. It’s an ideal setting for a special dinner or an intimate evening. The ambiance is carefully curated to enhance your fine dining experience in San Francisco’s Union Square.
Are reservations required or recommended for dining at O' by Claude Le Tohic?
Yes, reservations are required and highly recommended for dinner at O’ by Claude Le Tohic. To ensure you secure your table at this popular French restaurant in San Francisco, it’s best to plan ahead and make your booking in advance.
How is O rated by diners overall?
O receives a strong overall rating of 8.1 with a good customer satisfaction of 80.2%. Diners particularly praise the Food (8.5) and Service (8.5), with Ambience also rated well (7.5). However, Value (4.8) is a notable concern.
What makes the food at O special?
Guests frequently describe the food as culinary artistry, with dishes like the tasting menu and caviar presentations being highlights. Many found the desserts to be masterpieces and every dish an explosion of flavor, contributing to a truly memorable meal.
What should I consider regarding the cost at O?
While many found the experience “worth every penny,” the Value (4.8) score indicates that the price point is a significant consideration for some. Opinions suggest it can be a barrier to entry or feel overpriced, despite the high quality of the dining experience.