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18573 Days

Our Cassoulet Has Been Cooking For...

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Bienvenue

Welcome to Le Central - San Francisco's Most Historic French Bistro!

...Since 1974

 

Le Central Bistro

French Heritage

Le Central opened its doors in November of 1974. Founded by Brothers Pierre and Claude Cappelle from Normandy, France. Le Central was the first brasserie style French restaurant in San Francisco. 

Le Central French Restaurant

Tour Le Central

Step inside our world—where every frame tells a story of romance, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry. From the flicker of candlelight on white table cloth to the golden crust of a perfect tarte tatin, Le Central captures the soul of French dining in the heart of San Francisco. Take a look—and let your appetite guide you.

French Food

A taste of Paris

Our menu is a love letter to the timeless flavors of France. Crafted with passion and served with soul.

From Steak-Frites to Moules Marinières, every dish blends tradition with a touch of San Francisco flair. Browse the menu and let your next craving find you.

Happy Hour

Intimate Gatherings

We welcome you to our little bistro with a big heart—where every guest is family, and every gathering is personal. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting visiting loved ones, or planning a quiet evening among familiar faces, bienvenue chez nous. Let us set the table for a private dining experience as unforgettable as the occasion itself.

Le Central French Bistro

Get The Table

Your table is waiting—whether it's a casual evening, a long-overdue catch-up, or a spontaneous celebration. We make it easy to reserve your spot and savor the brasserie experience, just as it should be—effortless, delicious, and perfectly timed. Book ahead and let the next memorable meal begin with a simple click.

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In The Know

There’s always something simmering at our bistro from special menus, seasonal events, live music, and more. Stay in the loop with the latest happenings, behind-the-scenes stories, and a taste of what’s to come. Check back often or subscribe and let the spirit of the brasserie come to you.

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The Gift of Flavor

Give the gift of unforgettable flavor, warm ambiance, and a touch of French indulgence—perfectly wrapped in one elegant card. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, thank-you, or just because, a night at our bistro is always the right fit. Click below to give a gift that tastes as good as it feels.

MENU

PRIVATE DINING

RESERVATIONS

NEWS & EVENTS

GIFT CARDS

Wines

A curated selection of French wines—plus a few local gems—chosen to elevate every dish and every mood. From bright Sancerres to bold Bordeaux, there’s a perfect pour waiting. Browse the list and discover your next favorite.

San Francisco Wine
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Private Parties

Celebrate with charm, flavor, and effortless French hospitality. From birthdays to business dinners, we host private parties that feel anything but ordinary. Let’s plan something unforgettable.

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“A little taste of Paris in downtown San Francisco!”

Opened in 1974, Le Central has been serving traditional French cuisine for almost 5 decades, boasting the honor of being San Francisco’s most historic French bistro. Located on the edge of the Financial District, Union Square, and Chinatown in a rare one story brick building adorned with its iconic pink neon sign and crowned by a vintage “Tabac” sign. Step into this charming restaurant and be transported to a Parisian brasserie.

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Dave & Nacho - Le Central
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Corporate Events

Impress clients. Reward your team. Host a corporate dinner with refined French cuisine, seamless service, and just the right ambiance to make business feel like pleasure. Let’s make your next event exceptional.

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French Desserts

Dessert

End on a sweet note with classic French desserts made fresh, in-house, every day. From silky crème brûlée to rich chocolate mousse, indulgence is non-negotiable. Go ahead—peek at the dessert menu.

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