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Bistro Central Parc - SF Reviews List
Bistro Central Parc - SF
"The Panhandle's taste of Paris....at Bistro Central Parc, the menu is classic bistro, the presentation is solid and patrons are a refreshing mix of young and old....." San Francisco Chronicle, July 2010
Jacques Manuera, an 18 year veteran in the restaurant business in San Francisco, transports you to Paris in his new quaint neighborhood restaurant near the panhandle. The restaurant offers the traditional french bistro dishes such as duck confit, sweetbreads, salade Lyonnaise and onion soup and beef tartare. Indulge in our delicious rissoto with seared scallops and lobster sauce.
On Saturdays and Sundays, when you are out near Golden Gate Parc, feel at home in Paris on our heated Terrasse as you indulge in traditional American egg dishes and one of the best french toast in San Francisco. Bienvenue et Bon Appetit!
We only take Brunch reservations for parties of 6 and more.
See more Bistro Central Parc - SF details
Jacques Manuera, an 18 year veteran in the restaurant business in San Francisco, transports you to Paris in his new quaint neighborhood restaurant near the panhandle. The restaurant offers the traditional french bistro dishes such as duck confit, sweetbreads, salade Lyonnaise and onion soup and beef tartare. Indulge in our delicious rissoto with seared scallops and lobster sauce.
On Saturdays and Sundays, when you are out near Golden Gate Parc, feel at home in Paris on our heated Terrasse as you indulge in traditional American egg dishes and one of the best french toast in San Francisco. Bienvenue et Bon Appetit!
We only take Brunch reservations for parties of 6 and more.
74 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Rating Breakdown 74 reviews
5 stars
(38)
4 stars
(32)
3 stars
(4)
2 stars
(0)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- neighborhood gem(63)
- fit for foodies(52)
- special occasion(29)
- romantic(27)
- great for brunch(11)
- notable wine list(6)
Bistro Central Parc - SF Reviews List
Review 1 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Neighborhood gem!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A chef once warned me to avoid "bistros" at all costs, as my wife and I were on our way to Paris. We made the mistake of ignoring his advice, once. However, we are not in Paris, and BCP is not some Starbucks version of french cuisine. The setting was warm and inviting, one could even say "cozy" as you could easily strike up a convo with a neighboring patron and agree to disagree which dish is the most amazing. All the dishes were plentiful in flavor, but easy on the waistline. Even the notorious escargot appetizer had a unique twist that makes even the least inclined to want another bite. They could easily charge twice as much for this quality of food, but they don't, and it's one more reason to make BCP your regular go-to spot."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
french gem
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a great first experience here right from the start. The room is comfortable and the people serving are friendly and helpful. The food was excellent; each course was a revelation of its own. We will definitely go back."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 3 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Good food and friendly staff. I recommend this place. The food is very good and the dessert is awsomeeeeeeeeeeee"
Dined on 5/10/2013
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Review 4 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
True French bistro by the park
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Right off the Golden Gate Park panhandle, this tiny restaurant run by a French staff and an awesome American chef creates real French cuisine and keeps a lovely wine cellar. It feels like a family and you're the visiting cousin. A menu selection that can meet all tastes from tenderloin to ratatouille. Forget the top 100 fou-fou. Central Parc (on Central St at Grove) is the real deal."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 5 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Down Home French Elegance
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The atmosphere is fairly casual, and the service, while slightly casual, is as good as anything you'll find in five-star restaurants. Warm, no attitude, attention to detail, and delectable offerings. It is positioned in an unassuming location, and parking can be a little challenging---but it's worth it when you get there. The music was too loud for our party's taste---we were, initially, the only group in there for about 1/2 hour, and asked if the music could be toned down a bit. That was the only request that was never honored---the rest of the service was outstanding. We all agreed that we would go back, but that the loud disco music was a sticking point. A great meal is better enjoyed when one doesn't have to shout :)"
Dined on 4/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great neighborhood gem!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bistro Central Parc is a true neighborhood gem. It's off the beaten path unless you live in that neighborhood. The food is delicious and beautifully presented. The wine list is simple, but very good and very reasonably priced. Jacques, the owner is a gracious and humble host. My only suggestion is too add mirrors for more of the classic French bistro feel."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Have been twice in last 6
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Have been twice in last 6 months. Both times the food/drinks were great the the ambiance was just what I was looking for, energetic but could still keep up a personal conversation. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly."
Dined on 04/10/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Strong opening-disappointing middle
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was first time for us to this restaurant, after it was highly recommended to us. We very much liked the calm, clean, modern style of the restaurant and felt it was very comfortable, yet classier than the usual neighborhood restaurant. The main reason we came here was the food, of course, and were exceptionally pleased with our appetizers, which were the mussels (curry flavored one) and les frites (french fries). Definitely 5-star for these items. Unfortunately, we were disappointed by the entrees (lamb for her and braised short ribs for me) which lacked taste and were slightly too done for our taste. The dessert (volcano chocolate), however, was as good as the appetizers, so we left the restaurant feeling pleased."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2002
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 9 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food was exceptionally
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was exceptionally delicious and beautifully presented - without fanfare or pretension. The young couple at the table next to us raved about their meals, too. We were attended to but not rushed, which is of high value to me when I dine out. I'll be back! Merci, Beth"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 10 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A little neighborhood restaurant
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"A little neighborhood restaurant with very good French food. My husband had risotto with lobster sauce and scallops and I had beef cheeks. The prices were reasonable and the service was very good. Our only problem was that the wine list was limited and consisted of mostly French wines... what is wrong with California wines? However the wines were a good price performer."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always an amazing experience.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Always an amazing experience. Customer service is over the top; always very friendly and welcoming. And the food is perfect!"
Dined on 03/27/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 12 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This is one of the best French
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This is one of the best French restaurants in SF and a true neighborhood gem. While parking can be challenging (true of most SF neighborhoods), it is worth the effort. The food on both the printed menu and the nightly specials board is prepared perfectly and served by a waitstaff that takes pride in what they do. This last time, we shared three starters and two desserts, and each had a different entree. I brought a bottle of our favorite wine (corkage is $15) and that complimented our food nicely. Sometimes the most challenging thing about eating at BCP is deciding what to have. The conversation level does rise as the evening goes on, so go early if that bothers you ... but definitely go (and make reservations)!"
Dined on 03/27/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 13 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food sand staff are wonderful.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food sand staff are wonderful. It was a bust night yet we never felt rushed and stayed until closing. I highly recommend the restaurant."
Dined on 03/24/2013
2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 14 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Enjoyed dining here after
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Enjoyed dining here after GGPark event. The food was excellent, well prepared and presented. Service very good, missed items promptly taken care of. Celebration was recognized with enthusiasm. Owner's warm greetings made it better!"
Dined on 03/17/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 15 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and exactly what
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food and exactly what one would expect, require, from a French restaurant - food is excellent and you cannot fault the service. *my one peeve - I ate my dinner like a tRex - squatted into a table with too tight a fit to lady behind. Otherwise LOVED the food. Waitresses and good wind list"
Dined on 03/15/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find
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Review 16 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great atmosphere and good
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great atmosphere and good food -- although the food was a little rich for us, being vegetarians/vegans."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 17 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Bistro Central Parc is probably
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bistro Central Parc is probably my favorite restaurant in the Bay Area. Eating there is like coming home to your grandma's, if your grandma is French and the most amazing cook ever. I've been going here since they opened about 3 years ago, and have never even once been disappointed by the food. Jacques and Claude are wonderful, warm people and they make you feel so welcome and comfortable."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 18 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This is a delicious spot.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This is a delicious spot. We found it on Yelp, and I wasn't quite sure what it would be like, and it was amazing. I would come back here in an instant and definitely would recommend it. The food was delicious, everyone was really friendly, and the prices weren't insane. It's not the cheapest, but well worth it for the quality of food."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 19 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
What Happened - Everything else was
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"All was very good, EXCEPT the special Paella was sooo full of coarsely chopped jalapena peppers (Was this a Mexican rissoto, not a good idea for a paella), it was too hot to enjoy. Saffron is synonymous with paella, there was none. Shellfish were overcooked so that mussels and clams were not in the shell, must have fallen into the pot. The other plates were excellent to fabulous. We shared."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 20 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A secret gem to uncover and enjoy
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I always love discovering secret gems like Bistro Central Parc! Since it's not near a shopping neighborhood, and a little away from the tourist trade I felt like I was a local in the know. The wine list is small, french and wonderful. The appetizers were varied, as were the entrees. My husband is a vegetarian (I am not) and usually only one of us is truly happy after a meal, but we both came away raving about our food. Highly recommended!"
Dined on 02/16/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 21 for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
This was our second time at
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our second time at BCP and just like the first time it did not disappoint. The food was outstanding, the service was great. For what we ordered and being in San Francisco the cost was VERY reasonable! The wine list is OK and just a bit on the pricy side for by the bottle. By the glass was priced right. We will be back again, and again."
Dined on 01/30/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Bistro Central Parc - SF
Based on the average of (53) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
9 out of 9 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic