France is world-renowned for its cuisine, with many food enthusiasts venturing to Europe to explore the culinary delights. However, you don't need to hop across the pond to get a taste of this rich cuisine. The United States is home to many exceptional French restaurants, showcasing the best of this celebrated culinary tradition. Our guide to the best French restaurants in the US will take you on a gastronomical journey, featuring everything from timeless institutions to modern eateries.
Le Bernardin, New York City
Envisioned and relentlessly perfected by chef Eric Ripert, Le Bernardin is one of the premier destinations for French seafood cuisine in the US. The restaurant boasts a grand maritime-themed interior and an extensive wine list of over 700 options. Coupling the stunning ambiance with its cuisine, Le Bernardin offers a tantalizing menu featuring dishes like langoustine truffle, skate, and wild salmon.
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, Miami
Noted for its interactive dining experience, L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon is another top contender, serving haute cuisine in an intimate counter-only setting. Patrons can watch as the chefs work meticulously at their stations, crafting dishes like truffled langoustine ravioli and caramelized quail stuffed with foie gras. With Robuchon's restaurants garnering more Michelin stars than any other chef in history, L'Atelier presents a not-to-miss dining destination.
Le Pigeon, Portland
Le Pigeon is a small rustic restaurant that continuously redefines French cuisine with inventive flair. Chef Gabriel Rucker, a two-time James Beard Award winner, uses the Pacific Northwest's bounty, creating stunning French variations like foie gras profiteroles, pigeon with Moroccan spices, and beef cheek bourguignon.
La Belle Vie, Minneapolis
A quintessential French gastronomy experience, La Belle Vie offers impeccably crafted dishes, refined interiors, and an extensive wine list. Guests can indulge in the eight-course tasting menu, featuring luxurious combinations like duck with apricots, lavender honey, and toasted brioche.
Bouchon, Napa Valley
Located in California's renowned wine region, Bouchon offers traditional French bistro cuisine. Owned by acclaimed chef Thomas Keller, it serves delectable classics like steak frites, moules au safran, gigot d'agneau, and croissants so buttery they can make you think you're in Paris.
Petit Trois, Los Angeles
A neighborhood bistro in heart of Hollywood, Petit Trois showcases the casual side of French cuisine. Helmed by chef Ludo Lefebvre, famous for his appearances on Top Chef Masters, the restaurant serves delectable French classics like escargots in garlic butter and the best omelette you'll ever taste, beautifully runny and draped with Boursin cheese.