Choquet’s

Vibe: Parisian Sidewalk Chic | Neighborhood Hideaway | Pacific Heights Elegance

Located on a sun-drenched corner of Washington and Fillmore, Chouquet’s is the quintessential Pacific Heights neighborhood bistro. Since opening over 20 years ago, it has become a staple for those seeking a stylish but unpretentious escape that mimics the breezy, open-air cafes of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district in Paris.

The Sound: On weekend afternoons, the bistro hosts live jazz, creating a rhythmic, European atmosphere for the brunch crowd. The rest of the week, the soundtrack is a low-hum of neighborhood conversation and curated French pop, making it a favorite for “people watching” from the outdoor tables.

The Atmosphere: The design is crisp and airy, featuring large expansive windows, cream-colored walls, and burnt orange accents. The most coveted seats are on the sidewalk patio, which was expanded to allow diners to eat under the sun amidst some of San Francisco’s most iconic Victorian architecture.

The Menu: Chef Laurent Guillaume focuses on a “no-fuss” approach to authentic French cuisine. The kitchen is known for delivering high-fidelity classics like Moules Frites, Coq au Vin, and a Steak Frites with black peppercorn sauce that has a loyal local following. Their brunch is considered one of the best in the area, particularly the Croque Madame and French Onion Soup.

The Bar: The lacquered bar offers an impressive selection of over 15 wines by the glass and 70 by the bottle, with a heavy emphasis on smaller European and South American vineyards. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet midweek glass or a celebratory champagne toast.

Visiting Chouquet’s

Chouquet’s operates as a true community hub, welcoming everyone from groups of friends on a Saturday morning to couples seeking a romantic, dimly lit corner for dinner. Their service is noted for being attentive and professional without the stuffiness often associated with high-end French dining.

Key Info:

• Hours: Daily 10:00 AM – 8:45 PM (Brunch served weekends 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

• Live Jazz: Every Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

• Special Features: Massive outdoor dining space, gluten-free friendly, and dog-friendly patio seating.