Cafe Bastille

Ive been here before and each time, I have had a very pleasant dining experience. On top of that, did you know this restaurant is teaming up with StreetSmart4kids? Its actually really cool what theyre doing. I just heard about how SS4K is a nonprofit organization that helps underprivileged teens stay healthy. They are running their Dine Out and Donate campaign here (as well as approx. 70 other restaurants in SF) during October and early November. After having a fabulous dining experience, just fill out the donation form when paying the check (minimum donation $3). This is perfect for people like me, who love to eat out all the time and also like to give back to the community. Check it out for yourself on the StreetSmart4Kids website!

Wow, after seeing some other people's reviews I don't know if we're even talking about the same place! I have eaten at Cafe Bastille probably 30 times over the past 8 years (pretty frequently considernig I live an hour from SF). I used to live in the countryside of France and I love this bistro's down-to-earth feel all while having amazing cuisine. I've had dates there, birthdays, groups, listened to live music there... it's my favorite restaurant in SF.

I have always found the staff to be friendly and helpful, the menu has great selections and each dish is prepared with care. In the summer, sit outside and listen to the local French crowd speaking (the French embassy is just down the street). In the winter, get a table in the downstairs room inside - it's warm with great ambiance.

ALSO, a note to whomever commented about hating hostesses standing outside of restaurants - this is simply the way it's done in much of Europe; it's no reflection on the service or cuisine you'll find inside the restaurant! Remember, when you step onto Belden street, you're stepping into a little bit of Europe - not America!

I usually tend to avoid restaurants that need to keep a hostess in the street to attract clients (never a good sign...), but, my husband and I were hungry. The food was mediocre, the cocktails undrinkable, and the service just bearable. The table next to ours had to send 2 plates back to the kitchen... out of 4!!!
This is a ridiculous place, definitely catering tourists who will never go back given the price and the food. I feel bad for Americans trying to have a "French" dinner out, because honestly, this is not it! Tasteless - pricey food and rude staff... that was a one timer.

I had the ABSOLUTE WORST experience with the Cafe Bastille staff. Our server was rude and impatient and left us sitting with our empty plates for over 20 minutes. Then she charged my debit card twice! The manager was unbelievably rude to me and did not credit my card even after promising to do so 3 times. I ended up contacting my bank. The food was good and I enjoyed it, but I am NEVER going back there again.

When my family asked where I wanted to to for my graduation dinner, I said "Cafe Bastille!" They helped to make my whole day special. I had the steak with mushroom sauce which was a real treat. There was a whole bunch of us and they were able to accomodate us with no problem with four star service. It was a beautiful day so we sat in the alley and felt like we were on vacation somewhere else in some other time. I can't wait for my next special occasion...