The French Gourmet Reviews

The owner, Michel, is wonderful and serves up a nice meal. Don't forget to ask about this chocolate chip cookies. Warm out of the oven, they are THE BEST!

Best waiter. Really good, dependable food. A little noisy.

Customarily on Fridays, my husband and I go out for date night. Since we wanted to try something different and with the excuse of fulfilling my French class requirement we chose a French restaurant. Of the many French restaurants in San Diego, we opted for one that had great reviews on Google reviews. We visited The French Gourmet in Pacific Beach. We Googled the address and GPSed our way to the restaurant. Since we wanted to avoid traffic and secure a parking spot , we got an early dinner reservation.
When we got to the restaurant, we discovered that this place is not just a restaurant, but a bakery and a catering business as well. The first thing one sees , upon entering, is the bakery with sumptuous French pastries, petit fours and magically decorated gateaux. To the left of the pastry counter, there is a small section of French pantry items for sale, such as marmalades, spreads, oranginas, and imported cookies.
We were given a booth by the window. Surprisingly we were the only ones in the restaurant. Perhaps, we had really shown up too early. Oh well, we were given our menus and, Miguel, or server gave us a brief explanation of the dinner specials.

As we were eating and enjoying each other s company and conversation, people kept coming in for dinner. When we got started with our dessert, the restaurant was at full capacity. I was excited to see that such a great yet inconspicuous place was very popular with the local residents. . People were bringing in their own wine bottles for a small corkage fee. We realized that we could do so on our next visit.
I have had the experience of travelling to France, and I have found that American customer service is by far better than French. My experience at The French Gourmet was extremely cordial and prompt. Miguel took good care of us and kept our wine and water glasses full. It was a great combination of good French food with good customer service.
I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.

Wow!!! That is practically what every single guest said after my wedding. The service was impeccable, the staff was the nicest, and very professional. The bartender did the most amazing accents to all of our specialty drinks - curling all the rinds in the old fashioned just right and simply making the perfect drink of whatever was ordered. As the Bride and Groom we never had an empty glass or plate and the moment our Wedding Ceremony had ended the staff made sure all of the Wedding Party had food to enjoy during pictures along with drinks. The buffet was amazing as we were able to offer our guests three entree meat choices and every single one of them was juicy and delicious. Each time a guest would get up a server would fold their napkin (yes, that is right!) My guests all remarked on how classy the evening felt and that we had really thought about our guests. But the craziest part is that I had contacted 7 catering companies to ensure I could get the most for my budget and French Gourmet was one of the more economically friendly catering choices in San Diego. I was so appalled by what the other catering companies were listing as there prices that when my husband and I planned our first tasting with French Gourmet we ended up signing up with them that day because we just couldn't believe that any catering company could be any better. Throughout the entire wedding planning, French Gourmet excelled in customer service and I couldn't be any happier about how our Wedding turned out.

I was pleasantly surprised everything we ordered was absolutely delicious

Outside of desserts and breads, I'm not known for being the biggest fan of French food. Even a trip to Paris did not necessarily dissuade me of this opinion. So the French Gourmet had to reach a high bar to wow me. I would say it made a valid effort during restaurant week but still fell a little short. Consider this a 3.5 star review.







Summary: I guess I'll stick with fries next time I want French food.

I wa EXTREMELY pleased with the service and cake I received from the French Gourmet. I needed it delivered for a birthday, and they fulfilled their promise to have it to me by a certain time and just how I asked! I highly recommend the French Gourmet!

I passed by while taking a walk on my lunch break and decided to go inside.Im so glad I did the food was amazing I ordered the traditional eggs Benedict and I was NOT disappointed at all...this will definitely be my lunch "go to" place :)

One of my fav locations for delicious french food. Everyone at our table was enjoying everything. Service is typically great. It has an awesome atmosphere.

One of my favorite restaurants. The food is always fabulous and the wine selections are GREAT!!! I have also ordered things for events, etc and have always been impressed!!

Wonderful gem of a place in Pacific Beach. Great selection of all my French favorites.

Drove around looking for parking which isn t very well marked. The parking lot they have needs better signage since they are borrowing from the sharp fitness center and it says no parking unless for sharp. Then after parking, we arrived with a reservation shortly after a small party was seated after we had already checked in. Friends of a waitress it seemed from the interaction, they where clearly regulars with how the staff treated them and interacted with them. Had had any food and their cakes and pastries looked a little underwhelming, at least with what I saw in there little bakery. First impressions are everything with a restaurant. This was not a good one.

Family Favorite, Always Amazing, and Breakfast Until 3!

The food was impeccable, everything was delicious! The potato Au gratin is a must try!

wow! very friendly staff and great food! I ordered the breakfast croissan!! delicious!!5 stars!!

Avocado toast us amazing there were super Nice to me accolade me

The staff was very helpful and observant. This place has a great design. Food and atmosphere reminds me of Kansas City.

Everything was delicious!. Move over Gordon Ramsay!

I have had a few decent meals at this establishment, but recently I purchased a large quiche from the bakery and it made me and my friend ill. I can say for certain it was contaminated, as I reluctantly had a second portion a few days later and again became ill. I contacted the merchant, and they refunded the cost of the quiche and apologized for the mishap. I do not expect this will happen again.

Restaurant/shop combo - not a pure sit down restaurant setting.

Allows reservations outside opening hours on OpenTable. You drive across the city and show up to a "sorry we're closed".

Fresh bread from a local business within walking distance is how it should be IMHO. If only I could get hand churned fresh butter and the beautiful girl at the register to deliver... EVIL GRIN

very filling. i will be bringing family next time. it has a nice feel to it.

These people now how to do French patisserie properly. Everything is so delicious and their prices are extremely reasonable. You'll pay more at other newer cutesy places but the product is better here. Flaky, crispy, delicate pastries!

An upscale setting with casual attire to enjoy deliciously prepared cuisine. Attentive staff and reasonable prices.

When I went to the French Gourmet I expected a great experience but I got okay service and my food was average at best. About 2 hours after I left I got sick, and in all honesty I would never go there again.

My group had an excellent meal here. The prix fixe menu is a great deal. We can definitely recommend any of the fish entrees. Service was excellent too. I'll be sure to visit the next time I am in San Diego.

High quality dining, great value, made from scratch, excellent service, lovely patio, incredible bakery, local favorite for decades.

Delicious food and great wine list. I love the duck here and also the French hen is so good. Basic item but the skin is super crispy and the sauce is delicious.

I havn't gotten a chance to dine at The French Gourmet yet, but look forward to that day, because if the pastries are any indication, it will be exceptional.

These folks make a perfect Napoleon! Creamy custard, light flaky dough, and just the right amount of simple frosting.

I've sampled a few other offerings from the bakery case and was equally impressed too so don't be afraid to try something new!

Tasty food. Great service. Home like feeling. Will be going more often now that I found this spot.

We went for a day early Valentine's Day to beat the crowd. Got there and still crowded, but we got in. Sat next to a pair of couples and almost instantly became friends. We had the Halibut Special and the short ribs, Each one was cooked to perfection. Truly perfect French gourmet food. My only disappointment was that I could not speak French to any one. And , i don't think they would approve going into the kitchen to complement the chef.
If you enjoy French cooking, go there. Period.
merci bien a tout les chef de cuisine.

Delicious and had a nice time. Tried out a new spot and I enjoyed it.

OMG! Phenomenal! The desserts are...Spectacular! Out of this world, delicious! The food...gastronomic! You will not be disappointed!!

If you're delivery driver, DO NOT get any order from this place. Taking forever and unprofessional stuff working here. Don't waste your time

Wow. I cannot say how much I hated my experience here.

0 stars for HORRIBLE service

0 stars for RANCID lettuce and FROZEN FISH THAT WAS HEATED UP. DISGUSTING ENTREE I COULD NOT FINISH.

0 stars for a salad that literally left me wondering if I had just picked weeds from my moms old compost and stuffed them in my mouth

0 stars for an appetizer that made me feel sick and tasted even worse.

I swear I am not lying to you when I say this place is HORRIBLE.

I spent about $150 to eat here with my girlfriend on New Years Eve, and it was 100% a waste of my money (btw, we did not even drink wine)

Their food is cooked to perfection and the restaurant ambiance felt relaxing. Service was superb and fast. The staffs were really friendly. I Would recommend The French Gourmet to everyone who wants to have a good quality time!

I've been coming here for years! It's delicious!
The baker's and chefs do an amazing job on the food. However, the young blonde girl attending us this time was rude, was very irritated because we asked a question about pastries, and she looked very unhappy. I don't appreciate handing over money to buy something to a person who is rude.
The first face a customer sees is the reputation of a business, in my opinion.

This place is nice, but also has some killer deals. Their cold brew is delicious, and is way too cheap compared other spots. Also the breakfast croissant sandwiches have been my covid 19 savior. Get the value and it s like 7 bucks. Thank you FG!!

I havn't had the pleasure of going by everyday, for almost 2 decades!
There isn't a SINGLE pastry that doesn't make your mouth water.

What a wonderful place to eat! The food is fresh, the atmosphere is delightful Arndt the staff is outstanding! And did I mention the pastries???

Very good food and service and reasonable prices. The parking is limited. Make a reservation for the weekend since it can get crowded. They also have a great bakery

Amazing restaurant. Went here for breakfast and had French toast and coffee. Light and airy bake with the perfect amount of sweetness. Had a gift card which helped on the price but overall, excellent price and food. Oh and the bread and jam is LEGIT!!!! I'll come back for sure.

Edit: forgot to add, the waiter was very nice and made it a fun experience.

Best goodies of all kinds...meals, cheeses, bakery items, sandwiches...all delicious & fresh.

Best French bakery in town, bar none. Tiny storefront with challenging parking, but worth the effort every time. Air Quality Index is roughly 20% ambient butter and 20% ambient sugar, so be forewarned. Palmiers are delicate and crunchy and retain texture even in SD humidity. Savory quiche, lovely French onion soup; fantastic baguettes and ephemeral croissants. Not even spendy.

Great little French restaurant & wonderful pastry / bakery shop in Pacific Beach, CA

Great place for breakfast and lunch haven't had dinner, sure it's good also. Opens at 8am for breakfast and lunch.

I've been coming to the French Gourmet for the past 16 years.aways Such beautiful pasties and croissant, tastes are Magnificent.

Cooking has gone downhill. Hot chocolate was cloudy water. Almond croissant was good.

My friend went for afternoon coffee and cake. Very good coffee and the Napoleon I had was very fresh and delicious. My friend also enjoyed the French cake she'd ordered.

Probably some of the best French patries you can find in SD area. Ambiance is not as nice as the pictures, but the desserts are excellent!

A favorite place for quality french food. dropped in on tues. really nothing but enjoyable experiences here, i'll be back.

All around good. Bagettes don't have a crunchy crust... kind of soft.

They helped with picking out and personalizing a birthday cake. Beautiful and even more delicious! The staff was attentive and helpful. A great experience.

Love this place. Good buttery taste in everything.

Delicious! Everytime I go I have great service and the pre-fix menu is the best in town. The escargot melts in your mouth.

Freshest of eggs, french roast coffee, double baked croissant started my day

nothing to complain about. definitely worth a return visit. prices are reasonable. food is similar to a place in san francisco i liked.

I visited The French Gourmet at dinnertime to try their 3-course restaurant week menu.
Our party of 4 had a reservation, but were still kept waiting for half an hour. To be fair, it's an intimate little restaurant that simply invites you to linger over dinner, but there isn't even a bar or seating while you wait.
We were quite happy, though, with our food and wine for the evening. I tried the escargot (an excellent way to eat garlic butter) and the pate sampler (two delicious pate options, and one so-so). Portions definitely on a small side, but they brought us a second round of bread. The salmon was flavorful and melted in your mouth. The filet mignon was delicious with the green peppercorn sauce, and so tender.
The only downfall was the desserts. I just wasn't particularly impressed by any of the 3 selections I tried.
I would definitely go again. And I would definitely check out the bakery here.

Delicious pastries! Best chocolate crossiant I've ever had!

Quiet & personal. The staff were very accommodating & the food was suberb.

Stopped in for a quick lunch. Ordered a bowl of soup (soup of the day) which was good. Offer no crackers, no bread, nothing to go with it. Oh, yes, they did give me a spoon, but I want to tell you that if you aren't ordering a large meal, you are treated like a second class citizen. Had to buy a loaf of bread at $1.50, can you believe it. I'll never return to this restaurant again.

Tried this place on a whim while on vacation, and what a great choice it turned out to be. The food was excellent, and the waitstaff was very friendly and professional. Menu pricing was fair for the type and quality of food. I had the Duck Leg Confit; fiancee had Escargots and Grilled Salmon. She said it was the best salmon she had in a very long time.

A true San Diego treasure.
Family owned, incredible staff, cool neighborhood, first-class food.
Whatever you decide to get from breakfast croissants, to carrot cake, fresh baked bread, tea, coffee and more, it's going to be really good.

Excellent. Always a favorite. They did a great job expanding their patio dining.

Food was delicious. I've been to events where the French gourmet has catered and I've come here for breakfast. But this was the first time coming for dinner and it was a fantastic experience. From the bread and butter and the appetizers (try the zucchini fritters) to the entrees... We went with steak and ratatouille. Everything was delicious. And the desserts... Wow! Creme brulee and carrot cake. They've got the best!!

I bought a cake for Mother s Day and she was thrilled. It was very fresh. It was the Millenium Cake and it had a chocolate espresso flavor. She loved it. I grabbed some macaron cookies too that were great.

My New Year's resolution: perfect poached eggs so that I may recreate the most delicious meal I have had in a very long time... The French Gourmet in Pacific Beach presented me with an eggs benedict layered with duck confit and wild arugula that was exquisite. The duck had been brined in a delicate spice mixture including star anise and allspice - just a hint on the back of the palate that enlivened the hollandaise making the brain go " whoa, what was that?" And the eggs - that perfect poach of silky, creamy perfection. And of course a croissant that needed no butter or preserves - that just simply melted in my mouth. Sitting in lovely surroundings with the winter rain pelting down outside, enjoying this meal with a glass of bubbly amidst the background chatter of internationals that obviously call this little slice of Aix in America home. Merci!

They have a very good rib eye stake . And delicious breakfast as desserts.

Great food and ambiance. The owner is also a really funny and great guy as well!

My experience with The French Gourmet was terrible. I ordered a bake for 45 people for my sister's birthday . The cake was very dry and tasteless, all the guests complained about it. I felt very embarrassed, so I called The French Gourmet to let them know about my experience. I was surprised by the rudeness of the bakery chef, he yelled at me and hung up on me.

We came because there was a good line outside! We were very pleased. They let one person in the store at a time, and we did not feel rushed at all when we were inside. They had someone coming outside to help customers in line who knew what they wanted, or had placed orders ahead of time. We thought that was a nice touch.

We've only visited for the bakery so far but I can tell you without hesitation that this is one of the best bakeries in San Diego. Visit the bakery early to get all the goodies. We recently purchased two chicken pot pies for lunch and hands down they were two of the best we've ever had. Perfect in proportion, the crust was buttery and flakey and the chicken was hearty with good sized chunks and a delicious gravy. The pastries are out of this world, and it's hard not to walk out with one of everything. I love giving the holiday cookies for gifts - from halloween to christmas they are affordable and delicious.

We ordered our wedding cake and cupcakes from The French Gourmet. Their flavors were delicious and unusual; they were very accommodating regarding allergies and their prices were reasonable. Excellent customer service and delicious products.

The French Gourmet is one of my favorite places to eat! Wonderfully helpful staff, absolutely amazing food, and an even better ambience!

I don't want to trash a locally owned business that's trying to survive during this pandemic, so I'll address the positives first. Our food (bacon crossaint, ham & cheese crossaint, mixed fruit tart, iced caramel mocha & coffee) was all very good. The owner was involved and doing a lot to assist his employees. But the staff really needs to do better. Despite having 3 people manning the counter, it took much longer than it should have just to order and pay and that was due to total disorganization. A woman who was about 3 guests ahead of us barely paid and left before we did. Their gift card swipe wasn't working and it took the owner checking it before anyone realized it wasn't connected to the phone line. Even after that, it still wouldn't accept anyone's gift cards mostly likely due to needing to be reset. Since our card was about to expire, the owner was generous enough to provide us with a new one. But then trying to check out was an inconvenience because the employee at the register refused to cash us out. We waited for the young man preparing our order to finish it, which took longer than it should because he struggled to remember what we wanted. For reasons that were unclear to me, only the person who took our order could ring us up. I have years of experience in the hospitality industry, including management, and this was just simply bad customer service. Once we finally had our order, the pains continued, as a combination of the materials and being overfilled caused my coffee cup to disentegrate, leading to it spilling coffee all over my lap and inside my vehicle.
I don't think this is a bad restaurant, but this is my only experience so far with their business. I do plan to return and I hope that it becomes obvious that they were just having a bad day. I would recommend this establishment, but with a slight caution. I hope they fix these small but annoying issues!

I've had brunch and dinner here a couple times, and for restaurant week as well. The food is delicious, but the main focus of this review is the pastries. I probably visit sporadically from once a month to once a week. This is my go-to place for pastries!! I always get the fruit and cheese danishes and cinnamon roll with raisins (comes in regular or mini sizes) along with some cake pieces. I especially enjoy the lemon buttercream, fruit tarts, and the pralinsko.

Bought a cake this afternoon and had it delivered. Had to be one of driest cakes I've ever experienced. Had to use a spoon to even try it. Threw it away.