French cuisine is famous worldwide for its delicate flavors and sophisticated presentation. This article reveals the 13 best French Restaurants in Baltimore, MD, to help you decide where to have a delightful meal in the area.
Whether you’re a local or just passing by, you’ll have a great experience trying out the following places.
Petit Louis Bistro
$$$ | (410) 366-9393 | WEBSITE
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This award-winning restaurant was named one of Baltimore’s Best Restaurants in 2020. It boasts an extensive French wine collection that diners can enjoy in a spot-on Parisian ambiance.
Chefs Cindy Wolf and Tony Foreman use the finest local ingredients and whip up classic French bistro fare. You can indulge in their specialties which include Confit de Canard, Savor Steak Frites, Poulet à L’Estragon, Escargot de Bourgogne, and the famous Boeuf Bourguignon.
It also offers outdoor dining for people who would love to enjoy the Baltimore weather. Diners rave about the staff’s prompt and skillful service.
Duck Duck Goose
$$ | (443) 869-2129 | WEBSITE
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This contemporary small plates brasserie is located in the heart of Fell’s Point, a historic waterfront neighborhood.
It focuses on local fresh and seasonal ingredients to create brunch and supper meals with the traditional yet modern French flair.
Its famous for its delightful three-course Sunday Supper, including Escarole Salad, Whole Roasted Chicken, Pommes Puree, Haricots Verts with Brown Butter Sauce, and Apple Crumble ala Mode.
The lunch menu includes the classic Steak Frites au Poivre, Cote de Boeuef, and Beef Tartare. Loyal diners recommend it for the exceptional ambiance and fantastic service.
Marie Louise Bistro
$$ | (410) 385-9946 | WEBSITE
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Marie Louise Bistro is a charming French restaurant in the heart of the majestic Mount Vernon and conveniently located in Charm City, one of the most historical communities in Baltimore.
It has been serving exquisite French dishes and delectable cocktails for over sixteen years. Its brunch and dinner menu includes starters such as the classic French Onion Soup, Salad Nicoise, and Escargot Forestiere.
Traditional main dishes that you can try in the restaurant are Duck Confit, Trout Almondine, Bouillabaisse, and Coq Au Vin. You can dine outside or revel in the romantic and quaint indoor atmosphere.
Monarque
$$$$ | (443) 384-1480 | WEBSITE
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Monarque is a perfect fit in Baltimore’s chic Harbor East neighborhood. This French brasserie gets its inspiration from France’s extravagant and prosperous era.
The classic French dishes created by Chef Marc Henessy are best paired with any of the 500 bottles of French wine in their collection. It also boasts of an extensive array of Armagnac and Cognac.
The highlight of the dinner menu is the in-house dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and the chef’s version of traditional French cuisine. It also offers a unique dining experience with weekend stage acts, including musicians, dancers, poets, and singers.
Le Comptoir du Vin
$$ | (443) 297-7384 | WEBSITE
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This quaint restaurant may be small, but its dishes are bursting with flavor and taste! It boasts an imaginative and exciting menu that includes a Salad of Escarole and Frisee, Brouillade with Dandelion and Bottarga do Muggine, and Marinated Feta with Medjool Dates.
Its extensive array of cheeses, bread, and wine are perfect appetizers that you can share with family and friends. The chicken liver pate is so popular and highly sought after that it frequently sells out. The atmosphere is cozy, making it a perfect place for dates and intimate dinners.
Le Bistro Du Village (FKA Crepe Du Jour)
$$ | (410) 542-9000 | WEBSITE
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In 1997, a husband and wife team who lived in Paris established Le Bistro Du Village. It grew from an upscale kiosk that sold paninis and crepes to a full-blown restaurant that serves authentic French cuisine.
It’s famous for the heated terrace where diners can enjoy the Baltimore weather and the Parisian atmosphere. This charming cafe serves classic appetizers such as escargot and creamy potatoes and leeks and Steak Frites, Duck Confit, and Crab Crusted Seabass as entrees.
Its extensive menu allows diners to experience the culinary traditions of various regions in France.
Patisserie Poupon
$$ | (410) 752-1200 | WEBSITE
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This lovely place will transport you to a charming Parisian patisserie as you walk in. Aside from the delightful French vibe, you’ll also be treated to a delectable array of pastries, cookies, cakes, tarts, and bread.
Its signature cakes include the classic Millefeuille and Napoleon, Cassis Mousse, Marjolaine, and Tiramisu. If you’re looking for a brunch or dinner meal, you can order the Spinach and Ricotta Croissant or Quiche.
You may even bring home a box of its baked treats to share with loved ones. All pastries are best enjoyed with the home-brewed coffee.
Cookhouse
$$$ | (410) 225-9964 | WEBSITE
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Bolton Hill welcomed Cookhouse as a pleasant addition to its roster of exciting restaurants. This newest hangout provides a fine dining experience in an intimate setting that combines rustic touches with tasteful decor.
It serves traditional French appetizers such as Escargot and Croquettes Noir, while France’s culture and warm hospitality inspire its mouthwatering entrees.
You may revel in juicy Steak Frites, chevre stuffed Medjool dates, and in-shell burgundy snails. Vegetarians and vegans can ask the chefs to assemble a meal for them.
A nightcap is best enjoyed at the bar that serves a wide selection of beers, cocktails, and wines.
Sofi’s Crepes
$ | (410) 727-7732 | WEBSITE
Delighted customers have referred to this cozy restaurant as “a little piece of France in Baltimore.” Known for their sweet and savory crepes, it offers a comforting and delicious snack or a full meal on its own.
The perfect batter is not too thin or thick and not too sweet. If you’re looking for a quick bite between work or a busy day, you won’t be disappointed since the service is fast and efficient.
You can also build your crepes from a vast array of ingredients. The interior of Sofi’s Crepes is artsy and relaxed- a vibe that people who are looking to get creative will appreciate.
Charleston
$$$$ | (410) 332-7373 | WEBSITE
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Charleston offers world-class dining amidst Baltimore’s gorgeous waterfront community, Harbor East.
The French-inspired dishes are crafted by award-winning chef Cindy Wolf, whose constantly evolving menu focuses on the purity of flavors, aesthetic presentations, and natural preparation of the finest ingredients.
Its elegant menu includes Royal Imperial Golden Ossetra Caviar, Beef Tenderloin Steak Tartare, and Button Mushroom Bisque. You may end your lavish meal with Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée, Passion Fruit Tart, or Blackberry Sorbet.
The sommelier can help you choose the best wine to pair with your meal. The restaurant has private dining rooms for intimate dinners and hosts special events.
La Cuchara
$$$ | (443) 708-3838 | WEBSITE
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Basque cuisine is an eclectic symphony of French and Spanish influences. La Cuchara perfectly marries the two cultures to create a menu that is a feast for the senses.
Chef Ben Lefenfeld is inspired by the seasonality and richness of traditional Basque cuisine. He uses high-quality and fresh ingredients from local purveyors and farmers.
The restaurant’s appetizers include Bacalao and Jamon Croquettes and a wide variety of tapas and cheese platters.
Loyal patrons rave about the warm and cozy ambiance and the friendly service from the owners and staff. Its knowledgeable staff can help you with wine pairings, as well.
Magdalena, A Maryland Bistro
$$$$ | (410) 514-0303 | WEBSITE
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Known as Baltimore’s culinary jewel, Magdalena offers creatively concocted bistro food influenced by traditional French cuisine. It also gets inspiration from the energetic spirit of Baltimore and the comforting English fare.
The constantly changing menu features a vibrant and elegant take on classic dishes made more delectable with the harvest from the Chesapeake region. Its culinary philosophy uses the best ingredient from local purveyors and farmers.
It has an extensive wine list, a creative cocktail line-up, and a well-loved whiskey collection that can match the sophisticated meals. Try the duck breast, scallops, or seabass for a genuinely satisfying fine dining experience.
No Way, Rose
$$$ | (443) 438-6780 | WEBSITE
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Prepare to be transported to the chic and elegant Paris urban eateries with No Way, Rose. It serves refined French cuisine with a twist paired with thoughtfully-concocted cocktails.
You may start your meal with the charcuterie board, cheese selections, salmon tartare, and roasted beets. Then, you can satisfy your hunger with Diver Sea Scallop Ceviche, Tartiflette, Duck Confit, and Burgundy Escargot Vol-Au- Vent.
You can experience these mouthwatering dishes in the vibrant, pink interiors made more festive with neon lights and gorgeous flowers. The stocked bar has a wide selection of wines, cocktails, and Rose.
Bygone
$$$$ | (443) 343-8200 | WEBSITE
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The Bygone, located at the Four Season’s Rooftop, provides a posh dining experience with an incredible, panoramic view of the Baltimore cityscape.
This concept restaurant combines the historic and glamorous American 20s culture with traditional European influences to create a French-inspired menu.
You can relish sumptuous dishes such as Tuna Tartare, Parisian Gnocchi, Caviar, and other fresh market specialties. Its craft cocktails, signature whiskey bar, and open rotisserie grill offer an old-school celebration of the golden age of the bygone era.
If you’re looking for a glorious take on classic French cuisine in a surreal ambiance, then Bygone is the place to be.
Ovenbird Bakery
$ | (443) 885-9998 | WEBSITE
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Located in the heart of Baltimore, Ovenbird Bakery whips up delicious croissants, exceptional bread, and mouthwatering sandwiches.
Its artisanal French baked treats include croissants, bagels, tarts, and scones. You are in for sweet and savory treats that you can also bring home to family and friends.
You may pair them with the home blend and freshly-brewed coffee for a satisfying breakfast, lunch, or snack.
This neighborhood gem is a lovely spot where people can enjoy quiet time with family and friends. The staff is enthusiastic, welcoming, and upbeat, a refreshing welcome to such a charming place.
Summary
France has a rich culture and history that reflects in its sophisticated dishes. Maryland is lucky to be a hotspot for cuisine from this European country.
If you’re craving a little piece of Paris, check out the 13 Best Restaurants in Baltimore, MD, for a fantastic dining experience.
Treat yourself to a joyful explosion of flavors and a delightful treat to your senses. These local hangouts’ beautiful interiors make your meals genuinely memorable. So, bring your loved ones and experience some “joie de vivre!”
