Best Upscale French Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale French Food

25 restaurants in Best Upscale French Restaurants in Minneapolis | Upscale French Food

• Minneapolis Cider Co. — French · rated 5/5: Sunlight streams through the expansive windows of this industrial-chic taproom, where the rhythmic pop of pickleball games provides a lively, energetic backdrop to an afternoon of social sipping. Crisp, artisanal ciders flow from the taps in a spectrum of orchard-fresh flavors, perfectly paired with delicate, buttery crepes that range from savory herb-filled delights to sweet, golden treats.
• France 44 Cheese & Meat — French · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary of artisanal craft where towering wheels of aged cheese and marble counters laden with hand-sliced charcuterie create a vibrant playground for the epicurean soul. The air hums with the rhythmic slicing of crusty baguettes and the savory aroma of pressed sandwiches, inviting guests to explore a curated world of bold umami flavors and small-batch treasures that transform a simple midday meal into a sophisticated celebration of the pantry.
• Monte Carlo — French · rated 4/5: Monte Carlo captures the high-stakes allure of its namesake, blending old-world opulence with a vibrant energy that pulses through the polished, candlelit dining room. Every plate arrives as a masterclass in refined flavor and artistic presentation, inviting guests to linger over a decadent experience that feels like a grand celebration of the good life.
• Trapeze Bubbles & Toasts — French · rated 4/5: This whimsical sanctuary invites guests into a world of effervescent charm, where the clink of crystal flutes harmonizes with an atmosphere of playful sophistication. Golden streams of champagne dance in delicate glassware alongside artisanal toasts piled high with vibrant, seasonal toppings that transform simple ingredients into edible art. It is a vibrant destination where every bite and sip feels like a celebration, capturing the lighthearted joy of a sun-drenched brunch or a sparkling evening rendezvous.
• Star Bar & Bistro — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in a warm, celestial glow, this chic social hub invites guests to lose track of time amidst the clink of crystal and the enticing aroma of pan-seared classics. The kitchen balances refined technique with soulful comfort, delivering vibrant plates that celebrate seasonal ingredients alongside a curated selection of hand-shaken cocktails. It is a place where the energy of a modern lounge meets the intimacy of a neighborhood bistro, creating an effortless backdrop for both spirited celebrations and quiet, candlelit conversations.
• Lynette — French · rated 3/5: Lynette invites guests into a glowingly warm sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory promise of elevated comfort food and the rhythmic clinking of glasses. The kitchen finds its soulful stride during their celebrated Wednesday night tradition, where gluten-free fried chicken emerges with a perfectly seasoned, shatteringly light crunch that defies expectation. It is a vibrant neighborhood destination that transforms a midweek evening into a sensory celebration of inclusive indulgence and effortless charm.
• Tilia — American: Tucked into the heart of the neighborhood, this sun-drenched bistro hums with a lively energy where the scent of charred sourdough and savory braises drifts from the bustling open kitchen. The menu reimagines classic comfort through a sophisticated lens, offering artfully plated dishes that pair rustic textures with bright, seasonal flavors in a space that feels both intimate and effortlessly cool. Whether tucked into a cozy booth or perched at the bar, guests find a soulful dining experience where every bite reflects a deep passion for craft and community.
• Saint Genevieve — French: This sun-drenched Parisian-style buvette transports guests to the streets of France with its gleaming marble counters, gilded accents, and an effervescent energy that invites lingering over a glass of grower champagne. The kitchen reimagines classic bistro fare through a modern lens, offering artfully plated tartines and chilled oysters that capture the refined yet soulful essence of sophisticated neighborhood dining.
• The Copper Hen Cakery & Kitchen — American: This sun-drenched farmhouse bistro wraps guests in a warm embrace of rustic wood and copper accents, where the sweet perfume of tiered cakes cooling on the counter mingles with the savory aroma of seasonal, scratch-made comfort food. From decadent champagne cupcakes to hearty, herb-flecked entrees served in glowing cast iron, every dish celebrates a farm-to-table philosophy that feels both sophisticated and deeply soulful. The space hums with a cozy, neighborhood energy that invites diners to linger over boozy brunches or intimate, candlelit dinners.
• Spoon and Stable — French: Housed in a beautifully restored 1906 horse stable, this sun-drenched space blends industrial chic with refined warmth, where soaring ceilings and white-washed brick frame a bustling open kitchen. French-inspired techniques breathe new life into seasonal Midwestern ingredients, resulting in elegant plates that celebrate the soulful, rustic flavors of the North. Every meal unfolds as a sophisticated yet welcoming experience, where the precision of the savory kitchen and the delicate artistry of the pastry program come together in a vibrant, airy atmosphere.
• French Meadow Bakery & Cafe — French: This sun-drenched sanctuary invites guests into a rustic, garden-like atmosphere where the comforting aroma of hearth-baked organic breads mingles with the scent of freshly brewed espresso. The kitchen celebrates the seasons through vibrant, farm-to-table plates that nourish the soul, offering a wholesome refuge where artisanal pastries and inclusive, plant-forward dishes are served amidst a backdrop of leafy greenery and warm, communal energy.
• Wakame Sushi & Asian Bistro — Japanese: Step into a vibrant, modern sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of the sushi bar meets an atmosphere of polished sophistication. The delicate artistry of hand-pressed nigiri and jewel-toned specialty rolls shares the stage with the bold, aromatic heat of wok-fired classics and contemporary Asian-inspired plates. Every dish arrives as a visual masterpiece, inviting guests to linger over a fusion of textures and tastes that bridge the gap between time-honored tradition and modern culinary flair.
• Barbette Restaurant & Amusements — French: This vibrant neighborhood gem transports guests to a bohemian Parisian bistro, where eclectic art and soft candlelight create an atmosphere of whimsical sophistication. The kitchen turns out soulful French-inspired fare, from crisp frites to delicate crêpes, perfectly paired with a curated wine list that fuels long, laughter-filled evenings. It is a place where the playful spirit of "amusements" meets culinary artistry, inviting diners to linger over every bite in a space that feels both timeless and refreshingly unconventional.
• Sidebar at Surdyk's — American: Tucked beside the legendary liquor and cheese shop, this polished neighborhood bistro hums with the energy of Northeast Minneapolis, blending modern sophistication with the warmth of a classic European cafe. Sunlight streams through expansive windows onto marble tabletops where guests linger over artisanal cheese boards and vibrant, seasonal plates paired perfectly with an expertly curated wine list. Whether sipping a botanical cocktail at the sleek bar or sharing a leisurely meal in a plush booth, the experience feels like a refined yet effortless celebration of the finer things in life.
• Kbop Korean Bistro — Korean: The air at this lively bistro hums with the rhythmic sizzle of stone pots and the pungent, inviting aroma of fermented spices. Vibrant bowls arrive brimming with crisp vegetables and perfectly charred meats, offering a masterclass in the balance of heat, crunch, and soul-warming comfort that defines authentic Korean fare.
• Key West Bistro — Seafood: Sun-drenched and breezy, this island-inspired getaway captures the laid-back spirit of the Florida Keys with its vibrant decor and salt-kissed air. Zesty citrus glazes and the day’s freshest catch take center stage, offering a bright palette of tropical flavors that dance across the tongue like a warm ocean breeze. Whether sipping a chilled cocktail on the shaded veranda or tucking into a slice of tart lime pie, guests are transported to a permanent state of vacation where the clock slows down and every meal feels like a celebration of the coast.
• Finnish Bistro — Scandinavian: Sun-drenched and inviting, this neighborhood sanctuary captures the soul of Nordic hospitality, wrapping guests in a warm embrace of light wood accents and the sweet, spiced aroma of house-baked cardamom bread. Artfully prepared open-faced sandwiches and soul-warming stews celebrate the clean, honest flavors of the North, creating a serene escape where the simple joy of a well-brewed cup and a flaky pastry feels like a celebration.
• Soho Cafe — American: Sunlight streams through expansive windows into this chic urban retreat, where the hum of conversation mingles with the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine against a backdrop of exposed brick and eclectic local art. The kitchen turns out a vibrant array of bistro-inspired plates that celebrate seasonal ingredients, creating a sophisticated yet soulful escape perfect for lingering over a velvety latte or a crisp glass of wine.
• Chloe by Vincent — French: Sun-drenched and effortlessly chic, this modern French brasserie captures the spirit of a Parisian bistro reimagined for the urban heart of the North Loop. The open kitchen hums with the artistry of soulful Gallic cooking, where the scent of rich reductions and buttery pastries drifts through an airy, sophisticated space designed for lingering over artfully crafted plates.
• Patisserie 46 — French: Sunlight streams through the windows of this bustling neighborhood corner, illuminating glass cases filled with jewel-like tarts and golden, shatteringly crisp croissants. The air hums with the aroma of toasted butter and rich espresso, inviting guests to linger over artisanal breads and meticulously crafted French pastries that balance rustic tradition with modern elegance.
• Café Cerés — French: Sunlight dances across the counters of this chic neighborhood sanctuary, where the intoxicating scent of buttery, golden-brown pastries and toasted Mediterranean spices invites a lingering moment of morning indulgence. From the delicate crunch of savory, dukkah-dusted croissants to the velvety richness of expertly pulled espresso, every offering celebrates a harmonious blend of traditional technique and bold, soulful flavors in an atmosphere that hums with communal warmth.
• Milly's Wine Bar & Bistro — French: Soft candlelight flickers against rows of curated vintages, inviting guests into an intimate sanctuary where the hum of conversation mingles with the rhythmic clink of crystal. Artfully composed small plates and bistro classics celebrate seasonal flavors, each dish thoughtfully paired to elevate the nuances of a world-class wine list. It is a space where time slows down, capturing the effortless charm of a European hideaway perfect for lingering over a shared bottle and good company.
• Bucheron — French: This intimate neighborhood bistro glows with a sophisticated warmth, where the rhythmic hum of an open kitchen and the clink of craft cocktails create an atmosphere of effortless elegance. French-inspired techniques breathe new life into soulful American classics, resulting in artfully plated dishes that balance rustic comfort with refined, modern precision. Every detail, from the soft candlelight to the final decadent spoonful of dessert, invites guests to linger in a space where culinary artistry feels wonderfully like home.
• Cafe Ena — Latin American: This intimate neighborhood sanctuary invites guests into a space of vibrant colors and soulful aromas, where the elegance of French technique meets the bold, sun-drenched flavors of Latin America. Each plate is a masterclass in fusion, balancing zesty, citrus-brightened ceviches with rich, savory compositions that transform a cozy corner bistro into a sophisticated culinary escape.
• La Boulangerie Marguerite — French: The air at La Boulangerie Marguerite is thick with the intoxicating scent of caramelizing sugar and warm, yeasty dough, drawing guests into a sun-drenched space where baskets overflow with shatteringly crisp, golden baguettes. Glass cases glisten with jewel-toned fruit tarts and layers of butter-rich croissants that crumble at the slightest touch, reflecting a mastery of time-honored French baking traditions. It is a charming neighborhood sanctuary where the simple artistry of flour and fire transports diners to a quiet corner of Paris with every decadent, flour-dusted bite.