4 of the Best French Restaurants in Richmond, VA

4 Of The Best French Restaurants In Richmond, VA

French cuisine and service, the benchmark of dining experiences. The country has the most Michelin-starred restaurants of any in the world, French cooking rules and styles are used extensively in culinary schools, and French influences are found in modern recipes everywhere. Richmond’s got a few French restaurants of its own, so if you’re looking for something authentic, start with our list of some of the best in town.

L’opossum

David Shannon’s L’opossum is one of the hottest restaurants in town. Locally, it won an Elby for Best Restaurant, and nationally, Conde Nast named it one of 10 unmissable restaurants in the American South. Funky decor greets you when you walk in, and playfully named dishes will stay with you long after you leave (in a good way).

Can Can

Can Can is a traditional French brasserie, which means that it’s open for business from early morning (7AM for coffee and croissants) until late in the evening (for dinner and drinks) and all day in between. When Can Can opened in 2005, the entire interior was designed to give off an authentic vibe, and the highlight has to be the 90-foot zinc bar. Can Can also has a full service bakery (best baguette deal in Richmond) and a seasonal menu of French fare.

Can Can is a regular stop on our Carytown Food Tour – visit Carytown with us and experience Can Can and up to 5 other restaurants and cafes!

Can Can - Epicure and Culture — Image Credit - Epicure & Culture

Bistro Bobette

Shockoe Slip’s Bistro Bobette aims to be a true bistro – a small neighborhood spot where the staff know your name and treats you accordingly. In fact, the restaurant has previously won an Elby for Excellence in Service. The food is great too, and we highly recommend the smoked rabbit.

Chez Foushee

Chez Foushee is the veteran among the restaurants on this list, having opened nearly 30 years ago as a lunchtime only sandwich shop. Several rounds of expansion (both menu and hours) later, the Monroe Ward spot serves a menu of Creole- and French-inspired dishes, and almost always offers a three-course prix fixe during dinner hours Thursday-Saturday.