If you're a fan of rich, savory soups, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of French onion soup. Packed with caramelized onions, melty cheese, and crusty bread, it's a dish that's hearty, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.
And if you're in San Diego, you're in luck – there are plenty of places to find top-notch French onion soup in this sunny city.
Whether you're looking for a cozy bistro, a trendy gastropub, or a classic diner, there's a French onion soup spot to suit your tastes. Some places offer traditional versions of the soup, while others put their own unique spin on the dish.
Some use beef broth, while others opt for a vegetarian or vegan option. And some use Gruyere cheese, while others experiment with different varieties.
No matter what your preferences are, there's no denying that French onion soup is a beloved dish that's perfect for a chilly day or a comforting meal.
And in San Diego, there are plenty of places to indulge in this classic dish. Whether you're a local or a visitor, be sure to check out some of the top spots for French onion soup in this bustling city.
1. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
The Smoking Goat Restaurant is a French-American bistro with a country-chic ambiance.
Their French onion soup is a must-try dish that is full of flavor and hits the spot.
The restaurant is known for its excellent food and extensive wine selection.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
2. The Red Door
The Red Door is a refined yet homey eatery that serves upscale American comfort fare made with garden-fresh produce.
Their French onion soup is a must-try, with savory broth and a generous amount of melted cheese on top.
The restaurant also offers a sufficient wine list with prices and tastes all across the board. The customer service is perfect, and the staff, including the chef/owner, is engaging and attentive.
The cozy and intimate setting makes it a perfect spot for a date night or a special occasion.
3. Et Voila! French Bistro
Et Voila! French Bistro is a cozy French restaurant that serves up some of the best French onion soup in the city. The soup is rich and flavorful, with a perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions and savory beef broth.
The soup is topped with a thick layer of melted Gruyere cheese and a slice of crusty bread, making for a truly satisfying dish.
The bistro also offers a variety of other French classics, including escargot, Coq au Vin, and moules frites.
The ambiance is charming and romantic, with classic bistro decor and soft lighting. The service is friendly and attentive, making for a delightful dining experience.
4. Parc Bistro-Brasserie
Parc Bistro-Brasserie is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious French onion soup. The soup is rich and flavorful, with the perfect balance of cheese and bread.
The restaurant itself has a stylish and comfortable atmosphere, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or a casual night out with friends.
The menu also has a variety of other French specialties and seafood options, all of which are expertly prepared and presented.
The service is friendly and attentive, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
5. Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop is an innovative American steakhouse that also serves French onion soup.
The rustic-chic decor creates a cozy atmosphere, and the attentive staff provides excellent customer service. The soup is a must-try, as it is perfectly made and full of flavor.
The restaurant also offers a great selection of steaks and sides, as well as delicious desserts. Prices are on the high side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it.
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop is a fine dining restaurant that is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
6. Bleu Boheme
Bleu Boheme is a charming French bistro that serves up a delicious bowl of French onion soup. The rustic-chic decor creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date night.
The attentive staff ensures that every guest is well taken care of, and the menu features a variety of classic French dishes.
The soup itself is rich and flavorful, with perfectly caramelized onions and a generous amount of melted cheese on top.
If you're a fan of French cuisine, Bleu Boheme is definitely worth a visit.
7. The French Gourmet
The French Gourmet is a bistro, bakery, and wine shop that offers delicious French cuisine. Their onion soup is a must-try, as it is prepared perfectly and tastes classic.
The menu is robust, and the staff is very kind and professional. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, making it perfect for a romantic evening or a casual dinner with friends.
The bakery has fresh pastries and bread available, which are perfect for a quick snack or a takeaway treat.
The wine selection is stellar, and the wine experts are always available to help with recommendations. If you want to experience authentic French food, The French Gourmet is the place to be.
8. Creme de la crepe
Creme de la crepe is a cozy French restaurant that serves delicious French onion soup. Their staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are affordable.
The restaurant offers a variety of French dishes, including savory and sweet crepes, escargot, fondue, and gluten-free buckwheat crepes.
The atmosphere is inviting, and the restaurant is always clean. The food is fresh and flavorful, and the portions are generous.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of French onion soup, Creme de la crepe is definitely worth a visit.
9. La Bonne Table
La Bonne Table is a French restaurant that serves a mean French onion soup.
The soup is rich and flavorful, with lots of cheese, onions, and croutons. The broth is cooked to perfection, making it a must-try for any soup lover.
The ambiance is cozy and perfect for a date night. The service is excellent, with attentive waitstaff that make you feel welcome.
If you're looking for authentic French cuisine, La Bonne Table is the place to be.
10. Taste of Denmark
Taste of Denmark is a small and authentic Danish restaurant that serves delicious and savory food.
Apart from their famous rye bread, they also offer a wonderful French onion soup that is a must-try. The menu is simple, but the food is made fresh upon order and the portions are big.
The owners are friendly and take care of their customers throughout the meal. The ambiance is cozy and laid-back, perfect for a relaxing meal.
If you're looking for a change of pace and want to try something different, Taste of Denmark is definitely worth a visit.
11. Jo's Diner
Jo's Diner is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a delicious bowl of French onion soup.
The homemade soup is full of flavor and will leave you wanting more.
The quaint diner has a friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere that makes for a great dining experience.
While the soup is the star of the show, the rest of the menu is also worth trying. Jo's Diner is definitely a hidden gem and a great spot to grab a delicious meal.
12. Tapas & Beers
Tapas & Beers is a must-visit for those looking for the best french onion soup in town. The soup is rich and savory, with just the right amount of cheese and onions.
The cozy ambiance of the place makes it perfect for enjoying a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day.
The friendly staff is always ready to recommend other delicious tapas and entrees to complement the soup.
With reasonable prices and great service, Tapas & Beers is a hidden gem that should not be missed.
13. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant is a long-standing upscale eatery that offers Californian fare with Continental touches.
The menu features a delicious French onion soup that is a must-try for any soup lover. The soup is rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned.
The restaurant's warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for a cozy night out. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is outstanding.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy a delicious French onion soup, Dobson's Bar & Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
14. New Orleans Creole Cafe
Looking for a cozy spot to enjoy some delicious French onion soup in a quaint setting with friendly service and great food in San Diego's Old Town area, then New Orleans Creole Cafe is the place for you.
This small, historical restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel like home.
The Crawfish Etouffee and French Onion Soup are highly recommended and won't disappoint. The restaurant also serves other traditional Creole dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and bread pudding.
If you are looking for a unique dining experience, head to New Orleans Creole Cafe and indulge in some mouthwatering French onion soup.
