2316 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109
Tel. 415-776-5577
Credit Cards: Yes
Prices: Expensive

Roland Passot, the chef-owner of La Folie opened the strictly French restaurant about 20 years ago, I remember I made it a habit to stop by for dinner on each visit to the bay area; at that time it was family run, although it still maintained a certain formality. In the dining room his wife Jamie was at the door, and brother Georges would pour wine.

Recently the restaurant has gone through another redo, and has emerged looking like a sophisticated Manhattan establishment with polished wood paneling and vertical mirrors and a reshuffled menu. Passot is still behind the stoves—and loving it! Foie Gras reigns as King at La Folie and his presentation of foie gras with brioche is a must, along with many other dishes concocted in the fashion of Lyon where he grew up.

La Folie Lounge, a smart spot for cocktails and small-bites next door is already collecting its own clientele, in addition to those who drop in before or after dinner at La Folie.