Sottise is an old house converted into a French restaurant. Whenever we’re here, the vinyl spinning adds to the warm and nostalgic atmosphere.

Their plates are meant to be shared, so make sure you order just enough for your group. While you’re here, don’t miss out on their French onion soup and roasted duck. However, the duck was a bit undercooked when we ordered it. 

For our vegan and pescatarian friends, you’ll find something on the menu that suits your needs too.

If you’re in a wheelchair, there’s a ramp to the left of the restaurant, allowing you to access the dining space. There are ramps leading to the indoor area too. However, the space there is a bit tight.

Also, consider arriving before 6:00 PM to secure a metered street parking space near this French restaurant. We also recommend setting aside at least three hours for your meal so you can enjoy it without feeling rushed.

Offers an intimate dining experience

“Highly recommend for amazing French cuisine and an intimate dining experience. Everything we had was delicious, I can’t pick a favorite. Escargot gets a bad rap for obvious reasons but don’t sleep on it because it’s deliciously drowned in butter and garlic and we ordered round two because we wanted more. The cocktails are perfectly and thoughtfully crafted too. I feel like yes it’s on the pricier side, but it’s appropriately priced for the food and dining experience. Shoutout to Chef Eric!”

Laila Davison, Google Review

Great cocktail and wine selection

“We are big fans of Restaurant Progress and Sottise offers another option for unique, locally sourced food and cocktails. The building gives the vibes of a dinner party with friend with porch (heaters available) or indoor seating options. Every course we had was unique. We particularly liked the beet salad and oysters (although if you bring a date be prepared to fight over who gets the third oyster). Cocktails and wine selection were also very good and paired well with dinner.”

Evan Hansen, Google Review

For an upscale French restaurant experience, we highly recommend Vincent on Camelback, which is open for dinner only.

For starters, we highly recommend their three cheese tartine and smoked salmon quesadilla. Of course, for your entrees, make sure to order their lamb shank and coq au vin.

If you’re hesitant to order fish just because you hate deboning one, don’t worry, as the waiters will do it for you. You can also expect them to let you sample a few white wines so you can choose which one to pair with your meal.

Meanwhile, if you’re getting steak, you’ll love how tender it is, allowing you to cut it with just a spoon. And for dessert, don’t miss out on their lemon tart with raspberry sorbet.

When it comes to service, you’ll love that all their waiters stay attentive from start to finish. They’ll make sure your glasses are filled with your chosen wine without asking for it.

This French restaurant is also your spot for homemade croissants. 

However, this spot is on the expensive side. If you’re on a budget, you may need to skip this one for now.

Pros

• Offers homemade croissants
• Upscale French dining experience
• Attentive waiters

Cons

• Available for dinner hours only
• Premium rates

Impressive plating

“Hands down the best meal I have ever had. We went for restaurant week and were taken care of by Craig who was superb. Easily the best server I have ever had.. Flawless in his delivery and approach and knowledgeable as all heck about the menu, the process of Chef Vincent, wine and other items such as cordials. Craig and Chef Vincent were able to bring us out a split plate of some regular menu items as a second course, between the planned courses of the restaurant week menu. Everything we ate was top notch. Flavor combinations, the ingredients and plating all made for some of the best, if not the best food in Phoenix. Thank you to the staff, Craig and Chef Vincent for catering such a wonderful evening of food, fun and laughter. We will be back without a doubt!”

Alex Johnson, Google Review

Friendly and approachable staff

“Can’t say enough about this place. Food is spectacular. Had Halibut wellington with poblano sauce. Incredible. Wife had the pheasant which also was to die for. The staff is always personal, friendly and fun. If you haven’t been, go. You won’t be disappointed.”

Ed Fanning, Google Review

Food Network lovers may have heard about Zinc Bistro’s best onion soup, and that’s actually the reason why we tried this French restaurant too. Indeed, it’s rich and cheesy, so be sure to try that one on your first visit.

Aside from Food Network, this restaurant has also been awarded by The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale as the Best Lunch and Brunch spot in 2021 and a Best of the Valley winner by Phoenix Magazine in 2025.

We arrived one afternoon with a can of soft drink. But instead of informing me that no outside food and drinks were allowed, the waiter escorted me to my table and even brought a glass with ice for my drink.

If you want something satisfying but not too heavy, order their crispy skin confit duck with pate, served with a soft brioche bun. Meanwhile, if you want to be surprised, try their Poulet roti, a juicy roasted chicken dish that’s made on the spot.

However, while they serve fresh oysters daily, we find them a little on the small side.

For those with reservations, you’ll love that they’re not too strict about time. What’s also great about them is that you can order takeout. 

Has indoor and outdoor dining options

“We had a good meal. They have both indoor and outdoor dining. The bar was lively and loud, but the dining area was quieter for a romantic meal. Fairly straight forward French cuisine and oyster bar. Food was well prepared and presented. The desserts were limited but outstanding. Overall very reasonable prices, though not cheap.”

David Crutchfield, Google Review

Always serves fresh oysters

“Zinc is our favorite spot not only because the food and atmosphere are wonderful but also because the staff is the best in the business. They go out of their way to make us feel appreciated and it is so fun to walk in and see so many friendly faces. Their oysters are always fresh and steaks are cooked to perfection.”

Marcy Murphy, Google Review

The Farish House is a French restaurant that will instantly take you back to a bygone era. As soon as you walk in, you’ll notice that they’ve kept the rooms divided, just like in the 1920s. 

If you prefer a more intimate setting, consider requesting a table in the dining room.

You can also try their tea service, which is only available on Saturdays. Please note that reservations can only be secured by calling in before 5:00 PM on Fridays.

When it comes to their menu, some of our favorite starters are the olives and their charcuterie board. Skip their mac and cheese, though, as we find it a bit bland when we tried it.

Meanwhile, their dates have also been a crowd favorite. However, we heard that the jam that comes with it is a bit on the sweeter side. We suggest ordering it with raw horseradish on the side to balance out the flavors. 

While you’re here, make sure to order their braised short rib and duck dishes. For large groups, we highly recommend the tapas-style dining, which is ideal if your party is willing to share dishes.

Good portion size

“Excellent meal. I arrived kind of early, killing time before a show. Had a pretty good old fashioned (though it was made with rye whiskey, not bourbon the way god intended lol). Had the lasagna- it was really good! Portion size was just right and then dessert: tiramisu! I’m picky about tiramisu and, that said, this was one of the best ones I’ve had. They put a little twist on it by topping it with half-a-dozen blueberries— just enough to add some flavor without taking away from the flavor of the dish itself! I recommend checking this place out if you’re in Phoenix!”

Nic Brown, Google Review

Quiet atmosphere

“I found Farish House after researching restaurants near downtown as we had tickets to a Comedy Show the same night. We were about 20 minutes early for our reservation but got seated immediately which was awesome. We had a new queso dip they had just added to the menu the day before, and we split the pork chop entree as well as sides of broccoli and mac & cheese. Everything was delicious! The pork chops was tender, well seasoned, and cooked to perfection. We also had the blackberry smash cocktail. Service was great. The quiet atmosphere and eclectic decor were exactly what I was hoping for. Besides one very loud obnoxious group in the next room who must have thought they were at Texas Roadhouse, it was perfect. We will definitely be back to try more of the divine menu!”

Kimberly Heggie, Google Review

Francine Restaurant brings a taste of the French Riviera right to Phoenix, thanks to its celebrity chef and founder, Laurent Halasz. The name Francine is a homage to his chef’s mother, who prepared hearty meals in the South of France.

He’s the creative mind behind Mediterranean-inspired French dishes, such as the sea salt-crusted Branzino and rosemary lamb chops. 

While you’re here, you can try the whipped goat cheese and filet mignon carpaccio. These come in big portions for a starter, so better to share them with a friend.

For your main dishes, order the salmon riviera and their Two Wash Ranch Chicken. As expected, you can also share these with a friend, unless you’d like to take some home for tomorrow’s lunch. 

Another thing we love about this spot is how their waiters managed to anticipate everything we needed before we even asked, such as refilling our wine glasses or bringing extra napkins.

However, you may want to avoid the outdoor dining area as it is located next to the car drop-off area. The best tables are located near the bar and windows, so make sure to request them when you reserve a spot.

Ideal date night spot

“One of my all time favorite restaurants! The food is incredible, but the service is just as great! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming, and I always feel so taken care of! If you’re looking for a great date night spot this is it!”

Ashley Orr, Google Review

Very attentive staff

“Such a beautiful moment for dinner. Everything we had was plated with intentionality and tasted like what I’d hope to get from a dream of French cuisine. Teresa was very attentive and repeated our names and recalled our anniversary. I’d recommend the oysters and the twice washed chicken (the sauce had a dance to it). Finished with the crème brûlée – a work of art.”

Wendell McKinney, Google Review