Our Expert's Take
La Bonne Table is a hidden gem in San Diego that captures the essence of authentic French cuisine in a cozy setting. With its limited seating, the restaurant creates an intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy their meals without the noise and distractions often found in larger establishments. The attention to detail in both service and food presentation enhances the overall dining experience, making it a perfect spot for special occasions.
One standout dish is the pork chop, which may come as a surprise to those expecting a more traditional French offering. However, its preparation and flavor profile exemplify the chef's commitment to quality and creativity. Diners can expect a delightful combination of textures and tastes that highlight the best of French culinary techniques. La Bonne Table is not just a meal; it’s a memorable experience that beckons food enthusiasts to return.
At a Glance
Pros
- Intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for special occasions.
- Exceptional French cuisine with a focus on quality ingredients.
- Highly recommended dishes like the pork chop that surprise and delight.
Cons
- Limited seating may require reservations well in advance.
- The menu may not have extensive options, focusing instead on quality over quantity.
What Diners Are Saying
"It was my first real french cuisine experience. They only have a few tables, so the vibe feels so cozy. Good for a special occasion, and their food is phenomenal. I ordered pork chop by their recommendation, and we thought pork chop would be weird in a french restaurant. But their pork chop was the best pork chop I have ever had in my life. The mushroom sauce is insanely flavorful. Escargot was very good and buttery, and their duck dish was also great. Also have their creme brûlée!"- Hyeonghun Kim
"I enjoyed a wonderful early dinner here at La Bonne Table during a business trip. The easily accessible restaurant reminded me of home cooking and I waxed nostalgic for the quaint house restaurant combination of Jean's in Colton, CA. The elements for the nostalgia were all present: well made classic recipes, friendly and accommodating service, and a clean and quaint ambiance. The weather and outdoor seating made La Bonne Table a better dining option. Also, Jean's closed when Jean passed away in his 80s. A true American immigrant success story. PROS: The deliciously decadent homestyle portions of homemade pate, tart cornichons, and sour mustard smeared across freshly warmed crusty baguette. The piping hot cassoulet with duck confit, talousse sausage, garlic sausage, and thick cut bacon with white beans filled me with beautiful memories from my 20s at Jean's and became a part of small Francophile gastronomic community in the Inland Empire. It tasted like home. Everything homemade and tasty. Dining next to me were old friends celebrating their birthdays, a family enjoying a reunion dinner, a couple on a date, and friends taking a meal on the terrace. The friendly and attentive servers worked as a team to help me feel welcomed in their home. The prices were extremely reasonable. I highly recommend. CONS: The only con is the local neighborhood being so close to the restaurant. It worked great until some random car alarm disrupted the quiet of the sonic landscape for over 15 to 20 minutes. People came in soliciiting or something. The restaurant staff did all they could to accommodate. ⚜️💚⚜️"- David Silas Tellyer
"If you’re in the mood for a cozy spot, this French restaurant is a winner! The duck confit is crispy and tender, the mussels are incredible, and the dessert—just perfect. Plus, the service is super friendly and makes you feel like family. Definitely worth a visit!"- Onusa Lo
"I’m shocked that this place has a 4.8 star rating. This is my first time at a mediocre 4.8 star restaurant. Makes me wonder if the owner has found a way to fix the reviews. I ordered the escargot, the duck, and the crème brûlée. The escargot was tiny, smallest I’ve ever had. Each snail was less than a bite. So it wasn’t satisfying at all. The puff pastry covering each snail was novel, but didn’t compensate for the teeny size. The duck was dry and the mustard sauce accompanying it was bland. The duck skin was nicely crisp (the highlight of the dish) but the brussel sprouts were bland and uninteresting. The crème brûlée was the best part of the meal. The berries were sweet and pleasant. The top of the brûlée was crisp. But the custard wasn’t rich. It almost tasted like a “lite” dessert although I’m sure it wasn’t. The service was excellent as one might expect at a $100+ restaurant. The dining room was almost as small as the escargot. 10 small tables were jammed in the tiny space. The decor was extremely uninteresting. Small black and white photos in boring frames unapologetically plastered the walls. I tried finding something interesting to look at, with no luck. I will not be back. There are too many other good restaurants in San Diego to waste one’s time and money here."- Samuel Blanchard
"A wonderful French spot with easy evening parking and a wonderful menu and service. Lots of gluten free options across the menu and great wine. It reminded us of a cozy warm spot in Paris and was just what we needed."- Alicia Wallace
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available near La Bonne Table?
Yes, there is street parking available, but it can be limited during peak hours.
What is the dress code at La Bonne Table?
The dress code is smart casual, making it suitable for both casual and slightly formal occasions.
What is the best dish to try at La Bonne Table?
The pork chop is highly recommended and has received rave reviews for its flavor and presentation.