Nestled in Hayes Valley, Chez Maman offers a cozy escape with hearty French classics like bubbling French onion soup, creamy mashed potatoes, and indulgent mussels, making it the go-to spot for comfort food lovers looking for a relaxed vibe.
"Chez Maman in Hayes Valley is where to go when you want French staples like french onion soup, mashed potatoes with roast chicken, and steamed white wine mussels (any meal here also requires the fries and a side of thick garlicky aioli). Join the folks coming in for pre-show dinners in their best symphony outfits, or the couples seeking a cozy last-minute date night at the bar." - julia chen 1, patrick wong
"This French restaurant in Hayes Valley is a great place for a solo date, especially when you’re feeling like the hottest, most dramatic version of yourself. Because nothing says "I run this town" like lounging on a bar stool, and making prolonged eye contact with everyone in the room as you sip on rosé and lick salty potato grease off your fingers. The walk-up only spot gets pretty packed during dinner, so if you have to wait for a seat, just stand out on the sidewalk and let the wind do very sexy, Beyoncé-like things to your hair. " - julia chen 1
"The synonym for “cozy” should be this French restaurant in Hayes Valley. The lighting is dim and warm. And the comfort dishes would be well-suited as an après-ski meal after one too many rough runs down the slopes. French onion soup is a staple on every table. And roasted chicken is piled on top of steamy garlic mashed potatoes. Keep the fresh baguette and glasses of wine coming. " - julia chen 1
"Coming to Chez Maman in Hayes Valley is all about getting cozy and finding loads of comfort in the form of steaming pots of mussels, mashed potatoes and roast chicken, and french onion soup. The walk-up only spot is always bustling with families, couples, and solo diners at the bar, and once you’re settled in, stay a while. " - julia chen 1
"This French bistro in Hayes Valley serves the hearty, butter-heavy comfort food you want when your social battery gets depleted after a week of going into the office. Soothe yourself with still-steaming mussels, and french onion soup loaded with what could be half a wheel of gruyere. Another perk of coming alone is that you won’t have to wait for a table—the always-packed restaurant has a bar that usually has seats available. " - julia chen 1, lani conway, ricky rodriguez