On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, San Francisco’s Embarcadero waterfront welcomed a new culinary gem with the official grand opening of Bon Délire. The newest concept from restaurateur Kais Bouzidi of Kaisen Concepts joined SF gems Sens (2007) and Barcha (2015). The Parisian-inspired bistro and cocktail bar, an homage to Bouzidi’s roots, is set to offer guests an enlivened, yet approachable space to enjoy modern French cuisine and inventive cocktails, with an ambiance that shifts from a casual daytime bistro to a sultry lounge by night. Loosely translated to “good delirium,” Bon Délire (pronounced bon dey-leer) perfectly captures the blend of vibrant flavors, engaging atmosphere, and lively energy of Parisian culture. Nestled in the heart of the Embarcadero, with views of both the city and bay, Bon Délire offers a sophisticated yet comfortable setting, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
“We’re incredibly excited to bring the essence of Parisian dining and nightlife to the vibrant San Francisco waterfront,” says Kais Bouzidi, owner of Bon Délire in a statement. “With this concept, we’re not just introducing modern French cuisine—we’re creating a place where people can immerse themselves in the energy, flavors, and spirit of Paris. From the dishes to the cocktails to the music, every detail is designed to transport our guests and give them an unforgettable experience based on everything I love about where I’m from. San Francisco has such a rich food culture, and we can’t wait to add our unique take on French cuisine to the mix.”
PARISIAN-INSPIRED CUISINE WITH A MODERN TWIST
Helmed by Executive Chef Vernon Morales—leader of the culinary programs for Sens and Barcha and previously part of NYC’s Michelin-starred Daniel and Le Bernardin—the menu at Bon Délire reimagines classic French dishes through a modern lens, using Northern California’s fresh, seasonal produce alongside select imported French ingredients. Guests can indulge in shareable plates and small bites, paired with an expertly curated cocktail menu that elevates the dining experience. The bistro’s charcuterie and cheese board selections are customizable, offering a choice of French and local products for a personalized dining experience. A takeout window will also feature a rotating menu of daily specials, including gourmet sandwiches, pastries, and soft-serve ice cream, perfect for lunch or a treat on the go.
Bon Délire’s lunch menu, designed to be quick and easy or a sit-down affair, features amuses like the Steak Tartar, with traditional garniture and potato chips, and Chicken & Speck Croquettes with truffle aioli, leeks in vinaigrette, caper, and dijon dressing. Sandwiches on fresh bread made daily include the Croque Monsieur or Croque Madame with Parisian ham, gruyere, market greens, and the optional black truffle. Lunch entrees boast a Quiche Lorraine with pancetta, Swiss cheese, and leeks; Parisian Gnocchi with chanterelle mushrooms and truffled celeriac just; and Steak Frites with hanger steak poivre sauce and french fries.
From casual bayside bisto during the day to a more enlivened nighttime lounge, Bon Délire’s dinner menu will feature similar dishes with bigger portions and more options for sharing. Hors d’oeuvres will include some coastal and French classics, like 6 Escargot with shallot port marmalade, garlic, and parsley butter; Half Oysters Dozen with cocktail sauce and lemon cream; and Tsar Nicoulai Sturgeon Caviar with chive, creme fraiche, lemon, and blinis. Entrees made with locally sourced and French imported ingredients feature the 12 Ounce Dry Aged Prime Beef Rib-Eye with sauce poivre and french fries; King Salmon with coconut cream nage and melted leeks; and Chicken Rotî with potato pureè. The dessert menu leaves a sweet lasting impression, offering Apple Tarte Tatin with vanilla ice cream; Chocolate Mousse with crème chantilly; and Pain Per Due with cremè diplomat.
BUBBLES, FRENCH WINES, AND SPIRIT-FORWARD COCKTAILS
Sommelier and general manager Patrick Thillard—originally from Toulouse, France and previously co-founder of Bask in Downtown San Francisco—has thoughtfully selected a range of Champagne and French wines, emphasizing organic wines from Alsace, Burgundy, and Bordeaux, as well as local wines from Napa Valley and the Central Coast.
Curated by Kaisen Concepts Beverage Director Jason Lam, who has established 14 years with the group, Bon Délire’s beverage program focuses on bold, imaginative, spirit-forward cocktails. Signature drinks include the Vintage Martini, featuring Grey Goose vodka, French vermouths, and lemon bitters, as well as the Butter Paloma, a creative take on the classic Paloma with fat-washed tequila and faux lime. Non-alcoholic options include the Citron Pressé, a refreshing deconstructed lemonade made with fresh lemon peel syrup, offering a sophisticated alternative for those avoiding alcohol.
A PARISIAN ESCAPE IN THE HEART OF SAN FRANCISCO
Designed by Studio Terpeluk in collaboration with owner Kais Bouzidi, Bon Délire’s interiors transport guests to the lounges and bistros of Paris. Featuring high ceilings, intimate banquettes, and a horseshoe-shaped wooden and cast zinc bar at its center, visitors will find comfort in sipping and chatting for hours. Vibrant color schemes and European-imported furnishings enhance the atmosphere. In the evening, a DJ spins vinyl records with a nostalgic mix of French and American classics, while old French films are projected on the walls, creating a laid-back yet sophisticated environment.
Bon Délire offers both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing guests to enjoy the waterfront ambiance. The indoor space accommodates 50 people, including 15 bar stools, while the outdoor seating area can host 20 guests, perfect for those wanting to soak in the cityscape and bay views. A smaller, cozy outdoor space behind the restaurant invites visitors to enjoy a drink while watching the ferries and boats drift by on the bay.
Bon Délire is available for private and semi-private events, both indoors and outdoors, offering a unique and intimate setting for social gatherings, business lunches, and celebrations. Catering services are available Monday through Friday for local businesses and offices.
Bon Délire is located at Pier 3, Suite 102, San Francisco, CA 94111.
Hours of Operation:
Lunch: 11:30am – 2:30pm daily
Happy Hour: 2:30pm-5:30pm daily
Dinner: 5:30pm-10pm
