Want a zinc-topped table at which to indulge in a croque monsieur and feel like a Parisian for an hour or two? You’re in luck (très bonne chance) because Bon Délire, a Parisian-inspired bistro and cocktail bar, just opened yesterday at Pier 3 on the Embarcadero.
Loosely translated to “good delirium,” Bon Délire (pronounced bon dey-leer) offers a dizzy good time with its waterfront view, traditional French foods such as quiche Lorraine and steak frites and delectable cocktails.
Owner Kais Bouzidi of Kaisen Concepts (which is also behind Sens and Barcha) says, “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.” That includes scenes from French movies broadcast onto the wall, a DJ booth with a face-out display of vinyl and a curated ambience of Frenchitude.
Executive chef Vernon Morales is at the helm (he was with Sens and Barcha and previously with New York City’s Michelin-starred Daniel and Le Bernardin), creating shareable plates and small bites. You can customize your cheese or charcuterie board—and if you can’t stay, you can order at a takeout window from a selection of daily specials. Financial District workers, this is your lunch on the run!
At night, Bon Délire will transition to feeling more like a lounge with larger portions and more shareables. You can expect hors d’oeuvres like a dish of six escargot with shallot port marmalade, entrées like dry aged prime beef rib eye with sauce poivre and frites and desserts like a chocolate mousse with crème chantilly.
Sommelier and general manager Patrick Thillard (he was with Bask) hails from Toulouse, France and has focused on Champagne and French wines, especially organic wines from Alsace, Burgundy and Bordeaux. He’ll throw in some local Napa and Central Coast wines as well—maybe because American vines saved French wines back in the day. Similarly, beverage director Jason Lam is focusing on French-fortified cocktails, like the Vintage Martini with French vermouth and Grey Goose. As for mocktails, you’ll find the gorgeous Citron Pressé, a sophisticated take on lemonade made with fresh lemon peel syrup.
You can sit indoors or outside (one seating area provides cityscape and bay views, while a smaller one behind the restaurant is just for drinks and watching the ferries depart and return). Bon Délire is open daily for lunch and dinner with weekend brunch in its future plans.
Where: Pier 3, Suite 102
Lunch: 11:30am–2:30pm
Happy Hour: 2:30–5:30pm
Dinner: 5:30–10pm
