We celebrated my husband's birthday with a lovely dinner at Chalet Basque. The patio was a perfect place for 3 generations to gather. In addition to their regular menu, they accommodated the vegetarians and the children. Some of the grandchildren even tried their first escargot! Everyone enjoyed their dinner and the service was spot on! read more

There's something about having Al fresco dining with music on a nice evening... it's relaxing and wonderful. This was the vibe we got when our party dined at Le Chalet. There are only a few restaurants that provide complimentary bread and soup and salad with your main dish. Kudos to Le Chalet for this... it's remarkable given that all other establishments seem to nickle and dime you for every extra. We enjoyed the salmon and linguine and steak (not pictured) and best of all, the great service we had. Parking can be tricky if you come later in the evening as this place gets packed. read more

Le Chalet Basque - Poached Salmon & Rice - French Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Food was outstanding, servers were attentive, ambiance was lovely. We're going back for another dinner!

Service slow. Food not up to par. Salad wilted. Bottle of House burgundy mediocre. Prices too high for quality. Will not return.

Had reservations for dinner tonight. We were seated for a half hour before our server took our order. The negroni was bad. the pate was very dry, the presentation was confusing, and didnt really go together with the salami and peperonchini they put on the plate. We had to ask for bread to go with the pate, as we ate the bread while waiting forever to order. the bouef borguignon was barely edible, super salty and way overcooked. the veggies were mushy and unseasoned, and i didnt bother to try the random side of rice that went with it. my partner ordered the lamb shank, which was also overcooked and the white beans were undercooked. Salad is just wilty lettuce and a mushy thin slice of tomato and the soup was okay but salty. Disappointing, this place used to be good. The escargot is still amazingly yummy, however, and I love the bread there. I did feel bad for the server as he was the only server on the floor tonight. I can overlook the service, I undertand that sometimes things happen, but for a $200.00 check, we will not be returning to this place. Ill be surprised if they last another year. This restaurant feels like its dying and the owners need to let it go or completely overhaul the place, but the mediocrity is absolutely unacceptable at that pricepoint. The food quality is comparable to Applebees... read more

Fabulous food and service as always! Try the duck and the lamb! And the music was fantastic! Ben Lang on the guitar every Friday! Five star music!!!! Amazing ambience!!!! read more

The service was wonderful. The lamb delicious. Soup smooth and very tasty! Yummy rice pudding ! And perfrct gin and tonic.

Love everything about this place: unpretentious atmosphere but still white tablecloth setting, patio dining or dining room or their classic bar and booth room. But wherever you sit it's really about the food. Soup , salad and delicious entrees all included. True French dishes. Hade not had duck two ways since being in France, Did not disappoint!. Also tried Chicken Cordon Blu. Mmmm... enough said. See for yourself! read more

This has been so consistent for so many years it deserves a special award! I always enjoy the delicious home cooked quality. The Lamb Shank is my favorite, but everything is good. And the serve is very attentive and friendly. Highly recommended! read more

my parents go here quite often, and sometimes they invite me. The beef bourguignon is wonderful. They have other things like frog legs, sweet breads (calf brains), lamb, chicken Cordon Bleu, escargot, steak... there should be enough selection to find something you like. Be aware that if you're vegan, your options will be very limited. Even things like their onion soup are made with the chicken broth. Their portion sizes are reasonable and the food that I've eaten, there has always been really good. It's not a cheap place, but it's not something that's unfordable to most. The staff there are really friendly and they get a lot of repeat customers, so that says something. read more

What a hidden gem!! Had not been here in years and was pleasantly surprised by the wonderful meal 9 of us enjoyed last night. If you are looking for quiet and charming restaurant with good home style food and friendly service, then this your place. Our cocktails were just the way the doctor ordered. And all main courses come with soup and salad which were a hit. A watercress potato soup was served home style from a big bowl, and blue cheese crumble was available to sprinkle on our simple green salad. I loved the beef tongue special sliced thin and served in a delicious vinegar caper sauce sopped up by my neighbor diner with their fabulous warm bread. The cod special was also lovely. A big hit at our table for several was the Scampi in a yummy herb garlic sauce. We must also rave about the sweetbreads which one of us has every time she dines here. For those who like sweet breads, these are a must. One other thing that quite a few of us like is the fact that the portions were just perfect, not too huge. To close off this perfect feast, we all shared a light, not too sweet Basque cake. As we left, I took a look at the bar which looked extremely inviting and at the outdoor patio. We are definitely planning more get-togethers here as the weather warms up next year. read more

This hidden spot was surprisingly good for dinner on a warm summer night in Marin. Located near the San Rafael Civic Center about 10 minutes off 101 in a quiet neighborhood, this restaurant was founded in 1962 and offers indoor and outdoor seating. We made an Opentable resie on the way home from the Sonoma County Fair and sat in their cute outside patio with twinkle lights and umbrellas (though service can be quite slow out there). For those with big appetites, the full meals come with soup and salad as part of the meal. The soup was a celeryroot and potato which was rich and yummy (all Basque restaurants seem to serve a similar soup). Salad was basic greens with tomato and house vinegarette and blue cheese crumbles. They also have complementary garlic and sourdough bread. I had the delicious shrimp scampi a la plancha which had 6 large shrimps in a garlic and butter sauce, with rice and veggies. My husband had the sweetbreads special in a sauté and said it was the best he ever had. For those with big appetites who want a nice meal and don't mind traveling a bit (or are on way home from wine country), we recommend this family run place. It is a bit pricey and seems like a cliquey neighborhood spot (everyone knew each other), so keep that in mind too. read more

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My family and I have been coming here for years. Food is great but the employees make the restaurant feel like we're home. Very nice comfortable and elegant environment. The last few times we came Freddy the bartender and waiter was not there. We asked for him and they said they didn't know if he was coming back. The man who gave the best service is not there anymore. We did not feel welcomed there. It would be a shame if he did not come back. He's a big part of service in this restaurant. read more

BEWARE. I forgot my credit card and called immediately. Staff had it and held for pickup. 3 ADDITIONAL separate dinner charges that night totaling $385.06 appeared on my credit card statement. I spoke with Patrick (the owner) who was shocked, assured me he would investigate, and make sure I was refunded. He promised he would call me in 2 days. I Never heard from him. Chase fraud Department is investigating read more

I love this restaurant so much that I always use it for my tour groups in Marin. The braised lamb shanks, the poached salmon beurre blanc and the basque chicken!!! The salad is good too. Last week the tomatoes were truly vine ripened. My guests always love the food, the portions are good sized and the food is absolutely delicious as well as reasonably priced. The staff is kind and quick. Patrick Minhondo who is owner/head chef is a great guy. And, when I go there I always get lamb shanks to take home because they are so good. In fact, husband requires me to bring some back as we live about 45 minutes away. While this restaurant has white table clothes, it is very relaxed and you will feel right at home. Here's a secret. Order the french fries - as a side dish or even to go with drinks. Sounds crazy but just do it. read more

Our dinner at Le Chalet Basque was excellent! We had the Sole and it was absolutely the best! Our Waiter / Service - Fernando offers excellent service. Truly a delightful evening! read more

I cannot believe that I have never left a review here!! This is our favorite Friday dinner spot. It's definitely a hidden gem in Marin. All entrees come with soup and salad as part of the price which is a wonderful course because their soups are divine! My favorite dish is definitely the cordon bleu with the extra cheese sauce. The first time that I came here I because obsessed with it and came back the very next week to eat it again. It's a magical dish! I get excited cutting it open and watching the yummy sauce spill out. The staff is also always super friendly as well as the owner! Would I come back? Of course and I definitely do! read more

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best service, food and ambiance. lucky to have this in our back yard....a hidden gem. It's our go to place and never disappoints. read more

This place was the destination for my dear friends 60th birthday party. The food prepared for all of us was delicious, roasted ribs of lamb, chicken Coq Au Vin was flavourful, charcuterie board was varied, salad and roasted zucchini was delicious. The family brought longevity noodles as is customary. The dessert of tiramisu delicate and perfect. Something for everyone's palate. I will definitely come back for a non party to try more on the menu. You will not be disappointed. Bon appetit! read more

Le Chalet Basque - French Near Me - San Rafael, California

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Quietly one of the best restaurants in Marin. The rack of lamb was exceptional. Perfect stop after a humbling round at Peacock Gap

We have enjoyed this neighborhood gem for many years, and it has only gotten better. Great food, really! Salmon Piccata, lamb sirloin, duck, and much more! Prompt but non-intrusive service, very pleasant setting, white tablecloths, good wine list, outdoor seating and peaceful ambiance, We drive down from Novato regularly just to have dinner there. read more

Our Valentines Day continues with another fantastic dinner. Our server Angel was top notch, so welcoming. Food was delicious as always.

Le Chalet Basque is an exemplary restaurant. It is romantic, quaint, and a true classic. The food is delicious and the bar is warm and inviting. This is the kind of restaurant you take a date that you are truly interested in. The kind of place where cell phones are not welcome. The kind of place where two people can actually enjoy good food, good wine, good conversation and each other. It is also a great place to share good food with friends and family. It is nostalgic and timeless. I will never tire of this restaurant. Patrick thank you for carrying on the legacy of a warm and special restaurant and bar. It has sustained throughout the years for a reason. Go visit and find out why. read more

The lunch service is not available but everything else is amazing I love the Pate appetizer. It's a wonderful place for a special occasion you can't go wrong. read more

We had the best meal we've experienced in some time. The rack of Lamb was perfection with an incredible sauce accompaniment. Had Escargot as our starter, followed by Watercress soup and a salad. We finished the evening with the best Flan we've had in years! A tour de force by this splendid establishment! Service from Justine was outstanding in every respect. read more

Outstanding. The food is just outstanding. The ambience cannot be beat. This is an extremely unique restaurant, it is like getting in a Time Machine to an outstanding restaurant of another era. Eating dinner in Hitchcock or Truffaut scene... Perfect martini. The Pate is fantastic, fresh warm bread, the escargot was A+. Shared Duck confit prepared two ways and beef bourginon for the mains. A+ read more

Love this spot! A little older style but fits the French theme. The food and service was amazing. We wanted to save two of our souls because my sister and I were not a fan then our server just brought us a new one to go. The New York steak with rice and vegetables was so good and the rice was so delicious. The menu offers unique items like pate, escargot and frog legs which you can't get at other restaurants in town. Overall super fun and a lot of food for the price which makes it worth it, and we got free dessert because someone was being very disturbing at the table next to us. read more

melt in ur mouth, great food !!!! no big steak on the menu, disapointing, i don't go their anymore !!!!!

Family oriented place. Nice Cousy , friendly service and good food , excellent spot for local people

Absolutely delicious Basque food. I love sweetbreads and they were incredible. My wife had the lamb special and it was mouthwateringly tender. The soup of the day was watercress, and we both thought it was really yummy. After all that, we wanted something light for dessert, so we both opted for the mango sorbet. We happened to come on a slow night, which is rare. Usually, reservations are essential. The server, who was also the bartender, was very friendly and helpful. As we were leaving, he was throwing away an empty bottle of Clase Azul teposado tequila. I don't know if you've ever seen one of these,but they're beautiful, and the silver metal top rings like a bell. I said it was a shame to throw it out, and he gave it to me! Recommended. read more

Le Chalet Basque - Clase Azul bottle - French Near Me - San Rafael, California

I have been coming here for decades and have never been disappointed...tonight was no different. I brought my wife, son and stepmother for her birthday tonight. Our server, Fred, was outstanding...the entire meal was outstanding. The beautiful weather helped make it a great night. Pretty much everything on the menu is very well done...don't be afraid to explore the exotic items that you won't find anywhere else. read more

This is a hidden gem! I have been going there for years but haven't been in a while until recently. Happy to say it was wonderful and still a great place. Wonderful food and great atmosphere. It's a must for the Marin rotation. read more

We had good service and the food was good- not as good as it used to be. However, when we left we witnessed something that was uncalled for and we will never be returning. One of the poor waitresses dropped a plate of food. A gentleman that has been there for as long as I can remember cleaned it up the best he could.. then as we were walking out the new owner yelled at him and asked him, "what is wrong with you? He said there was sauce on the floor that was going to be a stain and that he had to get a wet towel and get on his hands and knees to wipe it up!" There was no reason to treat a person like this and I felt bad for him and it made us feel uncomfortable. Will not be returning!! read more

A solid place but food was not memorable. This was my first visit and wasn't sure what to expect. We were seated inside at a smallish room that had 10 tables that could seat 4, with the possible for making those larger. Patrons were spaced to every other table. Warm crusty bread Tasty house red wine Curry split pea was low on flavor Beef Bourgogne was fine. Chicken Corden bleu was huge! The garlic mashed potatoes had intense garlic flavor which the person eating enjoyed but you must love garlic Waiter did not come back but once to check on us. Restroom hand towel receptacle was full and overflowing --too small for volume of restaurant. I suggested a larger lidded trash can or assign a staff member to check every 30mins to and hour to empty. There is a patio space outside with lights and a small indoor bar space with a few booths and some counter seating The guests wore everything from shorts to Sunday best so come as you are :-) Parking is sparse so make time to look so you aren't stressed. read more

Service was good. I enjoyed my cocktail. The lamb shank was tasty. We had a bottle of wine. This is in a residential neighborhood off the beaten track. Prices were in alignment with the food and service but I should acknowledge someone else paid my bill. read more

Enjoyed a great light meal here with my mom on a beautiful day. Our server Drew was attentive and funny and we ate like queens. We also enjoyed the pate, not pictured. We were too hungry to think of it then. It was good but the cooked items were all better. Two kinds of fresh bread came to sop up all the liquid goodness. read more

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The owner is the cook, so the cook is the owner, that's why the quality is so good, now I can say definitely deserve 5 stars. From the venue to the service, from the first course to last portion, everything was mesmerizing. We started with a great sparkling wine, the collection of this place is magical. Our half bottle champagne was somewhere between 25$ to 26 $ dollars , not a super expensive one, but great quality. The appetizer plate was contained: half of the egg , 2 big piece of goose patte , prosciutto , and salami. The potato and onions soups were delightful to be tasted. My main dish ( beef tongue) has been cooked in tomato beef broth , as well as the beef stew that we ordered, each portion comes with complimentary salad and brown rice. The garlic bread and butter are complimentary in this restaurant, Bon appetite everyone. read more

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Our family had an early Sunday dinner. We had a reservation. There were no other patrons there when we arrived . We were placed in a table partly in the sun. It turned into a very busy isle. The waiter was courteous, but not attentive. Our meal was prepared expertly, the serving size was adequate. The highlight was the steak with ' Bearnaise 'sauce. While we all enjoyed our meal, due to our hunger, the rest of the experience was somewhat of a let down. Maybe expectations were way higher than the outcome. read more

Very charming, quiet happy hour. We arrived at 4pm Sunday and the tables were quickly filling up with people ready to celebrate birthdays, meet friends and family, etc. You could see the regulars at the bar. Good menu, fair prices. We were very happy wiry the service. Top notch! The scampi appetizer simple yet oh so good with the fresh bread. Hubby got the rich French onion soup. Can't wait to return. read more

Le Chalet Basque - French Near Me - San Rafael, California

We were a party of 8 and not one person was pleased with the food. The lamb shanks were smothered in a tomato sauce and were so salty they were not edible. The soup was flavorless and the sweetbreads were tough and bland. The service was good, the atmosphere ok but the food was not. None of us will be back. read more