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    Papillon

    4.0 (1.3k reviews)
    Closed 5:00 pm - 9:00 PM
    Updated 1 month ago

    Papillon Reservations

    Order Papillon Takeout or Delivery

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    PAPILLON ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Romantic
    Moderate noise
    Dressy
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Papillon

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    Reviews With Photos

    Escargots de Bourgogne and calamari
    Ida L.

    I came here during Fremont Restaurant week for their special promotion of appetizer or dessert, salad and entree. This is not my first time coming here so I was excited about the promotion. I am never disappointed about the food and service when I come here. The wait staff are always attentive and accommodating. I requested my bread to be hot and they were able to do it for me. The food was delicious as always and cooked perfectly. The only drawback is that the restaurant looks outdated. The carpet is worn and I can smell cleaner they used. Overall, it's a place worth coming back again since the food is delicious and the staff is very friendly. The owner even came to the table and offered us a drink on the house.

    45 anniversary menu
    Andrew C.

    Honestly best dinner I have had in a long time! We went a few weeks ago and they are having a special for their 45th year in business. You get an app/dessert and an entree for $45 (which is an incredible deal when you look at regular entree prices)! I got the French onion soup and filet mignon. Everything was sooooo good and the service was amazing. Ambiance and vibe can't be beat. Definitely worth going to!

    Jo W.

    Papillon (French for "butterfly") has been on my list of Michelin-starred and special-occasion restaurants to visit in the East Bay. So when Citizen Medic Foundation hosted a Heroes in Helmets dinner here in October 2025, I had to come out here, especially since proceeds went to support Citizen Medic Foundation, and there were photo ops to ride our motorcycle without our helmets, and to sit and have our photos taken in the Arch Motorcycle KRGT-1 owned by the Citizen Medic Executive Director. Papillon is kind of a hidden gem tucked away on Mission Blvd near Niles Canyon in Fremont. If I was passing by and not on the lookout for this restaurant, I would totally miss it. I rode here on my motorcycle. It's a hilly ride, and coming down south-bound on Mission Blvd, I have to take a right turn to enter the restaurant parking lot. After waiting for traffic to pass, I then zip up the hill into the restaurant's parking lot. We had a really great event. We had photo ops to ride our motorcycles and get helmet-less photos in the parking lot before heading into the banquet room for dinner. The ambiance is quite small, intimate, and cozy, and has a vintage charm that you don't see in newer restaurants. We sat in a banquet room around a long dining table beneath a vintage chandelier and in front of a fireplace and stained-glass windows depicting butterflies. Appetizers: prawns, calamari, lobster ravioli, and grilled brussel sprouts Filet mignon: I asked for rare, came out more medium and kind of tough. I didn't bother asking for it to be changed Cheesecake: was told it comes with seasonal fruits, strawberries and raspberries. It only came with one strawberry. It might be because this is an old building, but the bathroom is rather small and cramped. To leave, I have to ride downhill (way nerve-wracking on a motorcycle than in a car), and be hyper-vigilant about any oncoming traffic before I can safely zip off down Mission Blvd. A lovely old-school restaurant that is definitely worth a visit for a special occasion in East Bay!

    Chocolate mousse so perfect not too sweet Light!
    Valerie B.

    My bosses asked me where I wanted to go for a belated Christmas dinner and I am so glad I chose Papillon! The restaurant is a little dated but the staff is a reminder of the good old days of smiles and wanting to give you the best dining experience. There is ample parking and the bathrooms are gender neutral and clean! We all enjoyed our food and the dessert was amazing. We all had the chocolate mousse I had the filet mignon with Black pepper corn sauce with cognac so tasty and tender! Me and my husband will definitely be back for dinner. They are only open for dinner so plan accordingly.

    Onion Soup
    Peggy C.

    We took my mother-in-law who grew up in France to Papillon for her first time, to celebrate her birthday. We've gone by ourselves before but it's been ages so seemed like a nice treat to take her out! We made reservations easily online and it was nice and quiet where we were seated. Appetizers came out quickly: we ordered the roasted bone marrow which was their special menu for the day, escargot of course and frog legs! The sauce for the frog legs was so divine I ended up also dipping my 6 year old's chicken tenders in it (heads up, there is an off menu kids' menu but I do think the tenders were dry, but it's a kids' chicken tenders sooooo...) and the bone marrow was heavenly. For our entrees, I split the roasted duck breast with my mother-in-law which was a good idea because it's two breasts and by the time we got to it after all the appetizers AND the onion soup before the entree, I could barely finish just the one breast! The French onion soup tasted so good and truly authentic. My mother-in-law loved it and as a woman who was raised in France, her opinion matters! We ended the night with crème brûlée (bien sûr! Pourquoi pas?!) which came with a sorbet and then the trio of sorbets for the kiddo. It usually comes with a mango sorbet but they were out and replaced it with a huckleberry sorbet which was pleasantly refreshing. My mother-in-law was impressed and will definitely come back with her friends!

    Lamb shank
    Maddie W.

    Delicious food! We came here for my future mil's birthday dinner. The crab cakes were super flavorful, but we wish they were smaller so the crab cake to crispy exterior ratio was closer. The baked brie is also delicious and pairs perfectly with the apricot jam. We all got the French onion soup with our entrees, and it was so flavorful! Everyone really enjoyed it and said it was the best they've had by far. We ordered the seafood Wellington, slow braised lamb shank, and the steak frites. Everything was delicious and worth trying. Portions are generous and you'll definitely leave full. The veggies are a nice change from the deep flavors. They also gave us a free birthday cheesecake slice that was yummy. Keep in mind that service is on the slower side! I'm aware French culture is big on eating leisurely, but there were odd lulls where we were just waiting for a while. Other than that, they're all very attentive and refilled our waters multiple times and cleared our dishes promptly. The bathrooms aren't super obvious, but they're on the left side past the bar area. Overall, this is a solid spot and worth trying! I'll be bringing my dad here in the future for the onion soup and lamb shank!!

    Crispy Brussel Sprouts
    Kim C.

    We needed a restaurant to eat after a funeral for the family. The restaurant was nice to work with us and opened between their lunch and dinner service for a group of 25. I was visiting from So Cal, so my first time there. Plenty of parking in their private lot. The family run business since the 1970s. The original grandparents have retired, their son and his wife and 2 kids now run the show. The 2 kids (adults) were are attentive servers. The food was delicious. The wife is the chef. We started with appetizers for the table: brussel sprouts, crab cakes and calamari. I had the salmon. The restaurant had multiple rooms, we were in the enclosed patio area. But there were other more formal rooms. I'd definitely return if I lived closer.

    Out front
    Sierra B.

    I had such a great time last week for my birthday dinner. It definitely has an old school formal aesthetic. Our waiter was so polite and prompt. The salad, soup, and dinner was great. My sister and her partner enjoyed the seafood Wellington and skirt steak. I'll definitely be returning!

    Escargot
    Kelly H.

    Finally getting around to a review. We went to Papillon for my birthday in February. First time visit. We were seated for our reservation immediately. Fist impression, interesting layout, older decor, older crowd but a very full and happy clientele at all the tables around us. We were seated in a rear long room with odd dividers and seating. The chairs were comfortable but a bit low in height for me. The room was very loud, which I would have thought would be a bit quieter based on dark ambiance upon entry. Service is very, very slow. We waited probably 20 minutes for our initial cocktails. For the price paid for the cocktails, the martini glasses are in the small vintage side. Flavor was great, size make you sio to enjoy vs downing the larger pours you may receive at chain restaurants . Then 30 minutes wait for our appetizers. The bread, baked fresh is so good. I could eat loaves of it. Finally, it arrives. The escargot was divine for my first time ever trying. I appreciate our server taking the time to explain the best way to eat them. To tip them upside down and let them slide right out of their shells. We then waited what seemed like forever for our entrees. It was 45 minutes when I motioned to someone for cocktail refills. Not enough checking in to refresh our cocktails. One mention of the kutchen being behind, with one chef, but dinner coning soon. Once dinner comes, I was very very happy. The seafood wellington is absolutely delicious. Scallops and crab inside of the pastry, in an amazing sauce that just was perfection. My husband was a bit disappointed with the 'small size' of his lobster tail entree for the price paid. He did eat every bite, just wanted more and was not a fan of the veg. He felt it was just there to fill the plate and had no flavor. The happy birthday message on the dessert was a nice touch. The chocolate mousse was very good. With tip for the two of us it was 300 ish and change. Would I want to spend that and have to wait 30 for appetizers and nearly 45 to and hour after that for the entrees? I am not sure. The escargot and seafood wellington would bring me back if dinner could be less than 90 minutes from start to finish. All in all, the food should bring you here as it is definitely worthwhile and flavors memorable. Minus one star for escargot slow service. But thank you Papillon for a delicious birthday dinner.

    Rack of lamb looked good but looks.xan be deceiving.
    Raoul F.

    I've always wanted to check out this French restaurant off Mission in Fremont, but im sorry I did. The moment your walk into the establishment, you are greeted with a foul, sewer-like odor, but thankfully the smell didn't follow us to the dinning room. The waiter and staff were very attentive, but that's the only positive from our dining experience. Everything from the appetizers, to the main courses, and finally the dessert, was just awful. Appetizers were brussel sprouts, which were under cooked, and escargot, which was drowned in too much garlic sauce. For dinner, I ordered the short ribs, overcooked to where it was inedible. Dessert was bread pudding, which is by far the worst bread pudding that I have ever had. It was tough, with an odd taste trhat i couldnt place. Everyone else at our table had similar complaints about their food as well. Definitely not coming back here.

    Filet mignon with shrimp scampi on top
    Trina P.

    Top notch food and service from start to finish. The bread was soft & delicious while we waited for our meal. We each ordered the filet mignon prepared medium well with sautéed shrimp scampi on top. The salad is included with entree and is tasty, fresh and a nice portion served just ahead of the entree. The vegetables were cooked perfectly. We then opted for a slice of cheesecake and a slice of flourless chocolate torte for dessert. My table-mate said it was the best cheesecake he's ever tasted. The ambiance was dark and quiet in our area- just like I prefer. There are other more lit table areas for one's preference. The servers were low-key, attentive and kind. Looking forward to returning!

    Holly S.

    Papillon is a true gem. The service is warm, polished, and effortlessly attentive, making you feel welcome from the moment you sit down. The ambience is classic and intimate, which is perfect for a cozy night out or a special occasion. The food shines, especially the fabulous French onion soup. It was rich, deeply flavorful, and perfectly balanced with that golden, cheesy top. A timeless spot that never disappoints.

    Interior
    Sherica G.

    The lobster ravioli and crab cake pulled this rating from 4 to 5. Ravioli has actual lobster tail and crab cake was full of real crabs. And of course, they were delightful. Everything we ordered was delicious, the lamb shank was tender, the sauce on wellington is like a creamier version of a lobster bisque. The red velvet creme brulee was decadent. Service was great! This is an old reataurant and it would be safe to say they can do a little fixing.

    Inside Housemade Lobster Ravioli

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    Perfect in every way. Excellent Food and Service. Staff very respectful and professional.

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    Food excellent, service excellent, very upscale ambiance with traditional family vibe

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    Page 1 of 32

    Papillon Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Papillon

    Is there a private dining room for a private party?

    Yes, there is. Went recently for a school reunion. They created a menu just for us.

    Is Papillon a Pet friendly restaurant?

    No, unfortunately not.

    What is the dress attire like on a average Friday night?

    Since the location is so questionable, you can wear whatever you want.

    Do you have baked Alaska dessert?

    Check the menu.

    Is this pet friendly place?

    No, not pet friendly.

    Do they have high chairs for toddlers?

    Yes they do.

    Do they have a Mother's Day brunch?

    We're open for Mother's Day Brunch from 11am to 2:30pm

    View All 12 Questions

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    Vinum Japanese Fusion & Wine Bar

    Vinum Japanese Fusion & Wine Bar

    4.1
    (443 reviews)
    3.9 mi
    $$

    We stopped in unplanned and had a great experience. Our server was delightful and he was the only…read moreserver working and was hustling and did not miss a step. Sushi was fresh and nigiri portions were large. The garlic edamame was phenomenal! Pleasantly surprised by this spot.

    Stopped in for lunch and was immediately greeted by... no one. Not because they were busy, but…read morebecause the staff operates on glacial time. I've seen paint dry, glaciers melt, and toddlers grow up faster than our food arrived. When it finally did show up, the "katsu fish and chips" looked like someone raided last night's sashimi scraps, dunked them in a fryer, and hoped for the best. The portion was so tiny I wasn't sure if it was an appetizer or a prank. Flavor? Let's just say "questionable" is doing heavy lifting here. And because nothing says "classic fish and chips" like an identity crisis, it came with a chopped fruit salad. Bold choice. If you have kids, bring your own booster seat. Or a booster seat for your expectations. They don't have any high chairs, and apparently never thought anyone under 30 might try to dine there. The place was empty--like "abandoned warehouse" empty. Which raises the real question: how does this place stay in business? I'm convinced it's a front. For what, I don't know, but definitely not good food or service. In conclusion: if you want slow service, tiny weird fish, and fruit with your fried seafood while sitting in a restaurant that feels like a set for a crime drama, this is absolutely your spot.

    Photos
    Main - mushroom risotto @whaevaeats
    Main - mushroom risotto @whaevaeats
    Sake
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    Salmon Sashimi
    Elliston Vineyards

    Elliston Vineyards

    3.7
    (233 reviews)
    5.1 mi
    $$

    One of the best afternoon tea time I have ever experienced…read more It was a busy afternoon, service was a bit slow but it wasn't bad as it was a very beautiful day and we were admiring the ambiance Tea was tasty and all the tea treats are very exquisite and flavorful I love the scones and the cheesecake We ordered a bottle of bubbly to celebrate our friend's engagement and the bubby recommend didn't disappoint Can't wait to go back..

    Came here for a girls' day out to celebrate a friend's birthday. We've been to quite a few…read moreafternoon tea venues now and I would say this place probably ranks somewhere close to the bottom in terms of food/tea, but the ambience somewhat makes up for it. Rating Breakdown: 1/2 Stars for Taste -- The tea probably came off the local supermarket shelf, which is fine, but let's just say that we are pretty serious about our tea. My friend literally pulled a sachet of tea out of her bag and we were tempted to ask them to use that instead. The scones were dense but tasty. We were surprised that they were not served with clotted cream. The savory sandwiches were just OK -- pickled cucumbers, smoked salmon, and chicken salad on slightly stale baguettes. There was a slice of red velvet cake, a dry macaron, and a square of a mango mousse reminiscent of those you get at an Asian buffet. 0.5/1 Stars for Value -- We pre-booked online for a regular tea set on a Sunday, it was $39 before tax and tip. If we were rating by sheer picture perfect presentation, sure, your money is well spent. But I would eat before you come and maybe grab some McDs after. 1/1 Stars for Customer Service -- Our server was super nice and friendly. It wasn't busy when we went and he let me chill at the table while I waited for my friends to arrive. They also didn't pressure us to leave, coming back multiple times to offer tea refills. My friends stayed and chatted for almost 4 hours. No bonus star because, even though the ostriches are cool, would not come back again for the afternoon tea.

    Photos
    Indian Wedding Reception in Sunol
    Indian Wedding Reception in Sunol
    Elliston Vineyards
    Elliston Vineyards

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    Ocean Oyster Bar & Grill

    Ocean Oyster Bar & Grill

    4.1
    (838 reviews)
    5.2 mi
    $$

    A long-overdue review!…read more My husband and I had dinner here when it had just opened, almost seven years ago. Looking through old photos recently brought back memories, and I realized I never got around to sharing our experience. We had a wonderful time--the food was delicious, the service was great, and overall it was a very enjoyable dining experience. While I never made it back, my husband has visited a few times with friends and always had good things to say. The main reason we haven't returned as a family is because both of our boys (now adults) are allergic to seafood, and I usually prefer having them with us when we dine out. But after seeing these photos again, I think it's finally time for another visit and see if it's just as good as I remember!

    Dear Manager, I…read morewould like to share my experience at your restaurant today. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the way I was treated by the host, Mirella. When I arrived, I politely asked for a table in an area that was clearly available. The restaurant was basically empty at the time, but Mirella gave me what appeared to be one of the worst tables in the restaurant. When I asked about getting a different table, her attitude toward me was rude and unwelcoming. I understand that restaurants have seating policies and that sometimes certain tables may be reserved, but I believe customers should still be treated with courtesy and respect. In this situation, I felt that I was treated unnecessarily poorly, especially considering that there were plenty of other tables available. I am not writing this complaint to cause trouble for anyone. I simply believe management should be aware of how customers are being treated. I hope you can look into this situation and make sure that guests are welcomed and treated respectfully regardless of which table they request. Thank you for taking the time to hear my concern. And by the way the food and the server were great Except the host Mirella Thank you

    Photos
    Crunchy Jalapeño Prawns
    Crunchy Jalapeño Prawns
    Ocean Oyster Bar & Grill
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    Papillon - french - Updated August 2026

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