Dining Room
1 / 10

La Foret

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A romantic French countryside escape in a historic 1848 boarding house, offering exquisite cuisine and old-world elegance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Dining Room

La Foret

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A romantic French countryside escape in a historic 1848 boarding house, offering exquisite cuisine and old-world elegance.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"A truly exceptional dining experience worth the drive, with exceptional food and service."

TIP

Try Exotic Meats

Venture out and try unique options like elk or quail for an adventurous and delicious culinary experience.

Ask Your Server for Recs

Servers like Alan are knowledgeable and can offer great recommendations to enhance your meal.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Open·Closes 9PM

Cuisine

French

Price

$$$

Phone

(408) 997-3458

Address

21747 Bertram Rd, San Jose, CA 95120, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Romantic Countryside Dining

Romantic Countryside Dining

Experience an enchanting escape in a historic boarding house surrounded by lush forest, perfect for intimate dinners.

11 Best Restaurants in San JoseBest Fine Dining Restaurants in San JoseSan Jose's Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants for Food Lovers+1
Exotic Game Entrees

Exotic Game Entrees

Indulge in unique and expertly prepared dishes like elk, venison, quail, and rack of lamb.

The Best Fine Dining In San Jose, California12 Best San Jose Restaurants To Eat At In 2024 (+ What To Order)Google Review+1
Signature Soufflé Dessert

Signature Soufflé Dessert

Conclude your meal with a classic French soufflé, a delightful and memorable sweet ending.

15 San Jose Restaurants That Will Blow The Taste Buds Out Of Your MouthGoogle Review
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Try Exotic Meats

Venture out and try unique options like elk or quail for an adventurous and delicious culinary experience.

Ask Your Server for Recs

Servers like Alan are knowledgeable and can offer great recommendations to enhance your meal.

Consider Weekday Visits

Weekdays offer a less crowded atmosphere, while weekends are perfect for special occasions.

Dine Creekside

Sit outside by the creek for a supremely peaceful and romantic dining ambiance.

Tips

from all over the internet

Try Exotic Meats

Venture out and try unique options like elk or quail for an adventurous and delicious culinary experience.

Ask Your Server for Recs

Servers like Alan are knowledgeable and can offer great recommendations to enhance your meal.

Consider Weekday Visits

Weekdays offer a less crowded atmosphere, while weekends are perfect for special occasions.

Dine Creekside

Sit outside by the creek for a supremely peaceful and romantic dining ambiance.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

La Forêt is celebrated for its romantic ambiance and exceptional French cuisine, particularly its game entrees and attentive service. Diners rave about the historic setting and expertly prepared dishes. However, some guests have noted that the pacing of the meal can be slow, and while desserts are generally good, they occasionally fall short of the high standards set by the entrées.

"My first time having venison didn't disappoint..yummy ! The grilled shrimp appetizer was outstanding! I wanted to lick the plate. French 75 was mild and sweet the expresso martini was on point.
The steak medallion dinner was very well seasoned and tender 😋
Cream brulee was very creamy and not too bad.
Our waiter Alan was gave great recommendations and was very friendly. Looking forward to coming back and trying all the exotic meats they offer.."

april

"My first time visiting La Forêt French Cuisine was a mostly wonderful experience. The service was excellent—attentive, warm, and professional. However, the pacing could have been a bit faster; our dinner took about three and a half hours to complete, which felt slightly prolonged.

The entrées were the highlight of the evening. The elk was absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s a dish I would highly recommend to anyone visiting.

Unfortunately, the dessert didn’t quite live up to the rest of the meal. The soufflé was just okay, with a flavor that was reminiscent of drinking wine but lacked the balance I was hoping for.

Overall, La Forêt delivers an exceptional dining experience, especially with their entrées and service, though the dessert and pacing could use some improvements."

James Lee

"Service was great and our server took great care of my husband and I.

The quail and the souffle dessert are absolute must-have when you visit this place! They also have a "I can't decide option" for dessert, which was extremely clever (I won't spoil the fun). I also appreciate the interesting variety of meat cut offered here (wild boar, elk, venison, etc.).

If the meat portions were a little bigger, it would definitely be worth the price. Overall, I would label this as a classic stable and would come back!"

Bao Dang

What People Like

Romantic and historic ambiance
Exceptional game entrees (elk, venison)
Attentive and knowledgeable service

What People Dislike

Slow pacing of the meal
Desserts sometimes do not meet entree standards

Frequently Asked Questions

La Forêt is renowned for its romantic countryside ambiance and its classic French cuisine, especially its game entrees like elk and venison, and its signature soufflé dessert.

15 San Jose Restaurants That Will Blow The Taste Buds Out Of Your Mouth

Absolutely! Its picturesque setting, intimate atmosphere, and refined cuisine make it ideal for romantic dinners, anniversaries, and other special celebrations.

Google Review

Highly recommended are the exotic game meats like elk and venison, the rack of lamb, and the soufflé dessert. Grilled prawns have also received high praise.

12 Best San Jose Restaurants To Eat At In 2024 (+ What To Order)Google Review+1

While the restaurant offers a fine dining experience, one reviewer noted issues with gluten-free requests. It's best to inform them well in advance when booking.

Google Review

Many guests prefer to sit outside next to the creek for a supremely peaceful and romantic dining experience. The indoor dining rooms also offer an elegant ambiance.

Google Review

Dinner at La Forêt can be a leisurely experience, with one review noting it took about three and a half hours to complete.

Google Review

Mentioned in

Featured in these publications

The Culture Trip

The Best Fine Dining In San Jose, California

In an idyllic and historic location, chef John Davoudi serves up culinary masterpieces like elk with portabella mushrooms, game reduction, and cognac sauce, and tournedos of beef with golden chanterelles, herbs, ginger, and brandy. La Forêt occupies the site of a former boarding house, now surrounded by forest, which was built in 1848 at the height of the California Gold Rush. Part of California history, La Forêt also stocks a large amount of wines from the Napa Valley, as well as the finest selections from France – the Chateau Lafite Rothschild goes for over $1000.

Visit Source →
Time Out

11 Best Restaurants in San Jose

Housed in a charming creekside boarding house built in 1848, La Forêt is surrounded by a lush forest on the outskirts of San Jose. In late 2017, the classic restaurant reopened under new ownership. Its retained much of the same staff and old world elegance, with a la carte dishes, as well as tasting menus and hearty dishes like poached lobster tail in lime beurre blanc or rack of lamb in garlic, rosemary and tarragon mustard.

Visit Source →
aioia.net

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in San Jose

La Foret is a beautiful French restaurant set in a historic house, offering a polished dining experience that feels both intimate and luxurious. With a strong 4.1-star rating from over 870 reviews, it has won a loyal following among those who appreciate classic French cuisine served in a beautiful, romantic atmosphere. From the moment you step onto the beautifully planted grounds, you’re taken to a quiet break from the city bustle.

Visit Source →
Nightflow.com

San Jose Nightlife • A Complete Guide [2025 February Update]

Housed in a charming Creekside boarding house built in 1848, La Forêt is surrounded by a lush forest on the outskirts of San Jose. In late 2017, the classic restaurant reopened under new ownership. Its retained much of the same staff and old-world elegance, with a la carte dishes, $95–$225 tasting menus and hearty dishes like poached lobster tail in lime beurre blanc or rack of lamb in garlic, rosemary and tarragon mustard.

Visit Source →
Movoto Real Estate

15 San Jose Restaurants That Will Blow The Taste Buds Out Of Your Mouth

La Foret 21747 Bertram Rd (408) 997-3458 Yelp: 4.5 Stars - 313 Reviews Maybe you want a touch of romance or class with your meal, and where better to go for that than a French restaurant. But this isn’t just any french spot, this is THE French restaurant in San Jose. Even if you’re just looking for a desert to split with your sweetie, the Grand Marnier souffle will be exactly what you’re looking for.

Visit Source →
Noms Magazine

12 Best San Jose Restaurants To Eat At In 2024 (+ What To Order)

Located in a charming creekside boarding house built in 1848, La Foret is all about rustic French food served in an old-world elegant ambiance. For dinner, you can either choose the a la carte or the tasting menu, any of them is great!. The tasting menu is rotating, and if you’re lucky enough, you’ll get to try their seared scallops in saffron herb cream and elk loin in a portabella cognac reduction.

Visit Source →
Lexus Stevens Creek Blog

Best High-End Restaurants in San Jose, CA

Set in a historic building in the Almaden Valley, La Foret is a fine-dining French restaurant that combines old-world charm with exceptional cuisine. This romantic spot specializes in classic French dishes like filet mignon, duck à l’orange, and their signature wild boar tenderloin. Pair your meal with a selection from their extensive wine list, and you’re in for an unforgettable evening.

Visit Source →
Purple Lotus

San Jose's Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants for Food Lovers

Set in a historic 19th-century building in the picturesque Almaden Valley, La Foret offers an exquisite fine-dining experience specializing in French cuisine. Surrounded by lush greenery and nestled by a creek, the location itself is enchanting. The menu features classic dishes like sautéed veal sweetbreads, lobster tail with saffron sauce, and filet mignon with truffle reduction.

Visit Source →
BayArea.com

Where to Find Authentic French Food in San Jose and Silicon Valley

Tucked away off the beaten path in the Almaden Valley, the site on which La Foret is situated has long served locals — as a boarding house, long before it became a restaurant. Today the restaurant serves classical French cuisine in a lovely forested setting. Diners will find traditional French favorites, like escargot and the now re-legalized foie gras.

Visit Source →
thanksgiving-in.com

11 Best Restaurants Open for Thanksgiving Dinner San Jose – 2024 – The Spirit of Thanksgiving: Celebrating Gratitude with Food, Family, and Friends

Nestled in the serene Almaden foothills, La Foret offers a charming escape from the hustle of modern life. For over 40 years, its charming Creekside setting has remained a haven for romantics and food lovers. As you step inside, you’re greeted by cozy dining rooms lit by warm chandeliers and filled with the enticing aroma of dishes.

Visit Source →
reddit

Big List of Date Night Ideas in San Jose : SanJose

La Foret in South San Jose - French 2) Le Papillon in West San Jose - French 3) Adega in East SJ - Portuguese 4) Fogo in the Row and Taurinus in Downtown SJ - Brazillian steakhouse 5) Arcadia in Downtown SJ - American steakhouse 6) Nemea in Downtown SJ - Mediterrannean There are also a crapload of fine dining in Los Gatos as well.

Visit Source →
San Jose Discoveries

15 best Italian restaurants in San Jose

Experience fine dining at its best at La Foret, one of San Jose’s premier Italian restaurants. Nestled in a beautiful, historic location, La Foret offers a luxurious dining experience with dishes like Osso Buco and Lobster Risotto. The serene setting, coupled with impeccable service, makes it ideal for special occasions.

Visit Source →
Restaurant Clicks

14 Best Private Dining Restaurants in San Jose

21747 Bertram Rd, San Jose, CA 95120408-997-3458 Visit Website. Next up is La Foret, a French restaurant located on Bertram Avenue in the New Almaden Historic District. This sophisticated eatery has a lovely view of Alamitos Creek and prioritizes using classic French cooking styles to bring out each dish’s bold flavors.

Visit Source →
Wedding Rule

30 Astonishing Wedding Venues in San Jose, CA

You can expect five-star service when you host your celebration at La Foret Restaurant, one of the best wedding venues in San Jose. You will fall in love with the charming scenery, including an attached private garden with a bubbly creek. There are a variety of private dining rooms with picturesque views.

Visit Source →
blog.cirquedusoleil.com

Fun Date Ideas in San Jose | Blog

Aptly named for its forest surroundings, La Forêt restaurant offers some of the best fine French dining in San Jose. Sharply dressed servers with a passion for hospitality tend to your every need while you and your date marvel at the picturesque scenery outside the window (or at each other).

Visit Source →
monaghansrvc.com

Top 16 romantic restaurants in San Jose

Housed in a historic farmhouse, extensive wine list, seasonal menus. Romantic La Foret is a restaurant that provides fine French dining in a picturesque setting. The building, which holds historic significance, is located next to a gentle stream in the lush foothills of New Almaden.

Visit Source →
city-data.com

Bachelorette Party Ideas in San Jose and Mountain View CA? (Fremont: to rent, house) - California

I'm partial to San Jose ones such as Nemea (Greek), La Foret (French), Fogo and Taurinus (Brazilian steakhouse), Arcadia (steakhouse), The Table (American), Dynasty (Chinese dimsum), Jubba (Somalian), Back-a-Yard (Jamaican), Minato and Gombei (Japanese), and Krung Thai 1 & 2 (Thai).

Visit Source →
Frommers

Restaurants in San Jose, CA

An 1848 miners cabin, set in a lovely and bucolic area (well away from the office parks of Silicon Valley) is the setting for this gourmet's paradise, considered one of the 50 best French restaurants in the United States. Service is formal (how oculd it not be when the waiters are…

Visit Source →
gayot.com

La Foret Restaurant San Jose CA Reviews

Sophisticated, romantic La Foret features chef John Davoudi's fine French cuisine in a beautiful old-country setting. Window seats overlook a meandering stream and the lush foothills of New Almaden. Guests can choose from two six-course tasting menus or order à la carte.

Visit Source →
The Adventurist Magazine

The Best Restaurants in San Jose

Housed in a charming creekside boarding house built in 1848, La Forêt offers a unique dining experience surrounded by a lush forest. The restaurant reopened under new ownership in late 2017, continuing its tradition of fine dining with a focus on French cuisine.

Visit Source →
Brand Vision Insights

Best Fine Dining Restaurants in San Jose

Nestled in a historic building, La Foret offers French cuisine in a charming and romantic ambiance, perfect for special occasions. Notable dishes include escargot and beef Wellington, showcasing classic French culinary techniques. View this post on Instagram

Visit Source →
Museum Hack

19 Fun Team Building Activities in San Jose, California

A fine dining experience at La Forêt is among the best team building events in San Jose. The restaurant serves outstanding French cuisine in an elegant setting. Also, various event spaces are available for small and large corporate functions.

Visit Source →
Eventective

Wedding Venues in San Jose, CA - 108 Venues | Pricing

La Forêt regularly hosts weddings and special events for people and organizations from around the South Bay Area including, Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Jose, Willow Glen, Campbell, Los Gatos, Saratoga, Los Altos, Cupertino, Santa Clara.

Visit Source →
SpotSanJose

Bon Appétit in San Jose: 5 French Restaurants You Can't Miss!

La Foret offers an authentic French cuisine experience with a focus on game and unique meats. The food is cooked to perfection and the service is outstanding. The extensive wine list offers some very unique and expensive choices.

Visit Source →
6AM - SJtoday

30+ great brunch places to try in San Jose, California

| $$$ | Pro tip: This place is on the expensive side, so save up for some adventurous options like elk cooked in a Portebello Cognac Demi Glaze Reduction, or the quail roasted in Huckle-berry-Brandy sauce.

Visit Source →
Family Destinations Guide

15 Best Restaurants in San Jose, CA for 2025 (Top Eats!)

21747 Bertram RdSan Jose, CA 95120(408) 997-3458 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Tucked away in Almaden Valley, this foodie magnet is a stellar pick for fine dining in San Jose.

Visit Source →
Stacker

Highest-rated Fine Dining Restaurants in San Jose by Diners

- Rating: 4.1/5 (815 reviews)- Price level: $$$$- Address: 21747 Bertram Road San Jose, California - Categories: French, Venues & Event Spaces, Lounges- Read more on Yelp

Visit Source →
Couple Travel The World

San Jose Date Ideas CA: 50+ Romantic Things to do for Couples

It brings together a French dining experience in a Contemporary setting. Customer service here is great, trust me, you will be thoroughly satisfied here.

Visit Source →
SF Station

The Best French Restaurant in South Bay

2008 BEST OF SILICON VALLEY Reader Survey Winner - Second Place. Best Romantic Restaurant. A San Jose French restaurant with a country setting.

Visit Source →
reddit.com

Reddit - Dive into anything

Visit Source →
WeddingWire

The 10 Best Mansion Wedding Venues in San Jose, CA

Visit Source →