Our Story: Aurelian Bistro
Aurelian Bistro, nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood, is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary haven built on passion, tradition, and a deep appreciation for the art of gastronomy. Founded in 2010 by visionary restaurateur Isabelle Moreau, Aurelian Bistro was born from a desire to bring the warmth and sophistication of a classic French bistro to the dynamic culinary landscape of San Francisco, while embracing the fresh, local ingredients that define Californian cuisine.
Isabelle, a native of Lyon, France, grew up immersed in the rich culinary heritage of her region. She spent countless hours in her grandmother's kitchen, learning the secrets of traditional French cooking – the slow simmering stews, the delicate pastries, the unwavering commitment to quality ingredients. After graduating from the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse, Isabelle embarked on a culinary journey that took her to some of the world's most acclaimed restaurants. But it was during a visit to San Francisco that she discovered her true calling: to create a dining experience that celebrated both her French roots and the innovative spirit of California.
The name "Aurelian" pays homage to the ancient Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius, a philosopher and leader known for his wisdom, integrity, and commitment to excellence – values that Isabelle strives to embody in every aspect of the bistro. From the carefully curated wine list to the impeccably trained staff, every detail at Aurelian Bistro is designed to create an unforgettable dining experience.
Our Philosophy
At Aurelian Bistro, our philosophy is simple: to provide our guests with an exceptional culinary journey that engages all the senses. We believe that food is more than just sustenance; it's an art form, a cultural expression, and a way to connect with others. Our menu is a testament to this belief, featuring a blend of classic French dishes reimagined with a modern Californian twist. We use only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients, sourced from local farms and producers whenever possible. Our chefs are passionate about their craft, and they pour their heart and soul into every dish they create.
But our commitment to excellence extends beyond the food. We believe that dining is a holistic experience, and we strive to create an atmosphere that is both elegant and welcoming. Our dining room is designed to be a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of city life, a place where guests can relax, unwind, and savor the moment. Our staff is trained to provide attentive, personalized service, ensuring that every guest feels valued and appreciated.
Meet Our Team
Our Dedicated Team
Antoine Dubois
Executive Chef
Chef Antoine brings over 20 years of culinary mastery to Aurelian Bistro. His innovative approach to French cuisine, combined with a passion for local ingredients, ensures an unforgettable dining experience.
Sophie Leclerc
Restaurant Manager
Sophie's warm hospitality and attention to detail ensure that every guest feels welcome and cared for. Her expertise in wine pairing elevates the dining experience.
Jean-Pierre Moreau
Head Sommelier
Jean-Pierre's extensive knowledge of wines from around the world allows him to create perfect pairings that complement Chef Antoine's exquisite dishes.
Elodie Bergeron
Pastry Chef
Elodie crafts delightful and decadent desserts, pastries, and breads, showcasing her expertise in French patisserie. Her creations are the perfect ending to any meal at Aurelian Bistro.
Thierry Martin
Sous Chef
Thierry works closely with Chef Antoine, contributing his creativity and culinary skills to the daily operations of the kitchen and the execution of innovative dishes.
Amelie Dubois
Head Bartender
Amelie's inventive cocktails and expert mixology skills complement the restaurant's cuisine. Her friendly demeanor makes her a favorite among regulars.
Our Commitment to Sustainability
Aurelian Bistro is deeply committed to sustainability and responsible sourcing. We believe that it is our responsibility to protect the environment and support our local community. Here are some of the ways we are working to make a difference:
- Local Sourcing: We partner with local farms and producers to source the freshest, seasonal ingredients, reducing our carbon footprint and supporting the local economy.
- Sustainable Seafood: We are committed to serving only sustainably sourced seafood, ensuring that our oceans are protected for future generations.
- Waste Reduction: We have implemented a comprehensive waste reduction program, including composting, recycling, and minimizing food waste.
- Energy Efficiency: We use energy-efficient appliances and lighting throughout the restaurant, reducing our energy consumption.
- Water Conservation: We have installed water-saving fixtures in our kitchens and restrooms, conserving this precious resource.
We invite you to join us at Aurelian Bistro and experience the difference that passion, tradition, and a commitment to excellence can make. Return to our homepage , explore our delectable menu , or contact us to make a reservation and embark on a culinary journey you won't soon forget.