Thousands of cars drive down Mission Boulevard near Niles every day, passing the bright red sign that reads “Papillon” in elegant script with the signature butterfly graphic and the garden-surrounded restaurant nestled on the hillside. For decades, Papillon has been Fremont’s French restaurant, drawing guests from near and far for weeknight dinners, special occasions and events alike.
Guests enter the bar area and check in at the host stand, which is situated next to an enshrined replica of Venus de Milo. The maître d’ accompanies guests to their table, which may be in the Green House, an open, airy solarium; the Dining Room, a large, formal room with velvet damask-lined walls; the Patio, an outdoor, 2020-era addition in a garden setting; or the Banquet Room, a green room with a fireplace, piano and stained-glass windows, that is predominately used for larger groups. Bar seating is available as well on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Embracing an art-forward decor, works by local artists are proudly on display throughout the restaurant. With fresh floral and smooth jazz, the ambiance is elegant, but at the same time calm and relaxing, and indicative of a great meal to come.
Papillon features a novel of a wine list, with labels, appellations and vintages available for every preference. Order a white, rosé or bubbly, and a silver bucket on a pedestal will be provided to keep things cool. Appetizers on the extensive menu include the famous French specialties of Baked Brie, Frog Legs Provençal, Duck Mousse Pâté, and, for the adventurous: Escargots de Bourgogne—regulars swear by it.
Main entrees come with a choice of a soup or salad, with two types of soup available: French Onion or the Soup of the Day. The French Onion Soup is phenomenal, and served with a canopy of puff pastry baked right on top. The Soup of the Day varies, some variations including Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Broccoli.
In true French fashion, Papillon knows butter, and they aren’t afraid to use it. The cream-based soups boast incredible, creamy texture and buttery flavor. Bread is provided and makes a great vehicle to deliver it all.
The mains are substantial in portion, but even more so in flavor. The Classic Beef Wellington is so tender it almost doesn’t require a steak knife. Pescatarians can experience Wellington by ordering the Seafood Wellington laden with crab, prawns and scallops. Vegetarians will love the Angel Hair Pasta entree, which is loaded with tender vegetables and available in either a cream or tomato sauce.
Don’t stop there: One of the pillars of French meals is a sweet finish, and Papillon knocks this one out of the park.
Multiple incredible offerings are available, including those prepared tableside like Bananas Foster, an impressive display producing a tantalizing aroma that permeates throughout. Whether it be tableside flambé or simple offerings like ice cream or chocolate mousse, all are plated beautifully, with sauce swirled into various designs or phrases, depending on the occasion.
Amazing ambiance, food and service aside, one of the best parts of the experience is when owners Charlie and Nittra stop by to visit the table. Charlie and Nittra are a dynamic duo who have devoted their lives to elevating Fremont’s food scene, with Charlie running the front of house, and executive chef Nittra running the kitchen. The husband and wife team both take time from their tasks to make every guest, whether it be their first or 100th visit, feel like a cherished regular.
Papillon continues to be a beacon of elegance in Fremont, serving as an upscale place to go on a date, visit with family or celebrate special occasions all while enjoying a fantastic French meal and warm, welcoming hospitality.
Papillon is located at 37296 Mission Boulevard in Fremont. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5pm to 9pm. Closed Mondays. Walk-ins available, reservations recommended.
This article was not prepared by nor endorsed by Papillon Restaurant.
