By: Andrew Silverstein

Clearwater's got no shortage of international-minded eateries lining the beautiful streets of downtown and Clearwater Beach.  For the utmost quality in time-tested, delicious cuisine, though, there's no better choice than a quaint, authentic French restaurants.  Here are, what we feel, are the five best French restaurants in Clearwater.

Bobby's Bistro and Wine Bar - Bobby's Bistro and Wine Bar is all about good food and savory wines if you couldn't tell.  Watch the sunset from this casual, Clearwater Beach eatery and enjoy an assortment of salads, pizzas, and entrees.  Menu highlights include sherry garlic sizzling shrimp, herb rubbed veal chops, filet mignon, pepper crusted salmon filet and much more.

La Cachette - La Cachettte has been a hub for classic, French eating in Clearwater for over 10 years now.  Described as "a quiet oasis" and "unforgettable" by the St. Pete Times, this is the French restaurant for excellent food, great wine, and exceptional service.  Sample a classic French appetizer like Terrine De Foie Gras D’ Oie - Goose liver mousse, infused cream, butter, cognac, a splash of Cointreau, and black truffle oil - before dining on entrees like red wine marinated chicken, pan seared deep sea scallops, and marinated, pan seared quail.

Cafe Ponte - For a dining experience rife in the utmost quality and creativity, Cafe Ponte is a great choice in Clearwater.  French is just one of the many cuisines they utilize from around the world to create the delectable choices on their menu.  Sample fresh, delectable appetizers like wild mushroom soup and foi gras before dining on hearty entrees including braised veal, maple leaf duck breast, osso bucco milanese, and much more.

Le Bouchon Bistro - "Le Bouchon" is French for "the wine cork" so it's only fitting that Le Bouchon has a wide assortment of well- and lesser-known wines from vineyards all across France.  Of course, the food is the main attraction though.  Their monstrous menu boasts an assortment of items from crepes to sandwiches, salad, pizza, soup, and more.  Sample delectable meals including chicken and chive crepes, portabella mushroom, smoked bacon, and brie pizza, and beef bourguignon.

Bon Apetit - This one's a bit north of Clearwater in Dunedin, but definitely worth the drive if you're looking for a casual, surprisingly affordable, and delicious French dining experience.  Enjoy a beautiful view of the Gulf of Mexico as you dine on delectable French fare including snails and mushrooms, veal chops, jumbo lump crab cakes, duck confit, and much more.

Of course, these are just our five favorite French restaurants in Clearwater.  Head out, explore this diverse, vibrant city, and find what you think are the best French restaurants in Clearwater today!