Philippe and Ellen Gardelle opened Chapeau in 1996, but a few years ago they bought Clementine and eventually moved Chapeau into that space. The feel is classic and romantic, right down to the single rose on each table. It's one of the best deals on French food in the Bay Area and one of the few places to get classic, rich sauces, often presented in a modern way.
Philippe pops between the kitchen and the dining room to ensure that every thing is in tip-top shape; it always is.