You can tell a lot about a brunch spot from the smell that hits you at the door — bacon fat, fresh coffee, butter on the griddle. This one passes the test.
Set in San Francisco, CA, Café de la Presse has carved out a corner of the city's weekend brunch scene with a personality of its own. The room comfortably seats a mix of solo diners working through a coffee and a newspaper, couples splitting a stack of pancakes, and friend groups settling in for a slow, three-hour Saturday.
It's a tight room, with maybe a dozen tables and a handful of counter seats facing the open kitchen, where you can watch the line cooks work.
If you're a group of four or more, call ahead. They sometimes take small reservations for parties of four-plus, even when the website says walk-in only.
Like a lot of the best brunch spots in San Francisco, Café de la Presse is at its most magical on weekend mornings, when the kitchen is firing on all burners and the room slowly fills with the kind of low, happy hum that only good food and unhurried company can produce. Whether you're a tourist with one weekend in town or a local with a Sunday ritual, this is a place that earns its reputation plate by plate.
Frequently asked questions
Does Café de la Presse take reservations?
Most brunch spots in San Francisco are walk-in friendly, with a wait list during peak hours. Larger parties (5+) should call ahead to ask about a reservation.
Is Café de la Presse kid-friendly?
Yes — Café de la Presse welcomes families. Most brunch menus include simple kid-friendly options like pancakes, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. Highchairs are usually available.
What kind of cuisine does Café de la Presse serve?
It's classified under french — broadly an American-style brunch experience with regional touches you'd expect in San Francisco.
Is there outdoor seating at Café de la Presse?
Outdoor seating is not always confirmed. We recommend calling ahead during nice weather.
Location
Coordinates: 37.7905, -122.4055. Use these coordinates with your preferred maps application for directions.