0 Followers
Rocco’s Café
Master Critic Review
Rocco’s Café
8.3
Long-running SoMa standby (since 1990) serving hearty Italian-American breakfasts—think crab cake or fried-chicken Benedicts, sourdough French toast, and frittatas. Friendly, old-school service and generous portions anchor weekend brunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Cake Benedict, Sourdough French Toast, Rocco’s Favorite Frittata
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Neighborhood institution with classic, from-scratch brunch plates.
Who should go: Families and hearty-brunch traditionalists
When to visit: Sunday 8–10am to beat the rush
What to order: Crab Cake Benedict; Joe’s Special; Buttermilk Pancakes
Insider tip: Weekend specials change—check the board for limited Benedicts.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in SoMa can be challenging during brunch hours; there are paid garages within a 2–3 block walk.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and comfortable wear are common, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak brunch; fine for family conversation but less ideal for quiet chats.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—Rocco’s closes after lunch service.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, though noon can see a short line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, frittatas, and several brunch plates can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—can request sides and modifications, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free dishes like frittatas and scrambles; bread-heavy items are not GF by default.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a relaxed, casual breakfast date than a romantic setting—it’s hearty, friendly, and bustling.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are standard, but expect a wait on weekends after 10am.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common; kids will find plenty of familiar breakfast plates and high chairs are available.
Best For
Better for: Big portions, old-school service, and Italian-American twists that make it feel like a neighborhood institution.
Skip if: You’re looking for a trendy or quiet brunch spot—this is more about comfort and tradition than sleek vibes.