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Café de la Presse
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Café de la Presse
8.1
Vibes:
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Business Lunch Power Players
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Trendy Table Hotspots
Parisian-style brasserie at the Chinatown Gate with photogenic plating, a newsstand vibe, and sidewalk tables. Locals stop for classic bistro fare, all-day espresso, and a lively Union Square backdrop made for the feed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak frites, French onion soup gratinée, Croque monsieur
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Old-world brasserie energy steps from the Dragon Gate.
Who should go: Bistro lovers and Union Square people-watchers
When to visit: Golden hour for terrace light and photos
What to order: Steak frites, onion soup, croque monsieur
Insider tip: Snag a terrace table facing the gate for the best shot.
Café de la Presse
8.2
Classic French bistro by the Dragon Gate where steak frites and brasserie staples anchor a lively, all-day menu. Locals drop in for crisp pommes frites, bistro burgers, and a glass of wine before or after Union Square errands.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steak Frites, Moules-Frites, Bistro Burger with Frites
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Textbook steak frites and crisp pommes served brasserie-style.
Who should go: Bistro lovers craving classic French frites
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30am–1pm or after 8pm
What to order: Steak frites; moules-frites; bistro burger + fries
Insider tip: Ask for a sidewalk table for prime Dragon Gate people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot; limited metered street parking on Grant and Bush. Easiest option is the Sutter-Stockton Garage two blocks north.
Dress code: Smart casual—think collared shirts or nice blouses; jeans fine if neat.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing at lunch but you can hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially near curtain times.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately before noon; short wait after 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, salads, and several vegetable sides available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable options such as green salads or ratatouille.
Gluten-free options: Partial accommodation—steak and fish plates can be made gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate but lively setting with Parisian charm and good lighting. Perfect for a relaxed, conversational dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are fine for small parties at off-peak times, but evening slots before 7pm or after 8:30pm are safest without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—more of an adult bistro vibe, though older kids or teens can fit in during daytime service.
Best For
Better for: Atmosphere and people-watching—especially at the sidewalk tables by the Dragon Gate—outshine most nearby French spots.
Skip if: You’re after ultra-modern plating or all-vegan menus; this is classic brasserie fare done traditionally.
Café de la Presse
8.1
Classic French brasserie at the Chinatown Gate serving proper Parisian-style breakfasts with strong coffee and warm pastries. Locals use it for early meetings and a civilized start before Union Square shopping.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croque Madame, Omelette fines herbes, Butter croissant with jam
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Old-world French breakfast across from the Chinatown Gate.
Who should go: Travelers and downtown regulars craving Parisian classics
When to visit: Arrive 8–10am for easiest seating and quick service
What to order: Croque Madame; omelette fines herbes; café au lait
Insider tip: Ask for a sidewalk table for prime morning people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited metered street parking nearby, best to use the Sutter-Stockton Garage a block away.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many guests lean business or chic for meetings.
Noise level: Moderate in the mornings—easy to converse over breakfast, livelier at lunch.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—primarily a breakfast and lunch spot.
Weekday lunch: 10–20 minutes at peak hours; often no wait before noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelettes, salads, and pastry options available.
Vegan options: Limited—coffee, fruit, and a few modifications possible but not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options like omelettes and salads; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially for a relaxed morning or brunch date with Parisian charm and sidewalk seating that adds atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for breakfast; lunch near Union Square may require a short wait but walk-ins are common.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy café settings; no kids’ menu or special amenities but service is accommodating.
Best For
Better for: A more authentic French brasserie experience than nearby diners or coffee shops, ideal for business breakfasts or travelers seeking Parisian flair.
Skip if: If you need extensive vegan or gluten-free options, or prefer a quick grab-and-go breakfast instead of sit-down service.
Café de la Presse
8.4
Classic French brasserie by the Chinatown Gate serving Parisian-style breakfasts that roll seamlessly into a leisurely brunch. Locals come for strong coffee, warm pastries, and bistro staples in a newsstand-lined room with sidewalk tables.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croque Madame, Omelette fines herbes, Café au lait with warm croissant
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Old-world Parisian breakfast and brunch opposite the Chinatown Gate.
Who should go: Travelers and downtown regulars craving French classics
When to visit: 8–10am for easiest seating and quick service
What to order: Croque Madame; quiche du jour; pastry basket
Insider tip: Request a sidewalk table for premium morning people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; limited metered street parking nearby. Best bet is the Sutter-Stockton Garage, 2 blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many patrons lean a bit polished for brunch or meetings.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are comfortable indoors; sidewalk seating is livelier with street noise.
Weekend wait: Not a dinner-focused spot—closes by late evening, so no wait at 'dinner' hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; walk-ins often seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelettes, quiches, salads, and pastry options are reliable picks.
Vegan options: Limited—coffee, bread, and simple fruit options; mains are not vegan-focused.
Gluten-free options: Some options like omelettes and salads work, but pastries and most classics contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—charming Parisian vibe, sidewalk seating, and strong coffee make it ideal for a casual daytime date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—mornings and mid-afternoons often have space; weekends 10am–1pm can be busier, so arrive early for walk-in seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—families are welcome, but the bistro layout has limited stroller space. Best for kids old enough to sit at the table.
Best For
Better for: Best for a European-style breakfast or brunch with proper coffee service and people-watching across from the Chinatown Gate.
Skip if: Skip if you need hearty American diner plates, extensive vegan options, or very quiet surroundings.
Café de la Presse
8.1
Classic brasserie at the Chinatown Gate pouring espresso by day and bistro fare into the evening. Sidewalk tables and a lively interior make it an easy romantic stop near Union Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
French onion soup gratinée, Croque monsieur, Steak frites
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: A Parisian-style brasserie perched right at the Dragon Gate.
Who should go: Francophiles near Union Square
When to visit: Late afternoon into early evening
What to order: Onion soup; croque monsieur; steak frites
Insider tip: Book a sidewalk two-top for people-watching on Grant.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No valet; nearby garages at Sutter-Stockton and Union Square. Street parking is very limited after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a blazer or a chic dress fit the brasserie vibe.
Noise level: Moderate buzz indoors, but conversation-friendly. Sidewalk tables are lively with street sounds.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for sidewalk seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, though the espresso bar gets a short line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – salads, soups, omelets, and meat-free small plates available.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of modified salad and vegetable dishes.
Gluten-free options: Some options available; servers can guide substitutions, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the Parisian café feel and people-watching tables make it charming and low-pressure while still stylish.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially mid-day or early evening, but reservations are smart for prime dinner hours or sidewalk spots.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; it’s more geared toward adults and couples. Children are welcome but there’s no kids’ menu or play space.
Best For
Better for: Classic French brasserie atmosphere with espresso-to-bistro service and unbeatable Dragon Gate location.
Skip if: You want ultra-modern French tasting menus or a very quiet dining room — try a smaller fine-dining spot instead.
Café de la Presse
8.2
Parisian-style corner café at the Chinatown gate that serves classic breakfast and brunch with outdoor tables and a newsstand vibe. Expect bistro standards, good coffee, and photogenic sidewalk scenes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Croque madame, Quiche Lorraine, Crêpes sucrées
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Paris-in-SF setting with classic brunch staples on a lively corner.
Who should go: Francophiles and Union Square strollers
When to visit: Mid-morning before peak foot traffic
What to order: Croque madame, quiche, sweet crêpes
Insider tip: Ask for a sidewalk table facing the Chinatown gate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near the Chinatown Gate; best bet is the Sutter-Stockton Garage two blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine but many opt for a polished look given the Parisian café vibe.
Noise level: Moderate — outdoor seating has city bustle, indoors is quieter but still lively.
Weekend wait: N/A — primarily a brunch/lunch café.
Weekday lunch: Usually a 10–20 minute wait at peak hours, faster if dining solo or outdoors.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple quiches, salads, and egg dishes are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — a few side salads and fruit options, but menu leans dairy-heavy.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free items (omelettes, salads), but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the sidewalk tables with Parisian ambiance create a casual yet romantic setting, especially for a daytime date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Most times yes, but weekends around 11am–1pm can mean a short wait. Reservations are available but not strictly necessary.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who can enjoy classic brunch dishes, but limited space indoors and busy street seating make it less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Best for a European-style café experience with prime people-watching near Union Square.
Skip if: If you want a wide vegan menu, ultra-quiet space, or modern brunch trends, other spots nearby may be a better fit.
Café de la Presse
7.8
Parisian-style corner café at the Chinatown Gate serving bistro staples with sidewalk seating. Reliable French standards and a lively streetscape make it a photogenic pre-theater or shopping stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
French Onion Soup Gratinée, Escargots à la Bourguignonne, Croque Monsieur
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Classic bistro dishes and newsstand décor at the iconic Chinatown Gate.
Who should go: Bistro seekers and Union Square strollers
When to visit: Golden hour for patio seating and street views
What to order: Onion soup, escargots, croque monsieur
Insider tip: Request a sidewalk table facing the Gate for the best ambiance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot; closest option is the Portsmouth Square Garage (733 Kearny St) about a 3-minute walk. Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans with a blazer or sundress works; lean slightly dressy for date nights or theater outings.
Noise level: Moderate; lively chatter from both the dining room and sidewalk patio, but still possible to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; sidewalk tables go fastest at golden hour.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though business lunch crowds fill up around 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several classics like French onion soup, salads, omelets, and vegetarian-friendly pastas.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 adaptable dishes; best to ask servers for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Some flexibility — steaks, fish mains, and salads can be made gluten-free, but bread-heavy classics (croque, quiche) are not adaptable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — its Parisian ambiance, outdoor tables, and lively street scene make for a romantic yet relaxed first-date spot. It’s stylish without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially at lunch or off-peak hours. For patio dining at golden hour or weekend dinner, a reservation is recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Better suited for adults and older teens. There are no kids’ menus or amenities, but families are welcome during the day. Evenings skew more toward date night and theater crowds.
Best For
Better for: A photogenic, Parisian café vibe with outdoor views of the Chinatown Gate — ideal for pre-theater drinks or a stylish casual date.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge French cuisine or very quiet fine dining. This is a lively bistro, not a hushed Michelin-style room.