0 Followers
Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe
Master Critic Review
Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe
8.0
Long-running North Beach cafe facing Washington Square serving pressed panini, salads, and espresso. Counter ordering and park-facing seats make it an efficient, low-key lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Parm Panini, Meatball Panini, Caprese on Focaccia
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Pressed panini on focaccia with park views and quick turnarounds.
Who should go: Panini-and-espresso lunchers
When to visit: 12:45–1:15 for open tables facing the square
What to order: Chicken parm panini, meatball panini, caprese
Insider tip: Grab a park bench across the street for quiet calls post-lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking around Washington Square is limited and often full by noon; nearby North Beach Garage (735 Vallejo St) usually has open spots.
Dress code: Ultra casual—office casual or streetwear fits perfectly; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—busy at lunch with chatter and espresso machine hum, but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Closed early evening; not a dinner destination.
Weekday lunch: Mild midday rush around 12:00–12:45; short wait for seating or takeout during peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetarian panini like Caprese or eggplant are regular favorites.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify veggie panini to remove cheese; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread or prep area, but some salads are gluten-free by default.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual or second dates—intimate outdoor tables face the park, but the quick-service style isn’t romantic. Ideal for a low-pressure coffee or lunch meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—counter service only. Tables are first come, first served and usually turn over quickly between 12:45 and 1:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids are welcome though there’s no dedicated menu. Best for quick daytime visits; park playground across the street offers easy post-lunch entertainment.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and more authentic than nearby full-service cafés; great for locals wanting classic North Beach charm without pretense.
Skip if: Skip if you need table service, Wi-Fi, or extended seating for meetings—it’s compact and geared toward fast, casual dining.