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ZipPicks Awards
Best Date Night French in Dogpatch
Best Sandwiches in Dogpatch
Best French in Dogpatch
Master Critic Review
Cafe Du Soleil
7.9
A weekday-only Parisian lunch counter in SOMA that runs a tight program of locally sourced French sandwiches, composed salads, and imported Canelés de Bordeaux—more daily ritual than destination dining. The format works best for nearby office workers who want a proper croque madame or Niçoise without leaving the neighborhood, and the focused menu keeps execution sharp across a short service window.
Must-Try Dishes:
Niçoise Salad, Ham & Swiss Croissant, Turkey & Avocado Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Weekday-only Parisian lunch cafe in SOMA built around locally sourced French sandwiches, salads, and imported desserts like Canelés de Bordeaux.
Who should go: SOMA workers craving a proper French lunch break
When to visit: Arrive at 11:30 AM open; closes 2:30 PM weekdays only
What to order: Pair a sandwich or the Niçoise with a plant-based smoothie, then finish with a Canelé de Bordeaux or French Macaron — portions are lunch-sized so dessert fits.
Insider tip: The three-hour window goes fast and baked goods sell out — go early in the week for the best dessert selection.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on 3rd St; covered garage at SoMa Square (333 3rd St, one door down) with hourly rates—most convenient option for a quick lunch stop
Weekday lunch: Peak lunch rush (roughly noon-1pm) can mean a wait—reviewers recommend off-peak arrival; only open Mon-Fri 11:30 AM-2:30 PM
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Several options: Caprese Tartine (mozzarella di bufala, tomatoes, pesto, $16), Caprese cold sandwich ($17), Maison salad with blue cheese and egg ($17), Caesar salad ($17), St. Albray & Portobello Mushroom hot sandwich ($18), plant-based smoothies ($11)
Vegan options: Very limited—plant-based smoothies (blueberry or mango with almond milk/OJ, seeds, banana, $11) are the only clearly vegan items on the menu
Gluten-free options: French Macarons are labeled Kosher, Non-GMO & Gluten Free ($3); salads without croutons are a practical option but not explicitly labeled
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional date — this is a small, casual weekday-only lunch cafe open just 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM. The Parisian bistro charm and cozy atmosphere could work for a low-key daytime first meeting, but there's no evening service, no dim lighting, and only about 4 indoor tables. If you're looking for a relaxed 'let's grab lunch' first date rather than a romantic dinner, it has enough charm to set it apart from a coffee shop.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Most people walk in, but with only about 4 indoor tables, seating fills up fast during peak lunch hours (roughly noon–1:30 PM). Arrive before noon or after 1:30 PM for the best chance at a table. If you hit the rush and everything's taken, takeout is a solid backup — same great food. Reservations can be made by phone or through their website contact form.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really — there's no kids menu, no children's portions, and no mention of high chairs or booster seats. The cafe is tiny and caters primarily to the weekday office lunch crowd. It's also closed on weekends, which rules out family outings. Older kids who enjoy French sandwiches and salads could eat here, but it's not set up for young children.
Is it good for groups? Not for dine-in — the space only has about 4 indoor tables and 2 outside, so groups larger than 4 would struggle. However, their catering operation is excellent for groups: large platters serve up to 14 people (sandwich platters for 12 at $165, salad bowls for 7–14), and catering is available 7 days a week, including weekends when the cafe itself is closed. For office lunches or private events, contact them through their website.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes, but very limited — approximately 2 sidewalk-level tables on 3rd Street. No covered patio, no heaters, and no wind barriers confirmed. Pleasant enough on a warm, calm day, but not a destination outdoor dining experience. Best suited for fair-weather lunch.
Best For
Better for: Weekday business lunch in SOMA—intimate French cafe with only ~4 indoor and ~2 outdoor tables, personalized service from the chef, and a focused 3-hour lunch window that keeps it feeling like a neighborhood secret
Skip if: You need weekend or dinner plans—closed Saturday, Sunday, and after 2:30 PM every day
Hours
Monday11:30am - 2:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 2:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 2:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 2:30pm
Friday11:30am - 2:30pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed