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Magnin Street Cafe & Bistro
Master Critic Review
Magnin Street Cafe & Bistro
7.6
All-day cafe just off Union Square serving a classic breakfast lineup—omelets, ricotta pancakes, and hash browns—with friendly table service. It’s a convenient pre-shopping or pre-meeting stop with a broad menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ricotta Pancakes, San Francisco Omelet, Avocado Toast + Eggs
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Broad, traveler-friendly menu with reliable breakfast staples.
Who should go: Shoppers and hotel-adjacent diners
When to visit: 7–9am to beat the rush
What to order: Ricotta pancakes; SF omelet; hash browns
Insider tip: Breakfast runs daily until 3pm—useful for late risers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Union Square is limited and metered; nearest option is the Union Square Garage ($5–7/hr).
Dress code: Casual to business casual; tourists in jeans fit in alongside business travelers.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are manageable though the room hums during peak breakfast hours.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—this is a breakfast-focused cafe.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait; tables turn quickly with steady hotel-adjacent traffic.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—omelets, pancakes, and salads provide multiple options.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for modifications, but expect just a few items like fruit plates or hash browns.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free toast available and most egg dishes can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for romance—it’s more of a practical, central cafe with reliable food, better suited for casual meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t standard here; arriving before 9am makes seating easiest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available, broad menu suits families, and the relaxed service style works well for children.
Best For
Better for: Convenient all-day breakfast near Union Square with sit-down comfort—ideal for travelers or shoppers wanting table service.
Skip if: You want trend-driven brunch plates or artisanal coffee culture—other Hayes Valley or Civic Center cafes will deliver more flair.