Grand Cafe

You know when you go to a restaurant that really leaves an impression you begin to think, "I'd like to own a place like this" or "This is not how I'd run things." Enjoying the details. Of course, I'm far too unmotivated to actually go into the restaurateur game. Still, I daydream from time to time when I check out a distinctive new place.



While I was in San Francisco, Cranemelon and I asked my concierge for a breakfast/brunch-y recommendation. Says Craney, "Someplace with a full bar." We were pointed in the direction of the Grand Cafe, about a block away on the ground floor of the Hotel Monaco—a beautiful and fun hotel I hope to be able to afford to stay at someday. The Grand Cafe was really nice. Inviting. A new fave place to hang out when I visit the city.

The sculptures were Donnie Darko-ish, which we appreciated. Slightly creepy, especially this balcony one.

In fact there were quite a few sculptures and paintings. Some of the artwork was quite good. There was a nice amount of natural light streaming into the dining room at around 11 a.m-noon. Breakfast was great. Service was decent. We took note and I suggested we return the following day for evening drinks in the bar. 

The jerk chicken wings were bland. Not recommended. I think Liam took them home and re-seasoned them.

If you just want a little snack with your adult beverage, this is what you want to order. Smoked almonds. Marinated olives. Maple bacon popcorn. Each item was satisfying and just a few dollars. The man next to me at the bar had a flatbread type thing and ordered a beer. I asked him, he said he pretty much came in for those two items for a quick dinner. The flatbread wasn't on the menu, I'm sure you can just ask, the bartender was very nice and helpful.

So helpful in fact, that he upgraded Liam and I to Jameson 12 when we wiped out his supply of the regular stuff. No extra cost. The guy was just the right amount of friendly too. (Everyone was friendly on the evening shift. I seriously made friends with the Hotel Monaco doorman; we email now). Yes, Grand Cafe, I'm in love with you. Repeat customer for life. It probably helped that I was camped out at the bar all night and shut that place down. It closes early at 11 p.m. on Sundays. Take note if you are headed that way for nightcaps. We headed to a second location that was not nearly as nice. A perfect example of how I wouldn't run things if I owned it—noisy, poorly lit, old man murdering Oasis at 1 a.m.

And here's a look at the breakfast/brunch I had the day before that convinced me to return. Tip: If you check in on Yelp, there's a deal to save 20% on food orders. It may be a little pricey, but it's a nice experience to order something other than a brekkie sando to go. Fyi, it was past noon, so there's no problem on starting those Jamesons early. Anyway, different rules apply for vacations. A most enjoyable meal for Craney and I to have a chat over. 

Grand Cafe

501 Geary (at Taylor)
San Francisco , CA 94102 
(415) 292-0101

grandcafe-sf.com