08/01/05

A sunny spot in the lower Haight!

by biron

An old friend recently invited me to join him at the CAFÉ DU SOLEIL a sunny afternoon. At the counter, the friendly owner greeted us with a smile and showed us the house specialites of colorful pastries and freshly baked breads. The high ceiing and dark wood gave this cafe a uniquely modern yet old world French café flavor. The tarte the we ordered was a delight as was the enormous bowl of café au lait available for an extra 25 cents.

If you want to test your French, the owner who orginates from Nantes gladly obliges.

The music is a fine mix from Piaf to the works of young neighborhood artists.

When in the lower Haight, I highly recommend this French cafe where you can linger either inside or at an outdoor table. I look forward to going back and next time it will be for lunch.

• Pros: Inexpensive, Great Ambiance, Great House Coffee
• Cons: Limited Menu

06/20/05

Love love love this place

by bydnew

Thanks for coming to the neighborhood. I enjoyed an open face monsouir (sp?) in the sun. Other diners were friendly. I even think the guy at the counter was french!

06/02/05

Famed French baker Pascal Rigo brings a touch of Provence to the lower Haight.

by Joanna Currier

The Scene
Blues, yellows and earthy reds color the walls of this airy corner cafe. Sunlight streams through big windows, highlighting lots of little tables, a lovely pastry counter and a long, curvy bar. Rustic details include old French bakery equipment, dark wood furnishings, and a communal table with enough upholstered chairs to accommodate 10. Outdoor seating offers plenty of room to linger with a cafe au lait.

The Food
The French cafe fare is marked by quality and freshness. Thick slabs of homemade breads are slathered with perfect Bechamels, aiolis and other spreads topped with carved ham, turkey, or slow-roasted chicken. Toasty open-faced tartines come with melted gourmet cheeses. Salads include a delightful Nicoise with cold potato, chunked tuna, olives and a heaping pile of mixed greens. Desserts feature warm creme brulee with seasonal berries and an overly sweet chocolate pot de creme. Coffee comes in bowls, a la francaise.