Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
- Great wine list
- Great tea selection
oChef » Zazie – San Francisco
Zazie - San Francisco
Photo from Zazie
Zazie at a glance
San Francisco Cole Valley
- 🥐 French Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 156 of the guests
#1802 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#27 French Restaurant out of 28 in San Francisco
Good
6.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
999
Reviews
64.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious pancakes
- Cozy patios
- Ethical model
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Slow service
- Cramped space
The restaurant Zazie, a charming French Restaurant nestled in San Francisco’s vibrant Cole Valley, invites you to a delightful culinary journey. You’ll discover a truly memorable dining experience, especially if you appreciate a great dessert to cap off your meal.
This cozy spot offers a romantic yet casual atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed brunch or an intimate dinner. With its inviting ambiance and delicious offerings, Zazie promises a taste of France right in the heart of the city.
Overview: Introducting Zazie
Zazie offers a distinctive dining experience, often celebrated for its appealing food and inviting ambience, particularly its charming outdoor spaces. Many appreciate the restaurant’s ethical business model, ensuring staff are well-compensated.
However, some diners find the overall value to be a point of contention, with concerns about pricing. While service is generally friendly, there can be occasional inconsistencies in attentiveness or wait times.
Good
6.8
out of 10
999
Reviews
64.1%
Satisfaction
269
negative
90
neutral
640
positive
Zazie garners a Restaurant Score of 6.8, placing it in the good category, yet its Customer Satisfaction sits at a mixed 64.1%. This divergence suggests that while many have positive experiences, a notable portion of the 999 opinions (640 positive versus 269 negative) express reservations.
Looking closer, Food (7.2) and Ambience (7.2) are clear strengths, with diners frequently praising specific dishes like the Miracle Pancakes and the cozy patios. Service (6.8) is also rated well, often noted for its friendly staff.
The primary area for improvement appears to be Value (4.8), where pricing and perceived cost-effectiveness draw more critical feedback.
What people like
- Delicious, unique pancakes
- Cozy outdoor patios
- Ethical business model
What people don't like
- High prices, poor value
- Inconsistent service/waits
- Cramped, noisy interior
Zazie presents a unique proposition, especially for those who value a restaurant’s ethical approach to its employees and enjoy a vibrant, cozy setting. Its culinary offerings, particularly brunch items, often hit the mark.
If you’re prepared for potentially higher prices and possible waits, Zazie, with a Recommendation Score of 7.1, is worth considering for its distinct charm and commitment to its staff.
Similar Restaurants in San Francisco
- French Restaurant
8.5
out of 10
out of 10
413
86.4%
- $$
- Union Square
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- French Restaurant
8.4
out of 10
out of 10
544
87.5%
- $$
- Cow Hollow
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- French Restaurant
8.3
out of 10
out of 10
347
85.3%
- $$
- Alamo Square
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- French Restaurant
8.2
out of 10
out of 10
672
82.3%
- $$
- Jordan Park
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- French Restaurant
8.2
out of 10
out of 10
403
83.6%
- $$
- Lower Nob Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- French Restaurant
8.1
out of 10
out of 10
586
79.9%
- $$
- Union Square
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Zazie
Food (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
Food
504
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
101
negative
55
neutral
348
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
What people don't like
Often praised
- foodThe establishment is tip free because they pay their workers a livable wage, along with healthcare, profit share, and 401k. Not only is the food good, but you’ll feel really good about supporting an establishment that treats their workers like real people.
- brunchIt has been consistently great for years. While brunch is awesome, I really love their dinner. The food is a perfect 5, and the atmosphere is also a perfect 5.
- pancakesMy experience at Zazie's was truly special, largely thanks to their Miracle Pancakes. They were incredibly fluffy, rich, and absolutely delicious. Each bite melted in my mouth with a perfect blend of sweetness and lightness.
- pork choporder the pork chop. You will not regret it. It’s actually massive but absolutely delicious.
- FoodFood:5
- eggsI ordered the Italian-style scrambled eggs with tomatoes, which were so simple but packed with flavor. The eggs were perfectly creamy and the tomatoes added just the right amount of freshness. The service was also amazing - super friendly and quick, which made the whole experience even better.
- eggs benedictI love their different kinds of eggs benedict
- potatoesRegarding the food, the Divorcee Eggs Benedict had solid ingredients and was well made overall, though I wanted a little more. I loved the potatoes. The Miracle Pancake (lemon poppyseed with lemon curd on top) was good, but would have been better with a whipped cream/mascarpone topping.
- Miracle PancakesToday's special pancakes where called the Miracle Pancakes (made with sour cream and poppy seeds). So good!
- eggs BenedictThe eggs Benedict were fantastic
Frequently criticized
- foodI was expecting an awesome French breakfast experience, but unfortunately, it was a letdown. Despite all the rave reviews, the food was not good and not worth coming back for. The pancakes were just 'meh, ' the French toast was too dry and lacked flavor, and the café latte was comparable to average coffee shop coffee.
- coffeeThe most significant issue with the food was the portion sizes – they were incredibly small, leaving everyone hungry. Even the $5 coffee was tiny, served in an 8oz mug with no refills. The most disappointing aspect was the price.
- potatoesThe bread was tough, and the salmon had a slightly fishy taste, suggesting it wasn't the freshest. The accompanying potatoes lacked seasoning. The Tahiti French toast was rich and satisfying, but it could have benefited from crispier edges.
- French toastFrench toast was too dry with no flavor
- breadThe smoked wild salmon sandwich was disappointing. The bread was tough, and the salmon had a slightly fishy taste, suggesting it wasn't the freshest. The accompanying potatoes lacked seasoning.
- gluten free pancakesIt was terrible. Basically, it tasted like oatmeal banana mush fried in a pan. There were not significant topping options to hide this either, so I ended up ordering a cup of strawberries (setting me back an extra $6) in an attempt to make it edible.
- nothing specialit’s nothing special
- qualityprice is crazy for the quality you're getting
- BenedictI wasn't super impressed. I had the Benedict, and it was a bit bland. However, the service was excellent, a perfect 5 out of 5.
- Crab Eggs Benedictuneventful Crab Eggs Benedict called La Mer
Service (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 81% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot has some real shining moments! Many guests raved about the 143 positive experiences, highlighting excellent service from friendly people like Josh and Tessa, often praising the no-tip policy and fair wages for staff. The overall score for service sits at a respectable 6.8, indicating a generally good experience for many.
However, it's not always smooth sailing, with 69 negative opinions contributing to a mixed customer satisfaction of 62.7%. Some diners encountered long wait times and slow service, with a few mentioning rude server interactions or inattentive staff. It seems the experience can vary, especially during busy periods.
Service
228
Reviews
62%
Satisfaction
69
negative
16
neutral
143
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fair employee compensation
- Friendly, attentive staff
- No-tip policy
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Slow service
- Inattentive staff
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The atmosphere was cozy and not too loud, complemented by efficient and friendly service. I tried the French toast with caramelized peaches, which was incredible – perfectly balanced and not overly sweet.
- staffThe mashed potatoes were also good, and I always appreciate the complimentary rolls. The environment was cozy, and the staff were fun to talk with. The only minor point was the bathroom, which was just 'meh'.
- ServiceThe food is a perfect 5, and the atmosphere is also a perfect 5. Service is also top-notch.
- waitThe food was excellent, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed meal. We were seated quickly with no wait, and the service was top-notch. The noise level was quiet, making it easy to converse.
- wait timethe wait time was not bad
- workersThe establishment is tip free because they pay their workers a livable wage, along with healthcare, profit share, and 401k. Not only is the food good, but you’ll feel really good about supporting an establishment that treats their workers like real people.
- peopleVery nice people
- serverZazie offers a charming ambiance with both indoor and outdoor seating. Our server was friendly and attentive, which was a plus. However, our brunch experience was a mixed bag.
- 401K matchincluding a 401K match?
- AdelleAdelle came and ate here and blew up this place
Frequently criticized
- serviceHowever, they are expensive, not like in France. The service was terrible, and the place was very small and noisy. Supposedly, tips are included, and given the prices, I certainly hope so.
- waitIt is a favorite of my daughters'. It was Mother's Day, so the wait was over an hour. We went and got coffee on the corner to wait.
- serverserver been more attentive to me in checking the taste.
- wait timeThe food was amazing, earning a high rating. However, the wait time is long, so it's advisable to go early or be prepared to wait around an hour. The service was slow at the end, as we waited 20 minutes just for the check.
- checkHe dropped the check about 45 mins before closing
- ServiceService:2
- customer servicetrain your staff in good customer service
- daily specialsI was not presented with the daily specials containing omelettes.
- food took a whileThe food took a while
- friendswarning all of my friends to stay away
If you're looking for a place that values its employees and often delivers friendly, attentive service, this could be a great pick. Just be prepared for potential wait time challenges, especially during peak hours, as service consistency can be a bit of a mixed bag.
Ambience (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 65% of the guests
The ambiance here generally hits the mark, scoring a 7.2 and earning a 72.6% customer satisfaction rate, which is quite good! Many of the 114 positive remarks rave about the charming backyard patio and covered patio options, often heated, creating a cozy atmosphere with cute decor and welcoming vibes perfect for any occasion. However, it's not without its quirks.
A smaller group of 33 comments pointed out issues like a cramped and noisy interior, uncomfortable seating, and even occasional foul garbage smell or kitchen/dishwasher smell in certain areas, which can detract from the overall experience.
Ambience
157
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
33
negative
10
neutral
114
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Charming outdoor patio
- Cozy, welcoming atmosphere
- Cute decor and music
What people don't like
- Cramped, noisy interior
- Unpleasant odors reported
- Uncomfortable seating options
Often praised
- atmosphereThe service was friendly and attentive, and we appreciated the convenience of the waitlist feature. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere with a bustling crowd and good energy. We also liked that the pricing includes tipping, making the overall dining experience more transparent.
- patioThe miracle pancakes are now my favorite in the world; they are a hearty cornbread-based pancake that explodes with flavor, especially with the delicious syrup and compote. The patio in the back is especially cute and very nice for brunch. The staff were all very nice and helpful with the menu.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- back patioback patio, which had a lovely rustic vibe
- placeThe staff are always friendly and welcoming, and just plain lovely. The food is amazing, and the place is very cozy. Zazie is the most authentic French cuisine restaurant I’ve come across in SF.
- backyard patioWe had an amazing brunch in the backyard patio, which was heated and so cozy. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed meal.
- covered patioI was seated on a covered patio that had heaters
- locationLike most places in SF, reservations aren't available, but they use a Yelp waitlist iPad. Expect about an hour wait on weekends, but the close location to GGP is perfect for a pre-brunch walk.
- outdoor patiogreat outdoor patio in the back
- patio areaWe sat in the patio area, cozy and warm
Frequently criticized
- bathroomI felt it wasn't the best value, and perhaps the egg Benedict would have been a better choice. Additionally, there was only one tiny bathroom for a lot of guests, so be prepared to plan your time for a line at the restroom.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:2
- Parking spaceDifficult to find parking
- crampedit was very cramped
- placeHowever, they are expensive, not like in France. The service was terrible, and the place was very small and noisy. Supposedly, tips are included, and given the prices, I certainly hope so.
- Cole ValleyThis was a disappointing end to an otherwise great meal. Cole Valley is also a trek, not a location we frequent, so we made a special trip to Zazie. I hope other desserts can provide a better finale on our next visit.
- French atmosphereIf you look for a French atmosphere don’t go here
- Parking optionsParking is unavailable
- accessibilityNot accessible for tight inside and steps to patio
- atmosphereAtmosphere:1
If youre looking for a charming "patio" experience with a "cozy atmosphere, " especially outdoors, this place is definitely worth a visit. However, if youre sensitive to cramped spaces or potential noisy indoor settings, you might want to consider other options or aim for an outdoor table.
Value (4.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 42% of the guests
Many diners truly appreciate this restaurant's ethical approach to value, often highlighting the no-tipping policy and commitment to a livable wage for staff. The transparent pricing and all-in pricing model, where tips are included, simplifies the bill and supports a business model that garners 35 positive remarks. However, the overall value receives an average score of 4.8, with customer satisfaction sitting at a poor 31.8%.
Many customers, reflected in 66 negative comments out of 110 total, find the exorbitant prices and expensive dishes, often with an embedded auto-tip, make the experience feel overpriced for the quality, leading to a perception of poor value.
Value
110
Reviews
31%
Satisfaction
66
negative
9
neutral
35
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- No-tipping policy
- Fair staff wages
- Transparent pricing
What people don't like
- Exorbitant prices
- Poor value
- Overpriced for quality
Often praised
- tip-freethey are tip-free
- pricesthe prices are good considering they pay a living wage
- tips includedThey offer GF bread, but it's important to note that the eggs Benedict sauce contains gluten, even though it's marked as a GF option due to the English muffin substitute. I really appreciate that tips are included in the price and that the staff are well taken care of with full benefits. Like most places in SF, reservations aren't available, but they use a Yelp waitlist iPad.
- affordable siteThe staff went above and beyond to make our wedding day so special. We highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a small and affordable site to host an event.
- all inclusive pricesloved the all inclusive prices
- all-in pricingI love that it's all-in pricing!
- billit makes the bill very simple
- business model and ethicsi support their business model and ethics
- comprehensive benefitsMy experience at this restaurant was marked by a strong appreciation for their business model and ethics, particularly their comprehensive benefits to all their workers. This commitment justifies the prices, which are fixed to benefit the employees.
- cost of the dishThe cost of the dish is as listed.
Frequently criticized
- priceOn top of that, the presentation was poor and unappealing, falling far below the standard I’d expect from a restaurant at this price point. The total bill came to around $41, which is far too expensive for what I got. On top of that, the seating was incredibly uncomfortable—I felt like I was sitting in the middle of a walkway, which ruined the atmosphere even further.
- prices" Sounds great, right? Except they conveniently bake the tip into the already inflated prices. Every dish is marked up $5-$10 extra, so whether you tip or not, you’re still paying premium prices for mediocre food.
- expensivehow expensive the place is.
- auto-tipZazie’s auto-tip is about $7-8 more than 10 other similar restaurants
- checkchanged the amount of the first transaction
- 20%They preloaded 20% on top so the tip is compulsory
- Eggs Benedict$28 for a standard 2 eggs benedict
- PricesPrices are absurd too
- additional costtipless comes with a hearty additional cost of 17%.
- amount chargedtotal amount charged was for the amount of the first erroneous check
If you prioritize supporting a restaurant with a strong ethical stance on staff wages and appreciate transparent, all-inclusive pricing, this spot might appeal to you. However, be prepared for prices that many find steep, as the value for money is a common point of contention. It's a trade-off between ethical dining and your wallet.
How are the prices at Zazie?
You’re looking at roughly 45 $ per person – reported by 156 diners. That puts it in the $41–$50 category. For a French Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what others spend, we see a good mix! While many guests spend around $21–$30 or $41–$50, there are also options for those looking for a quicker bite or a more premium experience.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 156 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for a French restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers a good range of options, allowing guests to choose between a more casual meal or a slightly more indulgent experience without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Zazie
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Excellent Food and Patio
My experience at this restaurant was very positive. I particularly enjoyed the lovely covered patio in the back. The food was excellent, with a standout pate and a very good pork chop with pears.
The coq au Vin was also very good. I will definitely be back next time I'm in SF.
- covered patio9
- pate9
- pork chop8
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
2
Expensive and Intrusive
I have never been here. They jump into my phone if I'm near. Too expensive for not enough.
No thanks on review of place. Leave me alone with wifi ("I visited").
- price2
- wifi1
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
9
Zazie: A Relaxed Brunch Gem
My experience at Zazie for brunch was fantastic. The pancakes were incredibly fluffy, and the eggs were cooked to perfection. Everything tasted wonderfully fresh.
I also enjoyed the pleasant outdoor patio and the friendly staff. It's a solid spot for a relaxed and tasty meal.
- pancakes9
- eggs9
- fresh9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
10
Lovely Brunch at Zazie!
I had such a lovely time at Zazie! The food was delicious, especially the brunch dishes. The young lady who served us was so sweet and attentive.
The cozy atmosphere made it feel warm and welcoming. I can’t wait to come back!
- food10
- brunch dishes10
- young lady who served us10
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
10
A Long-Time Favorite SF Restaurant
I've been a patron of Zazie since 2004, initially frequenting it for brunch when I resided in the neighborhood. Over the years, I've enjoyed many wonderful meals here and have consistently left satisfied, which is a rarity among San Francisco's ever-changing restaurant scene. The atmosphere is relaxed, the staff are friendly, and the back deck is enchanting in the evening.
It's truly one of my favorite SF restaurants, without a doubt.
- wonderful meals10
- atmosphere8
- staff9
What Zazie offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Zazie?
At Zazie, you can anticipate a cozy and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a casual outing. You’ll find various dining options including breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, all with comfortable seating and table service. Don’t forget to explore their excellent dessert menu.
Does Zazie accommodate specific dietary needs or families?
Yes, Zazie is very accommodating. You’ll find healthy options, organic dishes, and vegetarian options to suit your preferences. For families, Zazie is good for kids, offering a dedicated kids’ menu and high chairs to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone.
How does Zazie generally perform?
Zazie holds a **Restaurant Score** of **6.8**, indicating a generally good experience. Its **Food** (7.2), **Ambience** (7.2), and **Service** (6.8) are well-regarded, though **Value** (4.8) is an area for improvement.
What do customers particularly enjoy about Zazie?
Many diners praise Zazie’s **Miracle Pancakes** and other unique dishes, along with its charming **patio** spaces. The restaurant’s ethical **business model** and fair treatment of staff are also frequently appreciated.
What are some common concerns at Zazie?
Some customers find the **prices** to be high, leading to concerns about **value**. There are also occasional reports of long **wait times** and a **cramped** indoor atmosphere, along with limited parking options.