Tarragon Cafe — Restaurant in San Francisco

This review is long overdue since I've gone to Tarragon so many times - Tarragon is such an unbelievably great cafe for so many reasons.

The biggest is the food. Mario cooks up an inspired and mouth-watering menu full of whole foods and fresh ingredients fresh every day. He just doesn't miss. Whether it's the Italian panini loaded with flavor and different ingredients (including a homemade tapenade) for a casual lunch, or the sausage platter to go along with drinks during an evening hangout, or the prime rib with scalloped potatoes for a gourmet dinner without the whole ordeal of going to a fancy restaurant, there's really never an occasion where you shouldn't go to Tarragon. I CAN'T STRESS THIS ENOUGH. You won't find this combination of delicious, gourmet, healthy, and affordable food in such a casual setting ANYWHERE ELSE IN SF.

There's also the impeccable vibes. The whole staff is super friendly and recognizes returning customers. And the clientele contain a good number of Lower Haight neighbors who know each other and have some history with the place. Many people come here to hang out, so it's a great place to strike up a random convo with someone.

Then there's the live music every week. As if Tarragon couldn't know me any better, they get actually good local musicians to come and entertain every Friday and Saturday during dinnertime, free of charge. THIS is how this music is meant to be enjoyed, not in some dry auditorium built for cultural preservation (cough SFJAZZ cough).

All of my friends agree btw. Seeing two cafes across the street from one another (this and Cafe Du Soleil) creates the illusion that they are substitutes. They are not, and that pink cafe down the street can't hold a candle to Tarragon either. Tarragon seems innocent enough from the outside, but it's really a truly...

Today, I had the pleasure of visiting Tarragon Cafe for a business meeting, and I was thoroughly impressed. As I arrived a bit early and found a cozy spot by the large windows, I noticed the staff didn't bat an eye at me sitting alone at a larger table before my companions arrived. Their relaxed and accommodating attitude made me feel right at home.

For my meal, I savored the Veggie Frittata with a side salad, accompanied by a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and a delightful low ABV wine cocktail. Meanwhile, my friend enjoyed the pesto chicken panini with chips. Our colleagues, who were interviewing us for the SF Chronicle, indulged in iced coffees and muffins. Every dish was an experience, prompting us to pause our conversation repeatedly to appreciate the exquisite flavors.

The staff at Tarragon Cafe were not only attentive but also incredibly friendly and personable, adding an extra layer of warmth to our dining experience.

The ambiance of the cafe was inviting, with plenty of natural sunlight streaming in through the large windows. Though outdoor seating was available, we opted to sit inside and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.

If I were to nitpick, the only slight downside was that the music was a tad too loud for our liking, but it didn't detract significantly from the overall experience.

So, Tarragon Cafe exceeded our expectations in every aspect. Whether it's for a business meeting, work/study, or a casual bite, I highly recommend visiting this charming...

Curses to trained chef & owner Mario for making me enjoy foods I've insisted for years I hate. First it was his clam chowder. No way am I eating anything but Manhattan clam chowder. Same sentiment from my New Yorker neighbor Billy. Ok, how is this possible, the chowder is delicious! Baby steps, on to the mayo situation. I've rejected Tarragon's tuna salad sandwich for a year because it has aioli. To me, aioli is a fancy word for mayo & im not having it. Raw eggs & oil? Disgusting. So, Mario gave me a sample & I grudgingly admitted I loved it. Let's agree to not call it aioli & I'll order the sando weekly.

Outdoor tables, large interior, coffee, baguettes, salads, salads, case of tempting pastries & to-go items. There's a lovely wood bar where you can get a glass of wine, or chat with the neighbors. You'll definitely run into them here.

Last month I was desperate to not cook when I had somehow invited 4 people over for dinner. What was I thinking? Mario does catering! He made an amazing meal of short ribs, potatoes, salad... perfect. Check out the soup specials. Everyone seems to have their favorite & keep asking when their soup will come back in rotation. I sheepishly admit, for me, it's the...