About
Welcome to Cafe International: a cherished gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco at 508 Haight St. This cozy eatery serves as a comforting refuge for both locals and visitors alike, thanks to its inviting atmosphere and delicious offerings.
Cafe International specializes in sandwiches that cater to various palates, ensuring there's something for everyone. Their menu is complemented by an array of delightful baked goods, including mouthwatering sweet breads like Banana Bread, Pumpkin, and Baklava, as well as decadent cakes such as Chocolate and Red Velvet. The cookies are equally tempting, ranging from classic Peanut Butter to Fudge Brownies. Each visit, you can indulge in flavors that evoke the nostalgia of home cooking.
What sets Cafe International apart is not just the food, but the atmosphere. The reviews speak volumes: patrons describe it as a "cozy little spot" ideal for unwinding or working. Lisa X. captures it well, saying it feels like "an acquaintance you just kind of know, but not quite a friend yet"—a space that slowly draws you in, making you feel at home.
The ambience is marked by a casual vibe, moderate noise, and cushy seating, which invites you to linger. The staff goes above and beyond in service; Ivomir K. highlights how employees ensure comfort, making it an ideal spot to spend time working or relaxing with friends. Lizzie S. notes the unique charm of this café, emphasizing the history embedded within its walls and how the community rallied to preserve it during tough times.
Cafe International stands out not only for its fare but also for its welcoming spirit. Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast, need a place to work, or simply want to enjoy a good cup of coffee, this café will make you feel right at home. So, come visit and discover why it’s more than just a café—it's a beloved community hub where delicious food meets heartfelt service.
“ Been here a few times. This place feels familiar, like an acquaintance you just kind of know, but not quite a friend yet. Maybe you both came from two different planets but somehow you ended up on earth, here in beautiful San Francisco. And then one of you invites the other over, maybe you order a sandwich or a snack and they get you some coffee, you settle in and start talking and you both start to click. Kind of like that. Comfy. I usually go for my Americano. Located on Haight & Fillmore. ”
“ Have a pleasure, enjoying my coffee and my scone at this place, but what Most stood up to me when I asked for a charger, both of the employees who went above and beyond to find the cable and the charger that I need and make sure that I'm comfortable and good ”
“ Love cafe international! It's so cozy inside, the perfect place to spend a rainy day. The service is also great, feels very homey and the food is delicious. It's a great coworking place away from home ”
“ A nice cozy little spot to do work in. They have a lot of different breakfast options as well. The coffee tastes good. There's Wi-Fi and plenty of tables. I'd recommend if you're looking for a spot to spend like half a day at and do work in. ”
“ Cozy, cushy, old-school comfort zone. Great food, great atmosphere, great drinks, and great people. This isn't like most coffee shops or cafes in San Francisco! It almost closed down but the community rallied to save it, and the city is better for it. There's history here and it feels like home--something some of the newer, flashier cafes lack. Yummy croque monsieur and other sandwiches and baked goods. Very comfy seating. ”
“ Oh gosh! I had such a great experience here today. First time customer, found them through infatuation SF "best places near me to get serious work done". Meaning i have enough space to privately sit with my laptop and headphones for a few hours, uninterrupted, to get stuff done. Cappuccino: DELIGHTFUL, the barista wrote my full middle eastern name into the foam! I've never seen it spelled out in a cap My Bagel Sandwich came with more accoutrements than at most places for 6.50! delightfully crispy, creamy-cheesy goodness served with a smile. Strawberry Smoothie to finish it off The music was loud, but pleasant in an unexpectedly awesome way. I'm usually sensitive but chose to sit near the speakers and really....Get. Stuff. Done. If you prefer more quiet, they have plenty of seating away from the one speaker Outdoor seating - yes. Your friend's diy cute backyard vibes, calm, cute!!! Outdoor plug for charging: i didn't see one. Indoor seating - yes. or Indoor plug for charging: yes! Small business & locally owned for yearssss. so glad i came in and got to interact with the awesome staff and get away from my chaotic house (where I'm constantly needed). PSA to gross negative reviewers below: Stop nickel and dimming small businesses over a $.5 charge. How many times have big banks or insurances hit you with some dumb fee significantly higher? Anyway!!! Go support this business ”
“ Food: I ordered a Lox Bagel. I was surprised to see that the bagel came on a plate with the toppings neatly arranged on the side - and I found that I quite prefer it this way. It allows for the freedom of choice for what & how many toppings one would like to have at a time. Service: order at the counter and pick up when your name is called, then bus your own table. The owner is very welcoming and kind. Ambiance: Near the entrance, there are plenty of cozy plush chairs and couches to sink into. There are plenty of wooden tables and chairs as well in the majority of the cafe. This appears to be a great place to study, write, or work in peace. The cozy aspect is something I would return for. ”
“ The service here was top notch. Some of the nicest cashiers / baristas I've ever met and they really seem to know what they're doing! Overall, seems like a really welcoming place for anyone to sit down and enjoy. Also prices are affordable and wifi is pretty stable for working. The food / drink was decent but I think it just also wasn't my cup of tea! Super fast though. ”
“ This was my first stop in San Francisco as I needed a pick me up. The staff was wonderfully pleasant and explained the difference of Turkish coffee. I was intrigued and gave it a try - OMG. It includes flavors of cardamom and ginger which was a wonderful herbal addition that I will be thinking about forever now. The coffee did not include cream, but was thick and creamy itself without it. I'm obsessed! The cafe itself was very open air with open doors and a back patio with plenty of plants and mural art. This was a wonderful stop on my walk, I'd recommend it, specifically give the Turkish Coffee a try! ”