The French Spot Introduce
Introduction / Overview
For residents and visitors in the California Bay Area seeking an exquisite blend of savory lunch options, high-quality coffee, and authentic French bakery delights, look no further than The French Spot. Situated in the heart of San Francisco at 1042 Larkin St, this establishment is a multi-faceted culinary haven, expertly identifying as a Pastry shop, Bakery, Dessert shop, and, critically for a satisfying meal, a premier Sandwich shop. It’s not just a place to grab a bite; it's a dedicated, women-owned business that radiates passion and intentionality in every item crafted.
The menu at The French Spot is a thoughtfully curated reflection of classic French café culture, brought to life with a fresh, artisan touch. While the reputation often begins with the "smell of buttery croissants" and the excellence of their pastries—which customers describe as being "bursting with freshness and heart"—the savory lunch offerings are equally noteworthy. Gourmet sandwiches, featuring options like the classic Croque Monsieur, the rich Pastrami, and the delicious Portobello Caramelized Onions sandwich, stand ready to transform your midday meal. These items showcase a commitment to fresh ingredients and rich, balanced flavors that elevate the standard sandwich experience.
The dining experience is designed to be inclusive and convenient, catering to a wide array of local California customers. The spot is openly LGBTQ+ friendly and boasts a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone feels welcome. Service options are highly flexible, including Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, In-store pickup, and In-store shopping, making it easy to enjoy their offerings whether you’re rushing on a "Quick visit" or settling in for a relaxed moment of indulgence. With a recognized highlight for "Great dessert" and a diverse offering of artisan Coffee and fresh juices, The French Spot is a perfect destination for Breakfast and Dessert—and, of course, a gourmet sandwich lunch. This combination of top-tier quality, authentic cuisine, and flexible service truly sets The French Spot apart in the competitive San Francisco dining landscape.
Location and Accessibility
The French Spot is conveniently located at 1042 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA. This address places it centrally within one of the city's dynamic, high-traffic neighborhoods, making it highly accessible for anyone traveling through the Bay Area. The Larkin Street location puts it within easy reach of the busy Nob Hill and Tenderloin districts, appealing to both local residents and professionals working in the nearby financial and commercial areas.
Accessibility for California users is excellent, especially with regard to the physical space and service options. The business specifically highlights having a Wheelchair accessible entrance, which is a crucial feature for ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons. Furthermore, the extensive range of service options—including Delivery, In-store pickup, and Takeout—means that even those with tight schedules or transportation limitations can easily access the menu without needing to find a parking spot or dedicate time to a dine-in experience. For those who choose to visit, the location is generally considered easy to find and integrate into a downtown itinerary, offering a comfortable, friendly spot around the corner from major hotels and local thoroughfares.
The combination of a central San Francisco address and a commitment to broad physical and service accessibility makes The French Spot a highly convenient and inclusive choice for the California community seeking high-quality French pastries and gourmet sandwiches.
Services Offered
The French Spot offers a comprehensive suite of services designed for flexibility and convenience, catering to the diverse needs of the California consumer.
UL
LI Dine-in: Guests are welcome to enjoy their meal and coffee in the charming, friendly atmosphere of the shop, which is described as being warm and passionate.
LI Takeout: Designed for speed and convenience, this option allows customers to quickly pick up orders, perfect for those on a "Quick visit" or during a lunch break.
LI Delivery: For maximum convenience across the local area, food can be brought directly to the customer’s home or workplace.
LI In-store Pickup: Customers can place orders ahead of time, ensuring their food is ready for a seamless, rapid collection upon arrival.
LI In-store Shopping: Allows for browsing the extensive selection of pastries, desserts, and savory items before making a purchase.
LI Flexible Payment Options: Accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments ensures a smooth and modern transaction process.
LI Catering to All Crowds: The business proudly maintains an LGBTQ+ friendly environment, ensuring a welcoming space for all members of the community.
UL
Features / Highlights
The French Spot distinguishes itself through a strong focus on authenticity, quality ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that resonates well with the discerning California palate.
UL
LI Women-Owned Business: Identified as a women-owned establishment, reflecting a commitment to diversity and community leadership in the San Francisco food scene.
LI Exceptional French Pastries: A major highlight, the bakery is famous for its flaky, buttery croissants and inventive treats like the Twice Baked Raspberry Almond Croissant and Kouign Aman.
LI Gourmet Sandwich Focus: Offers a high-quality selection of gourmet sandwiches, including French classics like the Croque Monsieur, appealing to those seeking a substantial, flavorful lunch.
LI Artisan Coffee & Drinks: Features a thoughtful drinks menu including Matcha Latte, Cold Brew, and an Iced Vietnamese Coffee, indicating a commitment to quality beverages alongside the food.
LI Great Dessert Selection: Specifically highlighted by customers and the business itself, featuring tempting options such as Banana Cream Pie, New York Style Cheesecake, and unique treats like Ube Mochi.
LI Authenticity and Technique: Customers praise the baking technique, noting the "signature buttery crispness" of the pastries and the house-made crusts used in the savory quiches.
LI High Accessibility Standards: Provides a Wheelchair accessible entrance, showcasing a dedication to serving the entire community.
LI Friendly and Warm Service: Customer reviews repeatedly mention the friendly and warm service, enhancing the overall café experience.
UL
Contact Information
To plan your visit, place an order, or inquire about the menu, The French Spot can be contacted using the following information:
Address: 1042 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Phone: (917) 545-7009
Mobile Phone: +1 917-545-7009
The dual phone contact ensures patrons, whether placing a quick takeout order or seeking general information, can easily reach the attentive staff at this prominent San Francisco spot.
What is Worth Choosing
For any resident of California or visitor in the Bay Area, choosing The French Spot is an undeniable choice for a variety of reasons that go beyond a simple meal. It represents a destination where culinary artistry and welcoming service meet everyday convenience.
The first compelling reason is the unmatched quality of the pastries. As noted by local patrons, the experience is often started by simply "follow the smell of buttery croissants!" These aren't standard bakery items; they are crafted experiences, with the croissants described as being so fresh they "crackle with that signature buttery crispness—almost audibly so." For a memorable Breakfast or a perfect afternoon treat, the Twice Baked Raspberry Almond Croissant or the unique Nutella Babka, Swirl are must-try items that justify the visit alone.
However, what makes The French Spot an exceptional choice for lunch is its dual commitment to both sweet and gourmet savory offerings. If you are specifically seeking a satisfying sandwich, the Croque Monsieur is highly recommended for a taste of French café authenticity. Alternatively, the hearty Pastrami or the vegetarian-friendly Portobello Caramelized Onions sandwich provides a substantial and well-crafted meal. Pairing any sandwich with one of the artisanal drinks, like the strong Iced Vietnamese Coffee or the refreshing Iced Hibiscus Tea, completes the perfect lunch.
Lastly, by choosing to frequent The French Spot, you are supporting a dedicated women-owned business that prioritizes quality, community, and accessibility. The intentionally crafted menu, the flexible service options (Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in), and the warm, inclusive atmosphere make it a standout local establishment. Whether you need a sophisticated grab-and-go lunch, a box of exquisite desserts for a special occasion, or a friendly place to enjoy a cup of coffee, this Larkin Street gem offers a rare blend of quality and care that makes every choice on the menu a worthwhile indulgence. It truly delivers on its promise to craft experiences, not just bake pastries, making it a valuable addition to the California food scene.
The French Spot Menu
Drinks
- Matcha Latte $8.00
Matcha latte, made with ceremonial grade matcha from Asha. Served cold over ICE, specify in comments if preferred hot.
- Iced Latte $6.25
- Orange Juice $4.75
- Cold Brew $5.75
- Iced Hibiscus Tea $5.00
hibiscus flowers, orange peel, and rose hips
- Iced Vietnamese Coffee $7.00
Rich, robust coffee blended with sweetened condensed milk and served over ice (Double shot espresso + cold brew + condensed milk + half & half)
- Iced Chai Latte $7.00
Fresh, in house infusion of chai tea with notes of ginger.
Croissants & Breakfast Pastries
- Vegan Blueberry Muffin $5.25
Citrusy (orange & lemon flavors), soft blueberry muffin. Vegan!
- Blueberry Streusel Muffin $5.50
Blueberry muffin topped with crumbly streusel.
- Twice Baked Raspberry Almond Croissant $8.00
Croissant loaded with a toasted almond cream and housemade raspberry jam, topped with sliced almonds.
- Pain Au Chocolat $6.50
Traditional chocolate croissant with Valrhona chocolate.
- Nutella Babka, Swirl $5.65
A braided croissant rolled and filled with Nutella
- Almond Croissant $6.50
Traditional croissant filled with house made almond paste and topped with roasted almonds.
- Cinnamon Roll $5.75
Croissant dough with cinnamon sugar, topped with a sugary glaze.
- Guava Danish $6.25
Cream cheese Danish with guava jam.
- Banana Spiced Muffin With Cream Cheese Icing $6.25
Moist banana spiced muffin topped with house made cream cheese icing.
- Croissant $5.80
Traditional butter croissant.
- Kouign Aman $5.75
sweet and flaky caramelized croissant.
- Matcha White Chocolate Cookie $4.75
- Chocolate Chip Cookie $4.75
Chocolate chip
- Morning Bun $5.75
Bun made with our croissant dough, filled with candied lemon and sprinkled with sugar.
- Double Ham & Cheese Croissant $8.25
Traditional croissant filled with Black Forest ham and Swiss cheese.
Pies & Desserts
- Pumpkin Pie $8.00
Pumpkin pie with cream, pumpkin seeds, and a dusting of pumpkin spice.
- Salted Caramel Apple Pie $8.00
Crumbly apple pie, drizzled with sea salt caramel
- Carrot Cake $8.00
3 layer carrot cake, no nuts. Rich cream cheese filling, crunchy white chocolate pearls.
- Sweet Potato Pie $6.75
Sweet potato pie with our house made pie crust and topped with meringue
- Croissant Bread Pudding $6.25
soft and custardy croissant bread pudding, topped with cream cheese icing and raspberry jam.
- New York Style Cheesecake $8.00
Creamy New York style cheesecake topped with blueberries and cream cheese icing.
- Ube Mochi $6.50
Chewy ube coconut mochi cake. Vegan and gluten free!
- Black Sesame Mochi $6.50
Black sesame mochi covered with black sesame seeds.
- Banana Cream Pie $8.00
Our house made pie crust filled with bananas & pastry cream (custard), topped with a toasted meringue and caramelized banana.
Savory Pastries
- Spinach And Tomato Quiche $8.50
Vegetarian quiche filled with tomato, spinach and cheddar cheese, in our house made pie crust shell.
- Ham And Cheese Quiche $8.50
Quiche filled with Black Forest ham and cheddar cheese, in our house made pie crust shell.
- Focaccia Margherita $9.50
8" focaccia bread, margherita sauce, pesto, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese (pesto contains pinenuts)
- Korean Garlic Cream Cheese Bun $7.50
Brioche bun filled with garlic cream cheese.
Sandwiches
- Breakfast Croissant $11.75
egg frittata, cheddar cheese, mayo, on croissant
- Portobello Caramelized Onions $17.50
Roasted whole portobello cap on our toasted sourdough bread, caramelized onions and goat cheese spread, with a balsamic glaze drizzle.
- Pastrami $17.50
Thick cut pastrami on our toasted sourdough with melted Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and house made Russian sauce.
- Turkey Swiss Cheese $16.75
Turkey thigh meat slices accompanied by sliced Swiss cheese, spinach, tomato, mayo, and mustard on soft focaccia bread.
- Croque Monsieur $17.50
Thick cut slices of smoky Black Forest ham on our toasted milk bread, between slices of melted Swiss cheese and topped with a Parmesan cream. This is the classic French ham and cheese sandwich. Best eaten warm!
The French Spot Details
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store pickup
- In-store shopping
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Great dessert
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Coffee
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Dessert
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
The French Spot Photos










The French Spot Location
The French Spot
1042 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
The French Spot Reviews
croissantkouign amanndanishquichehambutteryubemochiguavasesame
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Found this place around the corner from hotel where I was staying -- just followed the smell of buttery croissants! Great coffee and excellent french pastries, with lots of choices. Place is small, but service is friendly and warm (shout out to Z!).
September 25 · Steve T⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️An Exquisite Taste of France — Bursting with Freshness and HeartFrom the moment you step in, The French Spot radiates passion. Every pastry—whether a flaky croissant or the inventive Mochicro—is baked fresh daily, delivering a symphony of textures and flavors that instantly captivate the senses .The croissants, especially the Mochicro with its delicate glaze and chewy mochi center, crackle with that signature buttery crispness—almost audibly so, reminding you just how fresh they are Desserts like the croissant bread pudding, kouign‑amann, and mini pies are equally mesmerizing—and good luck leaving without trying at least one.But it’s not just the sweetness that shines—the savory offerings are equally thoughtful. The tomato‑spinach and ham‑cheese quiches use house‑made crusts and rich fillings, standing out for their balance and freshness. Even the drinks—a vibrant iced Vietnamese coffee and house‑infused chai latte—feel artisanal, crafted to elevate each biteWhat truly sets The French Spot apart is the intentionality behind every detail. The menu reads like a love letter to French café culture—from the tender quiches and vibrant sandwiches to the towering display of sweet treats and pet‑friendly patio vibesIn short: this place doesn’t just bake pastries—it crafts experiences. Each bite is a testament to fresh ingredients, impeccable technique, and heartfelt dedication. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of quality and care wrapped in every croissant and quiche.Five stars all the way.
September 04 · Neil DumraThe French Spot, on Larkin just North of Post offers a selection of French pastries and coffee. We ordered a selection of items for friends, which I hope to review later.The Cappuccino was presented very nicely and the staffs engagement was infighting and friendly.The cappuccino, although a bit wet, was high quality for neighborhood Spot. It’s clear to me the owners legitimately want to provide their clients a French experience in the heart of SF. If you’ve read my reviews, it’s clear I have a place reserved in my heart for French patisserie’s.If you’ve read find yourself between the Tenderloin and Market, make a stop and treat yourself. You will enjoy it.
May 18 · Michael BeauregardFrench/Asian inspired Pastry place. Ube mochi was so so good. Wish I lived close by so I can go back and try other pastries.
September 01 · SY GThe stuff is so nice and the place is cozy and sweet. The pastries tastes amazing, and the prices are really nice!
August 04 · David Perelman
More Bakery Near Me
L.H.Bakeshop5.0 (36 reviews)Sutter @, Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Stirred, Not Shaken4.0 (12 reviews)1488 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Make Snacks0.0 (0 reviews)1350 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Empanadas Argentinas3.0 (4 reviews)1035 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Sam's Bakery4.0 (106 reviews)803 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Bobu2019s Donuts4.0 (30 reviews)1720 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Hot Cookie4.0 (690 reviews)1817 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
b. patisserie4.0 (43 reviews)350 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Oh La La Cake Creations0.0 (0 reviews)2134 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Golden Gate Donuts4.0 (68 reviews)6 6th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA
Lil' Menace Bakeshop5.0 (2 reviews)1414 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA
ONE65 Patisserie & Boutique4.0 (538 reviews)165 O'Farrell St 1st Floor, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Categories
Top Visited Sites
The Cake Studio4.0 (58 reviews)
Rocco's Doughnut Company4.0 (57 reviews)
Benson's Bagels4.0 (578 reviews)
Mochinut4.0 (88 reviews)
Pasteleria Bakery4.0 (11 reviews)
The Market at The Henry Clay Inn®5.0 (2 reviews)Top Searches
Trending Bakery Tales Posts
How to Create the Perfect Caramel Apple Pie: Expert Tips and Flavor Secrets
How to Create a Perfect Dessert Buffet with Your Favorite Pastries
How to Make the Best Pumpkin Churros from Scratch at Home
How to Make the Perfect Homemade Cinnamon Roll Cake
How to Bake the Best Homemade Apple Crisp with Real Flavor
How to Make Perfect Chocolate Lava Cakes from Scratch 
