Opened in 1992, Zazie is more than just a neighborhood French bistro. It is a San Francisco institution. Catherine Opoix named Zazie after the Louis Malle film *Zazie dans le Metro*. Initially, it specialized in American brunches and Provençal dinners. Zazie quickly became a local favorite.
After five years as General Manager, Jennifer Piallat bought Zazie in 2005. She transformed the restaurant’s culture. Zazie now offers every staff member comprehensive benefits. This includes health and dental insurance, paid sick leave, paid vacation, family leave, and a 401k with employer match.
After 15 years, the 38 employees celebrated over two million dollars in retirement savings. The average age of the employees was just 27. Zazie spearheaded the Tip Free movement. Instead of tips, they favor living wages and revenue shares. 25% of every menu item goes directly to the staff as revenue share. No tips are expected at Zazie.
In 2020, Jen sold Zazie to three long-time employees. Mario Rojas, Francisco Romero, and Megan Cornelius now operate and manage Zazie. They maintain the warm and friendly atmosphere that Zazie is known for.
Zazie’s dedication extends to the food. You can customize your meal. Order one to three brunch items to suit your appetite. The buttermilk pancakes are a star dish. They have a crisp exterior with a fluffy center. A touch of buttermilk sourness cuts through the sweetness.
Zazie is located at 941 Cole Street. It is a cornerstone of San Francisco’s Cole Valley. The restaurant is always full. Expect to wait for a table. The heated, covered garden patio is a delightful place to dine. It is perfect for casual meals with friends and family. Zazie is a popular spot for celebrations. Rehearsal dinners, baby showers, and birthdays are often hosted here.
Zazie walks the line between French bistro and American breakfast cafe. It draws crowds who consider it the best brunch in SF. The French menu includes dishes like poulet Français. This is chicken breast stuffed with mushrooms and herbs.
On a sunny day, Zazie is bathed in a golden light. It feels like the South of France has come to San Francisco. Zazie is pleasant, loud, and zany. It is exactly what a casual French restaurant should be.