Lou's Cafe

336 reviews

1508 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116

www.louscafesf.com

+14156824083

About

Lou's Cafe is a Cafe located at 1508 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116. It has received 336 reviews with an average rating of 4.7 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday9AM-6:30PM
Tuesday9AM-6:30PM
Wednesday9AM-4PM
Thursday11AM-4PM
Friday9AM-6:30PM
Saturday9AM-6:30PM
Sunday9AM-6:30PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Lou's Cafe: 1508 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116

  • Lou's Cafe has 4.7 stars from 336 reviews

  • Cafe

  • "My new favorite spot for sandwiches"

    "Often times, I use Google Reviews as an outlet for hyperbolic rundowns on sustenance I have consumed, but I won't mince words here; Lou's is the best sandwich I have ever had"

    "The sandwiches were very good—I’d definitely come back"

    "Judging by the crowd, it looks like a popular lunchtime location (both takeout and eat-in)"

    "I was looking for a place to have breakfast in another cafe close to this one but it was too crowded"

Reviews

  • Mario O

My new favorite spot for sandwiches. Lou's has so many different choices and I plan on trying them all at some point. I went with the crab melt this time around and it definitely hit the spot. On previous visits I've had their turkey and cranberry, roast beef with mushroom and their ultimate club. So far, Lou's has been on point with each sandwich. Prices are very reasonable. Parking might be a small problem but, just keep looking on the streets parallel to Lou's and you should be fine. They do have the typical lunch and dinner rushes so if you're inclined I would suggest ordering your sandwich ahead of time and basically cut your wait time in half. I suggest looking at their menu before hand so it makes ordering less overwhelming with all the deliscious choices. Would I come back? I've been back 4 times at this location and plan on using them to cater for an upcoming luncheon at work.

  • Mitchell Yin

Often times, I use Google Reviews as an outlet for hyperbolic rundowns on sustenance I have consumed, but I won't mince words here; Lou's is the best sandwich I have ever had. Boasting an impossibly large menu that guarantees anticipated revisits, Lou's sandwiches are quite unlike any other out there. From their special sauce (and while every hole in the wall establishment can lay claim to a special sauce, this is well worth the title) ((and no its not mayonnaise left in the sun)), jalapeno sauce, soft Dutch Crunch rolls, or propensity to add crab meat to everything, you really can't go wrong with whatever you get. Though I must recommend the Risky Business sandwich. Service is prompt and friendly, and dining space is available, though you can do yourself better and take it to a nearby park and attempt to eat this gargantuan hoagie in dignified peace.

  • J C

The sandwiches were very good—I’d definitely come back. They use Boar’s Head meats, the sandwiches were large for the price and the sauces were excellent. My only gripe is that my sandwich came out toasted, which I didn’t ask for (or want). I double checked the menu to make sure I didn’t miss this as their default preparation, and it didn’t say anything about toasting. I ordered Turkey and Swiss on dutch crunch, so was expecting a cold sandwich, as the photos I saw didn’t look toasted. I didn’t make a big deal or have them remake it or anything—I took it as it was and it was still pretty good, but I found that toasting the sandwich changed the crunchy outside, chewy inside characteristic of the bread. All in all, it was very tasty, but next time I’ll make sure to tell them not to toast my order.

  • Ray Kuryla

Judging by the crowd, it looks like a popular lunchtime location (both takeout and eat-in). Based on a recommendation I got from a person that I met that lives in the neighborhood, I tried their clam chowder. I was not disappointed. It was delicious, and two pieces of cheese bread came with the nice, thick, clam-rich chowder. I noticed the myriad sandwich choices on their menu board. Many were being made for the lunch crowd; they looked like really nice-size sandwiches. The place is small, so I noticed that lunchtime seating is at a premium.

  • Andres Queipo

I was looking for a place to have breakfast in another cafe close to this one but it was too crowded. We were in a hurry so we walk one more block and we found this place. We wasn’t expecting too much … the sandwich’s were sooo good OMG. I ordered the Loquito sandwich and my wife ordered Romas club … both were delicious … the bread is soo good. I recommended 100% this place… the service was good and the restaurant was clean.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

  • Rebecca DeAngelis

Stumbled across this cafe last weekend and just came back for the second time. Delicious sandwiches, very friendly service, great prices. LOVE the jalapeño spread. The owner was also kind enough to remake one of our sandwiches when I had mistakenly ordered the wrong bread. Thank you so much, we will be back!!!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Tuna Melt, Sandwiches

  • arendida100

The shop is always clean and well maintained. The sandwiches are made of the finest Boar's Head fresh deli meat and the rolls that are used are always fresh. It is wheel chair accessible and has a group of very hard working employees who are an excellent team and can turn out lots of different sandwiches in a very reasonable time. If you have a large order you can call it in and pick it up. Lou's Café Taraval is the best sandwich shop on Taraval.

  • Mekah Kaur

I had the most delicious sandwich here, I got the hot link sandwich which hit all the right spots. The bread tasted fresh, soft on the inside, and crispy on the inside. The house sauce is absolutely amazing! I definitely suggest hitting this place up.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Martha Hernandez

First time in San Francisco, I am really happy that my daughter chose this place to get a breakfast sandwich. This was a very pleasant experience the customer service was excellent, very polite and friendly. Food excellent for sure this is one of the places that you may want to try if you come to visit.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20

  • Jessica

This place is outstanding. The food is great, the service is quick and the environment is comfortably casual, unlike other local sandwich chains that come with a pretentious vibe. I went for the chicken pesto sandwich on Dutch crunch and it was heavenly! The bread was toasted, the cheese was melty and I'm now a firm believer that pesto is the perfect addition to any sandwich.

  • Virginia Marquez

I was looking for having a quick lunch, being new to the country I didn’t understand anything but this sandwiches made my life happy and easier. They are soooo good and super big. They get the 3 B in Spanish, bueno bonito y barato. I recommend a lot!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Brian Osweiler

We stumbled upon this gem and we’re very glad we did. I had the Roma and we also got a chicken pesto and a veggie. All three were delicious and generous portions. We took half home and they were almost as good the second time around. If you’re in the area and you like sandwiches, give this place a try.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Alyssa Chan

Best breakfast sandwich ever. Stumbled upon this place and let me tell you it is delicious! We are going to get a regular sandwich to go! Will definitely come back
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10
Features
Dine in: Yes
Outdoor seating: Yes
Takeout: Yes
Delivery: Not sure
Curbside pickup: Not sure

  • Kevin Davila

First time stepping into this store, i always go to the one on Geary Blvd. (its near my house) but i really liked this store more, its much bigger! Customer Service is always #1 no matter what store your in,(still haven’t gone to to the downtown location(FiDi) huge sandwiches, & friendly staff! Can’t ask for more! Highly recommend Lou’s to everybody

  • Jaime Carrion Jr.

Got the Space Balls meatball sandwich. Tasty but needs more sauce and would like it toastier great selection of chips and cookies and drinks and even ice cream. The breakfast sandwiches looked bomb and so did so many others!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Recommended dishes
Space Balls, Sandwiches

  • Daire Lyne

This place makes a great sandwich. they also have great salads, i've only tried a few things on the menu but i've been more than satisfied every time. i'm so happy that they don't take apple pay but they do accept Samsung pay !! I detest apple!!! great friendly staff, nice airy spot to wait. they do follow Covid guide lines I will be back

  • Joseph Hsu

Ordered the Kickin RB with jalapeño spread. It had great flavors and just the right amount of kick to it. Prices were very reasonable for SF and service was quick. They have a ton of different sandwich selections so there’s bound to be something for everyone
Service
Take out
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20

  • Adam Fyles

Checked this place out on a whim when I moved out to the Sunset, totally blew me away! I now swing by on a regular basis and have been working my way down the menu, haven't had a bad sandwich yet! Everything looks and tastes fresh, the staff are friendly and laid back, and nothing's too pricey. I can't recommend this place enough.

  • K. Daniels (Papai)

I frequently eat a breakfast Sandwich here and it's delicious. Better than average deli. You can see the ocean from here on a clear day. With outside seating.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Megan

Awesome sandwich for a decent price. Been wanting to try them for a while. I got the Kickin RB with the works (Roast Beef with horseradish). Really nice ratio of ingredients and great flavor. Def on my list of go to sando spots from now on.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Colleen O'Reilly

Oh my goodness! So happy to have found Lou’s! I had the original breakfast sandwich which was AMAZING! And I can’t wait to go back to try many of their sandwiches that sound AMAZING also. Spotless clean and very friendly!!! Thank you!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$1–10

  • Kyle Johansen

Stopped here on a random Google suggestion and glad I did. Sandwich was absolutely delicious. That Dutch crunch bread is stupid bomb. The meats (pastrami and roast beef in this case) were great quality, and all the fixings made an amazing flavor. Will stop by again. Friendly staff and clean place, and restroom

  • STRUT FILMS

Although the prices have gone up over the years, it's still worth it! Some places raise prices, but the flavor does not match a 2x increase. The food hasn't increased 2x hahahaha... However this place has always been a delicious place to it worth $20 a sandwich. I was just lucky for those $7 sandwich days.

  • Paul Lowrey

Huge tasty tuna melt sandwich - two meals worth for me.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking, Paid street parking

  • James Gomez

Decent, no frills sandwich spot. Not the best sandwich I’ve had, but delicious none the less. I had the Italian sandwich and she had the Loquito. Friendly service, and quick! Perhaps we came slightly before the lunch hour on a Tuesday. The prices seemed a bit too high for a sandwich.

  • Harold Regalado

Excellent customer service, Cashier for sure knows how to treat a customer, I liked the neighborhood It reminds me of my childhood neighborhood, good shoot of expresso coffee with whip cream on the top. The staff are welcoming. The Italian sandwich had a spicy twist...jum...

  • Michael Stagg

Breakfast sandwiches are some of the best value for food in SF I have found. Good quality and decent size for less than 10 bucks. Not an ambiance spot but I am partial to divey atmospheres so it checks all the boxes for me.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4

  • Colin Hansen

This place has incredible sandwiches. They know what theyre doing. My go-to sandwiches are the Loquito and of course the Hot Pastrami. Both of the spreads they add are on point. Their clam chowder with extra bread is the best Ive ever had. Love the staff and love the food

  • Arada Notzay

Now how does one perfect an exquisite balance of juiciness so right. Never could call it soggy. But it's just utterly juicy; The uniqueness of the taste, the Magoc sauce combination s unlike your average sandwich. This place is a must try - experience this. Enjoy

  • Calvin Hu

My favorite sandwich spot in the city. I recommend the Hot Pastrami on dutch crunch with everything on it! Their Lou's special sauce is a must.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Parking
Limited street parking

  • mark fedoseyev

Food is as fresh as it gets. Did not expect such quality from a simple sandwich restaurant like this. Bravo.
Service
Dine in
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Miguel Antonio C

It's either my first or second favorite sandwich place in San Francisco. Not counting the location on Geary Street of course. Otherwise, it's a staple for the local Firehouse when we just have no time to cook our lunch. We just say, "let's go to Lou's "

  • Kermit Felt

Delicious! Excellent selection of delicious sandwiches for every taste bud and diet restrictions, except perhaps the gluten-free folks. Great set-up. Courteous and friendly staff. Clean place. Brightly lit with nice seating for those who want to eat in.

  • Doug Kuroda

Had a super delicious sandwich, and the big surprise was the clam chowder. I think it was the best I've ever had, and they serve it with cheese bread. Employees are super polite and prompt. Nice facilities. Prices are good. We'll be back for sure! More

  • Sean Johnson

Can't rate this place high enough. The food was incredibly delicious and the service was fantastic. We had a big order with a bit of confusion during ordering but were taken care of better than I can say I would've handled if I was on the other end :)

  • Natalie P

Go to sandwich spot! So happy they have a second location, the sandwiches have NEVER disappointed us, and they have Voodoo chips which is a MUST
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$1–10
Features
Takeout: Yes

  • Alvin Phan

Great sandwiches! Their sandwiches are very generous for the price, with loads of high quality meats and veggies. I particularly like their "risky business" sandwich. They also have some uncommon but delicious sodas that I get from time to time.

  • Jonathan Quintero

Been coming here for years. I use to live in San Jose and I would drive all the way up here to get the Risky business sandwich. The owner is such a cool laid back guy and has such a positive vibe. This is a must if your are ever in the city.

  • Gary Louie

Great sandwich shop. There are a variety of breads and rolls to choose from for the sandwich and large selection of meat. I recommend the roast beef or hot pastrami on dutch crunch roll with everything. They have their own special sauce.

  • Adrian Ramirez

I love their sandwiches, so good and quality meat brought by (Boar's Head) which I work for. The customer service is very good and quick to make your food. Fast and simple service and dine in is good love the songs and tv channels they

  • Alex Rando

This is the Lou’s location you want to go to. Friendly, attentive and the sandwiches are a1. it’s a night and day difference from the Geary location. If you live in the Richmond take the extra time to visit this location and not Geary.

  • Indie Pendent

Love The Sandwiches Loyal Customer Boss Man and His Mom Are The Nicest People...... ❣️❣️❣️
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

  • Aditya Kotta

Awesome sandwich spot in the outer Sunset, highly recommend. Fast and clean service, friendly staff, and easy in and out. Sandwich-wise, their buffalo chicken is my go to with everything on it. Veg/vegan options available as well!

  • Gamer Bcb

Get the risky business its the best sandwich it made me bust
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Utsav Lathia

The best hot sandwich I’ve had in sf. I got the veggie-licious which was a great vegetarian sandwich. Including tax it was under $12 - Great value!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Nnenna Ekwuagana

Their sandwiches are the best and they have an awesome selection too. Their prices are very reasonable and the staff here are super friendly.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Alan Lee

Good sandwiches reasonable prices
Service
Take out
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Hot Pastrami, Sandwiches

  • Laura Renee

BEST sandwich shop in town! My kids and I love it, we are vegetarian <3 They will customize your sandwich, just ask! =) So many flavors of specialty chips and soda drinks to pair up with a yummy sandwich! SO GOOD!!

  • Bethany *

Great service. Delicious sandwiches.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Zafir Shaiq

there isn't one thing that makes the sandwiches here special, nothing unique. they just make traditional sandwiches really well. Relatively close to Golden Gate park to grab some sandwiches for a picnic.

  • Hideki Kimura

Great local cafe with an extensive menu of sandwiches and coffee!
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Eugene Velychko

Probably before they put more meet and veggies but now unfortunately everything changed , barely anything inside the roll. Basically you paying for bread . The good thing is at least decent taste

  • Ashleigh Blakeslee

These sandwiches are so good. My gf got a turkey and I had a crab melt. The Dutch crunch bread is the best.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • derek wong

Excellent sandwiches. Friendly staff. Just be aware that the line can get long, so plan and call ahead.
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • The Amazing Leapfor

If you want a good goumae sandwich, you come to Lous. This is not your everyday subway, these are quality, and delicious sandwiches. The special and Jalapeno sauce are to die for.

  • Richard Lee

Really good sandwiches. Chicken pesto and my favorite, the original breakfast sandwich, are great. Really friendly service. Park around the more residential streets and walk over.

  • O H

Prices have gone up a bit but the sandwich’s are still filling if your hungry this is the place to go
Service
Take out
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20

  • Erick von Schulz

The food was okay. But nothing special. I went based on reviews. I don't think I'll be back. It was not bad by any means. But the chicken pesto was just average. IMO.

  • Patrick Stapleton

One of the best sandwich spots in the area
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Recommended dishes
Italian Sandwich

  • Jeramia Dupre

Lou's is simply amazing! Sandwiches are to die for and make sure to get some of their clean chowder. Possibly the best in the city!!! Totally love this place!

  • HDR INC.

Love this local sandwich shop great service good prices...
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$10–20
Recommended dishes
Sandwiches

  • Buggy Dune

Sandwich was good but 40 minutes waiting for 3 sandwich is ridiculous, they clearly forgot my order and shrug it off as if it’s normal wait time.

  • la hall

Fresh bread, tasty Boar's Head meats, excellent house made sandwich spread, and a very creative menu - all add up to my favorite sandwich spot!

  • Brady Helkenn

AMAZING sandwiches. I've had the Kickin' R&B and the buffalo chicken sandwich, neither disappointed. I'm so happy to have found this place.

  • Alberto Vieira-Ribeiro

Great toasted sandwiches. Dutch crunch rolls. Generous Premium meats. Great sauce. Fast service. Good value. Favorite- Risky Business.

  • Adrian Angulo

The sandwich is delicious, try it...clean, fresh good customer service
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4

  • Jared Lozano

Delicious - Consistent - Creative What else do you want from a sandwich? Order ahead because they get busy!
Meal type
Brunch

  • Jay Reppert

The manager is very friendly. The food is good - no cheap deli meats. The price is right. This is a great place to get a sandwich.

  • Mezzy London

Wow- amazing sandwiches (pastrami is amazing!) and great coffee. Service with the smile. Everything a sandwich cafe should be !

  • Tony Najarro

Best sandwich EVER! Try the Risky Business but honestly, anything you get will be good here. Even the clam chowder is amazing.

  • Earth Boy

Veggie Sandwich is on the whole wheat SLAPS! Quick and Friendly service to boot. Will always go back when coming to the city.

  • blythe beecroft

Cute sandwich shop with a very extensive menu! The Italian sodas are $2 and definitely worth getting.
Service
Dine in

  • Jobie Low

Great sandwiches, fast service, always fresh. Trying to work my way through the menu and they've all been phenomenal!

  • Philip Tom

The sandwiches are first rate. The staff friendly and efficient. The prices are reasonable. No complaints whatsoever.

  • Mario Lopez

Huge menu for sandwiches. Good tasty Sammies.reasonableprices definitely get the special sauce and jalapeno spread

  • Dorian Washington

Delicious! Your chouce of bread. It is warm, soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. Fresh meats and veggies!

  • James Strife

Best sandwich in SF. I got the italian (i think) And the clam chowder's bomb too... will def be ordering again.

  • Ben Andre

These guys are amazing. I love the “risky business” and me and my friends go once a week. Best sandwiches in sf

  • Trina Do

Great sandwiches packed with flavor. The service is very nice and waited less than 10 minutes for the sandwich.

  • Brent Johnson

Great sandwiches, but poor estimates on when your order will be ready. Expect it to take double their estimate.

  • Kristen LeFevre

Large deli sandwiches, quick service, affordable prices
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3

  • Su Spengler

Best sandwiches in the Sunset! Quick service and reasonable prices. Plenty of options, even as a vegetarian!

  • Armando Ceja

They work quick to make your awesome sandwiches. The Jalapeño Spread is amazing, never had it anywhere else!

  • Samuel Rosoff

Good food. Extremely slow in the sandwich making. Expect to wait 15 minutes or longer even when not busy.

  • Xavier Arce

Hands down, one of the best sandwiches in the City.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Grace Kim

One of the best sandwiches places in SF ! Get veggies sandwich. It will make you wanna be a vegetarian.

  • Flo

Consistently good, friendly, good prices for the quantity/quality. Little gem in the outer sunset

  • Nick Anderson

How did I miss this place omg!! Great sandwich!! Fast service, super solid! I will be back.

  • Buddy Hollingsworth

Great sandwiches! Come prepared to wait, unless you call to order. These guys are busy!

  • William Koury

Very good veggie sandwiches. It's $3 cheaper to order in store than through postmates

  • Lindsay Woolward

Great local shop, huge variety of delicious sandwich options.
Service
Ta…
More

  • AJ Maxey

We bought some sandwiches here the day before a 12 hour train ride. They were great!

  • Hailey Johnson

My fav sandwich shop in sf!! The chicken pesto sando is just delightful

  • Timothy Carroll

Great sandwiches at a great price. The staff are all very friendly.

  • joann nishihara kujaski

Delicious,fresh and well made!
Service
Delivery…
More

  • Ed Jue Real Estate

Love Lou's, especially their garlic sauce. Great ! …

  • Wilson Coles

Chicken pesto was was too tier.
Food: 5…
More

  • Michael González

Sandwich was delicious but too small for the price

  • Ann Grimaldi

Great sandwiches, nice and efficient staff

  • John Foss

The best!

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