City Counter Luncheonette is one of those places you dream about but assume just doesn’t exist. What I mean by that is that it’s a destination for food, drinks, and relaxing in the most charming, old school luncheonette with a fresh, modern twist to it. Designed by Nicole Huang of Nicole Huang Designs, this is a downtown Financial District gem that I am really obsessed with. Their menu offers mostly salads and sandwiches with some other unexpected items, such as, Deviled Eggs, Tuna Melts, or even an Ice Cream Float (yes please). They also have a fabulous happy hour Monday through Friday from 4:00 – 7:00pm. Check it out, I promise you will love it as much as I do. 115 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA 94104

The City Counter Owners, designer Nicole and partner Harper Matheson. Read more about Harper in my interview with her here.

I love the chic all white look and how clean yet modern and elevated it looks. It is, of course, way livelier when open as it is buzzing with guests.

The deviled eggs. I am not really a deviled egg eater but a friend tried these on a recent visit and raved about how fabulous they were!

The Roasted Carrot Salad which was the first item I had here on my first (of many) visits. This is vegetarian and fabulous as is, or you can add a protein. I loved it as is with the incredible flavors of the dish. Charred eggplant spread, feta, mint, almonds, shaved fennel, and a kaffier lime tahini dressing come together perfectly.

For those wanting something a bit heartier, there are a ton of delicious sandwiches such as the reubenesque with smoked beets, sharp cheddar, pickled cabbage, and counter sauce on toasted rye. That’s right, this is a vegetarian sandwich and is full of flavor.

Another one of their amazing vegetable dishes. So colorful and vibrant and so tasty!

The Tuna Melt which tastes just as incredible as this picture makes it look!

Saving the best for last, of course, with their incredible Root Beer Float. 

Photos by Kassie Borreson Photography