Maison Nico

"Elegant French viennoiserie is the specialty at this bakery and cafe, tucked down a side street just off Columbus Avenue. You’ll know it by the line of customers that often snakes down the sidewalk outside but it’s worth the wait for a thick slab of pate en croute or a jar of rustic, garlicky rillette de cochon served with sliced baguette and a medley of pickles. Snag one of the seats inside and enjoy your light fare with a canned cocktail or glass of wine." - Dianne de Guzman

"Of course, San Francisco has an armada of top-notch bakeries specializing in sourdough bread, croissants, legendary egg tarts, and Asian American pastries. But there’s only one épicerie and café where diners can get a custardy cannelé and a slab of pâté en croûte — and that’s Maison Nico. Chef Nicolas Delaroque earned a Michelin star for his eponymous restaurant, but one global pandemic later he’s focused on fabulous brioche feuilletée; pâté en croûte studded with pork, butternut squash, and smoked eel; and an eye-catching ​​seafood aspic made with hunks of lobster, red snapper, mussels, and a bouillabaisse gelée. Pop by for a light lunch, but be warned some pastries may be sold out by midday." - Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff

"Chef Nicolas Delaroque has his viennoiserie program down, with golden, flaky pastries such as cruffins and brioche feuilletee beckoning to customers. But the picture-perfect assortment of pate en croute and aspic, an intensely savory and earthy addition, are just as worthwhile. If you have time, for an additional $4 you can eat your pate at the shop and you’ll be supplied with baguette, mustard, and pickles." - Dianne de Guzman, Becky Duffett, Eater Staff

"Immaculately made pâté en croûte, terrines, and viennoiserie rule at Maison Nico, the modern épicerie from chef Nicolas Delaroque and partner Andrea Delaroque. It’s a French expat’s dream, with sweet and savory items worthy of breakfast and lunch, such as an intricate duck pithivier or flaky vanilla Parisian flan, alongside classic items like the pain au chocolat." - Dianne de Guzman, Lauren Saria

"Known for its pastries like seasonal quiche, pain au chocolat, and serpentine brioche feuilletée." - Becky Duffett