Mint Cafe

I work across the street so often stop here to pick up a quick breakfast bagel or lunch.
They serve solid good food. Nothing special but cheap good quality food.
You can’t beat a Lox & Bagel sandwich for less than $ 5, made to order.

Looking for a place to eat during or after studying? Don’t want to go out to the sketchy fast food place across the street?
Head down to the lower level of the library. It’s a little small shop that serves coffee, sandwiches. I usually get the club sandwich that is priced barely below $ 10. Other than that, there are some lingering flies in the area; common practice.

We were staying across the street and wanted a cheap, cute place to grab coffee and bagels one morning. This was the closest option (other than the Starbucks in the lobby) and we were pleasantly surprised to find that it was in the basement of the SF Public Library!
The coffee and bagels was tasty and reasonably priced. The overheard conversation was interesting enough for the 15 minutes we were there, and there was a special photo exhibit on the same floor, which was neat.
The woman behind the counter was totally nice and our bagels came out quickly.
Seems like a good place to study, too!

«Hi, can I help you?»
«Hi, can I get a napkin?»
«It’s for customers only, otherwise it’s 25 cents.»
«Okay, thanks.»
(Walk away and deal with tamale fingers.)
My guess is that the 25-​cent thing is reactive or proactive against residentially challenged people coming and taking every last napkin. But is this Civic Center or Alcatraz? How many napkins will a bar of soap and two cigarette packs get me?
I’m sure the food is good, as I’ve read from other reviewers. But I don’t see how I’d find out when Off the Grid and /​or the Farmers Market is practically right upstairs. Three stars for still being a chill place to study, as well as a chill place to bring OtG /​FM chow to eat while studying. Either bring your own napkin or get ready to get down ‘n dirty.

Delicious and not crowded during lunch! They dont have the full menu that they have at the other location (only 1 wrap) but you’ll still find something you like. I have to say I was disappointed they didn’t have the mediterranean wrap but oh well