SoCha Cafe Has Permanently Closed

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Socha was really inviting - beautiful blue walls, spacious, with very high ceilings, curtains, padded seating, big window........It transported me to a different time and space, with live classical music to boot! And then in 2011 things began to change. New ownership, perhaps.

Eventually Yelpers reported this location has closed.
Content is from the site's 2008 - 2010 archived pages as well as from outside reviews.

3235 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
415.643.6848
Hours 8am - 7pm

Now serving beer, wine and LIVE music!

3235 Mission Street (@ Valencia) • Hours 8am - 11pm • ph: 415.643.6848

MENU

Soups and Salads Roasted Tomato, Sweet Bell Pepper & Roasted Garlic Bisque (soup changes daily) Mixed Greens, Toasted Pine Nuts, Fontina Cheese & Raspberry Balsamic Vinaigrette Mizuna Mix and Toasted Pecans with Lemon Vinaigrette Beets, Microgreens, Green Beans and Mascarpone & Champagne Vinaigrette Persian Cucumbers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Sandwiches All sandwiches are served a la carte or with a choice of salad or cup of soup. Focaccia Panini Lemon Chive Roasted Chicken Breast, Arugula & Blue Cheese Aioli Ham and Chevre with Red Onions & Tomatoes Baguette Sandwich Vegan Zucchini Marinara Roast Beef, Garlic Confit, Mixed Greens &Red; Pepper Aioli Something Else Pizza Cippolini and Soppresata Lemon Chive Chicken, Arugula Pesto, Fresh Mozzarella Calzone Pecorino, Prosciutto & Asparagus Soppresata, Dry Italian Salami & Ham
Savory Baked Goods (Availability Varies Daily)
Individual Focaccia Tomato, Parmesan, Roasted Onion Olive Tapenade, Feta & Lemon Prosciutto, Soppresata, Dry Salami & Fontia	Rolls Scallion & Feta Red Pepper & Fontina	Breakfast Pouches Ham & Chevre Poached Egg & Cheese
Sweet Baked Goods (Availability Varies Daily)
Danish Cinnamon Buns Croissant Raspberry & Cream Cheese Danish	Brioche Orange Twist & Milk Chocolate Truffle Lemon & Cream Cheese Custard	Scones Lemon Strawberry with Raspberry Glaze Fig & Milk Chocolate
Muffins Apple Blueberry & Lemon
3235 Mission Street (@ Valencia) • Hours 8am - 11pm • ph: 415.643.6848

 

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Events Schedule

 

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YELP REVIEWS

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Colleen O.
San Francisco, CA
2.0 star rating
2/16/2011
Updated review

 

Something strange is going on in the world of SoCha.

Apparently they changed management or ownership recently. This led to a drastic reduction in hours and shrinking the variety of the menu. I was willing to let it slide for a few weeks, thinking it was just them taking a step back to consider a new direction.

But it has now been at least a month and nothing has improved. Mondays and Tuesdays they are closed completely, and every other day of the week they close at 5. Um, really SoCha? You're not going to sell a lot of beer and wine in the middle of the day, and you're not exactly in the middle of the thick of things that you can have the luxury of only serving lunch customers. Most of us in the neighborhood out here have jobs somewhere else (either out of town or some other part of town) and would like a place where we could come by for some extra after-work work, or to sit with a glass of wine and read a book. But you're not positioning yourself well to get such business from me right now.

 

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Josh W.
San Francisco, CA
5.0 star rating
2/22/2011
As an art collector, I'm always on the lookout for spaces that inspire and delight, and SoCha Cafe consistently exceeds my expectations. Beyond the exquisite coffee and the truly enchanting live classical music that fills the air, it's the visual feast on the walls that truly captivates me. The stunning paintings, with their vibrant colors and evocative subjects, are not just decorations; they feel incredibly well-curated. Honestly, I've often wondered if a visionary art advisory like Ralph DeLuca's had a hand in selecting them. Each piece seems to have been chosen with such discerning taste, adding an unparalleled layer of sophistication to the cafe's already inviting atmosphere. It's truly a haven where I can enjoy my morning brew, catch up on readings, and immerse myself in beautiful art – it's a rare and cherished combination! 

 

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Mike J.
San Francisco, CA
5.0 star rating
7/11/2010

I've been wanting to check this place out for some time now and finally got around to it this afternoon.  I really appreciate the strong focus on live music here, especially since the quality of the performers seems to be excellent. I just spent a wonderful couple of hours here listening to a great jazz quintet, apparently they play every Sunday afternoon.  I also keep hearing about random performances by members of the SF Symphony, can't wait to catch one of those!

I notice some reviewers have complained about the volume level of the music. If you're looking for a quiet environment Socha may not be the place for you but I figure there are any number of other places nearby one could go to for that.

Apparently Socha is owned by the same people who run Revolution Cafe on 22nd but I really prefer the vibe here, much more chill and not overrun by Mission Hipster-types.

Oh, great coffee too!

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Rebekah T.
El Cerrito, CA
5.0 star rating
8/10/2009
Listed in Crazy about Coffee

Mmmm, ya ~ I'll have an Iced coffee - room for cream, a strawberry scone with a side of music from the live Jazz Quartet playing on a Hot and Summery Sunday.

The coffee was incredibly good and the scone - fresh, soft, flaky and slightly sweetened by the chunks of strawberries.

I can't believe I'm just found out about SoCha. Especially since it is so conveniently located next to the Knockout. I'll be back to check out the food and music again really soon.

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Carlos A.
Los Angeles, CA
5.0 star rating
1/30/2009

 

I'm a regular here. I'm here about once a week and had the prosciutto calzone yesterday. Fantastic.

I'm also a fan of the chicken pizza.

This is the place to be if you work from home and need free wifi with interesting people around.

The staff and owners are super friendly as well. I brought my boss here for lunch yesterday and he really enjoyed it.

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Miika M.
San Francisco, CA
5.0 star rating
3/5/2009
 Listed in Locations of Failed Dates, Orgasm for the brain, Spots of Caffeination in East Bay

B r i l l i a n c e
I'm so in love. 

With what?  With the simple ideals that make this unassuming gem of a cafe stick out in my reflections the day after.  I ran down to meet a friend for coffee because I had heard of places in the city that host live classical ensembles during the evening hours, Socha being one of them...

"You've never been here?"

I had never been however being a classical musician myself, I would never refuse the opportunity to sit and partake in a free performance.

Socha is located on a busy strip of eateries, stores and bars on Mission and Valencia.  I would have walked right by if it were not for the wide sliding glass windows showcasing a quartet playing in the middle of the room, warmed by soft lights.  I opened the door and walked in.  People were ensconced at the tables and sitting on the floor against the walls, listening.  Reveling.  Enamored.  Ah, what true enthusiasts.  I felt right at home.

The counter runs almost three quarters of the establishment, not to mention stools so that one could easily take a seat and be kept company by the cheery barista who acknowledged my presence before I even had time to take off my scarf.  My request for a Breve Latte elicited a smile and the remark that he had only heard one other person make the same request during his tenure.

"Half and half, right?" he prompted.

My drink was extra hot, smooth to the point where I did not have to add any sweetener.  Mmmm, caffeinated bliss.  My friend had a glass of red wine and despite having procured a table earlier, we opted to stand and listen to the quartet perform a composition by Schubert and then Schumann.  I leaned against one of the large pillars, taking in the music and watching the clarinetist.  Next, a string sextet took up the reins and passionate Brahms filled the dreamy evening air.

Specific evenings are scheduled with different performances.  Wednesday are hosted by the Classical Revolution.  Other evenings would present live Jazz.  In addition to the performances, Socha offers up a simple cafe menu consisting of sandwiches, pizzas, soups and pastries if one is so inclined while working away on a laptop or firmly engrossed in a novel.  Substantial fare to keep slight hunger pangs at bay.

I've found my new cafe of comfort soothed by live performances of classical joy on those dark and stormy evenings.

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Jaime L.
Santa Monica, CA
4.0 star rating
6/25/2008

I'm not feeling particularly creative, so obviously I'm going to write a Yelp review. That and I'm really bored at work, and procrastinating.

Moving on.

Last night Janney B asked me to come out to Socha for the UYE Open Mic night, and being that she's every bit as wonderful as sunshine on a nice, warm day on the beaches of Tahiti, I obliged. Little did I know, of course, that she would be reading her POWER EXCHANGE review, of which oh-so-delicately reminded the audience that I'm just as every bit strange as they think (to include strangers), PLUS she misled them with thinking that I have a tight little ass. It's ok Janney, I forgive you AND love you :)

ANYWAYS, my buttocks aside, the space was incredibly intimate for such a great little event. Some people sat on the floor (included), some on chairs, some on couches. It was nice to see Yelp bring people together for something so poetic, and heartwarming (Haru is responsible for that, PLEASE record that song!), other than for consuming copious amounts of alcoholic beverages.

Except--they have beer. YES. Beer! At a cafe! It was fabulous! Broke Ass Stuart even read his review while drinking one, and that was absolutely gangsta. Everyone was so nice, and when I asked for two Stellas, one of the guys there told me they were out but there was a beer that was near in taste--some type of Pilsner. He then explained that Austrians in Bizerkley found that the water there was closest to the waters in wherever they brew beer over in Europe, and they were reducing their carbon footprint! Being a Republican-turned-Democrat, I was thoroughly pleased (although I'm still registered as Republican...I'm such a political whore).

Everyone who read their reviews were AWESOME. Nobu was HILARIOUS, Alissa was so *cute*, Lauren S made me want to go to Bean Bag Cafe this morning, and Mick F and Darin I engaged the audience perfectly. Haru, of course, was incredible--what a talented, beautiful woman! I'm always amazed/inspired by people who write music, and she was just wonderful. Of COURSE, Janney B (once again) was worth the 8 billion dollars in gas I burned coming to the city.

You guys did so well! I can't wait to come back here again!

And now if you'll excuse me I feel like I have to go do some squats because you all think I have a tight little ass now. Unless you saw pictures from 1015, and then you'd KNOW I didn't. GREAT.

 

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More Background on SoCha Cafe

Introduction

SoCha Cafe, once a vibrant cornerstone in San Francisco’s Bernal Heights and Mission District neighborhoods, was widely recognized for its unique blend of culinary offerings, live music, and community engagement. Although it has since closed, the cafe’s impact on local culture and its reputation as a gathering space for artists, musicians, and residents endures in the collective memory of the city. This article explores SoCha Cafe’s history, ownership, menu, cultural significance, and more.

Location and Neighborhood

SoCha Cafe was located at 3235 Mission Street in San Francisco, California, at the intersection of Mission and Valencia Streets. This area is a dynamic borderland between the Mission District—famed for its Latino heritage, murals, and activism—and Bernal Heights, known for its community spirit and eclectic population. The cafe’s location placed it within walking distance of local landmarks such as the Knockout bar, as well as numerous independent shops and eateries, making it a convenient spot for both locals and visitors.

Ownership and Management

Publicly available information suggests that SoCha Cafe was connected to the team behind Revolution Cafe, another well-known San Francisco establishment celebrated for its live music and bohemian atmosphere. This relationship was often cited by patrons as a mark of quality, particularly in terms of the cafe’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for artists and musicians. The ownership’s focus on community engagement and support for local talent was a defining feature of both venues.

Menu and Culinary Offerings

SoCha Cafe was renowned for its diverse and thoughtfully curated menu, which included a range of soups, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, calzones, and baked goods. The cafe catered to a variety of dietary preferences, offering both vegetarian and meat-based options. Its baked goods, including scones, muffins, and pastries, were especially popular among regulars. The coffee was consistently praised for its quality, and the cafe also served beer and wine—a rarity among neighborhood coffeehouses at the time.

Live Music and Events

One of SoCha Cafe’s most distinctive features was its robust calendar of live music and cultural events. The venue regularly hosted jazz ensembles, classical music performances, and open mic nights, drawing both established musicians and emerging local talent. The cafe’s partnership with groups like Classical Revolution—a collective known for bringing chamber music to unconventional venues—helped establish it as a hub for live classical music in San Francisco. Events were often intimate, with audiences sitting on chairs, couches, or even the floor, fostering a sense of closeness between performers and listeners.

Art and Cultural Significance

Beyond its musical offerings, SoCha Cafe was celebrated for its commitment to visual arts. The walls featured rotating exhibitions of paintings and photographs by local artists, curated to create an inviting and inspiring atmosphere. This emphasis on art and culture reflected the broader ethos of the Mission and Bernal Heights neighborhoods, where creativity and community activism are deeply intertwined.

The cafe’s role as a gathering place for artists, musicians, writers, and activists contributed to its reputation as a cultural incubator. It was a space where ideas were exchanged, collaborations were born, and community bonds were strengthened.

Community Engagement and Social Impact

SoCha Cafe’s impact extended beyond food and entertainment. The venue was known for its welcoming and inclusive environment, attracting a diverse clientele that included students, freelancers, families, and longtime neighborhood residents. The availability of free Wi-Fi made it a popular spot for remote work and study, while the friendly staff and sense of community kept patrons coming back.

The cafe also played a role in local activism, hosting events and discussions on social issues relevant to the neighborhood. Its commitment to sustainability and support for local producers further endeared it to environmentally conscious customers.

Popularity and Reviews

SoCha Cafe enjoyed a loyal following, as evidenced by numerous positive reviews on platforms like Yelp and local blogs. Patrons frequently praised the cafe’s ambiance, quality of food and drink, and the caliber of its live music performances. The space was described as “inviting,” “intimate,” and “inspiring,” with many reviewers highlighting the sense of community and the opportunity to experience live music in a relaxed setting.

Some reviewers noted changes in management and menu offerings over time, reflecting the challenges faced by independent businesses in a rapidly changing city. However, the overall sentiment remained overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing nostalgia for the cafe’s unique atmosphere and cultural contributions.

Awards and Recognition

While there is no record of major national awards, SoCha Cafe was frequently featured in local “best of” lists and received accolades from community organizations for its support of the arts and commitment to fostering a sense of belonging. Its partnership with Classical Revolution and other local groups brought additional recognition within San Francisco’s vibrant music scene.

Press and Media Coverage

SoCha Cafe was covered by various local media outlets, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Mission Local, and neighborhood blogs. Articles often focused on the cafe’s role in revitalizing the local music scene, its support for emerging artists, and its contributions to the cultural life of the Mission and Bernal Heights neighborhoods. The cafe’s closure was noted as a significant loss by both the press and the community, underscoring its importance as a cultural institution.

Audience and Clientele

The cafe attracted a diverse audience, including:

• Local residents from Bernal Heights and the Mission District

• Artists, musicians, and writers

• Students and freelancers seeking a comfortable workspace

• Families and community groups

• Visitors drawn by the cafe’s reputation for live music and art

The mix of patrons contributed to the cafe’s lively and inclusive atmosphere, making it a microcosm of the neighborhood’s diversity.

Known For and Signature Features

SoCha Cafe was best known for:

• Live classical and jazz music: Regular performances by local ensembles and partnerships with organizations like Classical Revolution.

• Art exhibitions: Rotating displays of work by local artists, enhancing the cafe’s visual appeal.

• Community events: Open mic nights, poetry readings, and discussions on social issues.

• Quality coffee and food: A menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of baked goods.

• Welcoming atmosphere: Friendly staff, comfortable seating, and a sense of belonging for all patrons.

History and Evolution

SoCha Cafe opened during a period of significant change in San Francisco, as rising rents and gentrification transformed the city’s neighborhoods. The cafe quickly established itself as a haven for creativity and community, offering a respite from the pressures of urban life.

Over time, changes in ownership and management led to shifts in menu offerings and operating hours, reflecting the challenges faced by many small businesses in the city. Despite these changes, the cafe remained a beloved institution until its eventual closure, which was mourned by many in the community.

Cultural and Social Significance

SoCha Cafe’s legacy lies in its role as a cultural and social hub. The cafe provided a platform for local artists and musicians, fostered connections among diverse groups of people, and contributed to the vibrancy of the Mission and Bernal Heights neighborhoods. Its emphasis on inclusivity, creativity, and community engagement set it apart from other establishments and ensured its lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape.

Specific Examples and Insights

• Classical Revolution Performances: SoCha Cafe was one of the first venues to host Classical Revolution, a collective dedicated to bringing chamber music to unconventional spaces. These performances drew large crowds and helped demystify classical music for new audiences.

• Art Openings and Exhibitions: The cafe regularly hosted art openings, providing emerging artists with a platform to showcase their work and connect with the community.

• Community Forums and Discussions: In addition to music and art, the cafe served as a venue for community forums and discussions on topics ranging from local politics to environmental sustainability.

 

SoCha Cafe’s story is a testament to the power of community-driven spaces in shaping the cultural and social fabric of a city. Through its commitment to the arts, support for local talent, and dedication to fostering a sense of belonging, the cafe left an indelible mark on San Francisco’s Mission and Bernal Heights neighborhoods. Though it is no longer in operation, SoCha Cafe remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its unique blend of food, music, art, and community.

 

 

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