Saturday

07-05-2025 Vol 2012

The Nosh Box: A San Francisco Brunch Destination Showcasing California’s Culinary Essence

In the heart of SoMa, a neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Nosh Box has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

This bakery and café is celebrated for its dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and its signature dish, peach toast, captures the essence of California cuisine.

Peach season brings the Gold Dust variety from Matsumoto Family Farms in Bakersfield to this beloved eatery, where co-owner and baker Stephen Wade artfully prepares each slice to order.

Nestled on a toasted square of house-made bread, the peaches are complemented by a thick layer of creamy mascarpone made from milk sourced at nearby Bellwether Farms in Petaluma.

What sets this dish apart is the addition of a spicy zhug oil, enriched with Middle Eastern spices and chiles, which heightens the richness of the mascarpone and showcases the sweet, succulent peaches.

For patrons looking for a drink, The Nosh Box also offers an impressive selection of natural wines, including local Pet Nat, making the peach toast experience feel like an elevated brunch.

The Nosh Box isn’t just about peach toast, though; it has drawn the attention of young professionals and the queer community with its inviting atmosphere and diverse offerings.

Guests may also indulge in delectable scones or attend the café’s Thursday night events, which celebrate queer culture with a welcoming space for all.

Co-owners Stephen Wade and Edwin Stoodly bring decades of experience in hospitality, having worked in various esteemed locations, including Union Square Cafe and La Boulange.

Their homage to the Bay Area’s rich culinary history is displayed through their selection of cookbooks from renowned chefs like Alice Waters and Samin Nosrat, available for guests to peruse.

Such influences are not only reflected in the menus but also illustrate California’s enduring culinary ethos, showcasing fresh, ripe produce as the star of a dish.

The peach toast exemplifies this philosophy; simple yet exquisite, it encapsulates the beauty of summer produce at its peak.

For anyone seeking the quintessential San Francisco dining experience, The Nosh Box delivers with its peach toast while providing a pleasant ambience for brunch, a casual bite, or a date night.

On Thursdays, The Nosh Box extends its hours until 9 p.m., allowing visitors to enjoy an evening of relaxation and enjoyment in a community-centric space.

Whether you are unwinding with a laptop during the day or gathering with friends for a leisurely meal, The Nosh Box is a must-visit establishment that exemplifies the charm of California’s culinary landscape.

Located at 1116 Folsom Street, The Nosh Box is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and operates until 9 p.m. on Thursdays.

However, it remains closed on Sundays and Mondays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

With its dedication to high-quality ingredients and a menu inspired by California’s remarkable agriculture, The Nosh Box stands as a testament to the region’s thriving food culture.

image source from:sf

Charlotte Hayes