When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
GIGI'S CAFE
Why GIGI'S CAFE is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gigi's Cafe in Burlingame is a charming and highly regarded café that offers an inviting setting ideal for meeting up with friends. Nestled on the east side of Highway 101 amid SFO hotels and commercial offices, it stands out for its exceptional deli sandwiches, hearty salads, comforting soups, pastries, and quality coffee and juices. What makes Gigi's particularly noteworthy is the generous and perfectly balanced meat-to-accompaniment ratio in its sandwiches, eliminating the need for double meat orders—ideal for hearty appetites. Owned and passionately run by Teresa Gee since she was 24, the café reflects her culinary expertise earned from cooking since childhood and formal culinary training combined with experience in Miami's fine dining scene. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for casual get-togethers during weekday mornings and afternoons, as Gigi's operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. With freshly prepared dishes and a community-rooted spirit, the café offers a delightful experience where friends can enjoy great food and conversation in a comfortable, locally treasured venue.
Here's what people think of GIGI'S CAFE
As of recent, GIGI'S CAFE holds a 4.6-star rating based on 962 reviews.
Users consistently praise Gigi's Cafe for its outstanding food quality, especially highlighting the generously portioned sandwiches and fresh ingredients that deliver great flavor without overly complicated menus. Many appreciate the friendly, attentive service and the owner's dedication to creating a quality, home-grown dining experience. Positive reviews often mention the balanced flavors and satisfying meal sizes as major highlights, enhancing the café's reputation among locals and visitors alike. However, some less favorable reviews note that the limited hours (closed weekends and early afternoons) can be inconvenient and occasionally mention that seating can get busy during peak times, which might affect the relaxed atmosphere. A few customers have remarked that the menu could benefit from more variety or innovative options beyond classic deli fare. Overall, the feedback conveys that Gigi's Cafe maintains a warm, high-quality dining experience with strong community ties, making it a beloved spot despite minor limitations. The consistent 4.6-star rating based on over 900 reviews underscores its solid reputation and appeal as a dependable place to meet friends for satisfying meals in Burlingame.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
G A
Amazing gluten free breakfast! They know what Celiac is and have protocols in place to avoid cross contamination. Our waitress Ashley was AMAZING! We got gf waffles, Ruben hash, and Hillsboro hullabaloo- all were amazing.
C B
Great food selection they even have scrapple more of a east coast thing. The waffles are amazing they have two different styles make sure to try both.
Angela G
This place is excellent! The waffles are amazing and the service is excellent. The server team was happy and kind and friendly.
Holly Amoako
This was a great way to start the day. Our waitress was thoughtful and friendly. The food was great. I ordered the breakfast tostada and it was fresh and tasty. There is great art on the walls from local artists available for purchase. Overall a nice experience.
Me Mehl
We had a lovely breakfast with lattes on the patio. The drinks were great. The food was just shy of 5 stars as it could have used more seasoning, but that's just our opinion. It's close by and has outdoor seating, so I'm sure we will be back to try more things.
How to reach GIGI'S CAFE
None
Website: None
Why GIGI'S CAFE may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
GIGI'S CAFE is an exceptional destination to gather with friends due to its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and outstanding service, all of which combine to create a memorable group experience. With a strong rating of 4.6 from 962 reviews, GIGI'S delivers consistently fresh and flavorful dishes that are perfect for sharing and exploring together. Whether you're catching up over a hearty breakfast, brunch, or lunch, the café offers a menu with a variety of options designed to satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences. The portions are generous, encouraging a communal dining vibe when you order multiple plates to share. Moreover, the cozy and inviting environment fosters easy conversation and laughter, making any meetup feel comfortable yet special. The staff's attentive and friendly service further enhances the experience, ensuring your group feels well taken care of and can focus entirely on enjoying each other’s company. In short, GIGI’S CAFE isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a welcoming hub where friendships can thrive over great food and a warm, sociable setting.
What activities can you enjoy at GIGI’S CAFE for group meetups?
GIGI'S CAFE is more than just a restaurant; it serves as a versatile venue for various group activities. The primary draw is obviously the culinary experience, with options like chicken and waffles, scrambles with unique ingredients such as arugula and chèvre, and standout sides like brûléed banana that excite the palate. Groups can indulge in shared tasting sessions, trying different menu items to compare flavors and discover new favorites together. The café’s location within a vibrant neighborhood often means guests can combine their visit with a stroll to nearby boutique shops and bakeries, turning a meetup into a full outing. Additionally, the café’s relaxed vibe is conducive to casual meetings, from brunch gatherings to small celebrations, providing plenty of space to chat and create shared memories. For those who enjoy photography or social media, the café’s beautifully presented dishes and inviting décor offer excellent backdrops for group photos and food photography, adding a fun visual element to your meetup. All these aspects come together to make GIGI'S a top choice for anyone looking to host a lively, enjoyable get-together.
Why is GIGI’S CAFE perfect for a group meetup?
GIGI'S CAFE's combination of spacious seating arrangements and attentive service makes it an ideal spot for group meetups. The café can accommodate diverse group sizes without compromising on comfort or service speed, which is crucial when coordinating a meetup. Importantly, the portion sizes are thoughtfully balanced, so everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal without feeling overstuffed, allowing the group to stay energized and engaged for longer socializing sessions. The menu’s range suits varied tastes and dietary needs, ensuring all members—whether they prefer sweet, savory, vegetarian, or more indulgent options—find something they love. Moreover, the café’s reputation for harnessing fresh, high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish, giving groups confidence in the food’s excellence. The staff's professionalism in managing orders, including handling separate bills, is essential for large groups and helps keep the meetup smooth and stress-free. Together, these factors cultivate an atmosphere where groups feel welcome and can focus on enjoying their time together rather than the logistics of dining out.
What makes the food experience at GIGI’S CAFE unique for groups?
The food experience at GIGI'S CAFE stands out due to its inventive yet approachable menu, which is perfect for group exploration. Notable dishes such as the chicken and waffles showcase large portions and meticulous preparation—crispy, flavorful chicken paired with delicious waffles—that make sharing meals rewarding and fun for friends or family. The café emphasizes the use of fresh, quality ingredients that elevate even simple dishes, such as their scrambled eggs enhanced with herbs, cheeses, and fresh sides like polenta or potatoes. The inclusion of unique flavors, such as brûléed banana for an unexpected sweet twist, sparks conversation and interest among groups eager to try new tastes and share their opinions. These culinary choices invite diners to order a variety of plates, facilitating a communal dining style that fosters bonding. Additionally, their drink selections, including flavorful coffee, contrast well with the dishes and add another layer to the group dining experience. The overall combination of thoughtful menu curation, generous servings, and quality execution makes the food at GIGI’S a highlight for any group meetup.
How does the ambiance at GIGI’S CAFE support social gatherings?
GIGI'S CAFE boasts a warm and inviting ambiance that naturally encourages social interaction and relaxation among groups. Situated conveniently in a lively neighborhood, its setting blends a quaint charm with a modern casual dining environment that feels both comfortable and special. The interior design offers ample seating with layouts conducive to conversation, whether it’s a round table for intimate bonding or larger arrangements for extended groups. The atmosphere is lively yet not noisy, allowing guests to chat with ease while enjoying the hum of friendly activity. This kind of environment is essential for meetups because it balances background vibrancy with personal space, ensuring groups feel energized but not overwhelmed. Furthermore, the café’s friendly staff contribute to the ambiance by creating a welcoming, respectful environment where guests feel valued and relaxed. These subtle but significant aspects of ambiance make GIGI’S CAFE a place where friends and family can comfortably gather, catch up, and enjoy extended quality time together.
Why is GIGI’S Cafe’s service well-suited for group meetups?
The café’s staff plays a crucial role in making group meetups seamless and enjoyable at GIGI'S CAFE. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and attentive nature of the team, noting that service is executed with professionalism and warmth. For groups, this attentiveness means orders are taken efficiently, and any special requests are expertly handled. The staff’s ability to manage complicated bills by separating checks accurately is particularly important for group comfort and convenience during the meal. Despite occasional notes of slow service during busy times, the overall consistency in courteous treatment helps prevent stress in group dining scenarios. Friendly staff also facilitate smooth seating arrangements and timing, allowing groups to settle in quickly and enjoy their meal without rushing. This level of care ensures that all diners, regardless of group size, feel prioritized and supported, which is key to any successful social outing.
What do diners say about the overall experience at GIGI’S CAFE?
Diners commonly describe GIGI'S CAFE as a “great find” praised for fresh, delicious food and a welcoming vibe, making it a repeat favorite for many regulars. Popular dishes like chicken and waffles and expertly prepared scrambles receive particular acclaim for their flavor and generous portions. Many appreciate the café’s neighborhood charm and the opportunity to escape busy brunch crowds thanks to efficient seating and reasonable wait times. However, reviews do note isolated issues such as occasional service hiccups or billing complications, which seem to be exceptions rather than the rule given the overall positive feedback. The high rating of 4.6 based on nearly a thousand reviews reflects strong customer satisfaction in terms of food quality, ambiance, and the overall group-friendly environment. This broad appeal makes GIGI’S a trustworthy recommendation for anyone planning a menu-driven social gathering.
How can you maximize your experience at GIGI'S CAFE for your meetup?
To make the most of your group meetup at GIGI'S CAFE, consider arriving early or making reservations when possible to avoid peak wait times, especially on weekends. Planning to share dishes can heighten the experience by allowing everyone to taste multiple items and discuss their favorites, which is a great way to bond. Engaging staff with any special requests ahead of time helps ensure smooth seating and billing, minimizing distractions during your visit. Pair your meal with the café’s well-reviewed coffee or specialty drinks to complement the food and add a comforting touch to the gathering. Lastly, taking advantage of the café’s location by exploring nearby shops or strolling around the neighborhood before or after your meal can extend your time together and create a fuller, memorable outing. Following these tips can help transform a simple meal into an enriching group event.
GIGI’S CAFE truly shines as a top-tier venue to host meetups with friends or family by delivering excellent food, a pleasant time-friendly environment, and attentive service that makes group gatherings effortless and enjoyable. From its welcoming ambiance to its exciting menu perfect for sharing, it’s clear why so many choose GIGI’S as their go-to café for social occasions. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just catching up, this café promises an experience that strengthens bonds and leaves everyone looking forward to the next visit.