Ti Couz is among the best and most consistent dining joys in San Francisco. A catalyst for the gentrification of 16th and Valencia, this relatively long-standing restaurant serves delicious crepe meals to the hungry masses.

And I mean "masses." Hour-long waits are typical at Ti Couz, and they don't take reservations. Happily, they've opened a new bar next door, so your loitering can be put to some good use. Still, try to get there before you're starving.

The food is amazing. Everything from salads to soups to crepes are fresh and immensely flavorful.

My Logistical Suggestions
Because of the waits, the fewer in the party, the better. In fact, Ti Couz is a great place to eat alone. Bring a book. Sit at the counter and watch them whip up their magic.

If there are two or more, order a salad. A single salad is a meal in itself, so to avoid stuffing your face, it's best split. The lettuce is amazing--it's locally grown and fresh and tasty.

Go at odd hours. Saturday or Sunday at 4 or 5 is a great time for an early supper at Ti Couz. And it's not hard to order enough to keep you sated throughout the night.

My Meal Suggestions
It's hard to go wrong at Ti Couz. If they have something you typically like, well, you'll *love* it here.

The soups change regularly. Twice, though, I've had their tomato basil. It's an sumptuous, creamy tomato soup. Divine.

My favorite crepe is very simple--cheese and mushroom. "Mushroom" is actually a thick mushroom sauce with mushroom bits. This can be particularly heavenly with some tomato basil soup drizzled on it.

I can also recommend: shrimp and tomato; ham and egg.

If you opt to eat next door (where they have an seafood-oriented menu), I can whole heartedly recommend the stuffed bread. Cheesy seafoody bliss.

You will want dessert. Trust me. No matter how much you've eaten. I'm partial to vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. A delightfully sugary goo fest.

The Service
For maximum efficiency, a number of different people might serve you throughout the meal. Don't let this throw you off. The staff at Ti Couz have a philosophy of pitching in to help each other out. I've found them to be congenial and thoughtful.

The Seating
You have three choices when dining at Ti Couz: Tables, counter, and the bar. Tables tend to be squished together and can be awkward. The counter affords a view of the mealmaking and the quickest service--the cooks just hand the dish right to you. The bar is my favorite for when I'm with others--you get a rounded portion to yourselves, and the stools are spread out enough to give you breathing room.
SECRET COUNTER/BAR TIP:
There are little hooks underneath the counter and bar. Impress your friends/date/parents by using them for coats, bags, etc.

My mouth is watering.




Recommended: Yes