At the counter of any coffee shop, you can find a small glass display case with two or three types of pastries to have with your morning cup of coffee. In the heart of SOMA (South of Market Area), Vive La Tarte is breaking this status quo and putting our focus back on what really matters: quality, fresh ingredients. From delicious and seasonal tarts to savory California inspired pizzas, husband and wife Arnaud Goethals and Julie Vandermeersch have created a culinary experience unlike anything in San Francisco.
When you first walk into their new space at Howard and 7th, you are greeted with the aroma of sweet and savory quiche, tarts and pastries. Next, you notice the perfect balance between the custom wood seating areas, and a stainless steel kitchen spanning the back half of the room. Here, traditional Belgian techniques are paired with modern flavors to create a welcomed twist on classic baked goods. Separating its patrons from the confectionary is an enormous wooden counter where each item is displayed, allowing their customers to choose exactly which pastry they would like to indulge in. You can start your day off with a savory quiche made with broccoli, fennel, applewood-smoked bacon, and swiss cheese. If you are craving something a little sweeter, you can try their take on cheesecake, which incorporates a traditional Belgium spiced biscuit as the base for it’s crust.
As focused on food as these two are, they also serve a San Francisco favorite, Sightglass Coffee. You can grab a cup of drip or espresso from the friendly barista standing behind their large and beautiful vintage espresso machine.
If you haven’t already, stop by Tuesday-Saturday and try the unique culinary experience that is Vive La Tarte!
