Cafe Saint Germain

Parisians, French expats, Francophiles, and anyone looking for a cozy bistro to tuck away with an espresso and a good book in Somerville will have a lot to smile about at Café Saint Germain. Much like its sister properties, Petit Robert Bistro in Boston’s South End, Batifol in Cambridge, and PRB Boulangeries in Cambridge’s Kendall Square and Boston’s Fenway neighborhood, the focus is on authentic French food and a quintessential Paris-style vibe.

The cozy eatery spends its days as a bustling café serving traditional boulangerie items, savory sandwiches, crisp salads, soups, and coffee drinks before transitioning into an intimate bistro at night. Those looking for a dozen oysters and a traditional steak frites will not be disappointed, plus there is a curated selection of small and large plates, including charcuterie and cheese, pasta, braised and roasted entreés, and a bistro burger to choose from. The wine list leans heavily into French wines, both by the bottle and the glass, although there are a few California wines sprinkled in among the old world selections.

Inside the space you’ll find classic bistro chairs and tables, plus banquette seating that can be flexed for big and small parties. The room is designed with accents of dark wood offset by crisp white tablecloths, bold green and blue elements, and open space facing a cool, white marble counter with stools that are perfect for a quick bite with a morning newspaper, or a solo glass of Burgundy with friends after work.