About Us
Our Story
Since 1997, Rose’s Cafe has been a beloved cornerstone of Cow Hollow—an inviting neighborhood gathering place where mornings stretch into afternoons and evenings linger over candlelight and wine. Tucked onto a sunny corner in San Francisco, the café blends the warmth of a European bistro with the relaxed ease of California dining.
Our menu celebrates simple, honest cooking rooted in Italian tradition and seasonal Northern California ingredients. Brunch favorites—like our iconic breakfast pizza with farm eggs and house-made sausage—have earned a loyal following, while dinner brings handmade pastas, vibrant salads, and rustic entrées designed for sharing. Everything is crafted in-house with care, from freshly baked pastries to comforting sauces that simmer slowly and thoughtfully.
Inside, colorful walls, natural light, and the hum of conversation create a space that feels both lively and intimate. Outside, our sunlit patio offers the perfect perch to sip a cappuccino in the morning or unwind with a crisp glass of Sancerre in the afternoon. Whether you’re joining us for a casual weekday lunch, a celebratory dinner, or simply a moment to pause with coffee and a newspaper, Rose’s Cafe remains a timeless reflection of Cow Hollow’s charm—welcoming, vibrant, and unmistakably local.
Miguel Tzab
Executive Chef
Miguel started his cooking journey as a line cook at Rose’s Cafe over 20 years ago. His promising start quickly made him a vital asset to both Terzo & Rose’s Cafe. Miguel has taken the traditional recipes and flavors of Rose’s Cafe & Terzo and continues to make it his own. Miguel has been the executive Chef of both Terzo & Rose’s since 2018. Miguel has cultivated an exceptional team, that continues to excel on the line & back of the house. Miguel lives in San Francisco with his wife Miranda, Daughters Carmen & Myla & Son Mattias & Dog Max.
Ava Rosemary Nicolai
Owner / CEO of Wildflower Hospitality, INC
Originally from Southern California, Ava moved to San Francisco at 18 to receive her Bachelors Degree in Fine Art. Starting as a hostess at Rose Pistola in 2014, Ava fell deeply in love with hospitality and the restaurant industry. Working her way through art school, Ava started part time at Terzo & then Rose’s Cafe. She then worked her way up to General Manager of both restaurants.
Working under Laurie Thomas for 12 years, Ava was very fortunate to learn the business side of the hospitality industry while running the front of the house. Ava prides her self in exceptional customer service while maintaining an extraordinary team. Ava was given the opportunity to purchase both Rose’s Cafe & Terzo and in December of 2025 took ownership.
Ava is incredibly grateful to the community and neighborhood of Cow Hollow for the support in continuing these two great establishments. Ava lives in Cow Hollow with her husband Dan and their two cats Jack & Chopper.
Terzo
Extended Family
Join us across the street at our sister restaurant, Terzo. Established in 2006, Terzo offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine by Executive Chef Miguel Tzab, highlighting seasonal ingredients from local farms and ranches. With a thoughtfully curated global wine list by owner Ava Nicolai, it’s a warm, modern neighborhood spot designed for effortless pairing and exceptional dining.