Berkeley sandwich stalwart Grgoire launches its first franchise in the Inner Sunset

Grégoire, a gourmet sandwich shop that has delighted Berkeley residents for 23 years, will open its first franchise in San Francisco's Inner Sunset this November. Founded by Grégoire Jacquet and his wife Tara in 2002, the original location gained a loyal following for its seasonal menu and famous potato puffs. Following a hiatus after closing their Oakland location in 2017, the Jacquets decided to expand the brand through franchising, with a central kitchen in Emeryville ensuring consistent quality. Jacquet's unique orange octagon take-out box has become an iconic part of the brand's identity. After identifying ideal franchisees at the Alameda Flea Market, Jacquet found the Inner Sunset location appealing for its public transit access and proximity to UCSF.

The previous tenant was Jamba Juice, and the space has been vacant for about a year. The new Grégoire will join other recent openings in the area, contributing to a burgeoning local business scene. Jacquet expressed his emotional connection to San Francisco, where he lived for several years in the late 1980s.