With a location in San Rafael and one in Novato, Michael’s Sourdough is a local favorite. Freshly baked sourdough, multi-generational recipes, and a unique “pink mayonnaise” combine to make generous, immensely satisfying sandwiches on warm bread. Jole Braun opened the sandwich shop with Michael back in 1989, and now runs the San Rafael location since Michael’s retirement.
What do you attribute Michael’s Sourdough’s cult following to?
I would like to believe it’s because we personalize our business by getting to know our customers and they, in turn, get to know us. Most of our customers know this is a family run business and they have developed relationships with us, the owners, as well as our employees. They remember us bringing our little babies in at the beginning and have watched them grow into adults.
Our customers are multi-generational. They tell me all the time that they started coming in as kids with their parents, then through high school and college. Now they have started families and bring in their new babies to see us! It’s so heartwarming – almost full circle. My employees are part of that mix too. They have been with me for as long as 23, 19, 17, 13 and 8 years. We’re very fortunate!
Why do you think Michael’s is so important to the community?
Not only do we provide our community with a yummy lunch, but over the years we have also donated to or sponsored various community schools and business throughout the county. From preschools, elementary and high schools, to RCP Tiburon Mile, The Italian Street Festival, Guide Dogs for the Blind, Lucasfilm to name a few. Also, during the firestorms of 2017 and 2018, we donated food to shelters and the local fire departments and most recently, we provided free meals to the Coast Guards during the government shut down.
What’s the best thing on the menu?
Our most popular sandwiches are the #3 Turkey, #4 The Sourdough, #6 Pastrami, #20 The North Beach, #24 the Cordon Bleu and #26 The Basil Cream Chicken. The most popular special is the Turkey and Bacon Club, which is only served on Wednesday. Our salads are really popular too and are meal size. We have a Chicken Caesar, Chicken and Red Bell Pepper, Chef, Garden, and Greek.
What sets Michael’s apart? Why do you think our readers voted you “Best in County 2019”?
I think what makes us so unique is definitely our delicious sourdough bread, and our unique sourdough spread often referred to as pink mayonnaise. The bread is baked all throughout the day and our sandwiches are served on the bread while it is still warm. We also use only the freshest produce and high-quality meats and cheeses. We have always been a “word of mouth” type of business, and never did any advertising. We strive to put out a quality product and offer quality customer service. This honor makes us feel like we’ve done something right.
