Chez Papa
San Francisco, CA 94107
Phone: (415) 255-0387
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Missouri Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- French Food 2006, French Food 2005
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 11:30am-3pm, 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5:30pm-11pm, Sun 5:30pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Chez Papa – by Gina Goff
The Scene
Inside this charming eatery, deep red tones, a mirror-backed wall and tabletop candles cast a soft glow over the space. Casually dressed couples and small groups of friends rendezvous around a dozen zinc-topped tables in the petite dining room, or vie for one of the few tables on the enclosed patio. A jovial din enhances the festive atmosphere.
The Food
The short menu stocks the usual French bistro suspects, but the kitchen's flawless execution sets it apart. Small plates like prosciutto-wrapped artichokes stuffed with a delectable mixture of goat cheese, frisee and lemon-thyme vinaigrette are lovely preludes to hearty mains, such as the tender New York steak rubbed in herb butter and served with skinny frites and aioli. Salmon steaks are grilled to perfection, drizzled with cider-port sauce and artfully arranged over leek fondue. An ultrarich, warm chocolate cake iced with espresso-flavored fondant makes a decadent finale.
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Insider Tips
Where to SitA heated patio is available for outdoor dining.
What to DrinkSpecial occasion? Splurge on a bottle of the 1999 Domaine des Perdix Bourgogne for just under $100.
Know Before You GoThis neighborhood favorite regularly packs a crowd; reservations are strongly advised.
User Reviews for Chez Papa
12/24/2007 Posted by waters96
I was scanning the reviews of Potrero Hill restaurants when I came across this place. I have lived in the neighborhood ever since this place opened and I have been there three times over the years. My experience has been consistent all three times. In each case, I made a reservation. When I got there, the reservation was not honored. My waits ranged from 1-2 hours. I was not offered a drink or anything else other than a snotty attitude while I waited patiently for my table. The service in each case ranged from indifferent to rude. The last time I was there, I was in a party of three. After waiting the normal 1 1/2 hours for my table, I was taken directly to a table for two people with a third chair shoe-horned in. Directly next to it, was a table that could take four. I asked for that table instead. I was informed quite rudely by the host that a party of three could not have that table. So I reluctantly sat at the table for two. Within a couple of minutes, a party a three was seated at that table. When I immediately asked to speak to the manager and informed him of that fact, I was treated as if I had just shot his puppy. At that point, I would have left, but an out-of-town friend was hosting us, so I endured an unendurable meal there. The service was terrible - slow, inattentive. I had to ask for everything - more bread, a refill on the water glass, etc. The food was average at best. I think there is absolutely no reason to go to this place unless you enjoy being abused. I have been to hundreds of restaurants over the course of my life, and I've never been to one I have enjoyed less. I'm amazed that a place like this can stay in business.
Pros: Well, I didn't get food poisioning..
Cons: They don't honor their reservations, they are rude - atmosphere loud and uncomfortable
12/12/2007 Posted by lyss61
The appetizers and desserts were the best parts of our meal! The figs were perfectly cooked and the pepper stuffed with crab meat was wonderful - not too much crab but still meaty. For dessert we had the vanilla creme brulee - wow! I would consider skipping the entree next time! Average pasta but the lamb chops were savory and well-cooked. Good (and well-priced) wines and attentive service. Nice clean bathroom (very important!). I loved the interior - charming but not cheesy. Very french but not pretentious. I'm definitely returning.
Pros: Great service, delicious food, wonderful ambience, fairly easy parking
Cons: crowded on the weekends
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