Petite Crenn Tasting Menu Was A Parade in My Mouth!

Sometimes even before I buy a plane ticket, I begin seeking out fun food destinations.  I even have a folder with old newspaper and magazine clips about eateries that catch my eye.  A few years ago, The New York Times had an article about the best chefs in the country. Near the top of the list was acclaimed chef Dominique Crenn of San Francisco who had 3 Michelin Stars.  I made a mental note wanting to support a female chef and decided next time I am there, I’d go. But even though I’d try months in advance, I couldn’t get a reservation for years.  Then, only six weeks before my trip, I was able to get a table at her more intimate Petit Crenn on a Tuesday night 

I began counting down the days until my cross country excursion. But before I left, I got a culinary surprise. In Harlem, there was a new restaurant that was getting a great buzz. The 18 seat, open concept kitchen restaurant was the new home of San Fransiscan Chef Russell Jackson and what a lovely experience it was. Jackson shared stories of cooking in California as his masterfully crafted plates came out.  It was especially nice of the chef to describe some of his signature Mocktails that he paired with the dishes.  It was important for him to elevate non alcoholic drinks to accompany his food he explained.  I admit the virgin “English Gin” was martini worthy indeed.

Chatting with Russell the nagging question on my mind was, “What is your favorite restaurant in San Francisco?” Oh, the joy it gave me to hear him say, “Petit Crenn”.  Turns out Dominique is a good friend of his!   Serendipity!  I knew then I had picked a winner and man, I was not disappointed.

Petit Crenn is a quaint neighborhood bistro. The all inclusive, with gratuity, tasting menu paid homage to Ms. Crenn’s French heritage and was simple yet sophisticated. Every plate came with a story about her childhood in her grandmother’s garden and cooking fresh seasonal specialties with her.  So much unconventional flavor was packed into a tiny bite size triangle cut waffle with Foie Gras, corn and Maple syrup.  Both my friend and I agreed, the cherry tomatoes on vine pouched to sublime perfection in briny broth was our favorite.

At the end, I could hardly wait to go back to Reverence at home and tell my new bestie chef in Harlem that he was right!  His girl, Dominique Crenn is the bomb and good things come in “petit” packages.  Good things do come to those who wait!