Keith had an itch to go to
Zuni Cafe while he was in town. I'd been as recently as this past summer, but I was happy to oblige on the condition that he'd split the roasted chicken with me - a dish that I hadn't had in a long time because I can't order it with my mom. Zuni Cafe is an SF establishment... it has its lovers and its haters, but I'm a firm supporter of the place. Judy Rodgers (of Chez Panisse lineage) consistently puts out simple, reliable food using great ingredients. The space is casual and booming with natural light. I'm not a big fan of their famous burger (it's on the fancy side for me), but I think their chicken is easily one of the best chicken preparations in the city.
Red Kuri squash soup with garlic, cumin and creme fraiche - $7.5
roasted chicken for two with warm Tuscan-style bread salad - $38
The soup was just the right thickness and had a clean, mellow flavor. It was a perfect starter for the crisp, sunny day. I do think I let the waiter crack a touch too much pepper on it, though - I wish I said stop a second earlier. The chicken was just as good as in the past: moist, tender, juicy, flavorful... the bread salad, which doesn't get as much pub, is really a key element of the dish. The big chunks of bread soaked with vinaigrette were just stellar. The portion was enormous - a third person could easily have joined in and ate until he/she were full.
Despite Zuni's many critics, I maintain that it's as solid a place as any to enjoy a nice simple lunch that exemplifies California cuisine. Fresh ingredients, simple preparations, lots of sunlight and a casual atmosphere equal one enjoyable SF afternoon.
Red Kuri squash soup with garlic, cumin and creme fraiche - $7.5
roasted chicken for two with warm Tuscan-style bread salad - $38
The soup was just the right thickness and had a clean, mellow flavor. It was a perfect starter for the crisp, sunny day. I do think I let the waiter crack a touch too much pepper on it, though - I wish I said stop a second earlier. The chicken was just as good as in the past: moist, tender, juicy, flavorful... the bread salad, which doesn't get as much pub, is really a key element of the dish. The big chunks of bread soaked with vinaigrette were just stellar. The portion was enormous - a third person could easily have joined in and ate until he/she were full.
Despite Zuni's many critics, I maintain that it's as solid a place as any to enjoy a nice simple lunch that exemplifies California cuisine. Fresh ingredients, simple preparations, lots of sunlight and a casual atmosphere equal one enjoyable SF afternoon.