The Wood Grilled Filet Mignon with Morels in Cream, Shaved Truffles and Truffle Butter ($29). Is there a single word in that sentence that sounds wrong? I think not. The meat was beautifully cooked, and the morels were like small sponges that released an explosion of woodsy deliciousness and cream delicately flavored with truffles.
This is the Arctic Char Papillote with Braised Vegetables and Truffle Emulsion ($28). Honestly if the truffle emulsion had not reared its tempting head under the menu description, I probably would not have ordered this dish. I was disappointed with the lack of flavor. As the veggies and fish steam in the packet, they release an excess amount of moisture which watered down the truffle flavors. Moreover, the emulsion broke/separated with the heat. The fish was also slightly raw in the middle.
I feel like I am criticizing a dear friend, but I honestly was not happy with the presentation either. (However, I suppose there really is no attractive way to plate a piece of fish cooked in a foil packet though!)
We ordered the Steamed Asparagus with Truffle Emulsion and Shaved Parmesan ($11) appetizer as a side. Always a favorite.
For dessert, the Warm Apple Almond Tart with Cider Caramel and Glace au Lait ($8). Flavor was spot on, but I would have liked more apple texture.
Service: Not really fair to say when we personally know one of the servers, but it has always been consistently polite and attentive.
Ambiance: Has always reminded me of a cozy ski lodge. (Chef Laurent’s father used to be a taxidermist.) The vaulted ceilings are bolstered by warm wooden beams. As you enter through the gates, you walk through a tucked-away patio area, as if you were entering a secret garden of sorts. A set of heavy drapes separates you from the crackling wood-burning oven within and soulful piano medleys (on Friday evenings). Parting them aside brings you into another world.
Other Must Tries: Pan Seared Sea Scallops with hearts of palm and sauce verte, Foie Gras Torchon with vanilla scented blackberry sauce, Hazelnut Parfait a la Neige, Escargot Puff Lollipop (Spencer on the Go Truck)
CHEZ SPENCER
82 14th Street
San Francisco, CA
SPENCER ON THE GO TRUCK
300 7th Street (parking lot)
(at Folsom)
San Francisco, CA