Chez Panisse upstairs

This was my first upstairs dinner in a few years. Several lunches since, but no dinners.

We started with the pizza, which was pleasant (generally, sausage and peppers) but not close to “pizza at its best” from this kitchen. Also, it could have used another 30 seconds or so in the oven.

I then had the pork shoulder with polenta and peppers. This was a fantastic dish - everything about it.
The birthday boy had the duck. I don’t care for duck, but I did sample the pureed fennel, which was delicious.

We then shared a slice of Ginger cake w/peaches and berries. This was phenomenal.

We washed it all down with a 2014 Barbera d’Alba, Pairolero, Sottimano, which went well … well, not “all down” because I figured it wouldn’t go well with ginger, and our excellent waiter delayed the dessert until we were done with it.

Stepped next door afterward for a bajativo at César.

Neighbo(u)rhood dining at its best.

2 Likes

Went for the first time in I don’t know how long. I often think of going but it’s booked up.

Broccoli di ciccio with beets and almonds, very nice, perfectly cooked.

Braised lam with fresh cranberry beans, polenta with fresh corn, and some kind of amaranth: really good.

Peak-season apricot galette, ideal.

Meringata with strawberry ice cream, strawberries, and peaches, perfect ending to the meal.

Drank a 2024 Tempier rosé and a Castello di Verduno Pelaverga.

Still a great restaurant. Great atmosphere, great service.

Looks like they’ve finally started work on whatever Alice is doing with the old Cesar space next door.

1 Like

2 Likes