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As much as I love a menu that reads more like long poem and wine list that could be mistaken for a movie script, there’s something very special about small menus featuring fresh simply prepared food that one can enjoy in a warm and relaxing environment. Places like Manka’s, Lucques, and Chez Panisse immediately come to mind, but there are more. While the mentioned restaurants are at a different comparison level, Bar Jules has managed to add some value to my little list of cozy spots (Laura, thanks for your review).
I arrived early for lunch and was able to sit at a small table along the window. The chalkboard menu changes daily; "it is what it is" and if you don’t like any of the four dishes, it’s time to go. While waiting for Mariangela (fashionably late), I had a glass of prosecco with elderflower syrup. Mmmm. This was nice, but only if you like a floral liqueur-like alternative to sometimes cloying champagne cocktails. And, did you know… elderflower syrup contains lots of Vitamin C! This was a win-win for me.
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Next, the escarole salad with Parmesan, mandarins, and walnuts. This little salad was just what I needed – simple and delicious with just right amount of dressing. Mariangela had the cauliflower soup with harissa - nice but I think she wasn't expecting a cream of cauliflower. For my main dish, I had to get the fried egg sandwich with La Quercia proscuitto and arugula. Let me backup a bit… My husband has a book called “Everything Tastes Better with Bacon” and, while I agree, I am also convinced that almost everything tastes better with an egg. And, I love sandwiches, even hamburgers, topped with fried egg. The sandwich was what I expected in flavor and texture: salty, nutty, peppery, and a bit gooey with a crisp crunch. Sure I can make this at home, but it’s nice to find some of the same comforts outside.
Finally, dessert and coffee (no espresso machine so we split a cup of Blue Bottle coffee). Sadly, the “River Café” chocolate nemesis was defeated.
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Some interior shots at about 2:00pm.
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Bar Jules
609 Hayes Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
415.621.5482
www.barjules.com
