Chapeau!

For our anniversary a few weeks ago, we tried Chapeau!. It is now officially one of my favorite French restaurants in the city. I want to bring all of my friends here one by one, two by two, whatever it takes until everyone I know can recall the designs of the faded yellow Provence-like murals on the wall.

The warm hospitality, the succulent and delicate flavors, the quaint and down to earth ambiance, the passion of the host/chef, the superb service--what else is there to say? I'm in love.

I had the mesclun salad with warm brie and walnut pain, salmon with spinach, lentils, tomato, prawns and mussels, and a heavenly praline cake. Cappy had oysters, the day boat scallop appetizer, monkfish with lobster risotto, and a trio of sorbets. All were wonderful, not overpowering, heartwarming and delicious.

Phillipe (host/chef/sommelier) greeted us heartily upon our arrival, and sent us off with kisses. He's a passionate French man who has been known to chase down people blocks away just to thank people.

Aqua (SF) is like the fabulous one night stand with a rock star---one who is unattainable, not one you'd not settle down with, but will always stand out in your mind. But Chapeau! is the one you fell in love with, the one who became your best friend as well as lover--and best of all, being with them is the promise of a lifetime of one night stands.


Go to Chapeau! to recall your French holidays, indulge yourselves, and remember not only what good French food is all about, but also how it should be enjoyed. Also, the $25 early bird prix fixe is not a bad option for a weeknight or Sunday...