dimondites

Chez Panisse

1517 Shattuck Avenue
Berkeley, CA
(510) 548-5049 Café Reservations
(510) 548-5525 Restaurant Reservations
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BERKELEY  |  I returned to Chez Panisse after eight years, and the food remains excellent. I have yet to try the Cafe, but I assume it is just as good as the main restaurant. I had the lamb, and it was cooked to perfection (I watched the chefs, and the trick is to cut it after you grill it.). We brought our red wines, as we were allowed two bottles for $20 cork fee each. The Silver Oak 97 was perfect with the lamb. I do recommend this restaurant, but I’m conflicted. It is difficult to get reservations there, and the staff are snooty. (They are very serious about their reservations policy, so you should read it before you call. I think that is just crazy.) The wait staff was very nice,  especially after we ordered more wine (that’s where they make their money). They were very knowledgeable, which is always nice. It is also very expensive. Not including the two bottles we brought, the tab still came out to $125 per person. Alice Waters *is* the mother of California Cuisine though, so I think maybe paying that price is a little like paying respect. I think I’m okay with that.

Rating: Love it! (with guilt)