Nate W
Google
Like many of us in the North Berkeley area, I've been a Chez Panisse fan for many years. While I generally think the main Chez Panisse restaurant (both cafe and dining room) does an excellent job of interesting food & great service, I was unfortunately disappointed by my experience at Bar Panisse.
Let's start with the positives. The space is beautifully done with natural wood and soft lighting everywhere. The bar does a great job of feeling cozy, yet open. The designers clearly put a lot of work into the space and it shows in many ways. Additionally, everyone we spoke to was kind, friendly, and welcoming. Kudos to the staff for the effort they are putting in; it doesn't go unnoticed.
Unfortunately, that's about the extent of our positive experience. In regards to their drinks, the cocktail menu is uninspired; it's classic hits without anything interesting or unique to draw me back. I would've liked to see more original or unique inventions, such as cocktails made with local/natural aromatics or liquors. I would also like to see drinks that match the current season and farm-to-table ingredients. After all, this is what put Chez Panisse on the map originally, so it's odd to see this omitted in the cocktail menu.
Additionally, the my sazerac cocktail should have been served in better glassware, ideally with a large cube of ice. (seriously, look at the photo - I almost laughed when it game out). Looking around, it generally seems like cocktail presentation is lackluster at best. The glass and presentation I got was not deserving of the Chez Panisse name, and I hope they will review it.
We also ordered some food, but it didn't come out after about ~30 minutes of waiting, so we gave up on it. Thankfully, the staff (who were overall excellent) were understanding and removed it from the bill. We left without eating. That's a real bummer because I think the small bites is where Bar Panisse could really shine, and I think it's an opportunity to differentiate themselves from other bars with local & farm-to-table food.
The bar is new and there will definitely be some growing pains. There is also a lot of hype surrounding this opening and the wait can be many hours. I think I'll give them another chance later down the road when things are more organized. That said, I'm in no hurry to come back, and, with the excellent selection of creative bars & eateries in Berkeley, it's hard to recommend this place to anyone who isn't a die-hard Chez Panisse fan.