Victoria E.
Yelp
When I was young, I wanted to be a writer, a poet, a lounge singer and a journalist. I had wanted to sing at a place like this, dark and trendy, good wine but not too crowded so that you can still hear your companion at a respectful distance. It also possible to take small breaks and mingle around the tables scattered around this bar, without bumping into sweaty people. I did not think a French wine bar existed in many places in this part of the town. In part, I was never looking for such things. If I wanted a French bar, I would have gone to one at my home in France but that's too far, too ambitious and unnecessary when a good one is just across the street from the Castro theatre.
I arrived last week after a long day at work, honestly thought I was late but I was the first to arrive. Promptly ordered a glass of bubbly Rose and grabbed a table because my girlfriend often arrives with her entourage and that evening it was no exception. Soon six of them arrived, separately and then some together, they complimented my seating arrangement. We all set at a communal table, pleasantries exchanged. Noted two new people from Brooklyn, musicians, who I had not met before, one friend I already knew, some musician who lives in Cole Valley, a Bavarian girl I've known through a gallery outing and then my girlfriend who was an ageless lady who used to belly dancing naked in the early years of Blackrock city, now a perennial fixture among the musicians and artist in town. She literately knows everyone and is friends with everyone in town. So you get the gist. This bar attracts artist types who came in that evening to watch a band. It's a good place for likeminded people to gather, to have a good meal and then listen to some tunes.
I ordered appetizers for the table. Ever feel that you are the lucky one who did well for yourself and you should be more generous among your artist friends? Well, I do. I always feel too sheltered and too lack of artistry. The only thing I'm good at is to eat food. So I ordered two things and they arrived shortly. They edamame spread was quite clever. I liked it a lot. The musicians playing that evening were quite good. French gypsy music was quite suitable for this bar.
It's low key. Meaning, you don't have to scream and yell to talk and to be heard. The ambience is chill. And the food is good. The wine selection is robust. Stick with French, but of course.
Will likely bring other friends of mine over here for meal and music.