Frances was one of our local go to restaurants pre-pandemic and there were periods where we would go monthly. They used to have a prix fixe menu which gave a taste of most of their dishes which was also the same format at their sister restaurant Octavia (which lost its Michelin star through the pandemic in the latest guide. Frances also previously had one star the 2010s) of which we were also both fans. It was Wednesday and we hadn’t planned anything for dinner so this fit the proverbial bill. It’s a 1+ mile walk for us with is a very enjoyable pre and post dinner amble on a nice day like today. Frances reopened during the pandemic with a series of pop up menus. We opted for seating in the parklet which was one of the nicer ones in which we’ve dined.
This meal was a 4 course menu. We of course opted for the wine pairing which was well matched. Our favorite course was the first one with the sunchoke soup; it was flavorful and rich. The salad in the second course was fine, but we really enjoyed the toasted walnut levain topped with house made ricotta, persimmon, and watercress. The third course was fine, but as you know I’m super critical with steak. It was tender, seasoned well enough, and flavorful, but I’d rather eat steak that I prepare at home. I did enjoy the creamed escarole (I’m guessing an update to a creamed spinach) although the texture of course was inevitably mushy. Lastly was the chocolate torte which was decently executed and I liked the crème fraiche which was not sweet and definitely did not need to be with the torte. You’ve heard me bag on Marlena a bit (and maybe we just caught them on an off day), but we both agreed that this was the better meal (although also more expensive than the prix fixe at Marlena w/o wagyu). We’ll no doubt be back although we may wait until the next pop up menu later this year.
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