Sel Gris
There’s something decidedly posh about Sel Gris, something intangible that transports me to San Francisco or New York once I walk through the plush curtains hanging in the doorway, even though I’m really just in sweet, humble Ladd’s addition, which isn’t exactly the neighborhood you think of when you think flawlessly prepared foie gras and Cristal.
The restaurant is quite small and well laid out, with a luxurious feel imparted by the soft lighting, subdued color palate, thoughtful menu and impeccable (but never stuffy) service. The open kitchen faces outwards into the dining room, and the bar seating is quite comfortable, affording one an unobstructed view of the inner workings of the seamlessly run open kitchen.
If you’re a fan of foie gras, order Sel Gris’–Chef Daniel Mondok has it down to an art form, and when the preparation involves strawberries, it inevitably brings a little tear to my eye. The menu changes often, but offerings include dishes like the meticulously prepared Lamb “Two Ways”— grilled rack and braised shoulder of Cattail Creek Farms lamb with fava beans, braised chick peas, root vegetable puree, and Oregon black truffle and memorably tender New York Strip Steak with creamed baby Swiss chard and twice baked garlic potato.
Desserts are particularly dramatic–one recently consumed goat cheesecake came topped with a hat fit for the Kentucky Derby…
Desserts are particularly dramatic–one recently consumed goat cheesecake came topped with a hat fit for the Kentucky Derby—a slab of crystal clear sugar “glass” studded with lavender buds and curved gently to cup the oohs and aahs it provoked. Don’t be shy about taking your wine-y friends here–the wine list is exceptional, although as a sparkly devotee, I find it disheartening that there are no bubblies by the glass for under $14. Maybe that’s what makes me feel like I’m in a big city.
Details
Cuisine: French
Executive Chef: Daniel Mondok
Sous Chef: Patrick Schultz
Atmosphere: Stylish bistro with a big city feel and pristine service
Outdoor seating: Yes, a few patio tables outside the front windows along the sidewalk
Best Seat: At the bar, facing the open kitchen—you can watch all the action
Noise Level: Slightly hushed to normal
Dress Code: Dressy to Dressy Casual
Bring the Kids: No
Bathrooms: Yes, to the back of the restaurant, down the hallway on the left hand side
Parking: Free and generally easy to find along Hawthorne or on a side street
Cocktails: Full bar, with a list of specialty cocktails
Beer: Yes
Wine: Yes, an excellent wine list, by the glass $6-$16, bottles $21-$376 (Cristal, in case you’re wondering)
Corkage: $20 per 750ml, limit two bottles per party
Coffee: Courier Coffee Roasters
Tea: Jasmine Pearl Tea Merchants
Ideal Meal: The Big Splurge--Oysters, foie gras, and the New York Strip Steak
Vegetarian Friendly: No
Vegan Friendly: No
Good for the following occasions: Romantic Dinner, Special and Splurgey, Impress a Client
Group/Private Party Details: Yes
Reservations: Yes
Take-Out: No
Delivery: No