Chambers eat + drink Awards

Chambers eat + drink Restaurant Review:

Nestled inconspicuously within the compound that shields the Phoenix Hotel from the creeping humanity of the western Tenderloin, this beautifully designed retreat wraps diners intimately in a sultry palette of dark woods, red print tapestry and a 10,000 album record collection. An approachable dinner set from chef Yosuke Machida is equally attractive, and well-executed, if not adventurous. A creamy yellow fin tuna tartare is dressed delicately with coconut milk. Potato gnocchi gets a dash of mushroom and prosciutto. Persimmon makes for a welcome addition to a beet and chicory salad. Mains stay the subtle course: short rib supported by napa cabbage and crispy braised kale; duck breast in a savory bed of spiced couscous. A very pleasing pork belly, thick in bark with just a hint of fig chutney, is substantial for the price point. An airy dessert list is headlined by a chocolate pâté with pistachio and quince. Cocktails favor citrus; we preferred the brisk “loving cup” of green tea vodka and elderflower to the dangerously quaffable “highwire" of bourbon and Aperol with an orange twist. A well-rounded wine list and a dozen beers complete the bar. Outside, the hotel's enclosed patio and pool have plenty of rock-n-roll history.