THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED PlumpJack Cafe

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED PlumpJack Cafe Restaurant Review:

The Plumpjack group’s most intimate enclave is (refreshingly) borderline old-fashioned: though small, the room is hushed and a little grand, with soft, taupe environs. It provides quiet, refined escape for dates and small, special gatherings and is seemingly miles from neighboring sister venue, the lively Balboa Café, whose windows are generally thrown open to boisterous Fillmore Street mingling. Both spots share a wealth of wines (a Plumpjack distinction), and here some romantic tables are practically surrounded by the lovely bottles. Knowledgeable servers pander with deftness and a mood-elevating touch of sass, wine pairings their happy specialty, though timing can be inconsistent and spaces between dishes occasionally slow. Executive chef Rick Edge’s seasonal, unfussy, wine-friendly food seems effortless, however, and well worth the wait: standout sweet-corn soup is poured tableside over warm mushroom salad with smoked bacon. Crispy soft shell crab is subtly touched up with golden tomato vinaigrette and met with savoy spinach. Slices of heirloom tomato are seasoned simply and with care, offered with potent dabs of tarragon aïoli and onion marmalade. Mains are consistent and nicely presented, such as the grilled tomato marinated Kurobuta pork met with very pretty piles of tiny summer squash. Desserts also pop with fresh, seasonal flavor. The menu changes often and both food and wines offer excellent value.