Absinthe Brasserie & Bar
398 Hayes St. (Gough St.)
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Cuisine
Open
Lunch Wed.-Fri., Dinner Wed.-Sun., Brunch Sat.-Sun.Open late
Features
- Valet parking
- Dress code: Casual dressy
- Full bar
- Great wine list
- Outdoor dining
- Private room(s)
- Reservations suggested
- Romantic setting
* Click here for rating key
![]() : Absinthe is an anchor of the fashionable Hayes Valley dining scene. At this casually elegant corner brasserie and bar, styles mix effortlessly. You'll see some regulars in jeans and others in tuxedos (thank you, Opera House), all with full plates and glasses, chattering madly. Absinthe’s menu is scored with meaty dishes, from lighter fish and seafood to slow-cooked roasts and confits. The heaviness is balanced by seasonal vegetables, perhaps a simple, pedigreed pile of mixed cresses tossed with toasted hazelnuts. Nightly crudo --- maybe hamachi with a ramp purée, trout roe and a sea-salt crunch --- makes a solid argument for straying from the oyster menu. Expert cocktail pairings from the venue’s famed bar are a fun alternative to wines. Service is smooth and knowledgeable. Brunch is also a specialty. No matter the meal, be sure to order dessert; we recommend the German chocolate cake. |
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