Where? The Alembic Bar. They are located at 1725 Haight Street in San Francisco. I've been curious about this place since reading an Edible SF article about them in early 2008. Luckily, my friend Joen had a birthday that required celebration during the same month The Alembic Bar began serving lunch.
Although rumor has it this place fills to capacity each evening, it seems most people are unaware of their new lunch service. We practically had the bar to ourselves. This was a pleasant surprise after reading a few unpleasant comments on yelp such as ...A small blonde waitress approached us and announced, "We don't pack 'em in here. It's not our style. Leave and we can call you if we have room for you later." and ...the bartenders were aloof, yet gracious enough to eventually pour our drinks. I've noticed a lot more establishments in SF adopting this idea they seem to think is fashionable that the customers should be treated like garbage.
We did not experience anything of the sort. Lately, I tend to feel a little hesitant when a bar or restaurant has recently surged in popularity, produced a tasteful website, and eloquently described all that they have to offer their clientele. I just don't like being disappointed. I wasn't. Our lunch was fabulous.
My beverage, well, I actually drank two, was one of the best drinks I've ever tasted. It was called a Southern Exposure. When it arrived at our table, I just had to stop and look at it for a while. It was a beautiful deep yet muted green color and served in a darling little glass. The Southern Exposure combines junipero gin, fresh mint, lime juice, a touch of sugar and a little shot of celery juice. Exquisite.
For lunch I ordered the Slow Poached Egg and oh my, it was heavenly! The most beautiful yolk I've ever seen and it tasted as good as it looked. This pristine poached egg rested on top of a nice thick slice of toasted brioche, a layer of thinly shredded Brussels sprouts, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and just a hint of bacon marmalade. Seriously spectacular.
So don't tell everyone you know, but do make your way over to The Alembic Bar for lunch before word gets out. You understand, I'd still like to be able to find a table when I return for my Southern Exposure + Slow Poached Egg fix.
