Petit Crenn, locating in the Hayes Valley, is a neighborhood restaurant opened by the two Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn, whom has also been named the World’s Best Female Chef, according to San Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Unlike the high-end tasting menu at Atelier Crenn, Petit Crenn is designed to be a neighborhood restaurant, which was inspired by her grandmother, mother, and home, Brittany in the north-west France.

Since the Petit Crenn is a more casual restaurant, walk-ins are definitely welcome. The decor is so minimalist and modern that it was purely white with wooden tables. It’s bright and warm.

Since I went solo, I couldn’t try a lot of items, and had a hard time choosing what I should get. I asked the waitress for recommendation. For the petite bouchée, she has recommended the gougère , which are little puffs filled with gruyère cream and pickled shallot. The puff was so airy, filled with gruyère cream, and a subtle taste of shallot.

For the main, I was certain that I wanted the Parisienne gnocchi, which was served with spring peas and beech mushrooms. I would definitely said the portion was for two people. However, it was really good that I finished it all by myself. Compared to the parsnip gnocchi that I had at Hôtel Herman, these potato gnocchi were fluffier and more tender. The mushrooms made the broth more earthy and flavorful.

Though I didn’t get to try a lot of things on the menu, the meal was hearty and comfy. The waitress was very friendly. A perk of the Petit Crenn is that the gratitudes are included when you get the bill. I would definitely love to go back with friends and try their dinner tasting menu!

Petit Crenn
609 Hayes St., San Francisco, CA
Tel: +1 (415) 864-1744

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