Any foodie in San Francisco has heard of Frances or the newest opening from the Frances team, Octavia, located in Pacific Heights. I visited Octavia just after they opened and adored the charming location, the incredible food, and just the overall experience. See more about this beautiful restaurant led by Chef/Owner Melissa Perello and why you must visit this San Francisco culinary gem below. 1701 Octavia St, San Francisco, CA 94109.

The stunning, minimal, yet chic and somewhat refined, rustic interior. It’s elegant, but in a not trying too hard California kind of way. I love it!

Considering I’ve had dinner three to four times at Frances Restaurant in the past three years, it’s safe to say I’m a fan of Chef Melissa Perello’s cooking, as well as her pleasant approachable attitude. I had the pleasure of meeting Melissa during one of my Frances visits and have since seen her at a few other foodie events and she is lovely. She is not only nice and approachable, but seems very genuine and also quite humble. After living in New York for over a decade, I became used to unapproachable, not so friendly Chefs with egos, but Melissa could not be further from that. Reminder, she does have a Michelin star so she’s got plenty of talent and reasons to have an ego which she does not appear to have.  I truly love highlighting women in the culinary industry for exactly that reason. And, as a woman entrepreneur, I’m aways rooting for other women and their success. 

After studying the menu and taking into account what I had read in Michael Bauer’s review, we decided we would start with the Local Halibut Crudo, and then share two entrees: The Long & Belly Pork Chop and the Saffron Tonnarelli (an appetizer portion so I’d recommend two if you plan to share as Entrée).

The pasta I enjoyed during my visit was divine. Just how I like it a bit al dente with amazing flavors that left me wanting a few more bites.

As you can tell from the above, I fell in love with Octavia. The setting is light and fresh and not too loud, with a friendly approachable team making amazing California cuisine. I look forward to returning again soon to enjoy more of Chef Melissa’s delicious cooking.  

Be sure to check out my interview with Chef & Owner Melissa Perello here.

Pictures courtesy of Aubrie Pick