North Beach can be a tough neighborhood to start a business in, especially a restaurant. With a bevy of Italian places on every street corner, it can be an unwelcome spot for a newcomer. But one of the newest spots, Park Tavern, has been welcomed with open arms and plenty of high praise.

The restaurant comes from Anna Weinberg and Jennifer Puccio, who also run the ever-popular Marlowe in SoMa. Park Tavern has a unique feel to it with an elegant, sleek interior that you would expect at a white tablecloth restaurant but the casualness for a neighborhood date spot. And the menu fits that bill as well with something for everyone.

Deviled Eggs

There is a wide assortment of appetizers and smaller plates that all really work well. Placed into categories (smoked, raw, fried), there are plenty of winners to choose from including the fried lemon and basil leaf with burrata, deviled eggs and of course, the famed brussels sprout chips. There is also a really nice charcuterie plate for those that might not want a full entree.

The entrees include the famous Marlowe burger along with plenty of other options: a very unique grilled pork chop, scallops, NY steak and a poulet rouge chicken. From appetizer to entree, everything was a perfect portion size for the price of each dish.

It’s not over with the entrees as desserts are a huge hit as well, from your daily birthday cake, creme brulee and an apple and caramel crisp. Not feeling any of those options? They also have some creative “boozy floats” for an after dinner treat.

The bar program is excellent with plenty of great wines and beers by the bottle and on tap. There are also a nice array of cocktails on the menu.

Dessert

Overall, the restaurant is the perfect fit for North Beach. In my mind, that area around Washington Square Park has needed a “destination” restaurant for some time. Weinberg and Puccio have done a really nice job of fitting that idea into the design and menu. It is a spot where you can grab a quick drink after work, bring important clients, treat your mom and dad to a nice meal or bring the special someone in your life for a nice, romantic dinner. From start to finish, service to food to environment, it is easy to see why Park Tavern has received huge accolades in such a short time.

Park Tavern is located at 1652 Stockton Street. The restaurant is closed on Mondays, open from 5:30-10:00 on Sunday and Tuesday, 5:30-11:00 Wednesday-Saturday, with the bar open a bit later each night.

Photo Credit: Beth Thompson

• Tag: Anna Weinberg, Jennifer Puccio, Marlowe, North Beach, Park Tavern, Restaurants