Richmond District Restaurants

The worst parts were the best parts and the best parts haven’t caught up to language. At Spruce our tongues taste better than they can speak and are rollicked dumbfounded in joy. The endless train of kind folks that survey this wonderland never failed to show up in education as well as concern and empathy. All in all it was a respite that elevated the human condition with a masterful taste and beauty.

It’s my second time here in less than a month! I don’t know why I haven’t been here before! The food is delicious! We had the spreads, little gem salad, mussels, salmon, and the branzino! All were stellar! We loved the casual and warm ambience. It’s truly a special restaurant and I can’t wait to come back!

This was our first time at Dalida, we went for my husband's birthday. We found out about it on Check Please Bay Area and wanted to try it. The hostess was very gracious when we showed up late due to traffic. We were seated at the chef's counter and it was THE best seat in the house. Our server was incredible and always around. Jerry the Wine manager was extremely knowledgeable about their extensive wine lists and how to pair up our preferences with the food we were ordering. We had a delicious crisp, dry white from Greece (forgot to take a pic of the label so I don't remember the varietal) but similar to an Albariño. A few of the stand out dishes were the Breaking Bread appetizer, Lamb pasta, and the Trout. We had a chance to thank Chef Laura Ozyilmaz in person as she fluttered about the kitchen and dining room. Overall we loved it and would go back again.

Everything was wonderful (as usual) except our server. He wasn't pleasant or friendly. Previous servers knew we were there for our anniversary, said Congratulations, asked how long we've been together, took a picture of us etc. He had no interest in anything except getting our drink and entree order. Not a nice fellow or interested in making us feel welcome. Example; there was no napkin at my place setting and I politely asked for one. He walked by, put one on the table and said "here ya go" and kept moving. I said "thank you" but all I saw was the back of his head moving away. A good server would have offered an apology for the oversight, immediately corrected the mistake and said to the customer thanks for your patience and understanding (or something to that effect). He made me feel like I was bothering him. Contrary to our disengaged waiter there was a busser guy who was awesome! He was open and friendly, joyful, and accommodating. He liked his job and wanted to be helpful. Our actual server, not so much. My wife and I openly wished the busser was our server. If I knew the busser's name, I'd say promote him. The only time our waiter was even remotely kind was when he put the bill on the table. So, when it's time for the tip, guess what? He was very nice! Wow, imagine that...

Food and service were great. My only complaint is that it was cold inside. They need to put a barrier by the front door.