Chapeau!

It's the gem of the Richmond district in S.F. IT's been open for nearly four years, owned and run by Philippe and Ellen Gardelle who are on-site every night closely supervising everything, chatting at tables, racing out the door after you to say goodbye if somehow you have managed to slip out of the tiny room while they popped into the kitchen. The food is fantastic and includes regional specialties from southern France (Philippe is from Toulouse). The prices are incredibly reasonable for the quality of the food, the service, the wonderfully friendly atmosphere and attentive service. Philippe has an enormous and fabulous wine-list...and there are always excellent and interesting wines by the glass. There are also 3 prix-fixe menus each night (4 course at about $28 -- including a vegetarian prix-fixe menu.) The room is small and tables are jammed in...but there is a wonderful atmosphere and the proprietors WANT you to relax, linger, enjoy your meal in true French style. I take everyone to Chapeau! (be sure to make reservations at least a day in advance). People from all over the world have loved it and everyone has come away feeling that they have been welcomed by new friends. I regard this restaurant as an extension of my home, that is how welcoming, relaxing, pleasant it is.