Chez Panisse is a Berkeley, California restaurant, known as one of the originators of California cuisine, and the farm-to-table movement. The restaurant emphasizes ingredients rather than technique and has developed a supply network of direct relationships with local farmers, ranchers and dairies. Prices vary from $75 to $125. An upstairs cafe offers an a la carte menu at lower prices.
Origins and Philosophy
The restaurateur, author and food activist Alice Waters opened Chez Panisse in 1971 with the film producer Paul Aratow. Chez Panisse helped forge awareness of what seasonal cooking can be.
Despite claims, such perfect produce doesn’t just fall onto your plate. Channeling Chez Panisse’s electric, tongue-thumping flavor requires precise manipulation of complex biochemistry.
Recent Developments
After a fire closed the doors in March, a new cafe menu opened in June 2013. The timing, in the pandemic, led Waters to postpone the 50th anniversary reopening. The restaurant has served pizzas for takeout and produce farmers market style on Sundays.
Waters makes an plea for slow food culture, urging us to take up the mantle of slow food culture, the philosophy a core of her life’s work. Chez Panisse is named for Honoré Panisse, a character in a Marcel Pagnol film trilogy about working-class life in Marseille, France.
Frequently Asked Questions
What made Alice Waters famous?
Why did Alice Waters name her restaurant Chez Panisse?