San Francisco

Walk into La Note and you’re temporarily transported from downtown Berkeley to a small town in Provence. Have an extended brunch or dinner here and I swear you’ll think you’re in Provence. With hot chocolate served in bowls, furniture and walls with a worn but classy feel, bunches of lavender hanging on the walls, vintage posters, elegant dishes, and French toast named pain perdu, you’re reminded that food should be enjoyed slowly and savored to the last bite. And luckily it’s got just the right amount of Provence so as to not feel too kitschy. And if you’re here for dinner, you’ll even be serenaded by an accordion player, just as you would in the old country. So save the airfare, and make a date for La Note instead.

Photo:  Valerie Ng