As I mentioned a week or so ago, the first week in December Phil and I were invited to join my sister Robin's family for a birthday dinner for her son, Rex at his sister and my niece and namesake, Julie's restaurant called Pearl's Cafe in Fremont, CA. As we travel along on our great adventure (both of us being former restauranteurs) we have been critiquing each eatery for fun and possible publication but mostly just because we can't help ourselves! We had been fairly good at finding decent food but nothing near a "ten" on a scale of one-to-ten. Happily, our quest for an outstanding eating experience actualized on this night. Julie and her husband, Doug are partners with several other people which luckily includes a professionally trained chef named Chrissy in this epicurean study that has figured out a way to do just about everything right. Housed in a remodeled private home on a side street, the first impression belies the culinary treat in store for the customers. Keep in mind, the prices are not for the faint of heart (but I've had terrible food that cost much more) and although limited (they're working on it), the varied, one page menu is reevaluated and revised quarterly to take advantage of the freshest seasonal choices and where possible, local organic ingredients. Helping to start the digestive juices flowing, Pearl's interior is a feast for the eye, including the tiny garden outside the "Patio" area (now enclosed and heated) with an eclectic decor augmented by garage sale finds and local artisans in every nook and cranny. At the most, Pearl's can seat 70-75 patrons and since every entree is cooked to order from scratch, it is not the place to go if you're in a hurry. There are cloth napkins on the tables, a wide assortment of beers and wine and they are open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner with the exception of Mother's Day when Chrissy and her crew prepare a bountiful brunch. Nearly everyone at our table of eight ordered something different only doubling up on two items so there was a good assortment of entrees to appraise. Baskets of crispy, warm bread were served along with familiar and savory appetizers but with Pearl's own culinary twist; the salads were crisp and delicious and the dinners when they were brought from the kitchen were perfectly prepared, sizzling hot and beautifully presented. We didn't order dessert (although they were certainly tempting) because Chrissy had baked a special birthday cake for Rex and we each had a small slice of her delightful creation after he opened his birthday presents. We were told that Chef Chrissy will do her best to cater to special requests as well as her customer's dietary needs and the smiling, warm and friendly wait people all seem to be loving what they do. My congratulations to Julie and Doug, their partners and especially Chrissy for a job VERY well done! Below are some pictures taken two years ago just about the time the new owners took possession. Pearl's Cafe looks much different today and if you're ever in the area, give them a call. Reservations are suggested.
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