After a long day of searching for the perfect holiday gifts for my loved ones, having dinner at Lettus Café Organic was a welcomed change of pace. A few tables are arranged out front, though it was a bit too chilly to be noshing outdoors this particular night. Walking in, my friend and I were greeted with a wealth of freshly-cooked smells. This is the most planet-friendly version of the counter order sit down service I have seen in the Bay Area.

Across from the registers, next to the bathroom (or as they call it here and in Europe, the water closet), is a chalkboard listing the specials of the day. These are worth a look, whether you want to try something new or treating yourself to a fresh spin on a classic dish. Laminated versions of the current menu wait for you on the bar, slyly placed in front of a tempting display of sweets. Even after placing my order, making a decision was proving a bit tougher for my cohort. Following a minute of helpful suggestions and information from the café’s employee, our orders were placed and we were given a number.

Perusing the menu, it was clear that I would have to visit here many more times to be able to enjoy all of the enticing items they serve. Their weekend brunch is worth a trip by itself, featuring many tasty vegan options. Another outing here should include one of the custom-created salads. With over 50 items to choose from, your body and soul will thank you. The menu itself is quite helpful, in that all dishes that are already vegan are clearly marked. Also, if one of the ingredients is not organic, that is listed as well. If you are a veggie and you spot a dish that looks quite tasty but includes meat, do not fear – just ask them to substitute tofu, no questions asked. Even traditionally non-vegan elements, such as pesto and mayonnaise, are available in vegan-friendly version. Nearly all of the items on the menu, even the entrees, are under $10. Of course, I wouldn’t expect any less from executive chef Sascha Weiss, who once worked and San Francisco’s infamous (and expensive) vegetarian restaurant Millennium.

The décor here makes escaping the bustle of the Marina effortless. Using sustainable materials, Lettus has a distinctive Scandinavian feel, thanks to the walls and ceiling being lined with slated grain-enhanced wood and the simple seating. When we first arrived, the restaurant was a bit busy, but the staff had the few unused tables bused quickly, so seating was not an issue. Choosing a table along the left wall, the blue lighting behind the bench seat lends themselves to a homey, comfort-fueled vibe; there is no rush to finish your meal and get back into the chaos of the holiday season. The menus are eco-friendly as well, having been printed on 100% post consumer waste recycled paper with soy-based inks.

We were not seated more than three minutes before all of our food, including dessert, was served. Finding it difficult to resist any Italian-style dish, I chose the seasonal pasta entrée, which happened to be penne pasta in a hearty tomato sauce with fresh basil, garlic, red wine, olives & capers. That display of sweets I mentioned earlier called to me, resulting in a slice of carrot cake with cream cheese frosting accompanying my dish. My accomplice, having a much larger appetite, ordered the mango spring rolls for an appetizer, the rice noodles entrée with added grilled chicken, and a large cup of coffee.

Upon taking my first bite, it was clear that their dedication to organic and local ingredients was no simple promo ploy – it was genuine. Never having been a fan of fish, I was open to trying the vegan capers. All of the flavors meshed seamlessly and the textures of all ingredients adhered to the pasta, making it all the easier to enjoy. Portion-wise, this was a sound amount; I felt nourished, but not weighed down, which happens after most meals, especially with pasta. Though the appetizers are perfect for sharing, my comrade had them disappear before I had a chance, proving just how tasty they are. He had many good things to say about his entrée, thankfully. Moist chicken, dead-on broth, unique but great mix of vegetables; the only thing he wished for was some bread on the side to soak up the rest of the broth.

Saving my carrot cake for later that evening, I had a hard time resisting it during the ride home. While nestled on my couch, I could easily see why: moist, full-flavored, and not overloaded with icing, I can’t think of any better way to end such a good meal. Need a break from seasonal rush? Feeling peckish after an intense yoga class? Lettus Café is the place for you, no matter where you are in the city.

Lettus Café Organic
3352 Steiner St (near Chestnut)
San Francisco, CA 94123
415-931-2777
lettusorganic.com
Hours: Monday-Friday 10:30am-10pm; Sat & Sun 9am-10pm
Take out available; no delivery
Street parking available

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