07/23/2022
The End of an Era
When I started this letter, the “end of an era” was about Cesar. As I wrote on, I realized by all measures, Cesar will be ok. They will inevitably find a new location. It may be closer for some, further for others, but we will be together again.
The era that is ending is Chez Panisse. The farm-to-table, “community oriented” North Berkeley restaurant is gone. The handshake between two restaurateurs that wanted to reshape the neighborhood's culinary diversity is gone. Jonno's welcoming smile and soft touch is gone. As Alice steps aside for the next generation, they have made clear that Chez Panisse core values have changed. They closed during the first few years of the pandemic, collecting millions of dollars in federal relief money. And at this pivotal moment of self reflection for many Americans, what’s Chez Panisse's contribution to the community that supported them all these years? Kick out the restaurant that stayed open, so they can expand operations next door. I'm not a fortune teller, but Chez-to-go and the mighty $20 avocado toast is coming, along with a steady stream of Lyft, Uber, and selfies in front. The new chic I guess.
Today is our last day in our wonderful restaurant. I encourage everyone to pop in and show support. I also encourage everyone to donate one last time to www.savecesar.org/donate. We will be treating the entire staff to dinner, leaving the rest to help support them through this hard time.
Thanks again for your continued support and care. See you tonight!
SaveCesar