A report by Dana Massey-Todd. As mentioned back in February, pastry chef Sybil Johnson of Aqua and Kokkari is opening her own place in the former Chapeau! location in the Richmond. Her new spot, called HEARTBAKER, is cozy and comfortable, but not too twee; it’s got a darker rock ‘n’ roll attitude going on too. The remodel to the space was a family affair, with her dad, Michael Johnson, engineering most of the changes to the space. There is copper industrial lighting, deep gray walls, and large-format photographs by artist Merkley of people wearing masks covered in Johnson’s creations. There is a beautiful marble bar that seats 4; plus there is seating for about 20 in the dining area.
On the menu, look for Johnson’s pastries available for dine-in or takeout, along with a daytime lunch and dinner menu, with baguette sandwiches, salads, and other light bites designed to share. In the morning, you’ll find morning pastries of sweet and savory persuasions, alongside coffee from Hearth Coffee Roasters. There is also beer and wine, though the details of the beverage program are still being worked out. Johnson hopes to offer beer and wine on tap, but for now there will just be bottles. The list will be primarily focused on pairing with the food, with a mix of something for everyone.
Johnson will also be continuing with her wholesale and special-occasion cake business, and hopes to add plated desserts to her repertoire in the coming months. Johnson is hoping to open softly this Friday June 14th, but that could change. We’ll keep you updated; follow on Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates. Hours will be Tue-Wed 7am-10pm, Thu-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 8am-10pm. Closed Monday. 1408 Clement St. at 15th Ave., 415-592-6008.
Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.
