As reported more than two years ago, Matt Semmelhack and Mark Liberman of Mercer Restaurant Group (AQ, TBD) are opening an ambitious new restaurant in Market Square. This new project is called BON MARCHÉ and is a large one, clocking in at 7,500 square feet. The idea is for the space to feel open and “bustling” all day long, with inspiration from Paris and, specifically, the Marais neighborhood.
The large space allows for several different experiences, including a bar that serves oysters and drinks, a lounge area, a coffee shop, a flower shop, a full-service restaurant dining room, a private dining room, and a brewery. The restaurant’s executive chef is Matthew Sieger, whose menu is focused on French classics, including salade Lyonnaise, côte de boeuf, and moules frites. At lunch, look for tartines and other lighter options; you can also enjoy oysters and shellfish from the raw bar. There will be a selection of housemade charcuterie like roulades, terrines, and pâtés, as well. On the sweet side, pastry chef Rikki Garcia will be sticking to the classics, with a chocolate soufflé, housemade ice cream, and fruit tarts.
There are several components to the beverage program, and they pulled together quite a team to make it all happen. Rich Higgins is developing the beer side of things, including on-site brewing and guest taps. Allegra Angelo is running the wine show, with close to 100 different options to choose from, all of them intended to be approachable and food-friendly. As for cocktails, Eric Quilty is creating a list of drinks inspired by the seasons and designed to pair well with the food.
As for the design, they’ve looked the Art Deco era for inspiration, and added warm, hospitable touches that encourage people to sit and linger. Think leather banquettes, brass fixtures, and penny tile. The floor-to-ceiling windows take advantage of the space’s soaring height, offering lots of natural light. The current plan is to open the doors in June. 1355 Market St., Suite 120 at 10th St., 415-802-1700.
The Twitter building at 1355 Market Street. Photo courtesy San Francisco Business Times.
