Dominique Crenn Will Open Petit Crenn in Bar Jules Space

After the recent closure and sale of Hayes Valley's beloved Bar Jules, fans have been anxiously awaiting news of the restaurant's new owner. Hoodline broke the news of Crenn's inclusion on the liquor license over the weekend; now, Inside Scoop confirms that Dominique Crenn, chef and owner of Atelier Crenn, will open a new restaurant in the space, called Petit Crenn.

The chef, whose eponymous Michelin two-starred restaurant comes with a hefty $220 per person tasting menu, was a longtime regular of Bar Jules and fan of previous owner Jessica Boncutter. Inspired by the cozy space and Boncutter's vision, Crenn jumped at the chance to take over, telling Inside Scoop, "I want to continue that legacy— obviously with my style."

This time, that style is a little more low-key. Petit Crenn will be a tribute to Crenn's childhood in France, particularly her family and the food that they cooked in Brittany, the Northern region of France. The restaurant will serve food all day, starting with a typical French breakfast that is "nothing like an American breakfast," with pastries, simple egg preparations, fresh bread, jams and coffee. Lunch will include light fare, like tartines, crepes, salads and sandwiches. Dinner will up the ante a little bit with a family-style, five-course prix fixe for $72 (including tips and surcharges). The menu, which will highlight the food of Brittany, is intended to be simple, reminiscent of the food Crenn grew up eating. Cider, beer and wine will flow freely alongside dishes like a Breton version of pot-au-feu, gougeres and tarte tatin.

While the more accessible, neighborhood atmosphere of Crenn's new project will certainly be a welcome extension of the Bar Jules magic, it is sure to be a hot ticket for those wishing to try Crenn's cuisine without the price tag. Reservations will be accepted, but the bar will always be reserved for walk-ins, where guests can order oysters and menu items a la carte.

"I really want the community to know that they will have a place. If you’re living in the area, we will very much be open to that," said Crenn. Petit Crenn is currently set for a July opening; stay tuned as more details become available.