Lake Chalet: Fine Dining on the Shores of Lake Merritt
Lake Merritt is undoubtedly one of Oakland’s gems, with a lovely perimeter that changes like the pages of a story, and the new Lake Chalet location at the former boathouse adds a whole new reason to appreciate the area. Lake Chalet is no small establishment – it’s a sprawling set up with multiple bars, lounges and dining rooms seating more than 400 people. But the recently renovated Mission Revival building doesn’t feel intrusive.
Originally built to embrace the water’s edge, Lake Chalet features walls of wood-framed windows and comfortable shaded seating along a U-shaped dock overlooking the lake. While extra wings, marble bars, metal rafters, mahogany detailing and hanging dome lights now spice up the building's pizzazz-factor, Lake Chalet doesn’t come off like an overdone tourist trap. It feels like it belongs here.
Look around at the Lake Chalet crowd and you’ll see a characteristic slice of Bay Area diversity, with people from every background, age group and culture making it to dinner. This is not a fancy, Oakland-based restaurant that excludes the people of Oakland. But spending an hour or two here will feel like a special occasion for locals and out-of-towners alike.
Chef Jarad Gallagher presents Contemporary California Cuisine that attempts to match the view in wow-factor. Brightly flavored salads and starters get more consistent marks than entrees, with recommended choices like halibut ceviche infused in a citrus vinaigrette, generously sized tuna tartare, fresh oysters on a half shell, and the cheese starter accompanied by a honey comb sweetening.
Seared Day Boat Scallops & Herb Gnocchi is an excellent seafood choice; the scallops are toasted on one side, savory and filling, with fresh textures of mushroom, asparagus, and green beans to bite into. The lobster foam sauce is surprisingly creamy and rich, though the dish is light overall.
Lake Chalet joins sister restaurants, Beach Chalet (where they brew the beer) and Park Chalet in San Francisco among those operated by Lara and Gar Truppelli. Gondola Servizio is also on the boathouse premises, so you can book a tour of the lake by gondola, enjoying the panoramic cityscape view in Venetian style.
HelloSanFranciscoTip: Come in for deals with $3, $6, and $9 prices during Happy Hour and $2.50 tacos on Taco Tuesday.
Posted on Jan 7, 2011 by Renee Rutledge
