I know I've posted applause for Bar Agricole before, but so close after visiting Central Kitchen and Commonwealth - both of whom vie for Bar Agricole's position atop the hip tree - it's worth comparing the three.
Bar Agricole undoubtedly has the best bar scene, the best cocktails and the best cocktail-making bartenders.
It also has the wider seasonal appeal, with its inside and outside dining areas.
Service-wise, it's a tougher choice. Central Kitchen is newest. I don't know whether that lends the place its "eager beaver" demeanor when it comes to explaining how each dish is comprised and made. With Commonwealth it looked like despite serving their customers, the staff had a lot of time to stand around and chat with each other, spend an age drying a few glasses, and basically not occupy themselves with making things zing. Bar Agricole has always offered great service, from valet parking, bar and table. Although - and this has nothing to do with service - the place felt a little quieter than its normal Saturday night rowdiest. I wonder if San Francisco is getting too used to what this restaurant has to offer.
Considering the food, it's equal first for Central Kitchen and Bar Agricole, with the caveat that we've only been once to Central Kitchen compared with five or six times to BA, so further visits are required to the former. It's a tough job, but ....
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