Angler, the highly anticipated new seafood joint by chef Joshua Skenes, owner of Michelin-starred Saison, has officially opened its doors. The new venture is a big departure from the private, intimate and opulent concept of award-winning Saison (which offers only 18 seats and a single 10-course tasting menu); Angler is casual and friendly with 116 seats spread out over two dining rooms and plenty of room for walk-ins.
Photograph: Bonjwing Lee
Known for his passion for fishing and hunting, Skenes will deepen his knowledge of sea-life and his dedication to sustainable eating at Angler working with a small group of reliable and local fishermen, hunters and ranchers to supply the menu.
Start your meal with something from the stunning raw bar, which features ice-cold oysters and clams, purple sea urchin and even antelope tartar. Main courses include fresh fish like Monterey abalone and scorpionfish, as well as octopus and meats like whole-roasted pasture-raised chicken, grilled rabbit, and a beautiful 28oz bone-in porterhouse steak—all cooked over a live fire. A selection of farm-to-table vegetables add color to the menu; we like the barbecue cabbage, Epine artichokes and the signature Angler potato.
The bar will showcase wines from Burgundy, Napa and Sonoma carefully selected by wine director and co-founder Mark Bright and signature cocktails from bar director Brandyn Tepper, known for his refined cocktail program at Saison.
Photograph: Bonjwing Lee
Located on The Embarcadero with a view of the bay and the Bay Bridge, the cozy restaurant is centered around a 30-foot custom wood-fired grill and a wood counter that displays fresh vegetable and floral arrangements. The interior continues the homage to hunting and fishing: The main room features a series of fiberglass reproductions of sharks, swordfish and tuna hung on the brick walls while the Game Room includes a full-size taxidermy bear.
When it opens on September 25, the restaurant will serve dinner Mon–Thu and Sun from 5–10pm and Fri–Sat from 5–11pm. A second Angler is set to open in Los Angeles later this fall.
Photograph: Bonjwing Lee