Chez Poulet

I seriously considered having my wedding reception here. The price, flexibility and uniqueness of Chez Poulet makes it an incredibly attractive option to host an event. The only thing that prevented us from booking was the lack of parking. Yes, it’s very close to Bart, but I knew it would be too inconvenient for my elderly guests. Sadly we had to pass.
Pros in a nutshell:
— Most reasonable rental fee in SF
— Full kitchen onsite
— No catering restrictions or requirements
— Linens and dishes onsite (if you’re not picky)
— Some tables available for use
— Exposed brick and unique artistic touches throughout
— Upper floor can be rented out for sleeping or getting ready
If you’re laid back and looking for something truly unique, I would definitely recommend considering this event space for your big day.

As many times as Ive driven up and down Cesar Chavez to get to my friends place nearby, I had no idea a venue existed. I may have noticed the mural a couple of times but chalked it up to street art. It’s an event space. This recent time I just took the Bart and walked down the street, going to an event where they were introducing a restaurant concept. Interesting rustic space, kind of like being in a barn somewhat. I guess they have a kitchen in the back and an upstairs which I didnt see, and a main room where a number of folks can gather. Not traditional by any means, and definitely off the beaten path

It was a dark and stormy night ~ a fun opportunity came up to dine at Chez Poulet (stomping grounds of Radio Valencia) and I immediately signed up for the adventure.
From 24^th Street Mission BART Station, head south on Mission and hang a left at Cesar Chavez. While on the south side of the street, keep your eyes peeled for a large red door, part way between Mission & Van Ness Streets.
Walking in, you’ll see DJ’s in the Radio Valencia booth, busily broadcasting.
You’ll also encounter a small coat rack, a few parked bikes, and a person checking guests in. He asked about food restrictions ~ I think this is geared for folks who pre-​arranged. Since I was a last minute stand in and hadn’t indicated beforehand, he suggested that I skip the meat (I’ve been trying to be more vegetarian these days, although the last few have been the contrary).
$ 10 or $ 20 bottles of red offered at check in ~ we were lucky to purchase the last bottle. I recommend getting there on the early side if you’d like to indulge in wine.
Walking into the main dining area, I came across easy on the eyes ambiance ~ long communal tables, dark, candle glow, high loft ceiling, low stage, brick wall, small disco ball. Attire ranged from date-​night dressy to casual.
Our pre-​fixe dinner included (description from the site):
Course 1: Potato and leek soup with bacon lardons & crostini
Course 2: Mango salad with mixed organic greens & a vinaigrette
Course 3: Seared polenta with ricotta cheese (homemade), chives & apricot jam
Course 4: ‘Roast beast: cooked slow and low… apple cider braised pork shoulder with apple/​cabbage slaw dressed with cider vinegar’
Course 5: chocolate cupcake with ‘goth’ motif in honor of David J. I’m all for (plastic) spider rings, cockroaches and centipedes.
Three bands performed between courses moving the evening along. David J (of Bauhaus fame) was the ‘headliner’, taking me back to the ’80’s with ‘St. James Infirmary’.
Highlights of CP included Courses 4 & 5, the 50-​seat communal atmosphere and live entertainment. John, the MC, did a great job keeping the evening upbeat and flowing.
Chez Poulet hosts special events. My online search yielded a few crumbs as to how to keep a pulse on CP happenings. If you want to partake, my recommendation is to set up a Google Alert, or check on
. The friend that invited me was there because her friend invited her. This friend couldn’t make it, hence I came upon Chez Poulet on this dark and stormy night. Woo hoo!