About Palette
Palette was a one-of-a-kind SoMa destination that combined fine dining with art and design. Located at 816 Folsom Street in San Francisco, it opened in 2019 in a restored 8,000-square-foot warehouse (the former Lulu restaurant space) (www.casscaldersmith.com ). Chef-owner Peter J. Hemsley (formerly of the Michelin-starred Quince) envisioned a “palate/palette” project that merged his talents in cooking and art (sfbaytimes.com ) (sfbaytimes.com ). The venue featured a central blue-painted dining room (leather and wood seating) flanked by a white-walled gallery and shop (www.casscaldersmith.com ). Every detail – from commissioned glassware by Sam Schumacher to custom clay plates – showcased local artistry (sfbaytimes.com ). The capacity was roughly 40 seated diners and about 100 standing for cocktail-style events (www.cvent.com ). Palette earned praise for its innovative concept and design, seen as “an explosion at the intersection of food, art, and design” (sfbaytimes.com ). (Note: Palette is now permanently closed as of Feb 15, 2023 (www.sfgate.com ) (www.sfgate.com ), but its legacy continues in SF’s culinary and arts scene.)
Events and Programming
Even though Palette was primarily a restaurant, it functioned as a creative event space. Rotating art exhibits were featured in the gallery wing, and guests could purchase artwork or crafts in the on-site shop (www.kqed.org ). The restaurant itself launched with a multi-course tasting menu alongside à la carte small plates (lobster focaccia, charred carrots, fish tartare, etc.) and innovative cocktails (www.sfgate.com ) (sfbaytimes.com ). In September 2020, after five months of renovation, Palette reopened with a dramatic outdoor dining patio, complete with rope lights strung overhead like a fisherman’s net and heat lamps for chilly evenings (sf.eater.com ) (sf.eater.com ). The venue was explicitly designed to host creative events – from gallery openings to fashion shows and live performances (www.casscaldersmith.com ) – even though most events centered around unique chef’s dinners and art receptions. Scheduled events varied, but guests could typically expect nights with special multi-course menus or themed dinners (often $60–80 per person) and a vibrant atmosphere. (General admission was by dinner reservation; there were no separate “ticketed shows” as at a theater.)
Tickets and Booking
Palette did not sell tickets for individual events in the usual sense – instead, diners made reservations for meals. Guests could book a table online (e.g. via OpenTable or the restaurant’s website) or by phone. Because seating was limited, reservations often filled up quickly, especially on weekends or for special chef’s tasting nights. There was no traditional box office or door ticketing; instead, each booking guaranteed your table for dinner and any included courses. Typical pricing ranged from very affordable small plates ($5–$42 apiece) to large entrées around $30–$60 (www.sfgate.com ). Special multi-course tasting menus were priced higher (with fixed menus around $100 or more), and drinks (cocktails, wine, sake) were extra. Gratuity (tip) was customarily added at dine-in; credit cards and cash were accepted like any fine restaurant. Weekend brunch or lunch events were infrequent, so most bookings were for evening service (typically Tuesdays through Saturdays).
Seating and Layout
The layout was open and industrial-chic. The main dining area had high barrel-vaulted wood ceilings (a remnant of the old Lulu design (www.casscaldersmith.com )) and oriental rugs on the concrete floor for a bohemian feel (www.casscaldersmith.com ). A long mosaic bar occupied one side, and casual upholstered booths or bleacher-style benches faced it (www.casscaldersmith.com ). Artworks adorned the blue-painted walls, and large windows let in natural light by day. On the other side was the stark-white gallery, which featured easels and wall-hung art, and a small retail shop selling local crafts (www.kqed.org ). Outside, the leafy patio under string lights provided additional seating. Because Pallette was a restaurant (not a theater), there were no “front row” tickets – every seat offered a good view of the activity. Diners often preferred booths near the open kitchen or under the large wall mural by Nathan Richard Phelps (sea-foam bubbles motif) (sf.eater.com ). The mosaic bar top was a photo-worthy centerpiece for cocktail drinkers. For acoustics, the high ceiling made it lively but still comfortable for conversation unless it was a very crowded private event. With only about 40 seats, all sections were “best seats” for food and art; no area was really plainer than any other.
Getting There and Parking
Palette’s address was 816 Folsom Street, located between 5th and 6th Streets in the SoMa (South of Market) neighborhood. It was convenient to public transit: the **Powell Street BART/Muni** station was about 0.6 miles away, and the **Montgomery Street** station about the same. Several Muni bus lines (such as the 14R, that runs along Folsom/Van Ness, and the 30 pumping east-west) stopped within a block. Many guests used rideshare drop-offs on Folsom or Fifth Street right outside the venue. Street parking was limited metered spots (2-hour meters) on Folsom and adjacent side streets, and there was a public garage a few blocks away (for example, a large lot at 2nd & Folsom). ADA accessible parking was not onsite, but a ramped entrance and elevator inside provided wheelchair access (it was an updated building). For drivers, note that SoMa traffic can be heavy near the evening commute, so allow extra time. Walking was pleasant from nearby neighborhoods: it was a short stroll west from the 7th and Folsom area or east from the Moscone Center and South Beach Marina district.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Palette (through the main Folsom Street door), guests found a modern, art-filled lounge atmosphere. The hostess stand and coat rack (if available) would be near the entrance. There was no formal security check; it felt like visiting a gallery or upscale casual restaurant. The waiting area had modern chairs and was lined with current featured art. Once seated, diners were handed menus by attentive service staff, and water was served immediately (San Francisco tap water). Wine and beer were stored in display coolers against one wall. The mood lighting was a mix of warm overhead fixtures and accent spotlights on artwork. Food and drink orders were taken at the table; a full bar of craft cocktails and sake helped with the creative vibe. The menu changed seasonally but always focused on fresh local ingredients – think grilled octopus on a handmade plate, charred carrots with miso glaze, fresh sashimi, and an inventive pasta or smoked meats from the open kitchen. Desserts continued the art theme, often plated with edible flowers or custom-designed dishware by ceramicist Andrew Kontrabecki (www.sfgate.com ). Specialty cocktails had playful names (“Moped,” “Bangkok Babylon”) (sfbaytimes.com ) and were garnished as little art pieces. Free Wi-Fi was typically available for customers (as in most San Francisco restaurants), and restrooms were clean, modern, and ADA-compliant (one accessible stall). No coat check was mentioned, but guests could usually keep jackets at their chairs. There was no gift shop at the exit aside from the small Gallery Shop inside – just a pretty, polished space to enjoy dinner.
Nearby Amenities
Before or after a meal at Palette, visitors could explore the surrounding SoMa district. Within a few blocks were many trendy bars and restaurants: for example, one could grab appetizers or drinks at nearby favorites like Bourbon & Branch (cocktail bar 5 blocks north) or 21st Amendment Brewery (brunch and pub fare, just south on 5th). The Yerba Buena art district (MoMA, Contemporary Jewish Museum) was within easy walking distance, so combining dinner with a museum visit was popular. For pre-show dining, there were also casual spots along Folsom and Mission streets (coffee shops and bistros) for a light bite before Palette’s main service. Hotel options in the area included boutique inns like the Inn at Folsom and larger hotels around Market Street (W San Francisco, Intercontinental Mark Hopkins, etc.) – Palette was less than a mile from several downtown hotels. If coming from the Marina or North Beach, one could take Folsom west; from the Financial District, cross Market and walk two blocks. Late-night rideshare pickup was easy on Folsom or Second Street. In sum, Palette’s block was a vibrant walkable spot with plenty of dining and lodging around, making it easy to combine a visit with other city attractions.
What Makes This Venue Special
Palette stood out for its visionary concept of blending fine dining with an art gallery. It resurrected a beloved San Francisco location (the former Lulu space) with a wholly new mission (www.casscaldersmith.com ). Every detail was intentional: the chef collaborated directly with local artists on everything from the plates (handbuilt ceramic by Black Wing Clay) to the glasses (sfbaytimes.com ). The open kitchen with live fire ovens, the dramatic blue walls, the giant oyster-shell mural – all created a theatrical dining experience that was as much about visual art as it was about food. Media outlets noted that Hemsley wanted to offer diners an experience “like he’d] never seen before” ([sfbaytimes.com ). Indeed, many guests felt they were in an immersive gallery, where even the food was a form of expression. The cultural impact was that Palette exemplified San Francisco’s creative spirit: it paid local artists for their work, drew in an audience of techies and art-lovers alike, and became a gathering spot for community events. Though it was a new establishment, it was a successor to Lulu’s legacy of innovative SF dining (with barrel-vaulted ceilings and communal-friendly layout carried over). Discussing its role, critics called Palette the “latest and most ambitious” arts-minded restaurant in the city (www.sfgate.com ). Both artists and diners appreciated how the venue celebrated Bay Area creativity; many visitors described it as a rare place where “culinary creations collide with design and art.” As such, it earned a loyal following among foodies and garnered glowing word-of-mouth reviews before its closure.
Visitor Tips and Information
For first-time visitors, keep in mind that Palette was a fine-dining experience. Reservations were strongly recommended (and required on most weekend nights) – arrive at your reserved time to get full seating. The dress code was smart casual (jackets or dresses not required, but no beachwear or athletic attire). Bring identification if you plan to drink, since it had a full bar. Photography was allowed (it was very Instagram-friendly) but please be respectful: no flash or blocking other guests. Cell phones could be used quietly at tables, but the focus was on enjoying the immersive atmosphere. The restaurant was wheelchair accessible with level entry and accessible restrooms. Children were welcome but menus skewed sophisticated, so many families treated it as a special-occasion spot. Pets (except service animals) were not permitted inside. Noise levels were moderate – lively but not overwhelming for conversation. Since SoMa can be chilly at night, the outdoor patio provided blankets, but indoors the temperature was heated; dressing in layers was wise if you moved between spaces. The venue had no coat check, so keep personal items with you throughout dinner. Tipping is customary in San Francisco; expect to add about 18–20% gratuity for service if not already included. Finally, because Palette has now closed, anyone planning a visit should look for news on Chef Hemsley’s next project – online coverage hinted he is exploring new concepts, but for now the 12th Street space remains a gallery and culinary case study rather than an active restaurant. All information above is based on the venue’s offerings up to early 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the price range for dining at Palette?
A: Palette offered mostly a la carte small plates and tasting menus. Small dishes typically ran about $5–$42 each, while larger entrées were on the order of $30–$60 (www.sfgate.com ). A special multi-course tasting menu would be higher (around $100 or more before wine). Cocktails and wine were extra. Overall it was a moderate-to-upscale price point reflective of its creative fine-dining approach.
Q: How do I make a reservation at Palette?
A: Reservations were handled like a restaurant. Guests could phone or use an online booking system (often OpenTable or the restaurant’s website). Because of limited seating, especially on weekends, it was best to reserve days or weeks in advance. Palette did not sell “event tickets” – you booked a dinner seating instead. Walk-ins were possible only if tables happened to open up, but not guaranteed. (Since Palette has closed, this is for historical context: usually one would have reserved to dine here.)
Q: What kind of seating options were available?
A: Palette’s indoor dining room featured a mix of booth seating, banquet-style benches with pillows, and standard tables. There was also a long central bar with high stools for easier cocktail service. All seating was unassigned aside from your reservation; there were no separate VIP or general admission sections. Outside on the patio, tables were arranged under string lights. The best seats were subjective – many guests liked sitting near the open kitchen to watch the chefs, or under the large wall mural. Sightlines were good from anywhere in the room.
Q: Are there parking facilities near Palette?
A: On-street parking was available along Folsom and cross streets, but it was metered (often 2-hour limits). There was no private lot just for Palette, but nearby garages (for example, near 2nd & Folsom) could be used for a fee. Many diners preferred public transit or rideshare. The venue was just a few blocks from the Powell/Montgomery BART stations, so taking BART plus a short walk or bus was common. Rideshares could drop off right on Folsom St in front of the entrance.
Q: What is the address of Palette and the nearest transit?
A: Palette was located at 816 Folsom Street (at 5th Street) in San Francisco’s SoMa. The nearest BART/Muni stations are Montgomery and Powell (each about half a mile away). Several Muni bus lines (like the 14R and 30) stop within a block. It was also an easy walk from the Moscone Center. For drop-offs, tell your driver “Folsom at 5th St.” (Please note this venue has now closed, but during its operation that was the location.)
Q: Is Palette wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. The restaurant was renovated in 2019 with accessibility in mind. There was a level, step-free entrance on Folsom Street and an elevator accessing all floors. Accessible (ADA) restrooms were available. Of course, it’s always good to call ahead for any specific accommodations, but generally customers in wheelchairs could enter and dine without barriers.
Q: What are the age restrictions or dress code policies?
A: Palette did not enforce a strict dress code – smart casual attire was appropriate for the fine-dining setting. No formal wear or tie was necessary, but guests generally avoided very casual clothing like flip-flops or athletic shorts. All ages were welcome during dinner service. However, after 9pm or so it became more of a bar atmosphere, so parents might choose to time families earlier. Minors were allowed with parents; there was no 21+ rule, unlike a nightclub.
Q: Can I purchase the art or dishes I see at Palette?
A: Yes. In addition to dining, Palette had a small retail corner (the “Palette Shop”) where patrons could buy items. This included commissioned pieces by Bay Area artists – for instance, you could buy some of the ceramic bowls, glassware, or prints featured in the restaurant (www.kqed.org ). It was a unique opportunity to take home artwork used during the meal. Staff could direct you to any items that were for sale in the gallery/shop area.
Q: Why did Palette close, and what’s replaced it?
A: The owner announced in early 2023 that Palette would close on Feb 15, 2023. The decision came after four years of operation, in part due to pandemic challenges and a desire to pursue new projects (www.sfgate.com ) (www.sfgate.com ). As of now, the original 816 Folsom space remains closed to the public. Chef Hemsley hinted at future ventures, but no permanent successor restaurant has taken over that spot. (Anyone planning a visit should note that there is no active business currently operating there.)
