Precita Social - a new star in a familiar space

"Chef Greg Lutes opened Precita Social just a little over two months ago, in the space previously occupied by the ill-fated Foliage, and, before that and more auspiciously, the much loved and missed Marlena. His reputation precedes him as the chef/owner of the splashy Third Cousin in Bernal of Michelin-mention fame. With Precita Social, Chef Lutes has said he wanted to open something a bit more casual, focusing on his version of home cooking and comfort food."

"Tender and sweet Maine lobster sits demurely on a bed of rice, topped with lusty uni and a heaping spoonful of caviar, enveloped by still very crispy nori. Creamy and briny, the uni was superbly fresh. Was it worth $25 - maybe if I'd had the whole bite to myself. Which means I'd get it again. If this is home cooking, I'm all for it."

"Next were the Persillade Baked Oysters. Outstanding. Fresh and barely warmed, quivering oysters were topped by a gratinée of parsley and Parmesan. Buttery, juicy, and exceedingly delicious. These may have rivaled the lobster bite. We split two mains. Sautéed black cod in a red miso butter lake, with an island of wilted spinach beneath. The dish reminded me - ever so faintly - of the miso-marinated black cod made famous by Nobu (and now beloved by many home cooks)."

Precita Social opened in a space that previously housed Foliage and Marlena, helmed by chef Greg Lutes of Third Cousin fame. The restaurant aims for casual, home-style comfort cooking within an airy, elegant setting. Menu highlights include a lobster handroll combining Maine lobster, uni, caviar, rice, and crispy nori priced at $25, and Persillade Baked Oysters finished with parsley and Parmesan. Mains feature sauteded black cod in a red miso butter with wilted spinach, noted for delicate skin and flaky flesh. Dishes emphasize freshness, rich umami flavors, and thoughtful execution.

Read at Mission Local