How to Style a Modern SF Eatery

I've been checking out the popular and newish foodie spots in San Francisco for some time now and I've noticed some major trends in visual presentation at many of these places. It seems that in addition to the big food trends right now of produce-forward, fresh, and simple, there is a certain decorative style that goes along with the modern menu.

I'm not saying by grouping these places together that they are unoriginal. In fact, I rather love these simple interiors with their elegant dark woods and grays and their surprising pops of chartreuse. And walking into an eatery styled in a way that so suits my personal tastes right away puts me in the mood to enjoy my dining experience. This understated look allows the food to represent the restaurant, not distracting artwork or table linens.

Here's a breakdown of the key elements of styling a modern SF eatery.

• plain white or soft gray walls with zero to two key art pieces
• tables that have been made from reclaimed wood
• mixing dark wood stains with gray-colored metals
• simple pendant lamps with Edison-style bulbs
• one major pop of an accent color, usually chartreuse
• serving things in canning jars
• handwritten menu items on chalkboards
• gunmetal gray stools
• plush white cloth napkins with a red stripe detail for a homey touch
• open kitchens, so everyone can see the love being put into the food

| Photo Credit: (Clockwise from Top Left.) Photo of Plow by Peter Belanger; Blazon Gleam Pendant from Anthropologie; Photo of canning jars by Craig Lee; Photo of Mr. and Mrs. Miscellaneous menu from their Facebook page. |