Stars (restaurant)

Stars (restaurant)

Stars was a highly influential restaurant in San Francisco, California. The restaurant was opened in 1984 by chef Jeremiah Tower, who is considered one of the pioneers of California cuisine. Stars was known for its innovative menu, celebrity clientele, and vibrant atmosphere.

History

Stars was opened in 1984 by Jeremiah Tower, who had previously been the co-owner and executive chef at Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California. The restaurant quickly became a hotspot for celebrities, politicians, and food enthusiasts. Stars was one of the first restaurants to feature an open kitchen, where diners could watch the chefs at work.

Cuisine

The cuisine at Stars was a blend of classic French techniques and fresh, local ingredients, a style that came to be known as California cuisine. The menu changed daily, reflecting the availability of seasonal produce and seafood. Signature dishes included the grilled ahi tuna with ginger and soy, and the roast chicken with garlic and herbs.

Legacy

Stars closed in 1999, but its influence on the restaurant industry is still felt today. Many of the chefs who trained under Tower went on to open their own successful restaurants, spreading the principles of California cuisine across the country. The open kitchen concept, once a novelty, is now a common feature in many restaurants.

See Also

• California cuisine
• Chez Panisse
• Jeremiah Tower

References

• The Last Magnificent, a documentary about the life and career of Jeremiah Tower.
• California Dish: What I Saw (and Cooked) at the American Culinary Revolution, a memoir by Jeremiah Tower.