After a hiatus of four years from dinner service, Tartine Manufactory has brought back its evening offerings, with a renewed emphasis on pizza.
Located at 595 Alabama St. in San Francisco, Tartine Manufactory initially experimented with dinner service in 2016, exploring prix fixe and à la carte menus with adventurous items. However, dinner service was suspended in early 2020 due to the pandemic. Now, as of March, dinner is back, featuring a more approachable and relaxed atmosphere, with pizza taking center stage.
The restaurant has shifted its focus primarily to pizza for its evening menu, creating a more laid-back dining experience. However, despite the casual ambiance, Tartine remains dedicated to crafting distinctive and high-quality pizza, evident in the meticulous process described on the menu.
Their pizza-making process involves using the Biga starter method, where a significant portion of the flour is fermented before being combined with Tartine sourdough starter and Durum-grain flour. The dough then undergoes a two-day cold fermentation period to enhance flavor and achieve a light and crispy crust, resulting in a unique and flavorful pizza experience.
The menu features nine different pizza options, including classics and innovative creations like mushroom with salsa verde and a pizza version of the popular pasta dish cacio e pepe. Additionally, a variety of toppings are available, such as egg, anchovy, pepperoni, prosciutto, sausage, and ranch dressing. Guests can even customize their pizzas by adding meatballs.
While pizza is the star of the show, diners are encouraged to indulge further with an order of country garlic bread, featuring caciocavallo and fontal cheeses, black garlic, and a side of marinara sauce. This garlic bread, a staple of Tartine’s menu, showcases the restaurant’s expertise in breadmaking, which has contributed to its success and expansion.
For those with a sweet tooth, Tartine offers light and delectable desserts like mini tres leches or fromage blanc Bavarian cake, perfect for sharing or indulging on your own.
Tartine Manufactory serves pizza from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. As diners enjoy their pizza experience, they may find themselves dreaming of future Tartine establishments, such as a slice shop or French bread pizza parlor, further expanding the Tartine culinary empire.