Blossom & Root in the heart of downtown Danville has upped its culinary game with the hiring of former Lazy Bear co-chef Chris Johnson as its new Executive Chef. A 20- year veteran of the Bay Area’s dining scene, Chef Johnson brings a cutting-edge culinary sensibility to the casually chic, plant-based eatery sure to make it both a destination and a community favorite for indoor and outdoor dining whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or omnivore.
Chef Johnson’s resume reads like a greatest hits list of Bay Area dining from Senior Sous at the legendary 3 Michelin starred Coi to Executive Chef at Haven in Oakland (which earned a loyal East Bay following for his high-level comfort food) to a five-year stint at the groundbreaking Lazy Bear in San Francisco where his team garnered 2 Michelin stars. “The challenge of creating a delicious plant-based menu totally dovetails with my long-time commitment to building strong relationships with local farmers,” explained the Tracy resident. “ I couldn’t be more excited to work in my own backyard.”
Dishes change micro-seasonally at lunch and dinner; bolstered by Chef’s pantry of fermented and preserved produce. In addition to adding inspired twists to Blossom & Root’s most popular dishes, Johnson has recently introduced Crispy Rice & Mushroom Lettuce Cups with fermented shiitake, shallot, lime, fried garlic, peanut; a ‘Crab Cake’ Sandwich featuring Fungi Farm mushrooms, old bay aioli, pickles & onion; Avocado & Citrus Salad with marinated beets, charred avocado, blood orange and marcona almonds and a Gigante Beans & Greens shareable starter utilizing kale, grilled broccolini, and green garlic. Sandwiches – including the much sought after B&R Smash Burger made with chickpeas, black beans, shiitake, house-made tomato aioli, sliced ‘cheese’, maple smoked mustard and house pickles – are served with a choice of side salad. The restaurant has also expanded takeout & delivery, with a continuing emphasis on gluten free, soy free and nut free options. A creative wine cocktail program and family friendly non- alcoholic libations (as well as a kids menu) also reflect the kitchen’s healthful, seasonal approach.
Blossom & Root is located at 411 Hartz and is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch from 11:30am- 3:30pm and dinner starting at 4pm. Delivery is available through Doordash and UberEats and semi-private dining is available for large groups. For reservations visit Open Table or blossomandrootkitchen.com and for the latest news follow them @blossomandrootkitchen.
By Joan Simon, Full Plate Restaurant Consulting