In a space that feels like a stylish, homey living room, you’ll find the energetic chef expediting orders, sprinkling that last handful of nigella seeds, or greeting returning diners like family. Samir worked his way up through fine-dining ranks under chefs like Reem Assil, but always aspired to have a place to call his own. Beit Rima is indicative of how the next generation of chefs cooks unapologetically and authentically to their stories, and, in a city where the personal is political, Beit Rima deliciously weaves a multigenerational story with a captive, hungry audience.
It looks like Samir’s persistence has won his family over, as a second Beit Rima is in the works in Cole Valley, taking over—you guessed it—another now-retired Burgermeister. Like any local who loves to host, my favorites for a birthday or baby shower gathering include her fiery grilled jerk chicken thighs, and escovitch—pan-seared local trout topped with a confetti of hot and sweet peppers in a malt vinegar–based sauce. One last insider tip: Peaches Patties’ once-a-year jerk whole turkey is a welcome addition to any Friendsgiving table.
