Historic Moment. Turning French. It's not often that you show up just as the signs are changing. Novato's Peter's Restaurant has become Chez Pierre, with the change of a sign on Sunday morning. Our waiter told us that Peter's had been open for five months. The new owners have spiffied up what used to be a Denny's, transforming it into a more formal place. There are white tablecloths on the tables, even the counter! There were cheerful gladiolas in vases, and glad buds floating in smaller clear vases all about the restaurant. There was French music playing in the background. When Dad and I opened the breakfast and lunch menu however, we were hard pressed to find French dishes among the very typical American fare. Yes there was some brioche listed. The Frenchness aside, I was delighted to see that Chez Pierre is open for breakfast every day.

Dad ordered some fluffy buttermilk pancakes, which he said were delicious with the maple syrup.

He also enjoyed the generous slice of ham, and provision of a steak knife to make the cutting effort easier.

I ordered a omelet of spinach, mushrooms and Swiss Cheese. It normally comes with potatoes and toast, but they kindly substituted tomato slices. The omelet was delicious, the spinach tender and sauteed just right, as were the fresh mushrooms.

I had to query the waiter about French items on the menu as everyone was so attentive, the details of the decor and music were well thought out, and the food was hearty and good. It is obvious the owners are paying attention. The waiter replied "Oh, you'll want to see our French Specialties Menu available for lunch and dinner!". And sure enough there was a one page menu with French dishes I'd like to come back and try, including some French Onion Soup and Salmon Quiche!

I Googled for a website, and found that there is not one currently, but I found an interesting item relating to the restaurant on Craig's list:

"NOVATO. Finally a French conversation group is forming in Novato!
We will meet at “’CHEZ PIERRE” on the last Tuesday of the month. This is a new restaurant serving French cuisine. The owners French Isabelle and Pierre will warmly welcome us on the LAST TUESDAY of each month around a “French speaking table”. All levels welcome. The restaurant serves delicious French dinners or you can simply eat a fabulous home made dessert like a crème brûlée, profiteroles or perhaps a crème caramel.
Please RDV July 31th 07 at 6.00 PM

Places limited – Reservation required
RSVP (415) 408-1134 - 7330 Redwood Blvd – Delong exit. "

So if you wish to practice some French, here's a great venue!