Savory Spoon

CLOSED

Are Redding's fortress-style strip malls a capricious declaration of historical whimsy or an appalling blight? Fortunately, amidst the crenulations and classical statuary, Savory Spoon, located at 1847 Hartnell Ave, is trying to change those choices. The Savory Spoon wants to become a restaurant choice and community model for healthy, homemade-style cuisine.

The Savory Spoon: Redding's Non Profit Locavore Restaurant

The Savory Spoon is decorated with a combination of homely, culinary and whimsical touches. There are wall hangings made with vintage kitchen gadgets and Victorian furnishings, along with a collection of copper pots and a giant wood burl mushroom sculpture. My favorite is the huge spoons. The dining room is welcoming with well-spaced tables and can easily accommodate both solo diners and large parties. I admit though, based on the decor, I was not sure what to expect from the menu. 

The Owner, the Spoon, and the Chef

It all made sense after owner Ann Webber took me on a kitchen tour. She talked about her concept for a community-centered restaurant. The kitchen is spacious and has large windows that provide natural lighting and, as an added bonus, a parking lot cooking show. Whenever possible, the dishes are prepared with locally grown produce and organic eggs, along with naturally raised beef from a local butcher shop. Savory Spoon's menu will change during the year, as seasonal produce becomes available. Apparently, there is a local farm that raises 50 varieties of tomatoes, not to mention the exciting possibilities of cooking with stone fruit. Think wholesome comfort food. 

Natural Chicken from Petaluma

I dined at Savory Spoon for Sunday Brunch. Sunday Brunch is not ordinary breakfast. It's like the cosmopolitan cousin who arises late and eats dessert instead of oatmeal. I ordered the Corned Beef Hash, coffee, and chocolate cake. Corned Beef Hash is one of those mishmash dishes whose origins are leftovers and ingenuity. This hash was inventive.  The intuitive combination of carrots, potatoes, and turnips added a satisfying texture and flavor to the tender bits of corned beef.  The poached eggs added color and a rich, creamy quality. A less confident cook could not have resisted the temptation to add extra oil. I did add some salt, which is provided on each table. 

Corned Beef Hash

The Corned Beef Hash was served with bits of fruit. Although fresh and sweet, it seemed out of place and reminded me of a preschool lunch. The portion size was more that adequate for healthy eating; however, smaller than typically served. The Brunch Menu includes some lunch items, like the Grilled Romaine Salad and Soup of the Day. The Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy have a vegetarian version available. On the main menu, the Prather Ranch Burger has a companion house-made vegetarian burger.  Along with being accommodating to vegetarians, the menu is marked with vegan options, a spice alert, and staff favorites. Although there were dishes that appeared to be gluten free, they were not highlighted.

Chocolate Cake: Not Just for Breakfast™

Savory Spoon is a non-profit business and, after paying its expenses, reinvests the surplus monies in community projects such as Community Monday Nights. Every Monday, Savory Spoon serves from a menu without prices. Diners are asked to pay what they can afford.  They are hoping to attract people whose food budget would normally not extend beyond fast food. So far, they have been pleased with the results.

Cup-pa Joe and Cream

Sunday Brunch is the only breakfast served during the week.  Along with quite good coffee and Freshly Squeezed Lemonade, Mimosas are offered with Brunch. I did notice a bar area with an array of wine and beer choices. The Savory Spoon is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11am-8pm for lunch and dinner. Sunday Brunch is served from 10am-2pm. Monday Community Day is 12pm-6pm.