The upscale restaurant, opened by Bacchus Management Group last summer on the border of Atherton and Redwood City, will now go on temporary hiatus until next year. The restaurant's last service at 3001 El Camino Real will be Sunday, Oct. 25.
The dining room at Selby's, which was the newest addition to Bacchus Management Group's local empire of upscale eateries. Photo by Sammy Dallal.
"Selby's restaurant was designed and built for the purpose of gathering people together to celebrate and enjoy a delicious meal in each other's company," Bacchus said in a statement. "With winter approaching and the ongoing shelter-in-place orders limiting indoor dining, we have made the thoughtful decision to temporarily pause service until spring 2021."
Bacchus billed Selby's as a return to the food and glamour of 1930s and 1940s Hollywood, with dishes like lobster thermidor and a $50 truffle-topped burger. The restaurant group completely gutted and rebuilt the two-story, 10,000-square-foot space. They hoped to win a Michelin star and Wine Spectator Grand Award, the magazine's highest honor.
On Tuesday, Selby's was included in a new category issued by the Michelin guide called "discoveries," described as "inspector-approved restaurants showcasing new and inspiring culinary talent. Selby's was one of 25 California restaurants on the list.
Selby's $50 Black Label burger with Époisses and Australian black truffles, served with fries. Photo by Sammy Dallal.
Selby's had all the bells and whistles — martini carts, two kitchens, private dining rooms, a back staircase for VIP diners — but lacked outdoor dining, which has become a lifeline for many restaurants. The location doesn't allow for outdoor dining, Bacchus said, and the 25% cap on indoor capacity in San Mateo County wouldn't be sustainable.
In July, Bacchus Management Group permanently closed one of its other local restaurants, Mayfield Bakery & Cafe in Palo Alto. The group also operates The Village Pub and The Village Bakery in Woodside and Spruce in San Francisco.
After Selby's closes, the staff will be "supporting" The Village Pub and Spruce, Bacchus said.
Selby's will still offer special holiday menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve and is taking inquiries for private events.
