[aside tag='traci-des-jardins' label='More Traci Des Jardin on KQED']

Diners and chefs around the Bay Area mourned Traci Des Jardins's Jardinière when it closed after 21 years just last month, but, as the New York Times announcement reminded us, it was just a piece of Des Jardin's empire and the chef isn't planning on slowing down any time soon.

Des Jardins's other San Francisco projects are Mijita Cocina Mexicana, a casual Mexican restaurant in the Ferry Building, the weeknights-only bar called School Night, The Commissary, Arguello and Transit (the last three are all in the Presidio and partnerships with the Presidio Trust). And on May 22 from 6pm-9pm, The Commissary will be celebrating its own milestone: 5 years of Spanish-influenced cuisine and cocktails!

Des Jardins says, "When I opened The Commissary five years ago, I was excited to have the chance to bring one of my favorite parks, the Presidio, into the lives of more San Franciscans and travelers alike and was inspired by its history as a military settlement originally established by Spanish conquistadores in the 1800s."

For just one special night, the chefs who worked alongside Des Jardins in The Commissary's kitchen will return to celebrate its 5th anniversary with a menu of cava, tapas, and paella.

Left to right: Chefs Reylon Agustin, Robbie Lewis and Traci Des Jardins (The Commissary)

Chef Des Jardins and Executive Chef Eric Minnich will be joined by former chefs including Reylon Agustin, executive chef at Michelin-starred Madera in Menlo Park, Rogelio Garcia, chef de cuisine at Michelin-starred Spruce in San Francisco and a Top Chef season 15 contestant, and Robbie Lewis, regional culinary director for Bon Appétit Management Company. Chef Tom Meckfessel will also be there with his wood-fired mobile paella, Paella del Reyes.

[ad fullwidth]

"I am thrilled to have some of our former chefs back in The Commissary kitchen and to toast to the wonderful past 5 years," says Des Jardins.

What will you find on the menu? Salt Cod Fritters with Garlic Aioli, Braised Pork Tostada with Aioli, Elote Fingerlime with Cotija and Espuma, Spanish Octopus with Sauce Al Pastor and Citrus are just a few mouthwatering items offered. To see the full menu and to purchase your tickets ($85 for a seat) visit The Commissary's the anniversary page.

And don't forget the drinks! Bar Manager, Tony Stewart, will be shaking up a selection of his favorite cocktails, along with older selections like the longtime favorite, The Official, which has jalapeno-infused tequila, Pamplemousse rose, oloroso and grapefruit bitters.

An array of cocktails from The Commissary (Kassie Borreson)

News Daily Newsletter

The Bay

Emma’s Must-Sees

Videos from KQED Live

Donor-Advised Funds

the commissarythe commissary

Post-Jardinière, Traci Des Jardins Celebrates 5 Years With Presidio's Commissary