Izzy’s on the Peninsula, the second-generation family-owned dining destination by The DuVall Family Hospitality Group, unveils its transformation after a significant redesign of what was known as Izzy’s San Carlos. With over three decades of history, Izzy’s on the Peninsula celebrates the traditions of its San Francisco flagship, offering a blend of elevated comfort fare, finely crafted cocktails, varied wine selection and devoted service. The recent renovation of the 270-seat restaurant, with friends and longtime collaborators GACHOT, represents a strategic move to secure Izzy’s on the Peninsula as a beloved cornerstone in the community for generations to come, fostering connections and building new, lasting memories.
Samantha DuVall Bechtel, Managing Partner of The DuVall Family Hospitality Group, expressed her pride in the project stating in a statement, “With the passing of my father in 2020, our restaurant group transitioned to a second generation of family leadership. At that time, 35 years after Izzy’s opened its flagship location in the Marina, we as an organization were presented with an opportunity to carry forward my father’s legacy, and set the restaurant group up for success for decades to follow. Now, after a seven-month renovation, we are thrilled to present the next generation of Izzy’s on the Peninsula. We look forward to serving you!”
“Working with a family company is always a special endeavor for our team,” commented Christine Gachot, Co-founder of GACHOT. “This project embodies what we enjoy about the process of designing to convey a brand’s vision while, at the same time, preserving its DNA. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to interpret the ideas of a new generation of owners and create a conversation between Izzy’s storied past and its bright future.”
Izzy’s on the Peninsula spans 7,500 square feet. The GACHOT-designed interiors pay homage to the deep family roots of Izzy’s, offering a thoughtful tribute to late restaurateur and founder, Sam DuVall, whose connection to the Peninsula location was akin to a home away from home. The restaurant’s ambient setting exudes a sophisticated residential feel, blending vibrant modern sensibility with thoughtful design touchpoints that introduce a new level of refinement and understated glamour. Upon entry, guests experience a warm and elegant sense of arrival, as if they’ve entered the home of a dear friend. Inside, the stylish main dining room has been artfully redesigned to be more open, balancing moments of intimacy and privacy.
The main dining space accommodates diners at long plush banquettes, dining tables, and chic 4- and 6-person booths. Framed by vintage Izzy’s artwork and historic illustrations, the kitchen is a glowing focal point situated behind ribbed glass, offering diners a glimpse into culinary talents at work while adding an authentic San Franciscan touch. Whether it’s a business event or an after-work gathering, Izzy’s on the Peninsula is equipped with semi-private and private dining spaces. These include the adjoining Pacific Room and Barbary Room, with capacity up to 70 guests for a cocktail reception style event, as well as the semi-private bar suited for up to 25, and The Garden accommodating 60 seated guests.
Opposite the main dining room, the bar takes center stage – fitting seamlessly into the congenial nature of the surrounding neighborhoods and Izzy’s roots as a Barbary Coast Saloon. Evoking a sophisticated and sumptuous hotel lobby vibe, the bar showcases an array of high-top seating and plush Madison slipper chairs in the lounge. It invites guests to savor a pre-dinner drink, relish burgers and martinis, or tuck away for revelry into the private wood-paneled booths lining the walls – a nod to the original and iconic Izzy’s San Francisco booths. The bar’s pièce de resistance is an inspired hand-painted mural by San Francisco artist Rafael Arana, adorning the upper wall and serves as a tribute to the Barbary Coast and the legendary Izzy Gomez, the restaurant’s namesake.
Stepping outside, the sleek stone floor transitions to an alfresco dining and event space in The Garden. Encircled by lush green hedging that provides both privacy and charm, the heated garden patio is anchored by two potted trees, centering the expansive space that is complete with upholstered banquettes, glazed green ceramic tile top tables and chic striped umbrellas. The glow of bronze barn lights, overhead string lights and intimate lantern sconces add to The Garden’s allure.
Izzy’s on the Peninsula presents a unique dining experience centered on shareable menu items comprised of seasonal, responsibly grown and locally sourced ingredients. With Executive Chef Vincent Castillo at the helm of the culinary team, guests can enjoy Izzy’s signature dishes and inventive takes on steakhouse classics, complemented by a selection of new menu items. To start, diners can indulge in Dungeness Crab Hushpuppies, French Dip Sliders on housemade buns, Wedge Salad topped with Pt. Reyes blue cheese, the fresh Daily Crudo, or the famed Drunken Prawns with Cajun spice. The menu features a range of entrees, from a 14oz New York Strip Steak and 8oz Filet Mignon, both offered simply grilled or blackened, to “The Gomez,” a 10oz prime rib served alongside Izzy’s Own Potatoes and Creamed Spinach, as well as the Atlantic Salmon served with a bell pepper “piperade” and pickled fennel, the Crispy Brick Chicken, the vegetarian Mushroom Bolognese, the Izzy’s Smash Burger, and more. Housemade dessert highlights include made-to-order Glazed Crullers, New York Cheesecake, and Roasted Pear Bread Pudding.
The wine collection at Izzy’s on the Peninsula highlights the best from both classic and modern wines, emphasizing elegant varieties, beloved cult selections, and exceptional new finds. Curated collaboratively by Jose Gutierrez, Izzy’s Beverage Director, and local wine expert, Debbie Zachareas, who leads the creative direction of the wine program. Imbibers can savor their preferred wine anywhere in the restaurant or bar, including Isadore’s Table – a semi-private space for up to 10 guests, positioned just off the entryway, presenting a vibrant atmosphere connected to the main dining room. In addition to wine, patrons can enjoy a selection of crafted cocktails by WestBev, including highlights like the Notable Harlots with vodka, vanilla, passionfruit, pineapple, lime, and a rose bubbles sidecar; the Kitty DuVall with rye whiskey, Le Verge Terroir liqueur, Carpano Antica, and orange bitters; and zero-proof options like the NewGroni with Wilderton Lustre and Bittersweet Aperitivo and Verjus Blanc.
Located at 525 Skyway Road in San Carlos, Calif., Izzy’s on the Peninsula is open nightly for dinner beginning at 5pm.
