SFReview
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
The Morris
Included In
Some restaurant dishes are so legendary, they immediately become synonymous with the restaurant itself. Exhibit A: the smoked duck at The Morris, a Mission spot that excels in the roasted meats department. But it’s not the only reason this American restaurant will become your go-to for moody dates and low-key celebration dinners—housemade charcuterie, a wine list so long it has a table of contents, and a candlelit atmosphere help, too. The Morris is just a damn good restaurant that also feels like a neighborhood secret, whether you live a block away or need to hop on two buses to get here.
As you’ve likely gathered, the hickory-smoked duck should be the centerpiece of your table. Nothing is over-the-top or fussy here. It’s visually stunning, yes, but also tastes like a hearty, thyme-kissed roast that’s being spoon-fed to you by Ina Garten herself. Order a half or whole duck to share (fries are always a good idea, too) and supplement it with some salty-fatty good stuff off the extensive charcuterie menu. It’s hard to have a bad time under the low lights with the scent of smoky, garlicky duck wafting through the air. So keep the wine coming, and save this place in your back pocket for your next impressive, meat-centric dinner.
photo credit: The Morris
Food Rundown
photo credit: Krescent Carasso
Smoked Duck
You’re coming here, you're getting this. Each bite of smoky meat, covered in glistening, salt-dotted skin, is so tender it gives way with just a gentle chomp (be sure to drench each piece in the jus that comes on the side). Even the half duck is plenty to share amongst a group of three or four, and arrives with a medley of roasted vegetables that help cut through the richness.
Pork Belly
You’d be missing out if you didn’t center your table around the duck, but this is a solid entrée if you want to diversify the protein options.
Charcuterie
If you’re with a group, go for a set of five (the finocchiona, tête de cochon, and duck rillette are standouts). Everything is served on a log slab with a mound of buttery crostini riding shotgun.
