Award-Winning Pican Ideal for Intimate NorCal Events and Dinners

OAKLAND, Calif. — Picán restaurant in Oakland's Uptown District has been honored by inclusion in the esteemed Michelin Guide as a 2010 choice in the Bib Gourmand category. The distinction is awarded to restaurants deemed the "inspectors' favorite for good value." All restaurants on the 2010 Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list serve a meal – defined as two dishes and a glass of wine or dessert – for $40 or less, offering an "affordable, yet incredibly delicious dining option," according to the guide.

Picán, which opened in March, is a contemporary, sophisticated restaurant in Oakland's burgeoning Uptown District that serves modern, California-influenced Southern cuisine and offers an extensive collection of handmade, single-batch bourbons.
"We are honored to receive this distinction from the 2010 Michelin Guide," said Picán visionary and proprietor Michael LeBlanc. "I am so proud of our team, led by Executive Chef Dean Dupuis. As a resident of Oakland, I knew this restaurant had the potential to be something special, a transformational part of the Uptown neighborhood's renewal. It's thrilling for everyone who works so hard at Picán to receive this honor in our first year of operation."

LeBlanc, who grew up in New Orleans, was the first African-American corporate office in the history of Polaroid, running the Asian market and traveling the globe during his 26-year stint with the company. During his travels Le Blanc gained an appreciation for international cuisine and for the diverse cultures of the world, all the while retaining his passion for the food of his childhood.

Executive Chef Dean Dupuis, who hails from Atlanta's South City Kitchen, brought LeBlanc's vision to life with dishes that have won critical acclaim throughout Northern California. Dupuis quickly gained acclaim for his Buttermilk Southern Fried Chicken, which is brined and coated in buttermilk and hot sauce for 48 hours before cooking. Guests are advised to reserve Dupuis' fried chicken in advance when they make their dinner reservations.

Other favorite dishes at Picán include:
· Southern Caesar Salad with fried okra and parmesan grits croutons
· Low Country Shrimp & Grits
· Bourbon & Molasses Lacquered Duck
· Georgia Pecan Tart with buttermilk ice cream and bourbon butterscotch
· Chocolate Bread Pudding
· Abita Root Beer Float with sassafras ice cream and a bourbon praline

Picán is located at 2295 Broadway in Oakland. Picán has a stunning bar and lounge, featuring an extensive collection of handmade, single-batch bourbons, and an open kitchen. Design details include reclaimed pecan wood featured throughout the restaurant, deep shades of reds and browns, and richly textured fabrics and materials. The ambience is accented with the rhythms of jazz, R&B, gospel and classic soul. The 5,600-square-foot restaurant includes seating for 158 guests in Picán's bar, lounge and main dining room, plus outdoor seating for 24 on Picán's patio. "The Bourbon Room," Picán's intimate private dining room, accommodates an additional 20 guests.

Picán is open nightly Monday – Thursday, 4:30 – 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 – 11 p.m., and Sundays, 4 – 9:30 p.m. Lunch is served weekdays 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. and Sunday brunch is served 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Valet parking is available. Reservations can be made by calling 510-834-1000. For more information, visit www.PicanRestaurant.com.