The Chatterbox

Opening on Thursday May 31st is ~SALUMERIA~, the project opening next door to Central Kitchen from the flour + water team. I took a tour of the space a couple of weeks ago, but sadly wasn’t allowed to take pics. Anyway, here are the details: this delicatessen is taking a cue from the old world, featuring both house-cured meats by chef de cuisine Matt Sigler and imports like serrano or prosciutto from Parma, plus five sandwiches a day (like spit-roasted lamb or porchetta, sausage, a hoagie, and a vegetarian option). You can also order a variety of antipasti, cheeses (there is a dedicated cheesemonger!), and items like pâté and duck liver mousse with vin santo gelée. Since Salumeria will be open during the day, you can enjoy your lunch or late afternoon snack on the adjoining Central Kitchen courtyard over a glass of wine or beer (or a coffee, featuring Mr. Espresso).

The building was originally a sausage factory (the original concrete walls have a great patina), and it has a cool rustic-industrial look. The lamps are made from olive-picking buckets, there’s a butcher block in the center of the room, and the ceiling is made with planks from a fin de siècle gymnasium. You’ll notice a rack with finished salumi hanging, and chiles and peppers drying near the ceiling. The retail component includes wines for sale, along with housemade items like olives, pastas, sauces, chutney, and jams. For the first week, Salumeria will be open daily from 9am-5:30pm, and then 9am-8pm the second week. 3000 20th St. at Florida.

A couple of weeks ago, I heard word about the Bon Vivants opening a new bar in the Renoir Hotel at 7th and Market streets called Rio Grande (although I had to keep quiet about it), and I saw signs for FoodLab on the side of the hotel; now a press release reveals the details. It ends up that the Kor Group, which recently purchased the Renoir Hotel, is launching ~A TEMPORARY OFFERING~, a pop-up collection of businesses.

The FoodLab portion of the project (Matt Cohen of Off the Grid is a partner) will have pop-up food vendors serving lunch and dinner in the space (it formerly housed Little Joe’s). The kitchen will also be used as a commissary for food trucks and other businesses (always a hot commodity), and there’s a 49-seat dining room designed by Kelly Malone.

Now here’s the really fun part: the first pop-up tenant will be San Rafael’s Sol Food by Sol Hernandez, famous for her Puerto Rican cuisine. Lunch will launch this Wed May 23rd-Thu May 24th from 10:30am-2pm, and then Sol Food will be returning next week on Tue May 29th, and for the next four weeks will serve lunch Mon-Fri. On the menu: baked chicken thighs, rotisserie pork ribs, sweet plantain and vegetable casserole, pink or black beans, plantain chips with tangy dipping sauce, rice, fresh limeade, orange-mango iced tea, coconut pudding, and vanilla flan. You can keep track on the FoodLab calendar here. To celebrate the new lunch service, a Puerto Rican musical trio will be performing this Thursday.

Another component to the project is Trailhead, the Luggage Store Gallery’s satellite retail project bringing together locally roasted coffee, a youth-initiated high-end denim boutique (which will offer a jeans repair shop!), seedling farm outlet, and local artist-made ephemera, including books, zines, and maps.

As for Rio Grande, which is opening June 1st in the former Etiquette Lounge/Fuel space, stand by for exclusive details on that part of the project in a week. As the Bon Vivants describe it, it’s going to be a pop-up rock ‘n’ roll bar with live shows. The bartenders will be slinging American whiskey, “Mexican whiskey,” and a couple canned beers. All in all, it’s an exciting development for the Mid-Market neighborhood.

Chef-owner Charlie Kleinman and the rest of his ~WEXLER’S~ team are launching Wexler’s Back, a new barbecue shack and smoking truck on wheels that they will be parking on Commercial Street alley (behind the restaurant) for lunch Mon-Fri. Kleinman writes: “Gone is the ‘clever twist on BBQ’ from the restaurant. Instead we are doing straight-up, no-nonsense BBQ and sides. We will be making sauces, sides, and everything from scratch, as would be expected, but otherwise no frills.”

It all begins this Friday May 25th, 11am-2pm. Like barbecue and have a party coming up? You can also contact them for catering and private events on nights and weekends. Follow updates on Twitter at @wexlersback. 565 Commercial St. at Montgomery.

A random roundup of projects that are coming soon: first, chef Loretta Keller (COCO500) is partnering with Bon Appétit Management Company to create the menus and food for the two cafés planned for the upcoming Exploratorium location at Pier 15. The new location will open in 2013. Embarcadero at Green Street.

The Mission’s ~EL FARO~ (supposedly the original inventor of the super burrito) will be opening a taqueria in the former Taqueria El Balazo space in the Upper Haight, according to Uppercasing. This will be their fourth location. 1654 Haight St. at Cole.

Meanwhile, it looks like the rumors may be true: a Chinese restaurant appears to be coming to the Lower Haight, taking over the Clay Oven Space on the corner at Fillmore. The new name on the license is ~WONDERLAND~, listing owner Ningzhe Wen of Wild Pepper in the Mission. Here’s more on Haighteration. 500 Haight St. at Fillmore.

Moving into the former ~DUMPLINGS & BUNS~ spot in Pacific Heights will be ~SIFT~, a cupcake and dessert bar. This is their fourth location—the company has three locations in Napa and Sonoma counties. The opening is slated for end of summer/beginning of autumn. 2411 California St. at Fillmore.

Here’s an update on some kitchen staff movements around town. First, executive chef David Taylor of ~A16~ has been replaced by Christopher Thompson, previously sous chef (and also behind A16’s butchery and salumi program), as reported by the Scoop.

Over at ~AME~, Randy Lutz has been named new executive chef—he started with the restaurant as executive sous chef (he was previously chef de partie on Saison’s opening team in 2009).

In the Mission, ~SOUTHPAW BBQ~ has a new chef, Max Hussey, who has cooked at Emeril’s Delmonico in New Orleans, a couple of places in Asheville, North Carolina, and locally at 25 Lusk and Epic Roasthouse. He is reportedly improving the staples, in addition to rounding out the menu with classic dishes that originate from various places throughout the South (including some lesser-known dishes). On Monday May 28th, Southpaw will start offering lunchtime takeout and delivery in the Mission from 11am-2pm every day, with the exception of Tuesdays, when they are closed. Southpaw is also launching Sunday brunch on June 3rd, with dishes like a Benton’s ham Monte Cristo with country gravy and sunny-side up egg; and a crispy poached egg with andouille hollandaise and green onion buttermilk biscuit.

At ~MAVERICK~, Emmanuel Eng is the new executive chef (he came aboard last fall as chef de cuisine). Inside Scoop mentions his new menu launches June 1st, with dishes like crispy sweetbreads with “Cool Ranch” and sweet corn mousseline, and hot shrimp cocktail with horseradish custard.

Last week I received a call from James Ormsby, the consulting pastry chef for ~BLUESTEM BRASSERIE~; he is no longer involved with the project due to too many other commitments, like a book proposal. Owners Adam and Stacy Jed are currently seeking a full-time pastry chef.

Edible Escapes was the first to release the news of the closure of ~FIOR D’ITALIA~, known for being America’s oldest Italian restaurant. After a 126-year run, the restaurant closed last night. Scoop mentions partner Trudy Audieri “and her husband Gianni (also the chef) want to reopen Fior D’Italia at some point down the line. They actually tried to buy out the other owner, Bob Larive, unsuccessfully prior to the closure.” 2237 Mason St. at Chestnut.

On the comeback trail, ~CELIA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT~ in the Outer Sunset reopened this Saturday May 19th after closing for a renovation. 4019 Judah St. at 45th Ave., 415-564-0662.

At the end of Sunday May 27th, ~CROWN & CRUMPET~ will be closing its Ghirardelli Square tearoom and should be reopening in a downtown San Francisco location in the early fall. If all goes well with the deal, owners Amy and Christopher Dean will also be unveiling a new private party room, tea bar, and their retail shop, Fancy Goods.

Pssst, thought you’d like to know ~LOCAL’S CORNER~ is launching an oyster happy hour every Tue-Sat from 2pm-6pm. Get two-for-one oysters and $5 Dashe Cellars rosé. It all starts today, Tuesday May 22nd.

A couple of restaurants are hosting special guests next month. First, owner Rick Hackett of ~BOCANOVA~ in Jack London Square is hosting his next Rick’s Supper Club on Thursday June 7th. There will be a five-course sustainable seafood menu served family style in partnership with Monterey Fish Market’s owner Paul Johnson. Wines will be provided by Oakland’s Roland Rosario Cellars, and a cocktail is included in the price as well. 7pm, $68 (excluding tax and gratuity). Upcoming dates include July 5th: Renato Sardo of Belcampo Meats and Baia Pasta with Charlie Dollbam of Carica Wines; and August 2nd: Marty Jacobson and Janet Brown of Allstar Organics with Arnold and Alma Tudal of Tudal Winery. Call for info/reservations: 510-444-1233. 55 Webster St. in Jack London Square, Oakland.

Tue June 19th and Wed June 20th, ~ATELIER CRENN~ is hosting chef de cuisine Jeremiah Langhorne of Sean Brock’s restaurant McCrady’s (Charleston, South Carolina) for their second dinner event, Dialogue: A series of collaborations, creativity, and conversations. This dialogue will consist of ten courses, five from each chef. $160; wine pairing $100. Reserve.

A guest post by Dana Massey-Todd.

If you’ve ever secretly longed for a simpler time, when women were women, men were men, we all smoked cigarettes, and everyone wore a hat, hike on up to Nob Hill’s ~TOP OF THE MARK~ for Tuesday pairings of classic films and wines. The Mark Hopkins InterContinental will be hosting screenings all summer long at their classic rooftop lounge. Nostalgic for retro pricing, too? No problem: films and tastings are complimentary but the suggested donation is a mere $3 to benefit BayKids, a Bay Area organization committed to helping children with medical challenges express themselves through filmmaking.

Wine tastings are every Tuesday 5:30pm-7:30pm, starting May 29th. Film screenings begin at 7:30pm and include Gone with the Wind, Mary Poppins, Sunset Boulevard, and Rear Window (you can view the entire schedule here). Domaine Chandon brut and rosé will be on offer in May and June, and later in the summer they’ll begin pouring Wild Horse and Spellbound reds and whites. If you’re really looking to impress your gal or guy, VIP packages are also available for front-row seats. 1 Nob Hill (at Mason and California).

After hearing rumors about the new tenant for the vacant ~CAFÉ FANNY~ space, Berkeleyside announces the new tenant is ~BARTAVELLE COFFEE & WINE BAR~. The owner is Suzanne Drexhage of Kermit Lynch (and a former Chez Panisse server)—the Inside Scoop learns that she is going to be serving coffee, wine, and simple wine bar fare. For now, a Facebook post mentions “Luigi Oldani and his trusty vintage machine will make you a delicious Sightglass cappuccino on the patio!” You can swing by for a coffee from 7:30am-3pm or so, daily, until Bartavelle opens later this summer.

In case you were wondering about Alice Waters’ involvement, and the name, Scoop says: “Alice Waters is not involved in this new venture, though she did have some influence into the winning concept, and its name. A bartavelle is a rock partridge, and it even has a loose connection to Marcel Pagnol—in his memoir, Pagnol recounts a story of shooting the birds with his father and uncle.” 1603 San Pablo Ave. at Cedar, Berkeley.

I also learned ~ADDIE’S PIZZA PIE~ has unfortunately closed. The project was from Jennifer Millar (Sweet Adeline) and Thomas Schnetz (Doña Tomas). Some of you may know that Beauty’s Bagel Shop uses Addie’s wood-fired ovens. A quick call over to the Beauty’s crew confirms they still have access to the ovens, and hopefully that will continue until their new shop in Oakland opens—which is getting pretty close (it will be at 3838 Telegraph Ave. at 38th Street). 3290 Adeline St. at Alcatraz, Berkeley.

Opening in about six weeks on Lake Merritt in the former Wasabi space is ~PORTAL~, a project from Jennifer Tucci (Rosamunde) and Warren Rector. They are giving the location a massive overhaul, with 40 seats inside and about 75 outside on a giant outdoor patio that has a fantastic view (and Plexiglas panels to help shield the wind). They are currently seeking a chef, but the concept will be heavily vegetarian and healthful Californian fare made from organic and sustainable ingredients, plus some international influences; there is also a pizza oven. Dinner and weekend brunch will be served. 1611 2nd Ave. at Foothill, Oakland.

Since Tucci is a partner with Josh Margolis in ~ROSAMUNDE~, I was able to get a few details about their upcoming location in Old Oakland, which will be considered a part of Swan’s Market, but is actually a storefront on the side of the complex (in the former Suruki space). They just signed the lease and hope to open at the end of the summer. There will be sausages, beer, and outdoor tables, too; lunch and dinner will be served. 911 Washington St. at 9th St., Oakland.

In the meantime, Rosamunde is hosting a pop-up biergarten of sorts on Saturday afternoons at Classic Cars West. Swing by from 2pm until dusk for sausages off the outdoor grill (there are vegan dogs as well), four to six beers, and wine on tap. There are tables in the outdoor yard where you can sit and relax and listen to music. 411 26th St. at Telegraph, Oakland.

On Saturday afternoon, I was fortunate to see the ~DEL POPOLO~ pizza truck in action, and taste one of Jon Darsky’s superlative Neapolitan-style pies (which none of us have had since he left flour + water). As previously profiled in tablehopper, this custom truck is really something to behold. It was fun to watch people walk by and stare at this impressive pizzeria on wheels—which includes a 5,000-pound, wood-fired Stefano Ferrara oven—all housed in a shipping container with windows and clear doors, so you can observe the entire operation.

There were two kinds of pizzas on offer on Saturday, a margherita and a white pie with wild radish rapini and garlic, only $7 (these were test-run prices). Moving forward, the cost should be around $10-$12. The cashier will cut your pizza for you as soon as it’s out of the oven and put it in a box, which will become your mobile table for the next 10 minutes or so (of course I still managed to get sauce on my shirt).

Darsky’s margherita is such a pleasure to eat—once it cools down a little, see if you can eat the slices without folding them so you can taste all the disparate elements of the pizza instead of mashing it all together. You’ll notice the pop of the olive oil he finishes the pies with, the creamy cheese, the bright tomato sauce, and, of course, the way the char from the oven layers even more flavor onto his fantastic (and elastic) dough.

The Del Popolo truck’s opening is tonight at 5:30pm at Bar Agricole (at 355 11th St. at Folsom), and it will be parked in the lot next door—guests can eat their pizza on the patio. Uh-huh, sounds like you should get a drink with that pie. I also saw a tweet mentioning lunch at Mint Plaza this Thursday. Follow @pizzadelpopolo to keep up with the truck’s future locations around the city. Yeah, this will be the ultimate truck to hire for private parties.

Last Thursday evening, I had a chance to swing by and check out ~WEST OF PECOS~, the Southwestern restaurant opening tonight in the former Bombay Bazar and Bombay Ice Creamery. I met up with owner Dylan MacNiven (Woodhouse Fish Co.) and his brother Tyler for a sneak peek; the space features two rustic dining rooms (the side room will open later) with big booths upholstered in Southwestern fabrics, hefty wood tables, and a bar area. The wood floor and skylights are original to the 1907 building. There’s also a front patio with fireplaces (but no seating)—they hope to roast chiles out front when they come into season. Be sure to notice the ax door handles when you walk in.

Chef Leo Varos is a native of Santa Fe (La Fonda, Geronimo, Bistro 315, O’Keeffe Café) and has put together a menu of Southwestern-inspired dishes, including starters like duck confit flautas, green chile mac and cheese, Pecos chili with braised beef, and hominy stew with red chile and braised pork. There are a few salads, and large plates like lamb albóndigas (made in a northern New Mexico style with chorizo and rice in a spicy tomato and green chile broth), whole fish fajitas, and some vegetarian options. There’s also a green chile burger with three cheeses—the hefty burger comes wrapped up in a thick and housemade flour tortilla (made from Varos’s mother’s recipe) and is served with potatoes on the side topped with queso fresco, plus some spicy chipotle ketchup you can dunk the potatoes into. There are housemade corn tortillas available as well—all are made on the hearth. You can check out a test menu here.

There’s also a full bar, with plenty of whiskey, tequila, and mezcal to quench your thirst (you look parched, cowboy). Dinner is Sun-Thu 5pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-12am. Brunch should launch in a few months.

Last month, I mentioned the upcoming ~MACHINE COFFEE~ opening up next door to Show Dogs on Market. While that coffee shop and deli project gets under way, you’ll be able to check out the deli sandwiches at ~MACHINE DELI AT LASZLO~, a brand-new pop-up from the Machine team that will start on Friday June 1st. Going forward, lunch will be served Mon-Fri from 11:30am-2:30pm.

Charcutier Peter Temkin (Show Dogs, Foreign Cinema) has been making pastrami, smoked turkey breast, and more; featured sandwiches will include a pastrami Reuben with housemade sauerkraut, a smoked turkey club, house-smoked roast beef with broccoli rabe, an Asian-inspired chicken salad sandwich (possibly Thai), and a vegetarian option (potentially a version of caponata). Sandwiches will range from $8-$13 (prices are TBD at the moment). I’m especially excited to try some quality turkey and roast beef. For now, you’ll be able to eat your sandwich in front of Laszlo, and if there’s enough traffic, they might eventually open up the Foreign Cinema patio. Let’s make it happen, people. 2526 Mission St. at 21st St.

According to the Inside Scoop, ~AMERICAN GRILLED CHEESE KITCHEN~ is opening a second location in the Mission location of ~CAFÉ GRATITUDE: SAN FRANCISCO~. Gratitude is closing on Friday May 25th, and AGCK should be opening in late summer or early fall. Owners Heidi Gibson and Nate Pollak will be expanding the lunch menu, adding a dinner menu, a burger (sorry, Café Gratitude people), sausages by Chris Beerman of Citizen’s Band, and more. And in case you are wondering, the Café Gratitude locations in Santa Cruz and Berkeley are reportedly remaining open, in addition to Gracias Madre in the Mission. 2400 Harrison St. at 20th St., 415-830-3014.

Last week I mentioned the Fat Angel folks have a new Lower Fillmore project up their sleeve, ~CITY GRANGE~. The owners got back to me with some details: it’s going to be an innovative project, with a large rentable production kitchen (four stations), an eatery, market, and private event space. I know, sweet!

Breakfast and lunch will be served daily, featuring items all made from scratch, and there will be a market with high-quality staples such as Acme bread, Straus milk, farm eggs, and Prather Ranch meats, along with housemade products and takeout dinner items such as soups, roast chickens, stocks, salads, and fresh juices. It will be designed to work as an event space for private parties, neighborhood suppers, and pop-up restaurants. Stand by for more in the coming months; City Grange is opening in early 2013, just across the street from Yoshi’s. 1325 Fillmore St. at Eddy.

I was pleased to read in SFoodie about ~ALL GOOD PIZZA~, a new daytime trailer and garden patio where you can eat made-from-scratch pizza from a brick oven, panini, salads, and links off a smoker (courtesy of Evergood Fine Foods, a Bayview resident for more than 80 years). Owners Kristin Houk and Matt Trahan, longtime Bayview residents, are also growing herbs on the lot and creating a community gardening area, and using a lot of local produce in their food.

All Good Pizza is now serving Straus soft-serve ice cream (students of the 94124 ZIP code can bring in their report cards and with a B average or better, receive a free ice cream!), and every Sunday is All Good Neighborhood Day, when they prepare a prix-fixe meal and invite a local chef to take control of the smoker. All meals include a smoked meat of the chef’s choice, their signature kale salad, Louisiana baked beans, garlic bread, and lemonade or iced tea for $10. If you’re a chef and want a crack at their smoker, email to be added to the schedule. 1605 Jerrold Ave. at 3rd St.

A few SoMa notes: I received word from partner Mick Suverkrubbe that ~THE COSMOPOLITAN~ is closing this Friday (they couldn’t agree on a new lease with the landlord). One tablehopper reader emailed me to lament over missing the tempura green beans. The team is working on a new project in Petaluma, The Social Club—you can read all about it in the 707 Scout. 121 Spear St. at Mission, 415-543-4001.

Meanwhile, ~ROCKSTAR SUSHI LOUNGE~ has opened in SoMa. The menu looks pretty straightforward (well, except for the selection of shooters with names like “embryo” and “ring of fire”); the soundtrack is unique, supplied by Bay Area bands. The look is pretty zany, with chandeliers; guitars on the wall; a vermilion, white, and black color scheme; and animal patterns (and it looks like there’s a pair of those odd velvet shoe chairs I haven’t seen since the early 1990s). The executive chef is Take Fujita. 680 8th St. at Townsend, 415-864-2771.

More sushi in SoMa: a while back I mentioned ~KAMA SUSHI~ was opening in the former Daddy O’s space, and Grub Street confirms it’s now open. 294 9th St. at Folsom.

Last week I mentioned the folks behind The Trappist appeared to have a new project under way in Rockridge: according to this bit from Diablo Dish, it’s going to be a bottle shop called ~TRAPPIST PROVISIONS~, along with 5-10 taps. Stand by for more. 6309 College Ave. at 63rd St., Oakland.

Diablo Dish also mentions the owners (and brothers) behind ~AUTHENTIC BAGEL COMPANY~ (a wholesale business) are taking over Cafe Zoe on College Avenue, with plans to open a “New York-style bagel shop and deli.” Look for an opening in mid-June. 6000 College Ave. at Harwood, Oakland, 510-658-4963. 
 

On Saturday May 19th, ~POP UP FOODS~ is hosting an event at Pizzaiolo. You can pre-order food items from small-batch makers (like Baia Pasta, Studebaker Pickles, and Soul Food Farm eggs and chickens) by Wednesday May 16th and then pick them up from 10am-12pm on the patio at Pizzaiolo. Additional items will be available for sale the day of. Five percent of proceeds from this first event will go to Pizzaiolo’s new initiative called “Meat for the People,” a project that will bring greater food access to people in Oakland. 5008 Telegraph Ave. at 50th St., Oakland.

Also on Saturday May 19th, ~LOCAL CAFÉ~ is starting dinner service on Saturday and Sunday evenings. Starters, available with wine and beer specials during happy hour from 2:30pm-5:30pm, include garlic herb crostini ($12) with prosciutto, smashed chickpeas, and frisée; local slider trio ($11) of beef brisket, pork meatballs, and grilled seasonal vegetables; and dry-rub ribs ($12) with citrus-plum barbecue and Local Café slaw. Entrées include a flatiron steak ($16) with grilled asparagus, celery root mash, and balsamic drizzle; a crispy half-roasted chicken ($15) with seasonal vegetables; along with some kid-friendly and side dishes. 4395 Piedmont Ave. at Pleasant Valley, Oakland, 510-922-8249.

A few new lunch service options to add to your radar: first, ~BURRITT TAVERN~ just started serving lunch Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm. Check out chef Charlie Palmer and executive chef Ashley Weaver’s new lunch menu here, which includes salads, sandwiches, and heartier main courses. The décor should lend itself well to business lunches, and you should snag a private booth if you need to keep your business dealings on the hush-hush.

~IPPUKU~ in Berkeley has started weekday lunch service, according to the Inside Scoop. Look for handmade soba noodles (available in ten different cold variations, and about six hot executions), along with side dishes. Lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm.

Here’s a good event for fans of Asian food: the eighth annual ~ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION~ is coming up on Saturday May 19th in the Civic Center/Little Saigon neighborhoods (Larkin and McAllister streets). The event will feature an abundant lineup of food vendors and food truck favorites, plus cooking demos by Martin Yan, Charles Phan, and more. It’s also free and open to the general public, and free is always good.

A look at the list of food vendors and food trucks reveals lots of good eats, including Nombe, JapaCurry, Seoul on Wheels, Chairman Bao Truck, and many more. The event’s only one day, and you only have one stomach, so bring friends. Look for food vendors on Golden Gate Street (with a seating area), while food trucks will be on Turk Street. While you’re there, visit the Arts & Crafts World Market for special and unique handmade products and artworks. 11am-6pm.

On Sunday May 20th is Sunday Tea with Juanita & Fe (GM Felix Torricer) at ~WO HING GENERAL STORE~. Personality Juanita More will be spinning music while guests enjoy rum punch and other cocktails by Brooke Arthur, plus a special dim sum selection by chef de cuisine Michelle Mah and desserts by executive pastry chef Chucky Dugo. 6pm-10pm.

Mark your calendar: on Sunday June 3rd, ~PICCINO~ and the Yellow Building tenants will be throwing a one-year anniversary bash and block party. There will be special dishes from Piccino’s opening menu, a jazz band, a fashion show by MAC, bubbly, and perhaps a few other surprises from DIG.

Hey meat-eaters, these events are tailor-made for ya, why dontcha check ‘em out? For a meaty dinner that’s off the beaten path, try the May Misfit dinner at ~GRAND CAFÉ~ featuring McCormack Ranch lamb. Available Thursday May 17th-Sunday May 20th, the Misfit lamb menu focuses on the more unusual parts: brain, cheek, tongue, and sweetbreads. Choose from crispy lamb’s brain, braised lamb cheek, celery heart salsa verde ($14); lamb sweetbreads, lamb bacon, wild blackberries, fennel soubise, verjus, field greens ($18); lamb tongue pot-au-feu, summer vegetables, consommé ($14); hay-roasted leg of lamb, English pea ragout, mint chutney, rösti potatoes ($24); mixed grill with yogurt-marinated loin, merguez sausage, za’atar-rubbed chop, spiced date emulsion, pickled turnip, bulgur ($36); and lamb porchetta with pine nut, dill, and honey sauce, grilled chicories, crispy chickpea polenta ($34). The Misfit menu is available à la carte alongside the regular dining room menu.

You’ll also have two opportunities this month to join Belcampo Meat Co.’s ~MEAT-UP~ events. On Thursday May 24th, 12pm-2pm, Belcampo will fire up the grill outside of Blue Bottle Coffee in Jack London Square (300 Webster St. at 3rd St., Oakland). Get barbecue sirloin kebabs with minty yogurt, spicy carrot salad, and flatbread for just $9. Then on Thursday May 31st, “Meat-Up” at the SFMOMA (151 3rd St. at Mission, San Francisco) from 6pm-8pm as part of “Open Late” Thursdays. Belcampo will be at the Blue Bottle Coffee Bar on the third floor of the museum with chicken and beef empanadas ($5) Mexican-style, in honor of the current Mexican music exhibit. Order a specialty cocktail from St. George Spirits too. Museum admission is half-price after 6pm on Thursday evenings only.

Saturday evening, I was fortunate to be invited to a preview/test dinner at ~ST. VINCENT~, David Lynch’s New American tavern that opened last night in the Mission. Lynch, previously at Quince and Cotogna, has transformed the former Heart wine bar into a welcoming wine-centric restaurant. As soon as you walk in, you’ll note the hefty wine cabinet; the space has deep green walls, tables with wood benches (made from the previous tables at Heart), a communal table with a cherrywood top, a custom rolling cart, and seats at both the zinc bar and the open kitchen in the back (featuring white subway tile).

Running the full kitchen is chef Bill Niles, previously at Bar Tartine, who is integrating a bit of his East Coast sensibility into the seasonally influenced New American menu. You can start with some great bar snacks like the technicolor pickled eggs (either curry or beet, $3 each) and buttery hand-rolled pretzels ($5) with cumin and cultured butter. The roasted bone marrow ($14) was perfection, featuring the kick of smoked chiles—I was also happy to note the accompaniment of Bar Tartine bread (hey, former membership has its privileges)—and the Dungeness crab with Carolina gold rice ($14) is another tasty option. Larger plates include English pea dumplings ($22) with brown butter and sea urchin, while the showstopper dish is the house dry-aged lamb ($45), a bountiful plate for two, with leg, riblets, loin, tender farmer’s sausage (cooked sous vide), and turnips. Sure to elicit many a joke is the spotted dick ($7) for dessert, a British classic that is given a different rendition here. There will also be a good selection of cheeses to choose from.

As for the name, St. Vincent was the patron saint of wine and vinegar makers—you can read more here. Lynch’s wine list is what you’d expect from the James Beard Foundation Award-winning sommelier, wine expert, and author. There’s a list of 100 wines all priced under $100, plus an extensive reserve list reflecting Lynch’s signature passion for and expertise in Italian varietals. Guests also have the option of ordering half-bottles of wine; Lynch will open any bottle from the list of 100 and charge half the price—be sure to ask your server what’s already open.

Another exciting thing to note is certified Cicerone (beer sommelier) Sayre Piotrkowski (Monk’s Kettle) is on staff—he assembled a rotating selection of California craft brews on tap (from Firehouse Brewing, Linden Street Brewery, Pacific Brew Labs, and more) as well as a variety of international beers by the bottle, including large-format selections. Yeah, every sommelier and server in town is going to be calling this place a second home. Open Mon-Sat 5:30pm-11pm.

This past Saturday, I took a tour of ~CENTRAL KITCHEN~, slated to open its doors for dinner this Thursday May 10th. Partner-chef Thomas McNaughton will be overseeing a menu of Northern California cuisine with refined plating and a natural sensibility, working with chef de cuisine Michael Gaines (Manresa, Gary Danko, In de Wulf in Belgium, and Mauro Colagreco’s Mirazur in France). McNaughton’s partners in the project, David Steele and David White, are also behind flour + water, just a couple blocks away.

All the sourcing will be Californian, working with upwards of 30 farms throughout the year. The menu will have small plates like raw halibut dressed with fennel juice and Meyer lemon topped with mint and poppy seeds; larger plates include spring lamb with carrot purée, dandelion, and roasted radishes.

There will also be a five-course tasting menu, which will feature three or four canapes to start, four savory courses, pre-dessert and dessert, plus mignardises and a treat to bring home, all for $79. Everything will be served on a range of plates by Heath to custom-made pottery to elegant bowls by Rene Ozorio. Bread and butter will be made in-house, and pastry chef Lisa Lu (Jardinière) will be making desserts like the one pictured here for Central Kitchen, in addition to Salumeria, and consulting for flour + water.

The layout of the restaurant is unique: there’s a 900-square-foot courtyard shared by Central Kitchen and neighboring Salumeria during the day. It features a partially retractable roof, planters by Paxton Gate, shou-sugi-ban wood slats (the Japanese technique of burning wood, then soaking it, and then oiling it), a water feature, concrete-heated floors with an acid wash that’s the same in the dining room, and a 12-seat communal table. The vibe is meant to strike that note of quintessentially Californian casual-elegance. The music will be all vinyl (don’t be surprised when you hear Led Zeppelin over the sound system).

The 36-seat dining room has doors that open up onto the courtyard, so there’s a real indoor-outdoor feeling, and is designed to be comfortable year-round. Paxton Gate is behind the look—the dining room’s walls are made of lightly colored cement fiberboards, and the ceiling is from a reclaimed school gymnasium floor. There’s a counter for five that faces the dining room, along with wood tables and chairs; the room is anchored by the custom kitchen in the back, designed by Alec Bauer. It’s unlike any other in the city, with a custom suite by Jade, special refrigerated storage for mise, a built-in circulator, and other special features. There’s also a wood-fired grill and rotisserie that will roast items like lamb and porchetta for Salumeria (more on that soon).

The dedicated pastry area in the back is spacious; there’s also a room upstairs for aging meats, an area for making sausage and breaking down whole animals, and plans to have a soft-bed garden on the roof with herbs and a greenhouse. The well-thought-out project is ambitious, exciting, and so very San Francisco.

John Paul Henaff is behind the beverage menu, featuring both old-world and new-world wines. There will be three beers and four wines on tap, with coffee service by Mr. Espresso. Dinner will be served nightly, 5:30pm-11pm.

Next week, I’ll share some info about Salumeria, opening in about three weeks. Details about Trick Dog (the bar by the Bon Vivants) and The Parlour by Humphry Slocombe are forthcoming.

Last year, when I was touring the ~STATE BIRD PROVISIONS~ site on Fillmore Street before it opened, I noticed a huge and empty space next door. Owners Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski mentioned that they had plans for this adjacent spot, but were going to keep quiet about it while they focused their energy on getting SBP up and running. Well, it seems The New Fillmore was reading the mayor’s notes very closely after a recent Fillmore District walkthrough, and so a little bit about the new project has been released.

The new project is going to be called ~THE PROGRESS~, in homage to The Progress Theatre that was on the site from 1911-1925. Brioza said they are still finalizing plans and details are going to be released this summer about the Progress concept, so stand by for more. For now, Brioza says, “We’re having so much fun with State Bird Provisions, and look forward to having the opportunity to share more this summer.”

The fourth Basque restaurant to open in the North Beach and Jackson Square area is ~BASK~, in the former Pickles/Clown Alley location. You can check out the menus on their site: lunch includes a variety of salads and sandwiches (ringing in around $14), plus a few entrées like a roasted chicken thigh ($19) “in a finger-licking Basque sauce (red and green bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes) with rice.” Dinner has a full array of hot and cold tapas (chorizo puffs, croquettes, stuffed piquillo peppers), in addition to an extensive list of larger plates. There’s also weekend brunch. Hours are Mon-Wed 10:30am-10pm, Thu-Fri 10:30am-11pm, Sat 10:30am-2pm and 5:30pm-11pm, and Sun 10:30am-2pm. 42 Columbus Ave. at Jackson, 415-392-BASK (2275).

Details from Tony Gemignani’s PR team about his upcoming ~CAPOS~ have been sparse, but leave it to Gianni Mola of North Beach to uncover some news and share it on his blog. He mentions: “A beautiful custom-built wood Art Deco bar is in place on the left just inside the front door and red leather banquettes sensually line the opposite wall in the dining area. … A while ago I noticed a wood-burning beehive pizza oven in the open kitchen.” Gianni also mentioned “Chicago deep dish and stuffed pizza” and that “pasta dishes will be baked and steaks roasted on a rack in the beehive to impart a smokey [sic] flavor.” The oven, however, isn’t actually a beehive oven; it just looks similar, but it is made in Naples. Am so looking forward to trying Tony’s version of a Chicago deep-dish pizza—and it sounds like it’s going to be soon. 641 Vallejo St. at Columbus.

Details have been released about what is taking the place of ~SILKS~ in the Mandarin Oriental. The new concept is ~BRASSERIE S&P~, opening on the lobby level (where the MO Bar was); the name takes its inspiration from the hotel’s location at Sansome and Pine Streets. The bar and lounge area will blend into the 90-seat restaurant, with floor-to-ceiling windows, leather banquettes, velvet lounge chairs, and “boldly designed carpeting” (although nothing will ever top Fifth Floor’s previous zebra carpet, heh). The bar will feature a curved Italian white marble bar top, where you can order off a menu of gin and tonics along with other cocktails; beverage manager Priscilla Young is behind the gin-centric menu. Look for a strong wine selection as well.

The new executive chef is Adam Mali (Nick’s Cove), offering a menu of “brasserie-style, San Francisco cuisine,” with dishes like baked Drake’s Bay oysters with ginger and hijiki butter and roasted Liberty Farms duck breast with cracked English peas and preserved Meyer lemon. Breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch, and dinner will be served. 222 Sansome St. at Pine, 415-986-2020.

Chef Chris Borges of Taste Catering is partnering with ~PRESS CLUB~ and helping to expand the menu. New additions include small bites like blackened, deviled Glaum Ranch organic eggs served with caramelized Hobb’s bacon, and fried Castelvetrano olives stuffed with eggplant purée, plus local duck and pinot noir sausage with Anson Mills farro verde and Heirloom Organics baby kale. The beer and wine program was extended last month, now amped up with more than 60 wines from around the world and 27 beers. Check out the menu and pairings here. 20 Yerba Buena Lane between Market and Mission Streets, 415-744-5000.

The Inside Scoop announced chef Robert Leva has left ~SALT HOUSE~ after five-plus years there, and will be opening his own restaurant. Taking his place is Vernon Morales, who has been at ~TOWN HALL~ since 2009; he’ll be making changes to the menu in a month or so. Taking Morales’ place is his second-in-command Max Hosey, who has been working with Morales at Town Hall.

Up in Pt. Reyes Station, chef-owner Christian Caiazzo of ~OSTERIA STELLINA~ has brought on Brian Bowen as chef de cuisine.

Some quick updates around town: first, tablehopper tipster Jason B. let me know Fat Angel is going to be opening a second project in the neighborhood in the fall, ~CITY GRANGE~. Stand by for more details soon.

Also in the neighborhood, ~PRIME DIP SANDWICHES~ on Larkin Street will be opening a second location at 1515 Fillmore Street in the former Jubili.

Jason also mentioned ~PHARAOHS MEDITERRANEAN SANDWICHES~ has opened in the former Juice Zone space on Geary, serving Mediterranean wraps, and it has an extensive Egyptian breakfast menu. 608 Geary St. at Jones, 415-292-7271.

Sad news: according to Eater, chef-owner Guddu Haider of ~LAHORE KARAHI~ has sold the business. Wah! Seriously bummed. Like, a lot.

The Richmond blog announces the opening of ~ONO GRINDZ~, a new Hawaiian restaurant with a bit of a health-conscious approach. It sounds like the husband-and-wife team are on to something good. Open daily for breakfast and lunch 8am-3pm. 832 Clement St. at 10th Ave., 415-221-4746.

Speaking of mahalo vibe, chef Ravi Kapur and his ~LIHOLIHO YACHT CLUB~ crew have just announced new dates for the pop-up at ~CITIZEN’S BAND~: Monday May 14th, 21st, and 28th. Per usual, the feast is $65, inclusive of tax and tip; beverages are additional. Just wait until you try the smoked tako (octopus) and Korean fried quail. Reservations are only being taken through OpenTable, and it’s best if you do it through the Citizen’s Band website. If you can’t find a time you want, keep checking back since it’s very common for last-minute cancellations (um, lame!).

According to permits, ~MEHFIL INDIAN RESTAURANT~ is opening a third location at 28 2nd St. at Stevenson.

More permit action: Grub Street and Eater notice the Palo Alto-based ~SLIDERBAR CAFÉ~ appears to be the next business to move into the former Criolla Kitchen and Bagdad Café space. 2295 Market St. at 16th St.

A couple months ago, I mentioned a business called ~V-105~ (not to be confused with Alberto V05) was opening in the former Jackie’s Vinoteca space; the Scoop fills in with some details on who’s behind it. Chef-owner Daniel Martes (formerly Garibaldis) and his wife are making sandwiches on homemade bread, plus some salads, pastries, and more. Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; hours will expand in coming weeks. 105 Valencia St. at McCoppin, 415-525-3799.

Starting this week, ~MISSION DISPATCH~ is a new spot that will be hosting a variety of food trucks during the week for lunch in the parking lot of the former City of San Francisco Sign Shop (where more than 200,000 of the city’s street signs were made for the past 30 years). There will be two trucks daily for lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, like Bacon Bacon, Seoul on Wheels, Pacific Puffs, Chairman Bao, and Fogcutter. And this Thursday May 10th is a special day, since it’s the launch of the Old World Food Truck, joined by 
3-Sum Eats. Follow @MissionDispatch for updates. 1975 Bryant St. at 18th St.

My pal Jason B. let me know about the ~SLIDER SHACK~ truck, serving Hawaiian sliders like Kalua pork and the moa-fried slider (chicken breast with panko), $4 each. Parked Mon, Thu-Fri at 1st St. and Howard, and Tue-Wed at Spear and Mission. 10am-2pm.

I have a bunch of special menus and guest chefs and more for your restaurant radar this month. First, in honor of the 75th anniversary of the Golden Gate Bridge, ~PRESIDIO SOCIAL CLUB~ will be featuring a seafood special highlighting products that were historically sourced from the San Francisco Bay. The roasted sturgeon with a bay-style chowder will be available for $17.50 at lunch and $27.50 at dinner, while bar manager Tim Stookey has put together a signature Golden Gate #2 cocktail, $7.50. Both are available throughout the month of May.

Starting Wednesday May 9th, ~A16~ is launching a three-course, prix-fixe lunch menu for $20. Guests may select from two appetizer, entrée, and dessert options. May’s options include burrata for an app and pork meatballs for your second course, lucky you. Swing by Wed-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm.

Meanwhile, you’ll want to visit ~SPRUCE~ on Sundays for the return of Burgers & Burgundy. You can order the classic burger ($16) that comes on a housemade English muffin bun with pickled onions, zucchini, and remoulade, with add-ons like bacon for $2, an egg for $2, or smothered in Époisses for $4. You’ll be able to choose from three different selections of Burgundy available at $10, $16, and $25, or a flight of all three for $18. The selection will rotate each week.

Since May is burger month, ~BOURBON STEAK~ is offering a trio of burgers and a cocktail for $20. You can get the beef short rib burger with red cabbage and horseradish slaw, the Bourbon burger with house-ground Angus beef and Nicasio reserve cheddar, and the Kobe “Double Double” with 1001 Island dressing, all paired with the Kentucky Fats cocktail (orange-infused bourbon, bacon fat-infused Angostura bitters, and FAIR. goji liqueur). This special will be available in the bar and lounge at Bourbon Steak the entire month of May.

Over at ~COTOGNA~, the Sunday Supper series is going to feature some guest chefs in May: chefs Katja and Caro Baum, Quince’s own visiting in-residence chefs from three-star Michelin restaurant Amador in Mannheim, Germany, on May 13th; chefs Evan and Sarah Rich of the pop-up dinner series Chefs’ Night Off and the upcoming Rich Table restaurant in Hayes Valley on May 20th; and chef Chad Colby, executive chef of Los Angeles’ Mozza Scuola, winner of L.A.’s edition of Cochon 555 on May 27th. The dinner is, as usual, $50 prix-fixe, but if you add the cheese course, it’s $58.

And on Wednesday May 16th, Berkeley’s ~CAFÉ ROUGE~ is going to be offering a Corsican-themed menu paired with Corsican wines from Kermit Lynch Wine Merchant. The menu will include squid stew, wild boar, spit-roasted lamb, Corsican classic figatullu sausage, and ravioli with nettles. Diners can order these selections à la carte, or go for the full menu. Wines will be offered by the half glass and glass, and by the bottle.

Opening today in Oakland is ~NICK’S PIZZA~, a new pizzeria from chef Nick Yapor-Cox. He grew up in North Oakland and has cooked in the pastry department back east at Eleven Madison Park and Butter, in addition to local spots Ici Ice Cream, B Restaurant, and Arizmendi Bakery and Pizzeria in Emeryville. Nick’s is offering “Oakland-style pizza,” with an organic sourdough crust, locally sourced and organic produce, humanely raised meats, and hormone-free cheeses.

The weekly changing menu will feature around five or six choices each day, with no customizable options; the opening menu includes a cheese version, pepperoni, a seasonal spring pizza, roasted mushroom, Nick’s Pick (prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, fresh and aged mozzarella, arugula, and Meyer lemon vinaigrette), and a vegan pie. Pizzas will come in one size and are available by the slice ($2.50 and up) or whole pie ($20-$30), along with some salads and desserts, too. Lunch and dinner will be available Tue-Sat 11am-9pm, with delivery after 5pm; eat in or take out. 6211 Shattuck Ave. at 62nd St., Oakland, 510-658-3903.

A reader writes in with this tidbit: “Wonder if you know anything about ~THE TRAPPIST~’s second location in Rockridge next door to Southie. I noticed a sign on the door of an empty storefront next to Southie for a beer and wine license for a Belgian Bier Cafe LLC—which with a little sleuthing turns up the same address for The Trappist in downtown Oakland. I am guessing that Belgian Bier Cafe LLC is Trappist’s operating company name.” Yeah, and I should hire this tipster, right? I wish all tips came in so well researched, heh. Stand by for more when I hear back from a Trappist contact—it ends up the gents I need to speak with are currently in Belgium. 6309 College Ave. at 63rd St., Oakland.

And Berkeleyside mentions the opening of ~CRUNCH CUTLET & NOODLE~, a casual spot with a menu of Korean and Japanese dishes ranging from cutlets to ramen to skewers. 2144 Center St. at Oxford, Berkeley.

On Saturday May 12th, vegans and omnivores alike should find a lot to like at the third annual San Francisco ~VEGGIE FIESTA~. Taking place on the football grounds of Mission High School from 11am-3pm, this family-friendly food event features food trucks, raffle prizes, music, and dancing. There’s even more to like: admission and parking are free.

Food vendors include Alicia’s Tamales, No Worries (vegetarian Filipino food), and El Norteño food trucks. Plus they’ll have information and demonstrations for gardening, food-related games, music, dancing (including salsa dancing lessons), and children’s activities. The raffle to benefit the Nextcourse food and nutrition programs will give away dozens of prizes, many food-related, from Tante Marie, Noe Valley Bakery, 4505 Meats, and Millennium. The grand prize is a three-day trip for two to New Orleans, including a stay at the Sully Mansion B&B and an airfare voucher.

Veggie Fiesta is presented by and benefits Nextcourse, whose collaborative programs inspire people to purchase, cook, and eat healthier, locally produced foods. Nextcourse’s projects include a program for sustainable food preparation, eating, and living at Mission High School.

Whoa, if you love pork, you’ve got your work cut out for you with these upcoming events. Come hungry. For pork.

Five is the magic number when ~COCHON 555~ returns to The Fairmont San Francisco on Sunday May 20th: five chefs, five pigs, five winemakers in a culinary competition and tasting event all about sustainably raised pigs. The five local chefs will prepare nose-to-tail menus created from heritage breed pigs, and you, the pork-eating attendees, get to vote for your favorite.

The chefs competing to represent SF at the Grand Cochon finale are Nicolas Borzee of Bouche, Traci Des Jardins of Jardinière, Jason Fox of Commonwealth, Anthony Strong of Locanda, and Thomas McNaughton of Central Kitchen, Salumeria, and flour + water. The five family wineries are Arnot-Roberts, Elk Cove, K Vintners, Matthiasson, and Scholium Project, plus additional wines from SALDO, Sokol Blosser, and Simi. Other libations include Anchor Brewing beer samples, Chinaco Tequila tastings, and the “Perfect Manhattan” Cochon 555 Bar with Daniel Hyatt of Alembic, featuring craft American spirits (Templeton Rye, Hirsch, Angel’s Envy, Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace, and Hudson Whiskey’s Baby Bourbon, plus Luxardo, an interloper from Italy).

Attendees also get to check out a butcher demonstration from David the Butcher of Marina Meats and an interactive tasting contest with 2011 Grand Cochon winners Duskie Estes and John Stewart of Zazu. The event ends with a barbecue family meal by Magnolia Brewery and a 25th anniversary champagne toast to the James Beard Foundation.

4pm VIP, 5pm general admission. $125/person general admission; $200/person VIP (includes a welcome cocktail from The King’s Ginger, oysters, reserve wine tastings, artisan bacon from Black Pig Meat Co., and the chance to win a year’s supply of meat and cheese from Cochon 555 and Murray’s Cheese). The Fairmont San Francisco, 950 Mason St. at California.

~ADESSO~ is bringing back their Pig Parties, starting Sunday May 20th, 2pm-6pm. They’re spit-roasting porchetta, ham, and sausages, and serving them alongside seasonal side salads. Purchase tickets at dopo or adesso. $30 (beverages not included). 4395 Piedmont Ave. at Pleasant Valley, Oakland, 510-601-0305.

~CHOP BAR~ and ~LINDEN STREET BREWERY~ are throwing their next Pig Roast on Sunday May 20th at 4pm at Linden, with Dynamic performing a blend of R&B, hip hop, and funk. In fact, every third Sunday of the month through September, Chop Bar will be roasting Marin Sun pigs in a Caja China roasting box, and each event will feature a different Bay Area band. Sides will include cornbread, watermelon, German potato salad, and housemade barbecue sauce, tomatillo salsa, and roasted vegetable mojo. $20, beer and wine additional. 95 Linden St. at Embarcadero W., Oakland, 510-812-1264.

Just a couple quick shoutouts here: first, this Thursday May 10th, swing by ~GREEN APPLE BOOKS~ in the Inner Richmond for the launch party of Gabi Moskowitz’s The BrokeAss Gourmet Cookbook, 7pm. Free food and wine!

And on Saturday May 19th, you’ll want to head to ~PURCELL MURRAY~ in Brisbane for a demonstration class and signing with Alice Medrich for her new book, Sinfully Easy Delicious Desserts: Quicker Smarter Recipes. Info and more here. 2pm-4pm. $35.

As mentioned in tablehopper a while back, ~COMAL~ is opening in Berkeley on Friday May 4th, just in time for Cinco de Mayo. Owner John Paluska, formerly manager for the band Phish, and chef Matt Gandin, previously chef de cuisine at Delfina, are focusing on handcrafted regional Mexican cuisine in their new downtown digs. The Bon Vivants are charged with the bar program.

The menu will present modern interpretations of traditional dishes from regions like Oaxaca and its coastal neighbors—often as small and medium plates to share and explore—with many items cooked on a wood-fired hearth or custom comal (a comal is a flat, cast iron or earthenware griddle) in the open kitchen. Expect “exceptional masa” and local, seasonal ingredients. I would also expect chef Gandin’s lifelong interest in Latin American culture and cooking and time spent in Michoacán to shine through. Eater mentions: “masa-based items that will be cooked on the comal, along with more familiar quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos,” “small plates ($7-15) including seafood crudos, albondigas, and … grilled artichoke with ancho and epazote buerre blanc,” and “sharable meats … such as a whole roasted chicken and whole grilled fish.” The kitchen and bar were designed by Alec Bauer.

The bar program springs from The Bon Vivants, Scott Baird and Josh Harris. The focused cocktail list will feature a curated collection of tequilas and mezcals. Seasonal sangritas will also be available: at the last SF Chefs, I had two shots of tequila at their table, just so I could follow up with their sangrita! Operating Partner and GM Andrew Hoffman (previously at Chow, Eccolo) will oversee the wine and beer offerings, which will include an Arnot Roberts 2011 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc and an exclusive grenache from Wind Gap, both on tap.

Abueg Morris (Nopalito, Roam, Prather Ranch) is responsible for the project’s architecture and earthy, modern design. The one-story 1920s building still has its original Douglas fir beams and flooring, but has a new façade from Trachtenberg Architects featuring COR-TEN steel, and custom steel doors and windows by Ferrous Studios. The 3,000-square-foot interior and 2,500-square-foot patio will make room for 140 guests and two bars, one in, one out. Though it won’t be open right away, the patio-bar-combo (landscape design by Garden Architecture) will be partially covered to make outdoor dining possible all year. Berkeleyside has more details and photos here.

Dinner nightly starting at 5:30pm, with weekend brunch in a few months. 2020 Shattuck Ave. at University, Berkeley.

Last week I was invited to a media preview dinner at ~COPITA~, the new Mexican restaurant in Sausalito from culinary personality Joanne Weir, who partnered with restaurateur Larry Mindel (Il Fornaio, Poggio) on the project. The chef de cuisine is Edgar Sierra, a native of Mexico, who will be working closely with maestra de cocina Joanne, as well as sous chef and organic gardener Dilsa Lugo, a La Cocina alum. The California-influenced menu highlights spit-roasted chicken cooked in a wood-burning rotisserie, all-organic masa made with non-GMO corn, carnitas, and an array of ceviches, tacos, and more (my dining partner and I enjoyed the chopped salad with pepitas and the spicy albondigas). There’s also a list of tequila cocktails, sangrias, wines on tap, beers, and aguas frescas. (Weir is a huge lover of tequila, and author of Tequila: A Guide to Types, Flights, Cocktails and Bites.)

Copita opened in the former Piccolo Teatro space on Bridgeway, with an airy indoor-outdoor vibe (there’s an outdoor patio, and large floor-to-ceiling doors that open into the 47-seat dining room). Anthony Fish of Arcanum Architecture is behind the cheerful design—I enjoyed the tiling, bright colors, woven fabric on the banquettes (my friend and I called it the Bottega Veneta weave), and eye-catching rotisserie that is the heart of the restaurant. There are also 10 seats at the mahogany bar, and quite the wall o’ tequilas. Open daily at 11am. 739 Bridgeway at Anchor, Sausalito, 415-331-7400.

According to a Facebook post, it looks like ~PIG AND PIE~ is planning to open this month, serving handmade sausages and homemade pies. As previously mentioned on tablehopper, it’s the spot opening in the Discolandia space in the Mission. A menu on the restaurant’s blog lists a breakfast sausage (pork spiced with rosemary, fried egg, and sriracha), hot Italian (pork with spices, braised greens, spicy tomato sauce, and pickled red onions), and a boudin blanc (chicken and herbs, shallot confit, arugula, mayo, and preserved lemon). I know, tasty! Pies listed include spiced pecan and shaker lemon. Beers on the list include Burning Oak Black Lager (Linden Street Brewery), and Scrimshaw Pilsner and Le Merle Saison (North Coast Brewing). Look for more details about the opening in coming weeks. 2962 24th St. at Alabama.

I can’t wait to cross the bridge to check out the upcoming ~FUSEBOX~, opening this Thursday May 3rd. As previously mentioned on tablehopper, this West Oakland Korean-American restaurant is from chef Sunhui Chang, a “kkochi-gui pub/sojubang” (kkochi-gui is Korean for grilled skewers), serving affordable dishes in an izakaya format.

This piece in the East Bay Express mentions a preview dinner of “pork-butt udon soup, the bacon-wrapped mochi with pickled mustard seeds, the cubes of house-made tofu crusted in rice flour, the spicy-sweet fried chicken, and the array of pickled things (shitake mushrooms, sparkler radish, bok choy, etc.).” (If you’re way into pickles, be sure to read more about the pickled items in this story on Bay Area Bites.) The story also mentions plans for an upcoming outdoor patio, a soft-serve machine, and grill. For the next two weeks, FuseBox will be open for lunch at 11:30am on Thursdays and Fridays, and then expanding hours later on, plus adding dinner hours. 2311A Magnolia St. at 24th St., Oakland, 510-444-3100.

East Bay Express also mentions the comeback of ~KITCHEN 388~, reopening this week after chef-owner Joseph Dunbar struggled with a month-long hospital visit. It will reopen for dinner service Wed-Sun, starting this Wednesday May 2nd. Look for a concise menu, and beer and wine are available, plus table service. Sounds like summer is the target for launching breakfast and lunch. 388 Grand Ave. at Staten, Oakland, 510-893-3005.

I have been trying for months (unsuccessfully) to get details from a contact at ~PA’INA~, the new Hawaiian restaurant and lounge opening in the former Sundance Kitchen space in Japantown. Well, now it’s open, according to this post on Eater, which mentions a “lengthy menu of Asian fusion and Hawaiian cuisine concocted with the help of chef Glenn Kimura.” Pics on Yelp reveal Spam musubi, spicy tuna poke, and Kalua pig cheese fries. Sounds like the place was totally reformatted to make room for a stage since there will be live music as well. 1865 Post St. at Fillmore, 415-829-2642.

The Upper Haight has a new (and spacious) café called ~FLYWHEEL ROASTERY~ next to Whole Foods. SFoodie mentions Flywheel will be roasting their own beans on site soon, and there are also housemade baked goods. Uppercasing mentions: “The back of the building, under the loft, will have seating, and they’ll also have a patio out back. In the meantime, there are plenty of benches and tables, as well as some chairs on the sidewalk out front, for optimal Golden Gate Park people-watching.” 670 Stanyan St. at Haight.

After breaking the news about Jeremy Tooker and Josey Baker’s upcoming café and bakery on Divisadero, Baker just revealed the name on his blog: ~THE MILL~. Construction is underway—look for a July opening. 736 Divisadero St. at Fulton.

After 12 years of business in Hayes Valley, ~PAUL K~ has closed, according to Grub Street. As you may remember, taking its place is ~RICH TABLE~, a new restaurant from Evan and Sarah Rich. Congrats to the two of them for having their Kickstarter funded—the page shares more about the concept: “to offer the same fine-dining cuisine but in a casual, convivial atmosphere,” “plates will range from raw items such as oysters and crudos, to pastas and meat dishes, and they will be drawn from a wide variety of cuisines. The menu will change daily, and inspiration will come from a number of cuisines all based on the combined experience of the chefs, including but not limited to Japanese, Italian, French. The result is a refined, fresh, and uniquely San Francisco cuisine.” Expect more updates soon—they hope to open within the next six months. 99 Gough St. at Oak.

After lease negotiations failed to work out, ~GORDON BIERSCH BREWERY RESTAURANT~’s lease expired on April 28th—the brewery closed over the weekend after 20 years in the Hills Brothers Coffee Building. No word about their new location yet. Inside Scoop mentions: “Meanwhile, there’s no word on what will become of the now-dark 10,000 square foot, two-story space. A conversion into office space has been rumored.” 2 Harrison St. at The Embarcadero.

A real estate announcement I received yesterday announced ~CHOUCHOU~ in Laguna Honda is up for sale. 400 Dewey Blvd. at Laguna Honda, 415-242-0960.

A couple quick notes: SFoodie mentions ~PRATHER RANCH AMERICAN EATERY~ in the Ferry Building Marketplace is no longer serving breakfast in order to focus more on lunch service. Weekend brunch will continue. New hours are Mon-Fri 10am-6pm and Sat-Sun 8am-4pm. 32 Ferry Building, 415-391-0420.

Up in Mill Valley, ~HAWK’S TAVERN~ is launching brunch service this weekend (May 5th), under new chef Joe Waggoner, previously chef de cuisine at Wayfare Tavern. On the menu: yeast-risen waffles, housemade yogurt and granola, smoked salmon hash, and more. Sat-Sun 10am-3pm. 507 Miller Ave. at Reed, Mill Valley, 415-388-3474.

Between the gorgeous weather and the beautiful produce coming in at the farmers’ markets, you’re bound to be inspired to capture some of that goodness—these classes will help.

This Friday May 4th, get ~JAMMIN’ WITH HAPPY GIRL~, and learn how to make strawberry Meyer lemon jam and mixed berry jubilee in the CUESA Kitchen. Happy Girl Kitchen founder Jordan Champagne will teach the fundamentals of making jam to students, who will get hands-on and get to take home two jars of their newly jammed goods. $64 (sliding scale pricing, based on need, available).

Wednesday May 30th is a chance to learn how to make your own Greek-style yogurt and kefir with ~FIZZ, TANG, AND FAT~, also in the CUESA Kitchen. Louella Hill, aka The Milk Maid, will lead the class, then send participants home with a starter kit including culture, recipes, butter muslin, and more. $54.10 (sliding scale pricing, based on need, available). 1 Ferry Building at Embarcadero and Market.

On Monday May 7th, ~FIFTH FLOOR~ is hosting Opposites Attract, a sweet and savory dessert demonstration with pastry chef Francis Ang (Food & Wine’s West Coast “People’s Best Pastry Chef 2012”). You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the restaurant, and learn how to integrate both sweet and savory into dishes at home, as in black olive madeleines with saffron ice cream. There will be samples, of course. 6pm-7:30pm. $25.

Join author Andrea Nguyen for a Handmade Tofu Workshop at ~18 REASONS~ on Tuesday May 29th. Learn how to choose soybeans, make fresh soy milk, and cook with your silken or firm creation. Dishes include homemade tofu pudding, Sichuan-style savory tofu pudding with assorted garnishes, and pressed tofu and peanuts in spicy bean sauce. 7pm-9pm. $25 members, $35 general admission.

A few more Cinco de Mayo items for your radar: the fine folks at ~DELISE~ are cooking up some special treats for the holiday: chorizo scones; chipotle cheddar gougères, devil’s chocolate cupcake with dulce de leche frosting, Mexican hot chocolate sorbet (cinnamon and cayenne), avocado lime frozen yogurt, and margarita sorbet (with Cabo Wabo tequila). Swing by and say, “arriba!” 327 Bay St. at Powell, 415-399-9694.

Meanwhile, the ~CANTINA~ crew will be opening their doors an hour early this Saturday at 4pm, and, as they put it, “will be shaking up and pouring out mucho mezcal this weekend. We figure that mezcal, the rustic forebear to the ever popular tequila, deserves some attention. We also think that mezcal is the sexier of the two agave distillates and we aim to share that with our audience as well. So, all of our drinks—including margaritas—will be shaken with mezcal on Cinco de Mayo.” Drinks will be $6, and there will also be $3 tacos. DJs kick in at 6pm. 580 Sutter St. at Mason, 415-398-0195.

Since it’s the 150th Cinco de Mayo this year, ~TRES~ is going big this year, celebrating Friday through Sunday: there will be luchadores, LIVE 105, and a launch party on Friday; freshly butchered Marin Sun Farms lamb, pig, and goat roasted on a spit, as well as tequila and cocktail offerings on Saturday; followed by a “recovery brunch” on Sunday. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Details here.

Over in the East Bay, ~BOCANOVA~ will be serving up three crispy fish tacos and a house margarita for only $12 on Saturday during dinner. But here’s the catch: fans will have to watch Bocanova’s Twitter feed to get a password to order this off-the-menu deal.

Congrats to the ~NOPALITO~ team (including co-chefs Gonzalo Guzman and Jose Ramos) for opening their second location yesterday in the Inner Sunset. The look is very similar to the original Nopalito on Broderick (they used the same designers, Abeug-Morris)—look for warm wood floors, white-painted exposed brick, lots of the restaurant’s trademark green, and concrete bar tops. You can swing by for lunch and dinner, and you’ll note a few new additions to the menu like albondigas en mole, and tortas for lunch. Eater also mentions: “Sidewalk tables and a large 25-seat back patio will become options once permitting comes through in a few months time.” Cocktails will kick in soon—for now it’s beer and wine. No reservations, but like the Broderick location, you can call ahead to get your name on the list. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm and Sat-Sun 10:30am-10pm. 1224 9th Ave. at Lincoln, 415-233-9966.

Attention late night diners: ~NOPA~ will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday for maintenance, and according to a tweet, will be returning on Thursday with shiny floors!

The big news last week was about the closure of the over-100-year-old Chinatown icon ~SAM WO~, known as the home of the infamous waiter Edsel Ford Fung. Although the news was grim (owner David Ho said it was so old that it would be too challenging to bring the restaurant up to code), according to this post on SFist, the owner’s daughter, Julie Ho, is rallying to save the place. As reported on SFist: “According to a spokesperson for the Health Department, ‘everything from venting to plumbing to electrical all need to be upgraded’ to pass muster.”

Growing up in San Mateo, Sam Wo’s had a popular rep among my fellow high school buddies for looking the other way when you felt like doing some good ole underage beer drinkin’ (God bless ‘em)—there was a nearby liquor store that would sell to you, and you could BYOB. Yeah, good times. (Scoop has a great slideshow, and the commenters’ memories are a fun read, for a change.) As for the fate of the place, at the Health Department hearing this morning, a number of changes were outlined that need to be made—we’ll see if the restaurant makes them and reopens again. 813 Washington St. at Grant, 415-982-0596.

On Sunday, I ran into Arnold Eric Wong of ~E&O TRADING COMPANY~, who told me the restaurant’s planned renovations have been delayed until just after Memorial Day, when it will close for a month or so. (It ends up a historic façade is making the permitting process go a little slower.) Which means you have another month of corn fritters!

A couple closures this past week: Eater broke the news that Russell Jackson’s ~LAFITTE~ at Pier 5 has closed. Here’s more: “Jackson says he has a buyer for the space, and that he’ll now be heading to New York to launch SubCulture Dining there for a while. (Jackson was an early pioneer of the underground dining scene in S.F., launching in 2006.) Then he promises to be back to do another foie gras dinner or two, before [foie gras’] time is up in July.” Someone who wants to ring up some America’s Cup business, well, here’s your spot.

Over in the Inner Richmond, Scoop reports Luke Sung’s ~PRIME RIB SHABU~ has closed. Reportedly a new restaurant called Cajun House Louisiana Crawfish will be opening in the space. 308 5th Ave. at Clement.

Potentially opening tonight for dinner is ~TROYA FILLMORE~, opening in the former Citizen Cake space. This is the second location for the Turkish-Mediterranean restaurant (the original location opened six years ago). Chef Philip Busacco (previously chef de cuisine at Terzo for the last six years) will be taking a modern approach to Turkish-inspired Mediterranean dishes, and will mostly feature local and organic ingredients. Expect mezes (small plates), kebabs, entrées, and original desserts. Owner and wine director Brigitte Cullen consulted with Mark Bright (Saison) and Mark Thompson (sommelier) to customize a wine list for the Fillmore location, highlighting top Mediterranean wines, as well as local favorites. Troya Fillmore will be open for lunch and dinner daily (Mon-Fri 11am-3pm and 5pm-10pm), with brunch and dinner on the weekends (10am-10pm). They plan to be open for dinner only the first week, and then launch lunch and brunch. 2125 Fillmore St. at California, 415-563-1000.

Over in the Excelsior, a tipster lets me know ~LIVE SUSHI~ is opening a third location in the former DaKine’s Hawaiian BBQ. 4808 Mission St. at Onondaga, 415-585-5055.

Big news over at ~PROSPECT~: Inside Scoop reports Nancy Oakes and Pamela Mazzola have brought on Chris L’Hommedieu from the Michael Mina Group as chef. Mazzola has been leading the helm since the departure of Ravi Kapur last year when Ravi’s son was born. Look for some updates to the menu in coming weeks.

I know, I know, many of us in the 415 have been waiting for news of Tanya Holland opening her second location of Oakland favorite ~BROWN SUGAR KITCHEN~ at 5800 Third Street. After a number of project delays, the latest word I received from her was this: “Not happening in SF anytime soon.” Ack, what a bummer—no waffles from Ms. Holland in the 415 for now.

I was happy to read in Grub Street that ~OLD SKOOL CAFÉ~ in Bayview has made the transition from being an event space to now serving dinner every Thu-Sat. For those not familiar with the project, it’s a “1940s-themed supperclub and non-profit restaurant [that] is the brainchild of Teresa Goines, and it’s the result of several years of fundraising and program-building with a group of at-risk and previously incarcerated young people ages 16 to 22. The kids serve as chefs, waitstaff, and entertainers, and they’re all paid for their work and meanwhile get apprenticeships in restaurant management, performing, and cooking.” It’s an amazing program, and there are many ways you can get involved, from donating time and money, to now swinging by for dinner and a show. Check out the menu here. Thu-Sat 5:30pm-9:30pm. 1429 Mendell St. (3rd St. and Oakdale/Palou), 415-822-8531.

Looks like ~CAFFÈ PASCUCCI~ in SoMa/Mission Bay has changed its name to ~BRAVADO COFFEE BAR AND LOUNGE~ for the SF market. It will continue to feature a variety of Caffè Pascucci proprietary coffee blends and signature coffee drinks, plus sandwiches and more. (Thanks to Jason B. for the tip!) Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-5pm. 170 King St. at 3rd St., 415-957-1100.

Some quick hits for your pop-up radar: tonight is ~HAPA RAMEN~ at Wing Wings in the Lower Haight. Instead of ramen, expect preview menu items for Richie Nakano’s upcoming brick-and-mortar restaurant, HAPA, on Fillmore Street (take a peek at an in-progress menu here). 6pm-10pm, BYOB, cash only.

On Wednesday April 25th, Jake Godby is back at Truck for ~TRUCK STOP CAFE~. The menu includes duck fat Chex mix (made to order, $6); meatball sandwich, broccoli rabe, mozzarella ($10); grilled cheese, brisket, tomato jam ($10); and some other dishes, but if I keep writing them down, I’m going to get really fricking hangry. 6pm-10pm. 1900 Folsom St. at 15th St.

This Wednesday, ~GUIDO~ returns for dinners Wed-Thu 5:30pm- 9:30pm at Just For You Cafe. 732 22nd St. at 3rd St., 415-647-3033.

Vegans: you’ll want to swing by ~THE WINDOW~ May 4th-5th for Wildflower by chef Ayinde Howell, with seitan shwarma, and some Cinco de Mayo treats like beer-battered tempeh tacos. 1599 Howard St. at 12th St.

As previously reported in tablehopper, ~DISTRICT OAKLAND~ is opening in the former Levende East space in Old Oakland, and according to East Bay Express, it will be opening this coming Friday April 27th. To recap: there will be plenty of wine, whiskeys (over 40!), and some food to keep you from hurting yourself too badly—have at it. Hours will be Mon-Fri 4pm-close, Sat 5pm onward. 827 Washington St. at 9th St., Oakland, 510-272-9110.

Fans of ~BITTERSWEET~ should know the chocolate-coffee combo have opened a café in Oakland, according to Berkleyside. 1438 Broadway at Telegraph, Oakland.

More café news: East Bay Dish reports ~ROOM 389~ is now opening in the morning, serving coffee from Bicycle and Roast Coffee, Five Mountains Tea, and pastries from Starter Bakery. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. 389 Grand Ave. at Staten, Oakland, 
510-936-6389.

Whoa, this is quite the celebratory deal: ~MASA’S~ is celebrating 30 years, and to show their appreciation, they’re offering 25% off the entire menu and wine list every Thursday in 2012. This is a good chance to indulge in executive chef Gregory Short’s four- and seven-course prix-fixe menus, with wine pairing by Master Sommelier Alan Murray, prepared in the tradition of restaurant founder Masataki Kobayashi. Look for local, seasonal ingredients in their modern-classic menu and in their cocktails, and don’t forget the “candy cart.” Release the mignardises! Seatings from 5:30pm-9:30pm. Call 415-989-7154 or email for reservations.

Make your Cinco de Mayo celebration count by joining Tacolicious at their second annual ~HECHO EN SAN FRANCISCO~ party. From 6pm-9pm in the CUESA Kitchen at the Ferry Building, gulp and guzzle top-shelf tequila, Tacolicious tacos, antojitos from 10 SF Mexican restaurants and purveyors, and more, with all proceeds going to CUESA and La Cocina.

Your tasty Mexican food choices will include La Palma Mexicatessen’s made-to-order tortillas filled with braised meats or market vegetables from Tacolicious, La Torta Gorda’s Puebla-style cooking, artisan jello-shots (hic) from Sweets Collection, Don Bugito’s edible insects, Nopalito’s fresh ceviche, plus offerings from FOOD, Chaac Mool, Hella Vegan Eats, El Buen Comer, Alicia’s Tamales Los Mayas, and Rancho Gordo.

Drink choices include handcrafted cocktails using Don Julio, Cuervo Tradicional, and Mi Casa tequila, including Mi Casa’s Tequila Daisy with homemade grenadine; two beers, Victoria and Corona Familiar; and seasonal agua fresca from El Buen Comer. Tickets are $55, available online. CUESA Kitchen, 1 Ferry Plz. at Embarcadero and Market.

And not very Cinco de Mayo-related, but it is Saturday May 5th: take the Fermented Favorites tour with the good folks of ~DISCOVERY STREET TOURS~ from 1:30pm-4pm, and you’ll spend the afternoon exploring wine and cheese. Perfect if you’re more of a wino than a tequil-ino. Although, given the timing of these events, you can be both.

This year’s ~PEBBLE BEACH FOOD & WINE~ was yet another one for the books: the amount of talent that descends onto the property is staggering. As a media guest, I feel very honored to get the access that I do—a huge thanks to the Coastal Luxury Management team for so graciously taking care of so many people, and for continuing to put on such a memorable (and fun) event.

I posted my photo album from my three days at Pebble Beach here, so you can take a look at what Daniel Boulud was serving at the opening reception (one of my favorite events, was sorry I could only stay for an hour before my dinner reservation at 1833!), what was on the menu at the Tribute to a Legend: Thomas Keller dinner, what was being served at the Grand Tasting on Saturday, and who was in the kitchen at the Italian Love Affair dinner.

Some highlights of the event:

At the Lexus Opening Night Reception, Michael Symon was looking really fit (and showing off his guns), the charisma and joie de vivre that emanates from Daniel Boulud is enough to power a medium-sized country, and Michael Chiarello is making some tasty ‘nduja over at Bottega (I wonder when a Cooking with Blood cookbook will come out?). I also got a taste of the just-released 2003 Dom Perignon before flouncing out the door—purr purr.

The Wines of Gaja tasting was extraordinary—it was such a pleasure to hear the personal story of the wines and the family by none other than the elegant and very passionate Gaia Gaja. (Tasting the family’s 1978 Barbaresco was something I won’t forget.)

I can’t believe I got to attend the Tribute to a Legend: Thomas Keller dinner—the dishes and wines at the dinner were fabulous (um, yeah, like they weren’t going to be). I cracked up with some of the Texans at my table, who needed me to explain what squab was. At the end of the dinner, the tallest of the Texans said, “Marcia, I wish you could be with us all weekend. We need you when we go out to fancy places so you can tell us everything we’re eating.” Adorable.

At the dinner, the joking between Daniel Boulud and Thomas Keller over Bouchon was hilarious. Daniel was giving Keller a hard time for beating him to the name (Daniel is from Lyon, famous for bouchons), while Keller retorted in his speech: “Bouchon is mine. Get over it.” Cue uproarious laughter.

I also laughed over the fact that Daniel Boulud unwittingly swiped my glass of 1988 Domaine Dujac Clos de la Roche. I was absolutely, wildly in love with that wine and asked our table’s sommelier if she could possibly find anymore in the back (it was popular that night). She managed to scare up enough for two more glasses for our table, but when she turned around, Daniel had nabbed one of them, so she had to split the last glass between me and another guest. Even funnier: she snapped a pic of my pilfered glass of wine and sent it to me. If there’s anyone I’m willing to lose a glass of wine to, it’s Daniel.

Although nothing can top the moment when I was sitting at the table, talking with my fellow guests, and there was suddenly a hand on my shoulder. I look up, and it’s Thomas Keller, making the rounds to each and every table, warmly thanking everyone for attending the dinner. Pure class, all the way, all the time.

You should watch this tribute video to Thomas Keller (h/t to Scoop). (Good, now I can erase the mega file I had on my camera recording it.)

I highly recommend starting the day with a cheese class from Laura Werlin. We were spoiled with cheeses, wine, grilled cheese, and mac and cheese. Healed!

An Italian Love Affair had a reception that was the stuff of my dreams (hello, famous uni and lardo crostini from Michael White of Marea that no one was really eating—except yours truly).

Thanks to The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas for throwing quite the Saturday happy hour on the patio at The Inn at Spanish Bay. Bubbles and caviar and oysters and friends? Really, it’s all you need.

Ladies, what is up with all the sky-high heels that you can’t walk in? Women were stumbling around the after parties and the tasting tents like the walking wounded. If you can’t walk the sky-high walk, then just don’t do it. Not fresh.

Guy Fieri’s truck.

I also heard someone threw a drink at Guy Fieri at one of the after parties, and was quickly escorted out by his bouncers and security. This is totally unconfirmed, but really, dude, don’t throw drinks at people with bouncers. Dummy.

A fellow diner at one of the dinners observed none of the tables ever had salt, bread, or butter, and no coffee service, either. (Psssst, all you have to do is ask—although I do agree about the salt, just have some on the table.)

Was happy to meet the winner of the two Magnum packages that were given away on tablehopper—was also happy to learn she brought her sister! Good girl.

You can’t find a more glorious setting than Pebble Beach: the views, the fresh air, the sunsets, the ocean. Stunning.

And now, please excuse me while I try to exercise some of this debauchery off me.

Opening today, Tuesday April 17th, is ~GIOIA PIZZERIA~, the first San Francisco location of the Berkeley favorite from husband-and-wife team Will and Karen Gioia. The 50-seat location moved into two former storefronts that were combined into one space on Polk Street. The 1,800-square-foot restaurant is larger than the Berkeley location, featuring a semi-industrial look with warm finishes, like reclaimed wood and wainscoting, along with subway tile and concrete floors.

Unlike the Berkeley location, which just has one pizza size, there will be two pizza sizes here: 14-inch and 18-inch pizzas (but the pizzas will be the same). The menu is expanded, with appetizers like salads (including a Caesar salad, and one with asparagus, farm egg, pancetta, brown butter, capers, and Parmigiano), plus two-three pastas (like radiatore with guinea hen ragu, peas) and entrées (including skirt steak with broccoli di ciccio, pickled spring onions, bagna cauda, and fried smashed potatoes).

Lunchtime means there’s a Philly roast pork sandwich with broccoli rabe and provolone, a chicken parm, and an Italian “muffaletta” hero with mortadella, salami, shredded lettuce, and olive-caper-Calabrian chile relish. Desserts include cannoli, zeppole, cookies, and fruit tarts. Check out the menu here. The wine list is all-Italian, with six reds and whites each, plus four-six draft beers (which will be local, craft beers). Hours are Tue-Sun 11am-10pm, open until 11pm Fri-Sat. 2240 Polk St. at Green, 415-359-0971.

Another opening on Polk Street: the new incarnation in the former Rex Cafe space, ~MARBELLA~ officially opens for dinner on Wednesday April 18th. As previously mentioned in tablehopper, the Spanish-inspired restaurant is serving tapas by chef Nelson German, and features a new cocktail program (think hand-crafted drinks made with fresh juices), plus a primarily Spanish wine list. The refreshed interior features wallpaper, chandeliers, and a communal table. UrbanDaddy has both the weekend brunch and dinner menus here. 2323 Polk St. at Union, 415-441-2244.

I noticed a tweet late last night announcing that Ethiopian restaurant ~MOYA~ is reopening as of 9am today. They moved to 121 9th Street (at Minna) after a fire forced the closure of their previous location. You can get breakfast, lunch, or dinner—more details on Eater.

A couple new juice bars are opening up around town. Refinery 29 mentions ~JUICE TO YOU~, a kiosk in Cow Hollow serving fresh, organic juices. Open Mon, Wed-Fri 7am-7pm, Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. 1994 Union St. at Buchanan, 415-834-5161.

Coming to the Mission is ~CORAZON JUICEBAR~, a Mexican-style juice bar by Socorro and Cesar Ramirez, a mother and son duo. There will be juices, smoothies, Mexican shaved ice (raspados) made with all-natural and organic ingredients, plus kombucha made with tamarindo, and other menu items like sandwiches and desserts. K9 Design & Build is behind the space, featuring Victorian-style copper panels, and tables made from antique doors. Corazon is looking at a mid-May opening. Hours will be Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. 3275 22nd St. at Valencia.

A third location of ~PERILLA~ is opening in the former Pho Clement 2 location, according to Eater. Look for pho, buns, rice plates, and more. Owner Tin Truong is reportedly also behind PPQ Beef Noodle House Restaurant, PPQ Dungeness Island, and Toasties. 5423 Geary Ave. at 18th Ave.

A tablehopper reader let me know the ~CARNELIAN BY THE BAY~, which is in that bizzare-o 1970s building behind the Ferry Building Marketplace (next to Sinbad’s, another time warp location), is now called ~ONE FERRY PLAZA~, serving dim sum daily.

Reports on Yelp mention authentic tea service, har gow, and more, but there also seems to be a fusion-y “tapas” menu as well, with items that look like something you’d find at a convention hotel reception (think chicken lollipops, Peking duck handrolls, and I quote, “Norwegian Smoked Salmon-Crème Franchise”). At night, it appears to be all about banquet dinners and private events. And then there’s that view. Valet parking for $10. Curious to hear more reports from the field about this one…. Open daily 11am-4pm. 1 Ferry Plz. at Embarcadero and Market, 415-878-6111.

Some restaurants have added hours to their regular schedules: right on time, ~LOCAL’S CORNER~ starts dinner service tonight, Tuesday April 17th. You can check out the menu here. Served Tue-Sat 6pm-10pm. (Good looking site, guys!)

~CLAUDINE~ in the Financial District is now serving Saturday dinner from 5:30pm-10pm (dinner is already served Mon-Fri). Lunch will continue Mon-Fri 11:30am-4:30pm.

And Eater notes ~SWEET WOODRUFF~ has started weekend brunch service from 10:30am-2:30pm. See the menu here.

Lastly, ~STATE BIRD PROVISIONS~ has decided to discontinue Sunday brunch service after trying it out for four weeks. Chef-owner Stuart Brioza said it was a good exercise, and mentioned they may revisit it at a later time, but for now, they are going to be closed on Sundays. He also said to stand by for some upcoming Sunday activities in June—I’ll keep you posted.

I am sorry to hear about the impending closure of the very kind “Tak” Matsuba’s ~BUSHI-TEI~ at the end of the month—he has reportedly sold the restaurant to an unnamed buyer. Eater posted his note announcing the upcoming closure. Best wishes to him and the staff.

A friend let me know the location of ~OZONE THAI~ on Polk Street has closed. I am waiting to hear back from the new owner about his plans for the space, stand by. 1160 Polk St. at Sutter, 415-440-9663.

Over in the Mission, you can read on Eater about the terrible flooding that temporarily closed ~SAISON~ and ~HUMPHRY SLOCOMBE~ after those nasty storms last week. Good news: Saison reopens tonight.

Not too far away, according to Grub Street , ~CAFÉ GRATITUDE: SAN FRANCISCO~ is on the market. Stand by for details on whether it gets sold or not—for now, it remains open.

Some special sandwiches for my fellow sandwich lovers: on Friday April 20th, ~PAL’S TAKEAWAY~ is celebrating their third anniversary, and will have some enticing creations. Carlo Espinas from Comstock Saloon will be doing his rabbit pâté banh mi, and the coffee-rubbed and smoked pulled pork with special barbecue sauce and slaw will be on the menu as well. Bread man Josey Baker will be making a special bread for Pal’s Aleppo-roasted turkey and cauliflower sandwich, featuring a Meyer lemon mostarda from Hapa Ramen. And Kat Zacher (Broken Record) will be doing her chocolate-covered caramel matzoh “crack.” More good news: starting Saturday May 5th, Pal’s will be open on Saturdays with an expanded menu.

As previously mentioned on tablehopper, ~1058HOAGIE~ from Deli Board is launching. Starting this evening, April 17th, and tomorrow, April 18th, you can get hoagies via bike delivery or takeout from 5pm-9pm. Take a look at the website for the menu and more details.

And according to the Inside Scoop, ~SHOW DOGS~ on Market is expanding into a space next door, opening a coffee shop featuring coffee from Four Barrel and a deli (the working name is Machine Coffee). Charcutier Peter Temkin is behind the deli sandwiches, which will feature his own take on pastrami and more. Stand by for details in coming weeks.

Perhaps some of the city’s most showstopping desserts are at ~ATELIER CRENN~, and now you can stop by for a six-course dessert tasting menu from chef pâtissier Juan Contreras. The $55 menu also has a dessert wine pairing option ($30). You can check out a video of his new Aubergine Fumée dessert here.

Now open in Union Square in the Mystic Hotel is ~BURRITT TAVERN~ from chef-owner Charlie Palmer, his first restaurant in San Francisco. To recap a previous report on tablehopper, the Tavern is building on the film noir/speakeasy-ish vibe of the flanking historic Burritt Room bar—sure to be the coveted tables are the curtained booths in the 125-seat dining room.

Chef Ashley Weaver’s dinner menu can be viewed here, which includes starters to share (like cornmeal-crusted oysters), five kinds of salads (including a warm asparagus salad with a poached egg), and main dishes like a pork chop, three cuts of steak, and 36-hour lamb shoulder, along with rather safe choices like chicken breast and salmon ($26-$32). Dinner Sun-Thu 5:30pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5:30pm-10:30pm, lunch coming soon. Burritt Room + Tavern, at Mystic Hotel, 417 Stockton St. at Sutter, 415-400-0561.

The crumbled Criolla Kitchen saga continues: it ends up some of the crew have banded together and are launching a weekly pop-up in the Mission called ~THE WESTWOOD POPUP~ in the former B3/Winemakers’ Speakeasy space. GM Hans Purohit, chef Jonny Becklund (previously Randy Lewis’ sous chef), and Rob Renteria, along with some of the waiters and back of the house people from Criolla are all on board. The extreme locavore concept is based around sourcing products for the restaurant right in the Mission: from the farmers’ markets to the fish markets, plus breads from Arizmendi, and cheeses from Lucca and Mission Cheese.

You can take a look at the menu here, which includes small bites (all $6) like deviled eggs with pork cracklings and jalapeño relish and radishes with bone marrow butter and smoked salt; starters (all $8) like fried smelts with sweet pickle tartar sauce and beef tartare, quail egg, and caper berry; entrées include roasted chicken, new potatoes, sautéed greens, jus ($16) and a grilled flat iron steak ($17) with melted leeks, tarragon-garlic aioli, fries, along with a cheeseburger ($12), dressed, caramelized onions, horseradish aioli, and fries.

The team has been doing a ton of cleaning and painting to get the space freshened up, and you will see work from local Mission artists on the walls. The restaurant is opening for dinner this Wednesday April 11th, and plans to start brunch in a few weeks. Dinner Tue-Sun. 1152 Valencia St. at 22nd St.

After Sean Canavan left his position as executive chef of ~BLUESTEM BRASSERIE~, chef de cuisine Josh Lucas—formerly the executive chef of Luna Park and he opened Bluestem with Sean—has been helming the kitchen. New dishes include a roasted half chicken with crispy spinach and macaroni and cheese. He’s expanding the restaurant’s selection of house-cured meats, and within the next few weeks, he’ll be adding a variety of salumi to the charcuterie plate, including a lomo and coppa. One more hire: sous chef Emily Fowler, who was the executive chef at Seattle’s Coastal Kitchen.  

The ~PRESIDIO SOCIAL CLUB~ has a new executive chef, Wes Shaw, who will be working with owner/founding chef Ray Tang. And in a theme-appropriate twist, Shaw spent seven years in the U.S. military service. A Texas native, he’s added beef brisket as the Tuesday night special, along with other changes to the menu (including adding some lighter dishes).

The ambitious 150-seat restaurant and bakery opening in the former Stars, ~MAESTRO~, is reportedly open now/this week (as I drove by on Saturday, a sign said “open”). Eater has a look at the French bistro menu by chef Neil Marquis. 555 Golden Gate Ave. at Van Ness.

Just across the street, ~MELA TANDOORI KITCHEN~ is launching nightly dinner service on Monday April 16th from 5:30pm-10pm. The weekday all-you-can-eat buffet lunch of Northern Indian and Pakistani dishes will continue (Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm), now available for $10.95. Beer and wine are available. 536 Golden Gate Ave. at Van Ness, 415-447-4041.

The Scoop notes ~FRJTZ~ is closing in Hayes Valley after 12 years (wow, has it been that long?). Frjtz on Valencia remains open, and owner Santiago Rodriguez is adding daily brunch service at 8am. Meanwhile, the new owner is Brian Cassanego, who is going to be opening ~NOIR~ in its place. Details are sparse, but there will be a full menu, beer, and wine. Per the name, the space is going to have a look inspired by film noir and the Jazz Age—Gi Paoletti Design Lab (Bloodhound, Tipsy Pig, Per Diem) is behind the new design. 581 Hayes St. at Laguna.

Beginning this weekend, ~MISSION BOWLING CLUB~ is starting brunch service Sat-Sun 11am-3pm. You can check out the menu here, which includes loco moco ($12), which is basically a rendition of the Mission Burger for breakfast, fried chicken and waffles ($11), and more. Whether you bowl or not is beside the point—feel free to just come by for an eye-opener from the full bar and chilaquiles.

Sandwich lovers will want to swing by ~HEIRLOOM CAFÉ~ on Wednesday evenings, when they are offering a new sandwich menu in addition to a few choices off the à la carte menu. Some choices (which will rotate weekly) include a Comté tuna melt, pulled pork with fennel slaw and salsa verde, a corned beef Reuben, open-faced asparagus and burrata, a couple grilled cheese sandwiches, and, of course, the Époisses burger. And some killer wine pairings, natch.

On Thursday April 12th, the ~MISSION COMMUNITY MARKET~ is back in action for its third year, with some new vendors in their lineup, including 4505 Meats and their high quality, pastured meats, Spring Hill Cheese, Little City Gardens (the first contemporary commercial farm in San Francisco to sell in San Francisco), as well as new vendors from La Cocina and new craft designers from the Mission. Every Thursday from 4pm-8pm at Bartlett and 22nd St.

I haven’t been able to successfully reach anyone at ~CHEZ BERLUE~, the new French market and wine bar in Cow Hollow that Eater mentioned was going to open in the former Sean men’s clothing store. According to its Facebook page, it appears to be open daily 11am-8:45pm (those are funny French hours). 1749 Union St. at Octavia, 415-529-2121.

A friend who lives in the Outer Sunset told me a while ago a Mediterranean place was going to open, and now Eater confirms it’s called ~MEDITERRANEAN CAFE~ and serving falafel. 3848 Judah St. at 44th Ave.

Are you one of the many fans of the espresso at ~FOUR BARREL COFFEE~? Those lines can be brutal, so you should know you can order a single-origin espresso in the Caledonia alley on the weekends from 9am-5pm.

A while ago, I mentioned some changes at Coco-luxe in the Haight, which was supposed to become Coco-vine and serve coffee, wine from the Markris Wine Group, and chocolate. This report in Upper Casing mentions it’s now going to be called ~STANZA~, but most of the details originally reported in tablehopper appear to be the same. 1673 Haight St. at Cole, 415-367-4012.

While we’ve got the ol’ soapbox out, we hope you’ll consider taking a look at two upcoming films about the state of food in America. First up, get some folks together at 8pm on Saturday night (April 14th) to watch the documentary Hunger Hits Home on the Food Network. This collabo project between Food Network and Share Our Strength aims to raise awareness about the 16 million children in the U.S. who go hungry every day, and to highlight the hard-working folks who are fighting this hunger crisis. You can watch the trailer online, and get more info about what you can do to help.

On Earth Day 2012 (Sunday April 22nd), Whole Foods Market launches its annual Do Something Reel Film Festival with a screening of The Apple Pushers, a film that follows five immigrant street-cart vendors who, as part of The NYC Green Cart Initiative, are offering fruits and vegetables in New York neighborhoods where fresh produce isn’t widely available. The film is narrated by Edward Norton (hubba), and the screening will be followed by a panel discussion, which takes place live in Austin. 3pm at the Century 9 San Francisco Centre theater. Tickets are $10 online, and proceeds benefit Hunters Point Family, a grass-roots, community-based youth development agency that provides programs to youth and their families living in the Bayview-Hunters Point community. 845 Market St., Ste. 500, at 5th St.

The details regarding Paul Canales’ new Uptown Oakland project keep coming, this time courtesy of the East Bay Express (while the Scoop reveals the name is ~DUENDE~). It’s going to be a multifaceted project, with music, a retail wine shop, ice cream (courtesy of his wife, Mary Canales, of Ici Ice Cream), pop-up shops for artisan pals, and a gallery space. His business partner (and the GM) is Rocco Somazzi, who worked at the Royal/T in Culver City, Los Angeles, which has a similar eclectic format.

The restaurant and bar are the primary focus, however, taking up 75% of the space. The cuisine will be centered around Spanish dishes, with a variety of influences, so don’t look for a cookie-cutter menu of tortilla española and patatas bravas—although Canales (whose origin is Basque) is reportedly fired up to rock some paella. Here’s more from the site: “Duende’s inspirational touchstone is authentic regional Spanish cuisine, however, we will use this touchstone as a jumping off point for free-form culinary improvisations. We will not not be serving Spanish ‘museum’ food. Yet we love the flexibility of the Spanish menu format, giving our guests the ability to create a dining experience that suits their desires of the moment.”

The full-service bar is meant to be energetic and fun, with specialty cocktails, Spanish and local wines and beers, housemade embutidos (cured meats), artisan cheeses, and other meriendas (bar snacks). Arcsine Architecture is leading the design, with a potential late summer or fall opening. Take a look on Duende’s blog for more on the concept, philosophy, and how Duende is much more than just a song by the Gipsy Kings.

A quick roundup of new projects in the 510, starting with ~HOPSCOTCH~, a new bar and restaurant opening this May in Oakland’s Uptown in the former Chef Edwards Bar-B-Que spot. Grub Street was the first to sniff out that owners Kyle Itani and Jenny Schwartz are behind the project (Itani worked at The Meatball Shop with Daniel Holzman in New York, and with Sho Kamio here at Yoshi’s). A press release reveals further details: “global bistro fare and American classics featuring hyper-local ingredients” with a Japanese sensibility and a focus on local and seasonal ingredients, plus craft beer, wine, and small-batch spirits, particularly Scotch. The menu includes asari frites: Kirin-steamed clams and house merguez with duck fat potato chips; veal breast porchetta: kombu-braised kale oshitashi; Sacramento striped bass: English peas and barley-miso butter sauce; and escargot and bone marrow gratin: sourdough toast and mizuna-caper salad. Desserts include a yuzu meringue pie and seasonal fresh fruit tarts.

You can learn more and peek at the space on their Kickstarter page. The 40-seat space has a mid-century American diner look, with a Carrara marble bar (with room for 10) and a cork checkerboard floor. It will be open for lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. 1915 San Pablo Ave. at William, Oakland.

More Uptown news: Diablo Dish mentions a Minneapolis import: ~LORING PASTA BAR~ is coming to Grand Avenue. Look for a full-service restaurant and bar, targeting a late summer opening.

Last week I mentioned ~MARZANO~ is expanding into the former hardware store next door, but it ends up it’s only half the space: Diablo Dish noticed via some ABC license activity the other half will be a restaurant called ~BURGER PARK~. 4214 Park Blvd. at Glenfield, Oakland.

And East Bay Dish mentions “Actual Cafe is planning to open ~VICTORY BURGER~ in the space next door late this year.” On the menu: burgers made with sustainably raised meat and organic produce. 1099 Alcatraz Ave. at San Pablo, Oakland.

Yet another fast-casual Greek place is opening: Berkeleyside mentions ~SOUVLAKI GREEK TRADITIONAL FOOD~ at 2518B Durant Ave. at Telegraph, Berkeley.