Some unfortunate closures have rolled through, starting with IN SITU at SFMOMA, which completed their five-year term at the museum (bummer about that last year, thanks for nothing, Ms. Rona). An email shared, “It was an honor to learn from some of the most innovative, talented, and influential chefs in the world and represent them here in San Francisco,” and cited they served “over 100 dishes spanning more than 25 countries, 20 U.S cities, and almost 50 years.” You can read a personal note from chef Corey Lee here.
Baguette and croissant lovers are dismayed over the news that LE MARAIS BAKERY is being forced to close their flagship Chestnut Street location in late October, after ten years in the Marina. In an email (as well as in this Instagram post), owner Patrick Ascaso mentions issues with their new landlord (and failed negotiations over the past two years), and how tragic it is to close their beloved location, especially after putting so much into it—it’s such a vibrant part of the neighborhood. Yesterday, I was sent a petition to Keep Le Marais Bakery in the Marina posted by one of their customers, here’s hoping it helps them find a way to stay. For now, they are open daily 7am-5pm. Their other locations in the Castro, Mill Valley, and the commissary on Sutter are still open. (You can also find their frozen croissants at Williams Sonoma, the sales of which have supported their bakery through the pandemic.) 2066 Chestnut St. at Steiner.
After nine years in Hayes Valley, owners Roberth and Andrea Sundell of the Swedish ~PLÄJ~ have decided to close the restaurant. In a farewell note on Instagram, they say: “We were very excited and hopeful when planning our reopening. Unfortunately, the reality of the current environment has created a scenario that we can not sustain.” Sadly, this is a common refrain. Stockhome, their sister restaurant in Petaluma, will remain open.
After a year in Dogpatch, Pim Techamuanvivit has closed the offshoot location of ~KIN KHAO~, partly because Restaurant Revitalization Funds were rescinded by the SBA from minority- and women-owned businesses (no thanks to white male business owners who filed discrimination lawsuits, assholes). Techamuanvivit will reportedly still be reopening the original location in the Parc 55 Hotel at some point.
After 30 years on Union Street, PANE E VINO has closed its doors—you can read their farewell note on their site. Best wishes to chef Bruno Quercini (who is reportedly retiring). (Thanks to eagle-eyed reader Leslie G. for the tip.) 715 Union St. at Gough.
Umami soup by Hisato Nakahigashi of Miyamasou. Instagram photo via @insitu_sfmoma.
