The Chatterbox

Just in case you’re driving by ~CONTIGO~ and notice a “for sale” sign and have a moment of panic, don’t freak out just yet. I spoke with partner Brett Emerson, who confirmed the building is in fact for sale (he and his wife Elan live upstairs). The restaurant…

The San Francisco location of THE BARREL ROOM has taken over the former Georges space in the Financial District, which we reported in February. The full-service restaurant is now open, and soon there will be lots of expanded offerings, including a wine bar and tasting room, a retail shop,…

In November 2013, we were very excited to report that New York chef and author Suvir Saran planned to open a Mid-Market restaurant in the NEMA building. However, the project, which was called American Masala, has hit a wall, and Saran has decided not to move forward. Scoop reports…

There are a few changes to Union Square’s 398 RESTAURANT AND BAR, starting with the fact it’s now 398 BRASSERIE, a name that definitely fits chef Sam Fechheimer’s style better. 398 is now offering breakfast (7am-11am) and lunch (11am-4pm) Mon-Fri, plus weekend brunch (7am-…

ARTÍS COFFEE has opened in Hayes Valley, Hoodline reports. The new coffee shop, which we mentioned in October, already has a location in Berkeley and offers more than just a spot to get a cup. They roast all their own beans on-site and have an extensive retail operation that…

From now until Sunday May 17th, ~FLOUR + WATER~ is celebrating six years in business with a special six-course pasta menu every evening. For $70, you’ll get to try six of chef Thomas McNaughton’s favorite pastas from the restaurant. Wine pairings are also available for an additional $50,…

BAY LEAF KITCHEN, a wonderful program that teaches kids how to cook, has two upcoming fundraisers that will make it easy for you to support their cooking camps and other great programming. The first is an aperitivo hour on Tuesday May 19th from 5pm to 8pm. Dario Barbone (Baia Pasta)…

Last summer, East Bay Express mentioned that Old Major’s was coming to the former Oasis in downtown Oakland. Some things have changed since then and now, so here’s an update on MAD OAK BAR & YARD (the project’s new name), opening to the public on Saturday May…

As we keep hearing about luxury tasting menu-only restaurants pushing our credit card limits, it’s refreshing to be able to write about a restaurant featuring a prix-fixe tasting menu that is just $35, for three courses. Yes. You can pay $10 for an additional pasta course, and…

Has there ever been such a burger that was so hotly anticipated to return to our culinary scene? Well, I know I am not alone in my happiness that KRONNERBURGER is finally opening this Wednesday May 6th for lunch in Oakland’s Piedmont district. Chef Chris Kronner has been known…