This week, the culinary landscape of San Francisco is abuzz with new openings, chef changes, and a smattering of closures. Let's dive into the highlights and insights that are shaping the city's food scene.
A New Izakaya in Union Square
The former Akikos space at 431 Bush Street has been transformed into TBD, a new Japanese izakaya. This collaboration between Ray Lee of Akikos and Tommy Cleary of Hina Yakitori promises to bring a fresh take on Hokkaido scallop crudos, tsukune, and chicken karaage. The menu also features yakitori-style chicken bits and more. While reservations are not currently available, the Instagram handle @tbd.izakaya offers a glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes.
Northern Thai Cuisine in the Castro
The Castro has a new gem in Ka Kai, a Northern Thai restaurant run by alums of Farmhouse Kitchen. The soft opening last week introduced locals to a menu featuring mu thod and ka paw duck, served in handmade bowls from Thailand's Lampang Province. The restaurant's debut marks a new chapter for Northern Thai cuisine in the neighborhood, offering a unique dining experience.
Izzy's Steaks & Chops Gets a Makeover
Izzy's Steaks & Chops in the Marina has undergone a transformation with a new chef and menu updates. Chef Cory Armenta, formerly of Left Bank Brasseries and LB Steak, has introduced a spring menu featuring asparagus and sauce gribiche, as well as crispy artichokes with preserved lemon aioli. The steak options remain unchanged, but a new seasonal vegetarian entree, artichokes en barigoule, adds a fresh twist to the menu.
Falafelland: A Yemeni-Style Falafel Spot
Falafelland, a new Yemeni-style falafel spot in the Tenderloin, has been making waves with its signature falafel made with avocado and blueberries. The menu also features lamb lavash wraps and other Middle Eastern delights. The restaurant's focus on kindness and quality ingredients has already garnered praise from Ms. Tablehopper, who raves about the warm atmosphere and delicious food.
Michelin Guide Adds Five Bay Area Restaurants
The Michelin Guide has expanded its reach in the Bay Area, adding five new restaurants to its roster. Restaurant Naides, Le Cigale, Dingles Public House, and Wolfsbane in SF, and Yeobo in Menlo Park, have been recognized for their exceptional dining experiences. The additions come ahead of the full California guide update this summer, which will include new star and Bib Gourmand ratings.
Trumer Pils Closing Its Doors
Berkeley's beloved Trumer Pils is set to close its taproom at the end of May. The Pilsner brand, originally from Germany, has been acquired by Firestone Walker Brewing Company, and its US operations will relocate to Firestone's headquarters in Paso Robles. The closure marks the end of an era for the popular brewery, which has been a staple in the Berkeley beer scene for years.
Black Hammer Brewing Company Says Goodbye
Black Hammer Brewing Company in SoMa is set to close its doors on April 3. The brewery, founded by Jim 'Hammer' Furman and Kevin Jackey at Burning Man 11 years ago, has been a beloved fixture in the Bay Area. The closure comes after the closure of their Castro outpost, Wilkommen, last year. The owners plan to host a Playa-style sendoff party at their headquarters on March 27, celebrating their journey and impact on the local beer culture.
RT Bistro: A Burger Worth the Hype
Cesar Hernandez, Chronicle Associate Critic, recently reviewed RT Bistro and raved about the long off-menu burger from Rich Table. Hernandez calls it 'easily one of the finest burgers in the city, worth every cent of its $30 price tag.' The review also highlights the kampachi crudo, sweet potato tempura, and dry-aged steak, while noting that the pastas were 'largely unremarkable.' Hernandez's praise for Sarah Rich's desserts, which 'continue to stun,' adds a sweet note to the review.
In conclusion, this week's culinary news offers a mix of new openings, chef changes, and closures. From the vibrant izakaya scene to the emerging Northern Thai cuisine, San Francisco's food landscape continues to evolve and surprise. As the city welcomes new additions to the Michelin Guide and bids farewell to beloved breweries, it's clear that the Bay Area's culinary scene remains dynamic and exciting. So, whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, there's always something new and interesting to discover in San Francisco's ever-changing food scene.
