Bar Shoji Opens

Bar Shoji has officially opened its doors to the public, providing a relaxed atmosphere where cocktails meet exquisite cuisine. Situated in the former Trou Normand location at 140 New Montgomery, it is an offshoot of the renowned omakase restaurant, The Shota.

Following a successful soft-opening focused on daytime service in February, Bar Shoji now presents an enticing menu that combines Japanese-inspired cocktails with dishes crafted by former Jo’s Modern Thai chef, Intu-on Kornnawong. Highlights from the menu include:

• Sashimi
• Spicy fried tebasaki wings
• Japanese-style loaded fries
• Uni amaebi donburi topped with a soy-marinated Jidori egg yolk

For cocktail enthusiasts, the drinks menu promises an array of innovative concoctions. A video preview of offerings is available online.

New Locations and Upcoming Restaurants

Proposition Chicken is set to expand its reach with a new location in West Portal, opening on April 28. The fast-casual chicken chain will operate from the former Lemonade space at 16 West Portal Avenue, complete with a 550-square-foot patio.

In Presidio Heights, the Dalida team of Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz is preparing to launch a yet-to-be-named restaurant, slated for late this year or early next year at 500 Presidio Avenue. The venue will take over the former Ella’s American Kitchen space; further details are anticipated soon.

Additionally, Jules, a pizza pop-up led by former Tartine baker Max Blachman-Gentile, is gearing up for its opening in Lower Haight at 237 Fillmore Street, actively hiring staff.

Return of Le Dix-Sept in Mission District

Le Dix-Sept has now fully reopened its Mission District location at 3376 18th Street, allowing customers inside for the first time since the pandemic. Owner and pastry chef Michelle Hernandez offers a delightful selection of pastries, including:

• Tarts
• Canelés
• Gluten-free buckwheat brownies

Limited hours are in effect during weekends from 10 AM to 4 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.

Special Events at The Morris

The Morris is gearing up for 1605 Day, or International Chartreuse Day, on May 16, featuring a special prix fixe menu priced at $150 per person. This annual celebration will offer Chartreuse flights, cocktails, and exclusive merchandise for guests.

Moreover, a winemaker dinner featuring Peay Wines is scheduled for April 24, offering a four-course meal paired with selected wines. Reservations are available online.

New Menus and Accolades

Merchant Roots has recently changed its menu to “In Bloom,” a seasonal 10-course celebration that showcases floral ingredients and honeybees. Notable dishes include:

• Jasmine tea-smoked duck
• Braised lamb pasta with harissa and rose halva

Meanwhile, Trick Dog has earned recognition as one of the 100 best bars in North America according to the World’s 50 Best organization.

Girl Scout Cookie Cocktails and Loquat Bakery

Causwells in the Marina district is celebrating the end of April with Girl Scout Cookie-inspired cocktails. Proceeds from each cocktail will benefit the Girls Scouts Greater LA Assistance Fund, aimed at supporting Scout troops affected by recent fires.

Lastly, Loquat Bakery’s sandwich pop-up, Loquat at Night, has garnered positive reviews for its Iraqi-style sandwiches featuring fresh laffa bread. Owner Tal Mor and breadmaker David Torres serve warm sabiches packed with:

• Hummus
• Boiled eggs
• Fried eggplant
• Cucumber salad
• Pickles and two sauces

Upcoming events for Loquat at Night are scheduled for April 29, May 27, and June 24, from 5 PM to 9 PM.