This Week in Food: New Openings and Closures in San Francisco
New Ventures on the Horizon
Anatolian Table is set to debut in the Mission District, taking over the space previously occupied by Yellow Moto Pizza at 702 Valencia. This Mediterranean restaurant will be led by chef Coskun Abik, known for his work with Dunya, Lark, and Blind Butcher. The menu promises a delightful variety of tapas and Turkish flatbreads, featuring a state-of-the-art multi-deck pizza oven. Co-owner Kazim Altan hints at unique offerings such as smoked lamb dishes and vegetarian options. The anticipated opening date is late February.
Closure Announcements
- Berliner Berliner: This sausage shop, a successor to Rosamunde, has closed its doors as of late December 2022. Owner Christine Blunck, a Berlin native, confirmed the closure, emphasizing her need to pursue less stressful endeavors.
- Alamo Square Seafood Grill: After nearly 27 years of service at 803 Fillmore Street, this beloved establishment has shut down, with chef-owner Andre Larzul hinting at retirement. Customers cherished the restaurant’s prix-fixe offerings that provided exceptional three-course meals.
Recent Developments in Food and Beverage
In notable industry news, Toronado, a renowned bar in Lower Haight, is currently available for sale. As it transitions to new ownership, the future remains uncertain while it gears up for its own Beer Week, commencing on February 8, two weeks prior to the official SF Beer Week.
Meanwhile, Bar Maritime has opened at 417 Stockton Street in the premises formerly known as the Burritt Room. This new bar features a menu focused on cocktails, seafood, and small bites, creating a lively atmosphere for patrons, complete with a ship’s bell toast at last call.
Upcoming Dining Experiences
Emerging from the success of Movida, the new eatery The Farmacy will grace South Park, located at 1 South Park Avenue. Set to launch in mid- to late February, the restaurant will offer a variety of dishes including burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, and salads.
Additionally, Bar Bibi is poised to take over the Ristorante Milano space this coming spring or summer. Helmed by Bahman Safari, who has gained recognition through his Habibi wine pop-up, the bar will feature a selection of low-intervention wines and cherished dishes from the former menu.
Reviews and Features
The San Francisco Chronicle’s MacKenzie Chung Fegan recently reviewed The Rotunda, a longstanding dining venue located within Neiman Marcus. With new culinary leadership from chef Erik Harrelson, the menu has evolved to include high-quality offerings, including a popular cheeseburger described as “a mashup of an In-N-Out Double Double and a Big Mac.”
Photo credits: Alamo Square Seafood Grill, RIP