This Week in Food: New Openings and Closures in the Bay Area Dining Scene
Exciting developments are occurring in the Bay Area food landscape this week, including the anticipation of new restaurant openings and some sad farewells in the community. From unique culinary fusions to classic dining staples, here’s what you need to know.
Draymond Green’s Innovative Restaurant Launch
A new restaurant concept is on the horizon as NBA player Draymond Green, along with chef Nelson German and restaurateur Guma Fassil, prepare to unveil their Ethiopian-Dominican fusion eatery named Meski. Set to open on April 5 at 1000 Larkin Street—previously home to Members Only and The Saratoga—Meski will highlight German’s Dominican culinary roots paired with Ethiopian influences, courtesy of Fassil. The restaurant aims to create a vibrant atmosphere with Afrobeat and R&B music, and will also offer a weekend brunch menu.
Closure of Ragazza
In a bittersweet turn of events, Ragazza, a beloved pizzeria located on the Divisadero corridor, will close its doors on March 31 after 15 successful years. The owners, Sharon Ardiana and Greg Hinds, noted a recent slowdown in business and opted not to renew their lease. Ardiana shared, “It has been such a pleasure to serve the NOPA corridor for almost 15 years. So many great memories and customers. I feel truly blessed that I had such a great run!” Notably, the original restaurant Gialina in Glen Park remains operational.
New Vietnamese Dining Experience on the Way
Chef Viet Nguyen is gearing up to open the third location of Ben Tre Vietnamese Homestyle Cuisine in San Francisco’s Lakeside neighborhood. Known for its viral dish, the Phozilla—a massive bowl of pho that includes a variety of tender meats and seafood—the new location at 2650 Ocean Avenue is anticipated to open in the coming months, following the success of the existing venues in South San Francisco and Millbrae.
Pabu Izakaya’s New Sake Lounge
Meanwhile, in downtown San Francisco, Pabu Izakaya is set to launch a new sake tasting lounge. This 770-square-foot private space will be situated in a newly constructed kiosk at 101 California Street, providing an intimate setting for sake tastings paired with small bites. The lounge is expected to open in the spring.
Snail Bar Faces Challenges
In Oakland, the popular Snail Bar has encountered regulatory issues after launching a new listening lounge, Upstairs, in a converted apartment above the restaurant. The city shut down this space due to the conversion not having the necessary permits, following a series of complaints from neighbors about noise levels.
New Additions to the Castro Scene
Exciting news for matcha enthusiasts: Oishii Matcha, a dessert shop specializing in organic matcha, will soon open in the Castro at the former Ritual Coffee location on the corner of Noe and Market streets. Offerings will include matcha lattes, hojicha, boba sundaes, and various treats. The opening date is yet to be announced.
Additionally, chef Angela Pryor Garat has commenced operations at Flora King, a fresh Argentinian restaurant situated in the former Vico Cavone/Firewood space. Offering a range of tapas and entrees with an Argentinian and Patagonian flair, the restaurant is now serving beer and wine.
Food Reviews and Symbols of Community
On a lighter note, Chronicle food critic MacKenzie Chung Fegan shared her experience at Andytown Coffee Roasters during St. Patrick’s Day, noting their impressive Irish soda bread. She recommended enjoying it with “the works,” which includes raspberry jam, cheddar cheese, and bacon—a perfect pairing for the holiday.
For updates and more insights into the vibrant food scene, stay tuned as these developments unfold!
Photo courtesy of Ragazza
This article maintains the factual integrity of the original content while presenting it in a new structure, enhancing overall readability and engagement.
