Introduction to Osito

Osito, a restaurant spearheaded by Chef Stowaway, showcases a distinctive menu that emphasizes dishes expertly prepared over an open flame. This establishment reflects Stowaway’s 15 years of culinary experience, which includes notable positions at Michelin-starred Mister Jiu’s and as the executive chef of the Bar Agricole Group.

Concept and Inspiration

The restaurant’s name, “Osito,” translates to “little bear”—a nod to Stowaway’s childhood nickname. His culinary creations are inspired by his roots in Texas and his life experiences in the Mission District. A defining characteristic of Osito is its commitment to utilizing seasonal ingredients sourced directly from local farmers, alongside practicing whole animal butchery.

The Dining Experience

Upon its launch, Osito featured an exclusive tasting menu limited to 52 diners per evening, who were seated at a grand communal table enveloped in a warm, wood-accented dining room adorned with live plants. Priced at $295 for two nightly seatings, the single tasting menu provided an intimate and immersive dining experience.

However, as time progressed, Stowaway adapted the restaurant’s offerings to cater to evolving demands by introducing a more concise four-course tasting menu and allowing á la carte selections. The adjacent cocktail bar, initially known as Lilliana, transitioned in early 2024 to The Bar at Osito before reinventing itself as a pop-up for Bar Agricole following its closure in SoMa.

Adapting to Changing Circumstances

Despite opening after the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the concept for Osito was initially conceived in 2019. Stowaway envisioned a compact dining space that would sustain a lively atmosphere late into the night. “I kept thinking, OK, late-night dining will come back,” he explained. “[When that didn’t happen], we changed things and added more seats.” This flexibility underscores the restaurant’s commitment to evolving in response to both market conditions and customer preferences.