Let’s establish two things first: there isn’t enough Central and Eastern European food around. And there is something to be said for industry vets who were part of establishing San Francisco’s dining scene back in the 1990s.
You’ll find both factors behind Gambit Lounge, a new Hayes Valley spot that quietly opened November 2022 to strong user reviews but under-the-radar buzz, in the former Noir Lounge wine bar. Gambit continues the wine bar vibes, backed by two industry vets… Read more →
My dining column at print and online magazine, Bob Cut — column details and my philosophy here; last month’s column here — covers standout newcomers and longtimers we want to keep supporting. During pandemic, I’m covering outdoor dining, takeout and delivery restaurants, all of which I’ve vetted, visited or ordered from, choosing the standouts: Read more →
Trying well over 100 dishes in July alone — from San Francisco to Albuquerque, New Mexico — here are my 7 standout dishes of the month. 1. Duna’s Farmer’s Cheese Spatzle Here’s my review and details on brand new Duna from the ever-talented Bar Tartine chef duo of Nick Balla and Cortney Burns. Their near perfect spatzle doused in fresh… Read more →
June’s notable restaurant openings were RT Rotisserie, Duna, Alta from Daniel Patterson Group in late May, seafood gem Hook Fish, poké and Asian fusion (Korean-influenced burritos, tacos, bowls, etc.) Saucy Asian, another locale from the Big Night Restaurant Group, Petit Marlowe and Mockingbird in Oakland. It’s been a short but mighty list of openings this month, whether opened by a restaurant… Read more →
This article was first published here at Table8 where I am national editor. These four San Francisco restaurants, widely varying in style and price range, have been open for awhile — and are worth a fresh look (or revisit) as their chefs continue to innovate and serve damn great dishes. Innovative Indian Cuisine: TAJ CAMPTON PLACE, Union Square Moving up… Read more →