Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

There are 12 wines on tap and 3 beers, plus about 20 wines available by the bottle and a few bottled beers as well. The wines are almost exclusively from California, with one exception: Owen Roe, from Oregon and Washington state. There will be eight red wines on tap, with a focus on small producers, like East Bay-based Broc Cellars and Dashe Cellars. Meadows is excited to have so many taps to work with, because it means he’ll be able to offer a wide range of California wines, from full cabernet sauvignons to leaner, funkier varietals. There are also four taps for chilled wines, and Meadows plans to offer at least one rosé, likely from Donkey & Goat, alongside the whites. Beers will be from the Cerveceria de MateVeza, and will all be from California. The exact offerings are still being worked out, but look for local craft beers to dominate the list.

In the food department, there’s a pretty interesting program going. In the evenings, you’ll find small plates like charcuterie, local cheeses, a few different flatbreads, and chorizo corndogs. As many ingredients as possible are being sourced from the neighborhood, which means dishes like bread pudding made with Dynamo Donuts (oh my) and sliders on buns from Wise Sons Deli. Meadows is also looking to get La Palma on there, too, perhaps in the form of tamales. The menu hasn’t been finalized yet, but you can take a peek at a sample here.

During the day, La Movida will function as the new home of ~PAL’S TAKEAWAY~, which means owner Jeff Mason will be able to use the additional space to expand his menu, plus use the seating for customers. He’ll be offering his rotating menu of unusual (and delish) sandwiches (Oregon Bay shrimp on Josey Baker bread, yes please), plus a changing side, according to the season and his whims. Take a look at a preview menu here and start plotting your lunches now. Meadows also wants to close every Tuesday evening for a rotating roster of pop-ups, starting in July. He’s still working out who will be first, but is in conversation with a few local chefs to get that rolling.

The space, which was designed by Carolyn Rebuffel, has been painted a bright, cheerful orange, to keep in the vibrant spirit of the location’s former tenants. Meadows wanted to keep El Delfín’s wonderful murals on the walls, but the structural integrity had been compromised enough that it was impossible. Instead, the murals have been transferred to the tops of tables, where they can still be enjoyed. There is a blown glass chandelier on the way, plus banquette seating in the back and stools in the front windows.

They need to pass inspections this week, and then hope to be up and running sometime the week of June 24th. Once open, hours for Pal’s will be Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, and for La Movida Sun-Thu 4:30pm-11pm and Fri-Sat 4:30pm-12am, closed Tuesday for pop-ups. 3066 24th St. at Treat, 415-425-2392.

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The talented Amy Brown and Joe Wolf. Photo: Molly DeCoudreaux.

Oh, hi, brown butter and Meyer lemon tart with semolina crust. Photo: Molly DeCoudreaux.

There will be 30-35 seats, and there’s also a deck outside with room for 10-15, and a 600-square-foot garden. There’s also an application for a parklet in the works. Alas, the opening isn’t going to happen until spring 2014, but in the meantime, they are having a double-deck, wood-fired oven custom made for them by Jeremiah Church in Burlington, Vermont. I’ll keep you posted on developments, but for now, huge congrats to Amy and Joe on securing their space. 3619-21 Balboa St. at 37th Ave.

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The bar at The Willows. Photo courtesy The Willows.

On the menu, you’ll find American classics, much like at The Sycamore, with some new additions, including fried chicken and meatloaf. They’ll also be serving their sliders, salads, and burgers. The location used to house Hamburger Mary’s (before Saturn Lounge), and they’re keeping the tradition alive with the Mary’s burger. Look for sandwiches, salads, and burgers at lunch too. They’ve revamped the space to be, quite literally, more playful, with pinball machines, a Big Buck Hunter video game, and a pool table, plus an old-fashioned jukebox. The opening is Wednesday June 19th, and hours will be Sun-Thu 11:30am-12am and Fri-Sat 11:30am-2am. 1582 Folsom St. at 12th St., 415-529-2039.

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The space next door to State Bird Provisions. Photo: © tablehopper.com.

It’s all good news for State Bird’s Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, who will be taking over Hapa’s 900-square-foot space and adding 12 seats (look for two large tables that will seat six to eight), plus a waiting area, a heater, a second bathroom, and plans to now be open nightly. State Bird will close after service on August 10th for construction, which is expected to last for a few weeks or so. As for progress on The Progress, their next project at 1525 Fillmore, stand by.

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The wonderful Tamale Lady (Virginia Ramos). Photo from Twitter.

Virginia is adored by too many people to count, with her uncanny ability to show up and save your drunk ass when you need her most, with a “hey man, how you doing?” as she hands you a hot tamale and unrolls a paper towel for you. Seriously, this woman lives and loves to feed you. (Have you ever seen the documentary about her?) She is more of a San Francisco icon than almost anything you can think of. Well, except the fog. Whatever, the fog comes and goes, but Virginia is steadfast in her mission to feed you.

It’s not too late for Zeitgeist to rise to the occasion and offer to host a fundraiser for the return of the one person people are happy to see there (cough), but in the meantime, Virginia will be celebrating her 60th birthday this Friday June 21st at The Eagle Tavern, starting at 7pm. You can also keep track of her (and her hilarious tweets) on Twitter—heck, why don’t you call her and order some tamales for your next event, lunch, or party since a big portion of her revenue just disappeared? The Tamale Lady hotline is 415-218-1443. And I look forward to coming home to some good news about her situation, because I know this city is gonna rally. It’s something we do well here.

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Mario Tolentino and Alex Ong (Betelnut); photo by Albert Cheng via Facebook.

Another restaurant that has undergone changes this year is ~BETELNUT~, which has hired a new chef de cuisine, Mario Tolentino, who will be working with Alex Ong on modernizing some of the dishes on the menu. Examiner reports Tolentino was working in SF five years ago (Aqua) and was recently a Food Network Chopped champion.

A press release announces Paul Piscopo has left the W San Francisco and is now executive chef at the ~ST. REGIS SAN FRANCISCO~ (which includes Vitrine). I was happy to read he is going to also be maintaining beehives on the property.

Lastly, the new chef at ~BOCADILLOS~ is James LaLonde (Salt House, Pizzeria Delfina, Slow Club), replacing interim chef Scott Peterson (Scoop).

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Cute as a button bundt pan light fixtures at Le Marais. Photo from Facebook.

The space was designed by the fine folks at Paxton Gate, with warm reclaimed woods, vintage baking trays functioning as cabinets, and light fixtures made from Bundt pans. The floor is made from tile from the North of France, in a traditional French garden patter, and the space is designed to make use of natural light. We’ve been waiting on pictures for a while (and we should be getting some soon), but here’s the update for now. Opening is slated for July. 2066 Chestnut St. at Steiner, 415-359-9801.

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Cassava. Photo: © tablehopper.com.

A Shabu House location. Photo courtesy Shabu House.

Potentially opening this weekend is the new location of ~KASA INDIAN EATERY~ on Polk Street. As reported on tablehopper, the new location is in the former Fourth Wave Coffee and will have a menu similar to the other locations. 1356 Polk St. at Pine.

Also due to reopen (on Wednesday June 26th) is ~CASSAVA BAKERY + CAFE~ after some construction to expand into the space next door. There will now be more seating, dinner hours (in July), and an expanded menu—plus the ability to order their Japanese breakfast daily. In coming months, look for a wine and beer list, plus wine- and vermouth-based cocktails. Chef Kristoffer Toliao and Yuka Ioroi are also launching a Kickstarter campaign to add a Parisian café-inspired sidewalk patio, with heaters and a windshield (the Outer Richmond can be tough like that), plus an edible garden. Check out this cute video here about their patio dreams, and follow their Facebook page for more about the Kickstarter launch.

As reported back in April, ~SHANGHAI DUMPLING KING~ closed for renovations. Good news: they’ve re-opened, according to some very happy Yelpers. 3319 Balboa St. at 34th Ave., 415-387-2088.

There’s now a Clement location of ~SHABU HOUSE~. Yelpers report that the new location is still a little slow, for those not wanting to wait. 354 Clement St. at 4th Ave., 415-742-4689.

The rumor I heard about Top Chef’s Richard Blais opening a location in San Francisco appears to be untrue. Eater reports that though Blais loves San Francisco, he is actually planning to relocate to San Diego, and will be opening a restaurant there. Now that he’s here on the West Coast, though, maybe he’ll do a little northward expansion eventually? We’ll see….

The Tenderloin Blog reports that the former Turtle Tower space on Larkin has a new taker: ~GOLDEN LOTUS~. There is a vegetarian restaurant with the same name in Oakland, but it’s not clear that this new spot comes from the same people, or if it will also be vegetarian. 631 Larkin St. at Willow.

According to Haighteration, Divisadero burger joint ~ACME BURGERHAUS~ has reopened after closing last month. Apparently, there were some staffing issues that needed resolving, but they’ve been resolved so they reopened. Just to be clear, the place is still available for lease. 559 Divisadero St. at Hayes, 415-346-3212.

Also from Haighteration comes the news that ~ZIRYAB~ on Divisadero is still closed for renovations. After lots of delays, they are hoping to reopen in 10-15 days, with a space that is more bar-oriented. The food menu will reportedly stay mostly the same. And just in case you love trivia, check out the history of Ziryab, an eighth-century courtier—seems we have him to thank for toothpaste—and bangs! 528 Divisadero St. at Fell, 415-522-0800.

A newsletter from ~URBAN PUTT~ reports that the miniature golf spot with hopes to open in the Mission got approval from the Planning Commission. Fore! Mission Mission has some photos of the space, and owner Steve Fox is hoping to get approval for a full liquor license and late-night hours. 1096 South Van Ness at 22nd St.

A tweet from ~MISSION CHINESE FOOD~ lets us know that today is their last day open until Friday July 5th. Enjoy your vacation, guys!

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Coffee Cultures exterior. Photo from Facebook.

The espresso counter and patio at Cheese Plus. Photo from Facebook.

As previously mentioned in tablehopper, there’s another coffee spot coming to the Financial District. This one is ~COFFEE CULTURES~, from Jason Paul, who incidentally is a Coffee Bar partner. They’ll be serving North Carolina-based Counter Culture coffee, along with a soft-serve machine dispensing frozen yogurt, Also on the menu are sandwiches and salads, and oatmeal and granola in the mornings. They’re planning to open Monday June 24th and hours will be Mon-Fri 6am-6pm. 225 Bush St. at Montgomery, 415-788-7011.

~CHEESE PLUS~ is getting ready to open their new outdoor espresso counter in July, pending inspections. They’ll be pouring Equator Coffee Mon-Sat 8am-7:30pm and Sun 8am-7pm. Hours may change; follow along on Facebook for updates. 2001 Polk St. at Pacific, 415-921-2001.

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An okonomiyaki sandwich from a previous Grasshopper pop-up. Photo courtesy Grasshopper.

The carnitas taco from Diablo Grill. Photo from Facebook.

The one and only Jonny Becklund. Photo courtesy Mr. Pollo.

Also on Sunday June 23rd, catch a pop-up at ~PARALLEL 37~ from chef Hiroo Nagahara of the Chairman Truck. Nagahara and Parallel 37 chef Michael Rotondo worked together at Charlie Trotter’s and have teamed up to bring a six-course dinner with Asian and modernist influences. The dinner costs $100 per person, with optional drink pairing for $70 (gratuity not included). Dinner begins at 6:30pm, and reservations can be made by calling 415-773-6168.

It looks like there are two new pop-ups happening at ~FIREHOUSE 8~ in Russian Hill, and both are of a Mexican persuasion. First up, there’s Diablo Grill on Fridays from 6pm-10pm. They’re slinging goods like lamb adobada or braised pork tacos; check out a recent menu here. On Saturdays, you can score burritos from *The Burr-Eatery from 10am-2:30pm. 1648 Pacific Ave. at Polk, 415-890-4800.

Go ahead and chalk this one up as hilarious and awesome. And, shall we say, sack-tastic. Chef Jonny Becklund at ~MR. POLLO~ is celebrating Pride on Thursday June 27th with a very special Balls Deep dinner. He’ll be doing a four-course testicle dinner (ballsy!) for $35 per person, and there are two seatings: one at 6pm and another at 8pm. So, that pretty much speaks for itself. Reservations can be made by calling 860-912-9168. 2823 Mission St. at 24th St.

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The back bar area. Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

A look at the interior. Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

In general, their goal is to get the space closer to its original look (the bar opened in 1913), so they’re undoing a lot of remodels that have been done over the hundred years the bar has been open. They’ve retiled the floor to approximate how it might have looked when it opened, cleared away some space around the windows to add some light, and restored as much of the original wood bar as possible. There’s an area in the back of the bar where church pews have been installed as banquettes, and a fireplace and skylight will anchor the different seating areas. They’ve also done extensive work with subway tile on the bathrooms, which were infamously icky in the past.

They don’t intend to make any major changes to the beverage program; they’d like to keep the spirit of a neighborhood watering hole as much as possible. That said, though, there will be some new spirits on the menu. Mostly, they’ll keep the selection smaller and well curated, with a small range of options. Drinks will be well mixed, but not too fussy. They’ll have a range of craft and local beers, as well. Oh, and Jazz on Sundays will remain. They won’t be serving any food out of the kitchen, though they are hoping to set up a takeout/delivery arrangement with one of the neighboring restaurants to keep boozehound munchies at bay. Right now, they’re hoping to open the first week of July, barring any delays. We’ll update you when there’s more info! 2496 3rd St. at 22nd St., 415-643-8592.

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The façade of The Star; photo via Facebook.

Fred and Elizabeth Sassen of Homestead; photo via Facebook.

Getting very close to opening is ~THE STAR~ from John Guhl (as mentioned previously on tablehopper, it’s opening in the former Milano Ristorante on Grand Avenue). Guhl was an original partner in Little Star Pizza with Brian Sadigursky and they have since split—this is a solo venture from Guhl. On the menu: both thin-crust and deep-dish pizza, salads, meatballs, wings, and sandwiches. The Star will be open for both lunch and dinner. Keep up with the opening on Facebook. 3425 Grand Ave. at Mandana, Oakland, 510-843-7827.

Also aiming for a July opening is ~HOMESTEAD~, which is opening in the former Zatis on Piedmont Ave. in Oakland. Executive chef and co-owner Fred Sassen (Camino, Farallon) is opening the 48-seat restaurant with his wife, co-owner Elizabeth Sassen (previously a sous chef at Farallon and Waterbar). The menu will be on the farm-to-table tip, with starters like baked ricotta with lovage, roasted stone fruit, and Marcona almonds; and duck confit tortellini (dishes will range $9-$14). Mains ($18-$24) could include spit-roasted leg of lamb with spiced baby fava beans, green garlic, and Straus yogurt. Other components include housemade bread, charcuterie, and pasta, plus select cheeses, ice cream, and more that will live up to the homestead name. Stephen Laborde of The Trappist Provisions in Oakland is consulting on the beer and wine list. The location is in a 1920s Julia Morgan building, with contemporary design work by Carrie Shores of Larson Shores Architecture and Daniel Austin of Rocket Restaurant Supply. Look for floor-to-ceiling windows, original brick inlay, subway tile, a custom-built hearth, and an outdoor patio with room for 18. Dinner will be served Tue-Sat 5pm-10pm. 4029 Piedmont Ave. at 40th St., Oakland, 510-420-6962.

According to some ABC license activity, Donato Scotti of Donato Enoteca in Redwood City looks to be involved (and perhaps taking over) ~BORGO ITALIA~ in Oakland. At the moment he is unable to comment on the project, but I should have an update from him soon. 499 9th St. at Washington, Oakland, 510-251-1008.

A couple of weeks back, I reported that SF’s ~SMITTEN~ was hoping to open in Rockridge. I was asked to keep things under wraps, but Diablo Dish did a little sleuthing and found out the owners are trying to open in the former Great Harvest Bread Co. at 5800 College Avenue. They are currently trying to secure a conditional use permit for the location, so stand by.

Since we’re talking ice cream, one of my East Bay sources tells me the owners of ~SKETCH~ ice cream are scoping a couple of possible locations in Temescal. This is all unconfirmed, but Diablo Dish has also been hearing rumors: co-owner Eric Shelton confirms he and his wife Ruthie Planas-Shelton are scouting a potential second location in the 510, but it’s all TBD on the where for now.

Coming to downtown Berkeley is a third location of ~BITTERSWEET~, in the former New Amsterdam coffee shop, according to Berkeleyside Nosh. There will be both sweet and savory options, plus coffee, and their housemade bread, yogurt, and more. 1952 University Ave. at Milvia.

Guess who is verrrrrry close to reopening after an unfortunate fire, for real? ~CHINA VILLAGE~ in Albany! The intrepid Melanie Wong of Chowhound fame swung by the adored Sichuan restaurant’s location, and said they are just waiting for their health inspection. Look for a soft opening the last week of June, and the official opening on July 1st. 1335 Solano Ave. at Ramona, Albany, 510-525-2285.

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Rendering of Cellarmaker Brewing Company by Stephen MacMillan via Facebook.

The space has 25-foot ceilings, which will hold the many barrels they’ll be using for their aged beers. They’ve got some renderings on their Facebook page that show a spare, industrial space with exposed brick and metal seating. While they won’t be offering food, they’re hoping to get a rotating group of food trucks on board to come by. Beers will be available in small pours, pints, and in growlers to go. They’re hoping to have construction complete in August so that they can start brewing and open around Labor Day, but that could change. 1150 Howard St. at 7th St.

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The bar at Hutch. Photo courtesy Hutch.

The communal table at Hutch. Photo courtesy Hutch.

They’re also starting a Sunday Supper program, with a different prix-fixe, family-style dinner every Sunday evening, instead of the regular menu. Last week was fried chicken, and this coming Sunday June 23rd is spaghetti night. Most suppers will be priced around $20, and kids eat for half price. They’ll also be doing monthly dinners with brewers, winemakers, and distillers. The first one will be on Wednesday June 26th at 5pm with North Coast Brewing, and costs $60 per person for five courses of food with beer pairings. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurant. Regular hours are Tue-Sat 5pm-10pm, Sun brunch 10:30am-2:30pm and supper 5pm-10pm, closed Mondays. 2022 Telegraph Ave. at 21st St., 510-419-0622, Oakland.

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Rendering of America’s Cup Sports Bar.

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We serve creative prepared foods (inspired sandwiches, soups, and composed salads that go way beyond the tired old standbys) to the breakfast and lunch crowds using top-quality organic ingredients and preparing all menu items from scratch. We’re looking for a talented kitchen professional that wants to help us grow this business.

This is a full-time position working weekdays, 7am-3:30pm. No nights, weekends, or holidays.

For more information, see the full job post here.

To apply, email your résumé.

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For more information and to apply, visit sf.poachedjobs.com.

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Nan Yang’s garlic noodles. Yelp photo by Ellen s.

Fans of the Friday night ~YONSEI RAMEN SHOP~ at Hopscotch in Oakland will want to note the pop-up is taking a break for the summer (according to a post on Chowhound) and won’t be back until the fall. Hopscotch will continue to keep extended hours (until 12am) on Fri-Sat. 1915 San Pablo Ave. at 19th St., Oakland, 510-788-6217.

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Et Al interior. Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

Was very sorry to hear that Ceri Smith’s ~ET AL~ on Polk Street has closed—her business partnership with Arnold Thoroughman is no longer (via Scoop). I had a chance to catch up with her, and while she is obviously disappointed, she has her sights now set on a couple of other projects. I’ll keep you posted on her plans. 2255 Polk St. at Green, 415-655-3155.

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The bar at 15 Romolo. Photo from Facebook.

The hopping Balboa Cafe. Photo by Paul Dyer courtesy Balboa Cafe.

On Friday June 21st, join them to “Party Like It’s 1998” with guest bartenders and 1998-inspired cocktails and music. On Saturday June 22nd, catch the Picon Punch Revival from 4:30pm-8:30pm, complete with Basque appetizers and Picon Punch for $7. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door and include one cocktail and passed appetizers. All day on Sunday June 23rd, catch lots of former bartenders and a list of their favorite cocktails, and raise a glass to 15 more fabulous years. And last but certainly not least, you can join the party with brunch on either Saturday June 22nd or Sunday June 23rd. The Dapper Diner, who holds the hard-earned title of Foursquare Mayor at 15 Romolo, will be collaborating with the chef to create a special brunch menu (psssst, it includes “fatted duck liver” available by charitable contribution to Share Our Strength). Reservations can be made by emailing the restaurant. 15 Romolo Pl. at Broadway, 415-398-1359.

The ~BALBOA CAFE~ is celebrating 100 years in operation this year, despite the fact that the sign over the doors says “Established 1914” (apparently the original owner was superstitious about the number 13). To commemorate the century of business, they’ll be throwing a party on Friday June 21st from 4pm-7pm. They’ll be slinging 100-cent Anchor Steam, festive cocktails in honor of their namesake (Balboa the explorer), and serving cake and bites. Gavin Newsom and Gordon Getty are also rumored to be planning to drop in. 3199 Fillmore St. at Greenwich, 415-921-3944.

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The famed Slanted Door spring rolls (at the Inman Family Wines dinner). Photo: © tablehopper.com.

Last week was pretty stellar: not only did I have the honor of attending an exquisite dinner at Quince with Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon, the esteemed winemaker for Louis Roederer Champagne (yes, there was Cristal, don’t hate me—but it was the 2008 brut rosé that really caught my fancy), but on another evening, I was introduced to Kathleen Inman and Inman Family Wines from Russian River Valley over dinner at The Slanted Door. Her low-alcohol pinot noirs were very food-friendly (which is why you’ll find the 2008 Olivet Grange pinot noir at The Slanted Door—Inman was incidentally the first California wine to make it on Mark Ellenbogen’s list) and are very well priced; I loved hearing about the winery’s many eco-conscious practices, including a compost program that uses scraps from San Francisco restaurants. I need to head up to the winery for a visit soon (and also to get another glass of their very limited 2009 brut rosé nature).

This past weekend I laid low since I have a ton of writing to do before I head out, but I did get to check out a screener of Somm, the new documentary from Jason Wise that is coming out on Friday June 21st (you can catch it at Sundance Kabuki or watch it on iTunes!). It’s a look behind the scenes of the Court of Master Sommeliers, as you watch four hopefuls prepare and take the incredibly difficult Master Sommelier Exam (the first time cameras have ever been allowed). After watching the doc, you’ll see why there are less than 200 Master Somms in the world—the exam is insane. I also didn’t know that after the notorious 25-minute blind tasting of six wines, they only pass or fail you—they never tell you what the wines were. Can you imagine?

Another thing I can’t believe: Bix is turning 25 this Wednesday! That’s a whole lot of cocktails and caviar over the years, congrats! Another big one: Dottie’s True Blue Cafe turned 20 yesterday! Well done, gang.

Okay, so while I am so excited to be leaving for Brazil, I did have a little pang of sadness over missing the upcoming shows with Dita Von Teese, who is returning to SF for more va-va-voom and boom boom at the Fillmore to perform her full-length revue, Burlesque: Strip Strip Hooray! I saw her the last time she was in town, do not miss it! Catch her June 26th-29th at the Fillmore, and you can get tipsy on her signature Cointreau cocktails.

Okay, it’s time for me to wrap things up. I’ll see you in a few weeks! Tchau!

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The tempting counter at M.H. Bread and Butter. Photo via Facebook.

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The crowd at New Taste Marketplace. Photo courtesy New Taste.

Debuting at the Marketplace is a new project from the ~FROZEN KUHSTERD~ team, called ~SUGAR AND SPUN~. They’re offering cotton candy, spun using unrefined sugar with unexpected and locally sourced flavors. Look for a vanilla latte flavor with Four Barrel coffee, and a spiced mango with freeze-dried mango and a dusting of cayenne on top. Rockin’. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter for news about upcoming sugary happenings and new flavors.

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For more information and to apply, visit sf.poachedjobs.com.

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Feast on unlimited food and drink while providing much-needed support for CUESA’s ongoing education initiatives, including free cooking demos, kitchen skill-building classes, Schoolyard to Market youth entrepreneurship program, and sustainability scholarships for farmers.

Purchase tickets from now until June 22nd to receive a special discount for tablehopper readers of $25 off each $125 ticket (so that means you only pay $100!).

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~LOCANDA~ has teamed up with Dave Eggers’ ScholarMatch program to help send a young student to college. The restaurant is trying to help Edgar Estanislao close his tuition gap for college, and any help you can offer would be greatly appreciated!

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Feast on unlimited food and drink while providing much-needed support for CUESA’s ongoing education initiatives, including free cooking demos, kitchen skill-building classes, Schoolyard to Market youth entrepreneurship program, and sustainability scholarships for farmers.

Purchase tickets from now until June 22nd to receive a special discount for tablehopper readers of $25 off each $125 ticket (so that means you only pay $100!).

Plus, we’re giving away a pair of tickets (value $250). To enter to win, all you need to do is forward today’s tablehopper newsletter to two friends (but even more would be so very fabulous), and add a note to your friends about CUESA, the Summer Celebration, why you read tablehopper, or all of the above! Be sure to Cc: or Bcc: me at luckyme@tablehopper.com so I know you sent it—I promise I won’t use anyone’s email address. The deadline to enter is Wednesday June 19th at 11:59pm. We’ll notify the winner on Thursday and get your tickets to you! Good luck!

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Stunning: royal osetra caviar and brioche with flowers and hollandaise, paired with 2008 Louis Roederer brut rosé Champagne (at Quince). Photo: © tablehopper.com.

Now, I wholeheartedly own a large part of the problem—I misunderstood when I was supposed to request my visa (I thought my flight had to be ticketed/final booked), so obviously I was getting to it far too late early this week. But let me tell you, if you have any ideas about heading to Brazil for World Cup or just for travel, give yourself at least a month to get that visa squared away. To put it all in perspective, if I were going to China—a notoriously tough visa—I’d get it same day (yup!) and only be out $30. My visa to Brazil? How about $160!? Oh, and the paperwork? Bureaucracy at its finest.

So there I am at the consulate this morning, trying to be at my calmest but most persuasive as I am pleading for a visa appointment, and I get a big, fat, “Sorry, there is nothing we can do.” No matter that I am supposed to fly out in a week. Just no. And just wow. I tried every possible angle, trust. You’d think they’d want people to visit the country, but it feels like the exact opposite. Despite my best efforts, out of sheer frustration and sadness watching my trip to Brazil crumble with this woman’s final “no,” I completely burst into tears and made a hasty exit to the ladies’ room. So embarrassing. Crying in public, that’s always so much fun.

Which is when I met Grace, aka my visa angel, who found me in the bathroom crying. She works for Bay Document Services and was there at the consulate expediting visas for her clients. With one phone call to her contact in New York, she was able to confirm she could expedite my visa through the NYC consulate (which reportedly operates much more quickly and with a lot less paperwork) and could actually get my passport back here in SF on Thursday before my Friday flight. Um, wow. Everything turned around, just like that. I was not going to Brazil, and then holy crap, I am going to Brazil! There really are angels, and the one who saved my lucky ass today is Grace.

I just met up with her again to hand off my documents and money and $200 service fee, and you can bet I brought a couple bottles of wine for her. I know, exchanging money and documents in a parking lot with people you met earlier in a bathroom can seem shady, but I think I’m a pretty good judge of character, and she is 100 percent legit. And who am I to question divine freaking intervention? Get me on that plane, damn it! So if you ever need to get some visa issues sorted, Grace at Bay Document Services has your back.

Since I have spent the past few nights with some wicked insomnia over this and from running around in bureaucracy land, I’m all tapped out for today. Beyond. But I do have a nice giveaway for you, and the fabulous Heather Irwin has some 707 scout news too.

Oh, and I actually have some non-tablehopper pieces for you to read: on 7x7.com, I share my monthly post of five new places to check out this month; on Citysearch, I posted some of my favorite places for sushi in San Francisco; and I also have my first column for the San Francisco Bay Guardian, Tablehopping, all posted and ready for you.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I think it’s time for a drink. Actually, a drank. (I am going to be saving the caipirinhas until I get to Brazil.)

With infinite gratitude to the universe,

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Chef Jamil Peden will be the new exec chef at Woodfour Brewing Company in Sebastopol’s Barlow complex. Photo courtesy of Jamil Peden.

Taylor Maid Farms opens its new coffee bar this Monday at the Barlow in Sebastopol. Photo courtesy of Taylor Maid Farms.

Redd Wood’s new mobile Mugnaini. Photo courtesy of Redd Wood.

Chef Jamil Peden, who’s done stints at Campo Fina (Healdsburg) and at the former Petite Syrah (Santa Rosa), will head up the kitchen of the soon-to-open ~WOODFOUR BREWING COMPANY~ located in Sebastopol’s expanding food- and wine-centric Barlow complex. Say owners Seth Wood and Olav Vier: “At Woodfour Brewing Co. we feel that food in our kitchen deserves as much respect and attention as the beer in the brewery. With that in mind, it gives us great pleasure to introduce the newest member of our team, executive chef Jamil Peden. The guy has some serious talent and style to boot.” Watch for a (fingers crossed) July opening.

Meanwhile, ~TAYLOR MAID FARMS ORGANIC COFFEE~ will be opening the doors on its new Barlow coffee bar on Monday June 17th. Visitors can watch roasting and packaging from the bar’s mezzanine level, drink espresso and hand-brewed coffees, and check out tasty treats from Santa Rosa’s Criminal Baking Co. and Howard’s Cafe. The coffee bar is located at 6790 McKinley Ave., Suite 170, Sebastopol, and will be open Mon-Thurs 6am-7pm, Fri-Sat 6am-9pm, and Sun 7am-7pm.

Yountville’s acclaimed ~REDD WOOD~ goes mobile with Redd Wood on the Road. Their custom-made Mugnaini mobile pizza oven offers up the restaurant’s signature blistered wood-fired pizzas alfresco along with seasonal salads made from locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has also expanded their popular breakfast offerings from 8am-10am daily. The menu includes old favorites like the RW Breakfast Sandwich (with housemade sausage) and fresh donuts and fritters along with new additions such as Meyer lemon ricotta pancakes. 6755 Washington St. at Madison, Yountville, 707-299-5030.

Holy tequila! ~LA CONDESA NAPA VALLEY~ hosts a Tequila Whipserer Master Series dinner on Wednesday June 26th. The agave-based spirit takes center stage as Master Distiller Adolfo Murillo of Tequila Alquimia and Tequilero Michael Lipman guide guests through a three-course dinner featuring Snake River Farms carnitas, elote, jalapeño poppers, camarones al mojo, and tres leches cake paired with Murillo’s award-winning organic tequilas. The dinner, from 6:30-9pm, is $55 per person. 1320 Main St. at Hunt, St. Helena. Reservation details online or by calling 707-967-8111.

If you’re a fan of ~COPAIN WINES~, you’ll now need to call ahead to visit their hilltop tasting room in Healdsburg. The upside, however, is that visitors get a personalized tasting experience with top-notch pinot noir and syrah paired with small bites. The Farm Table Tasting for nonmembers happens at 11am and 2pm daily. 7800 Eastside Rd. at Ballard, Healdsburg, 707-836-8822.

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One of the savory courses (hapuka, smoked agria, serrano, pea, and hen’s yolk) at Clooney (check out the yolk on that egg!). Photo courtesy of Clooney.

One of the desserts at Clooney (Valhrona, cherry, and sorrel). Photo courtesy of Clooney.

First, I need to explain Waiheke Island a bit. It’s an island off that is a short ferry ride away from Auckland. And let me tell you, it’s the picture of dreamy. It has wineries, gorgeous beaches, winding roads, delicious food, and a wonderful easy-breezy vibe. I was so sorry I was only there for the day—I was ready to just show up with my toothbrush and move there. (You can peek at some images—and stories—from my friend Nathan Branch in his blog post here and his fantastic photos here.)

Tony Stewart is going to be re-creating the relaxed, unpretentious, and comfortable feeling of Waiheke in San Francisco, along with bringing the progressive New Zealand cuisine style (and some ingredients—including Silvers Fern Farm’s SILERE merino lamb) that his projects are known for. There will be a four-course menu (with choices) each evening, plus two-, three-, and four-course menus at lunch; many of these dishes are also available on the bar menu, so you can just swing by for a drink and a bite as well. Look for brunch to launch in August.

His culinary team includes head chef Hayden McMillen (TriBeCa, Vinnie’s, Huka Lodge, Meredith’s, The French Café), who is known for an innovative style that is built around seasonality and purity of flavor. His sous chef is local boy Nicholas Patchen (Boulevard, Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, Spruce, Campton Place, and All Spice in San Mateo). The specialized menu will have a modern/contemporary sensibility, intersecting with local ingredients.

The stylish yet laid-back space is going to feature many design elements from New Zealand, including slabs of macrocarpa cypress polished by hand, American white oak furniture that was handcrafted in New Zealand by Douglas and Bec, and even the pottery was brought over. Stewart has been working with architecture/design firms Sutro Architects (local) and Fearon Hay Architects (New Zealand) on the project. (For those of you into floorplans, you can check it out here.) The restaurant seats 85, plus 12 at the chef’s counter and 20 at the bar.

The bar is going to be a highlight of the experience, made in New Zealand. There will be craft beer from brewer Moa, and sommelier Geeling Ng will be handling the wines and pairings (although don’t expect New Zealand wines—due to some contractual obligations with America’s Cup, the wines will be from Napa Valley). There will also be a cocktail list conceived by Clooney’s bar manager, Needham Woodward.

The stadium (in America’s Cup Village) is just next door and will feature more than 30 live music concerts (Sting performed there last week), so it’s a convenient place to grab a bite before a show as well. Even though the America’s Cup 2013 finals will wrap in late September, Waiheke Island Yacht Club will stay open through December 31st. Am very much looking forward to experiencing this unique Kiwi import!

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Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

Photo: Dana Massey-Todd. © tablehopper.com.

On the menu, look for Johnson’s pastries available for dine-in or takeout, along with a daytime lunch and dinner menu, with baguette sandwiches, salads, and other light bites designed to share. In the morning, you’ll find morning pastries of sweet and savory persuasions, alongside coffee from Hearth Coffee Roasters. There is also beer and wine, though the details of the beverage program are still being worked out. Johnson hopes to offer beer and wine on tap, but for now there will just be bottles. The list will be primarily focused on pairing with the food, with a mix of something for everyone.

Johnson will also be continuing with her wholesale and special-occasion cake business, and hopes to add plated desserts to her repertoire in the coming months. Johnson is hoping to open softly this Friday June 14th, but that could change. We’ll keep you updated; follow on Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates. Hours will be Tue-Wed 7am-10pm, Thu-Sat 7am-11pm, Sun 8am-10pm. Closed Monday. 1408 Clement St. at 15th Ave., 415-592-6008.

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The window at the new Mission shop (photo via Facebook).

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Bar Bambino interior (photo from website).

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Fried green tomato BLT at Bacon Bacon. Photo from Facebook.

There’s a new place for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the Tenderloin. After some ABC license activity awhile ago, the quirkily named ~MR. CRAVE~ opened June 3rd in the short-lived Jimmie’s space next to the Cova Hotel. They’re serving American comfort food with local ingredients, including a burger, French toast, and sandwiches. They’ve got wines from California and beyond, and a beer list with craft selections and Belgian-style suds to pair with the food. Bonus: after 5pm, you get two hours free parking in the Cova parking lot. They’re open Tue-Sun 7am-9pm, and Mon 7am-2pm. 655 Ellis St. at Hyde, 415-321-8899.

Uppercasing reports that the new Indian restaurant in the former Kan Zaman space, ~GREAT INDIAN~, has posted its menu, and Yelp indicates it’s open. They’re serving roti rolls and thali plates, and have an active beer and wine license. Now we’ll just have to see if they can live up to their name. 1793 Haight St. at Shrader.

After catching national attention for the NIMBY-est of problems, the ~BACON BACON~ café will not be returning to Cole Valley, but has found a home at the Brick & Mortar Music Hall in the Mission, Scoop reports. They’ll be serving lunch Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, starting June 20th (not the 12th as originally planned), and doing all the food for music events at the space starting July 1st. In the meantime, the truck is still up and running. 1710 Mission St. at Duboce, 415-800-8782.

For some hot jazz on Sunday nights, head to ~BRENDA’S FRENCH SOUL FOOD~. Gaucho Jazz will be there every Sunday starting at 5pm, providing a perfect soundtrack for Brenda’s biscuits and gumbo.

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Taking over Bistro Unique: Tamashisoul Sushi Bar.

I did a double take driving by ~DAIMARU SUSHI~ on 16th Street, which is now called ~CHINESE CUISINE~, serving, you guessed it, Chinese food. I called and was able to ascertain that it’s the same owner. You can check out the menu here. 290 Sanchez St. at 16th St., 415-863-9128.

And now, in the “random, why not?” news department: Tipster Jason B. let me know the ~HONEYBAKED HAM STORE~ on Geary has closed. I have always wondered who goes there. I mean, really, how many hams do you buy in a year? Now we’ll just wonder what’s going in next at that busy corner; stand by. 2190 Geary Blvd. at Divisadero.

Oh, and since we’re at it, ~URBAN CURRY~ in North Beach appears to be under new ownership. 523 Broadway at Kearny, 415-677-9743.

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One of Crystal Jade’s Singapore locations. Photo from website.

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The Conundrum sandwich. Photo courtesy Soul Groove.

Brunch includes DJs spinning records from the Motown on Monday crew, and local nonprofit Today’s Future Sound. They’ve also launched late-night takeout-only hours, until 3am on Thu-Sat. Hours are Sun-Wed 10am-3pm and 5pm-10pm, Thu-Sat 10am-3pm and 5pm-11pm, takeout only 11pm-3am. 422 Larkin St. at Golden Gate, 415-734-7598.

~RHEA’S CAFÉ~, the new sandwich outpost in the Mission, will start serving weekend brunch this Saturday. They’ll have three to four dishes to start, with options like chicken and waffles, or egg and bacon plates. You’ll be able to get coffee and mimosas too. Sat-Sun 10am-3pm. 2200 Bryant St. at 20th St., 415-875-9481.

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The peanut butter brownie from Native Baking Company. Photo courtesy Dandelion Chocolate.

Sarah Burchard and Spencer O’Meara of S&S in the kitchen. Photo by Iann Ivy via Facebook.

Here’s another opportunity to check out the S&S Pop-Up at ~MISSION ROCK RESORT~ from chefs Sarah Burchard (previously Barbacco) and Spencer O’Meara (previously Paragon). The dinner will be on Tuesday June 25th from 6pm-9pm, and tickets are $42 (not including drinks and gratuity)—get ‘em quick, they sell out. The menu will feature Latin American cuisine, with a focus on barbecue. The evening starts at 6pm with happy hour small bites, and then at 7pm dinner starts. You’ll find barbacoa, ceviche, fried plantains, and Mexican hot chocolate for dessert. 817 Terry A. Francois Blvd. at Illinois, 415-701-7625.

Join a fun summer roundup of food trucks, vendors, and DJs at the Beat Down festival at ~SOMA STREAT FOOD PARK~ on Sunday June 30th. From 11am-5pm, catch food trucks like Señor Sisig, Frozen Kuhsterd, Nora Paella, and Wing Wings, plus retail pop-ups and DJs like Shortkut and J-Boogie. The event is family-friendly, and there will be drinks available for those over 21, including mimosas, sangria, and micheladas. 428 11th St. at Division.

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To apply, please email a résumé and cover letter.

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To apply, please email a résumé and cover letter.

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Mitchell’s Ice Cream, back in the day. Photo courtesy Mitchell’s via Facebook.

The tablehopper is a lover of San Francisco’s culinary heritage, and I’ve been collecting antique and vintage restaurant and bar ephemera for years. Showcase your love of San Francisco’s culinary past with a tablehopper t-shirt featuring a logo from one of San Francisco’s many bars and restaurants that have come and gone. Perhaps the Players Club is your style, or maybe your a little more of a Blue Fox (also available as a hoodie). All of them are printed on super-soft, super-flattering cotton t-shirts. Check ‘em out, and show some vintage pride for old-school San Francisco hot spots.

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The bar and seating at Brotzeit Lokal. Photo by Jon Knox/MDRP courtesy Urban Daddy.

Berkeleyside Nosh reports there’s a new ramen spot in Temescal. ~RAMEN TOMO~ is now open; early Yelp reviews are not exactly raves. 4390 Telegraph Ave. at 44th St., Oakland.

There’s a new Filipino joint in Fruitvale called ~LUCKY 37 FILIPINO~. Our Oakland Blog and East Bay Express caught wind of the opening; early Yelp reviews report that it’s a soft opening. 2868 Fruitvale Ave. at Brookdale, Oakland, 510-789-6343.

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For more information and to apply, visit sf.poachedjobs.com.

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For more information and to apply, visit sf.poachedjobs.com.

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The croissant from Nick’s. Photo courtesy Nick’s Pizza.

On Wednesday June 19th, catch the newest addition to the Dishcrawl tours with a walking food tour of Old Oakland. The crawl takes you to four different restaurants, with insider details on each location and the neighborhood. The crawl begins at 7pm, and tickets are $45. The meeting location will be emailed 48 hours before the event, and the restaurants on the tour are a surprise! You can follow Dishcrawl on Twitter for hints.

Oakland’s ~HOPSCOTCH~ is celebrating a year in business with a pretty sweet deal. They’ve put together a three-course “greatest hits” menu of their favorite dishes for $30 per person. It’s available now through Friday June 14th all day, and on Saturday June 15th from 3pm-12am. 1915 San Pablo Ave. at 19th St., Oakland, 510-788-6217.

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