Omar Mamoon

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<em>PFG is a new column by yours truly, Omar Mamoon. It stands for Pretty F</em>*<em>cking Good—when something is so damn delicious, it stops you in your tracks. You just can’t stop eating.</em>

<p><em>PFG is a new column by yours truly, Omar Mamoon. It stands for Pretty F</em>*<em>cking Good—when something is so damn delicious, it stops you in your tracks. You just can’t stop eating.</em></p>

<p><em>But good food is about so much more than what’s on the plate. Behind every dish is a story. PFG is a chance to tell those tales. We’ll explore it all, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food served on sticks. So get ready, and come hungry.</em></p>

<p><em>A little bit about me: I’ve spent most of my life in San Francisco’s Mission District. I’ve been writing about food and dining for about a decade.</em></p>

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<div class="wp-block-column"><p><em>But good food is about so much more than what’s on the plate. Behind every dish is a story. PFG is a chance to tell those tales. We’ll explore it all, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food served on sticks. So get ready, and come hungry.</em></p><p><em>A little bit about me: I’ve spent most of my life in San Francisco’s Mission District. I’ve been writing about food and dining for about a decade.</em></p></div>

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<div class="wp-block-columns"><div class="wp-block-column"><p><em>But good food is about so much more than what’s on the plate. Behind every dish is a story. PFG is a chance to tell those tales. We’ll explore it all, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food served on sticks. So get ready, and come hungry.</em></p><p><em>A little bit about me: I’ve spent most of my life in San Francisco’s Mission District. I’ve been writing about food and dining for about a decade.</em></p></div><div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PrettyFGood.jpg?w=2498" alt="Pretty F*cking Good logo." class="wp-image-187853" style="width:261px;height:261px"/></figure></div></div>

Really good al pastor<em> </em>is hard to find in San Francisco. I’m talking about the kind that’s served at stands across Mexico City, with orangey, marinated pork shaved in thin multilayered sheets from a massive rotating meat spit called a trompo. To get that, we used to have to venture to San Jose or hit one of the spots off Oakland’s International Boulevard. But then a few months ago, Tacos El Charro started showing up on Mission Street.

<p>Really good al pastor<em> </em>is hard to find in San Francisco. I’m talking about the kind that’s served at stands across Mexico City, with orangey, marinated pork shaved in thin multilayered sheets from a massive rotating meat spit called a trompo. To get that, we used to have to venture to San Jose or hit one of the spots off Oakland’s International Boulevard. But then a few months ago, Tacos El Charro started showing up on Mission Street.</p>

A trompo requires consistent monitoring by a taquero who keeps an eye on it to ensure the meat is charred properly. State <a href="https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CEH/DFDCS/Pages/FDBPrograms/FoodSafetyProgram.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health department regulations</a> say pork is supposed to be cooked to at least 145 degrees, but if it’s overcooked, it will taste dry. A lot of Bay Area taquerias have al pastor on the menu, but their trompos are not well assembled<em>.</em> Or they simply forgo the crucial component, opting to grill the pork instead. Tacos El Charro’s trompo is tightly assembled, each layer of tender pork charred and crispy on the outside and juicy and chewy within. The tortillas are warm, and the salsas come with sabor. It’s PFG.

<p>A trompo requires consistent monitoring by a taquero who keeps an eye on it to ensure the meat is charred properly. State <a href="https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CEH/DFDCS/Pages/FDBPrograms/FoodSafetyProgram.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">health department regulations</a> say pork is supposed to be cooked to at least 145 degrees, but if it’s overcooked, it will taste dry. A lot of Bay Area taquerias have al pastor on the menu, but their trompos are not well assembled<em>.</em> Or they simply forgo the crucial component, opting to grill the pork instead. Tacos El Charro’s trompo is tightly assembled, each layer of tender pork charred and crispy on the outside and juicy and chewy within. The tortillas are warm, and the salsas come with sabor. It’s PFG.</p>

60 pounds of of thinly cut pork shoulder rotates at Tacos El Charro in The Mission in San Francisco on Thursday, July 27, 2023. The pork shoulder marinates overnight in a bright red adobo made pureed roma tomatoes, spicy fruity guajillo peppers, smoky cumin and more. Each trompo weighs in at around 60 pounds and produces between 400-450 tacos.
Tacos El Charro, is own and operated by Juan Lazaro and his wife, Carina Montoya who prepare all the the food in Concord, CA  and drive down to the Mission in San Francisco to sell their famous el pastor tacos.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PFG-EP1-07272023-334.jpg?w=2500" alt="Sixty pounds of thinly cut pork shoulder rotates at Tacos El Charro in the Mission in San Francisco." class="wp-image-187693"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sixty pounds of thinly cut pork shoulder rotates at Tacos El Charro in the Mission in San Francisco on July 27.</figcaption></figure>


Tacos El Charro is actually based in Concord, where the trompo<em> </em>is assembled. Carina Montoya and her husband, Juan Lazaro, were working in the bakery at a Safeway there when the pandemic hit in 2020. With their hours drastically reduced, they started selling creamy corn salads called esquites and crispy chicharrones (fried pork rinds) out of their garage. They eventually added tacos al pastor to the menu.&nbsp;

<p>Tacos El Charro is actually based in Concord, where the trompo<em> </em>is assembled. Carina Montoya and her husband, Juan Lazaro, were working in the bakery at a Safeway there when the pandemic hit in 2020. With their hours drastically reduced, they started selling creamy corn salads called esquites and crispy chicharrones (fried pork rinds) out of their garage. They eventually added tacos al pastor to the menu.&nbsp;</p>

Lazaro comes from the city said to be where al pastor originated, Puebla, Mexico, where he once worked as a taquero<em>, </em>like his father before him. Like so many other beloved dishes, tacos al pastor came about as a result of cultures mixing. The trompo is a Latin American take on the vertical rotisserie used to cook lamb for shawarma, the roast lamb wrap served across the Middle East. Lebanese immigrants brought shawarma to Mexico, where locals adapted it during the 1930s by substituting pork, and tacos al pastor was born.

<p>Lazaro comes from the city said to be where al pastor originated, Puebla, Mexico, where he once worked as a taquero<em>, </em>like his father before him. Like so many other beloved dishes, tacos al pastor came about as a result of cultures mixing. The trompo is a Latin American take on the vertical rotisserie used to cook lamb for shawarma, the roast lamb wrap served across the Middle East. Lebanese immigrants brought shawarma to Mexico, where locals adapted it during the 1930s by substituting pork, and tacos al pastor was born.</p>

Carina Montoya poses for a portrait right next to her taco stand called, Tacos El Charro in The Mission in San Francisco on Thursday, July 27, 2023. Tacos El Charro, is own and operated by Juan Lazaro and his wife, Carina Montoya who prepare all the the food in Concord, CA  and drive down to the Mission in San Francisco to sell their famous el pastor tacos.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/INLINE01_PFG-EP1-07272023-274.jpg?w=2500" alt="Owner Carina Montoya poses besides Tacos El Charro food stand." class="wp-image-187422"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Carina Montoya runs Tacos El Charro, which appears in the Mission in San Francisco on Thursdays through Sundays.</figcaption></figure>


With business growing, Tacos El Charro started selling its fare on Mission Street this year. “Our friend lives in San Francisco and said to come and sell tacos,” explained Montoya. So they joined the various Mission Street food vendors that cater to the bar crowd Thursdays through Sundays. They begin at happy hour, around 5 p.m., and end after closing time, 2 a.m. or later.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>With business growing, Tacos El Charro started selling its fare on Mission Street this year. “Our friend lives in San Francisco and said to come and sell tacos,” explained Montoya. So they joined the various Mission Street food vendors that cater to the bar crowd Thursdays through Sundays. They begin at happy hour, around 5 p.m., and end after closing time, 2 a.m. or later.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Montoya says she makes more money in a week now than she did in three weeks at Safeway. “There’s a lot of al pastor in taquerias in San Francisco, but they aren’t the same,” Lazaro told me recently in Spanish. He added that the secret is in the adobo marinade. “It’s a recipe from my father.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Montoya says she makes more money in a week now than she did in three weeks at Safeway. “There’s a lot of al pastor in taquerias in San Francisco, but they aren’t the same,” Lazaro told me recently in Spanish. He added that the secret is in the adobo marinade. “It’s a recipe from my father.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Juan Lazaro prepares and cuts the al pastor for Tacos El Charro in The Mission in San Francisco on Thursday, July 27, 2023. Juan Lazaro and his wife, Carina Montoya prepare all the the food in Concord, CA and drive into the city and setup shop on Mission Street in San Francisco.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/FEATURED_PFG-EP1-07272023-153.jpg?w=2500" alt="Juan Lazaro prepares and cuts the al pastor for Tacos El Charro." class="wp-image-187420"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Juan Lazaro prepares and cuts the al pastor for Tacos El Charro in the Mission in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>


Each morning, Lazaro forms the trompo with layers of thinly sliced pork shoulder that’s been marinating overnight in a bright red adobo made from pureed roma tomatoes, spicy guajillo peppers, smoky cumin and other spices. Each trompo weighs about 60 pounds and produces 400-450 tacos.

<p>Each morning, Lazaro forms the trompo with layers of thinly sliced pork shoulder that’s been marinating overnight in a bright red adobo made from pureed roma tomatoes, spicy guajillo peppers, smoky cumin and other spices. Each trompo weighs about 60 pounds and produces 400-450 tacos.</p>

Tacos are $4 a pop and feature corn tortillas made daily by Oakland-based tortilleria La Finca. They are warmed in pork-fat drippings from the trompo on the plancha below.&nbsp;

<p>Tacos are $4 a pop and feature corn tortillas made daily by Oakland-based tortilleria La Finca. They are warmed in pork-fat drippings from the trompo on the plancha below.&nbsp;</p>

For salsas, you can choose the creamy verde made from jalapenos, oil and chicken bouillon for a burst of umami, or the roja, a roasted chile de arbol-based accompaniment that provides real mouth-blasting heat that makes you sweat.

<p>For salsas, you can choose the creamy verde made from jalapenos, oil and chicken bouillon for a burst of umami, or the roja, a roasted chile de arbol-based accompaniment that provides real mouth-blasting heat that makes you sweat.</p>

A plate of El Charro's signature al pastor tacos features perfectly marinated and thinly cut pork served to order for hungry customers at the curbside food stand.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/INLINE_02-PFG-EP1-07272023-303.jpg?w=2500" alt="A plate of El Charro's signature al pastor tacos features perfectly marinated and thinly cut pork served to order for hungry customers at the curbside food stand." class="wp-image-187421"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A plate of El Charro's signature al pastor tacos features perfectly marinated and thinly cut pork served to order for hungry customers at the curbside food stand.</figcaption></figure>


You <em>can</em> dress the tacos yourself, but do yourself a favor and allow Montoya to do the honors with a flourish of chopped cilantro and diced raw onion, a splash of both salsas and radish and lime on the side. Be sure to ask for a side of pickled onions and habanero—those help cut through the richness while adding another layer of heat. And be sure to ask for a slice of the whole fresh pineapple that crowns the trompo. The signature sweetness is an essential component of the al pastor experience.

<p>You <em>can</em> dress the tacos yourself, but do yourself a favor and allow Montoya to do the honors with a flourish of chopped cilantro and diced raw onion, a splash of both salsas and radish and lime on the side. Be sure to ask for a side of pickled onions and habanero—those help cut through the richness while adding another layer of heat. And be sure to ask for a slice of the whole fresh pineapple that crowns the trompo. The signature sweetness is an essential component of the al pastor experience.</p>

Montoya says she dreams of bigger things as a business owner: “I want a restaurant,” she says. “But it’s expensive.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Montoya says she dreams of bigger things as a business owner: “I want a restaurant,” she says. “But it’s expensive.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Until then, there’s Tacos El Charro in the Mission.

<p>Until then, there’s Tacos El Charro in the Mission.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tacos-el-charro"><strong>Tacos El Charro</strong></h2>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tacos-el-charro"><strong>Tacos El Charro</strong></h2>

🗓️ Thursdays-Sundays | 5 p.m.-2 a.m.<br>📍 19th and Mission streets, San Francisco<br>🔗 instagram.com/tacos_charro

<p>🗓️ Thursdays-Sundays | 5 p.m.-2 a.m.<br>📍 19th and Mission streets, San Francisco<br>🔗 instagram.com/tacos_charro</p>

The best al pastor in San Francisco comes carved streetside in the Mission

Sarah Holtz

After a two-and-half-year Covid closure, Cal-Italian trattoria Delfina is back in the Mission District with a whole new look and menu, combining full-service dinner with a retail space and to-go pizzeria. Residents of Nob Hill have something else to brag about with the arrival of Ciccino Northern Italian brunchery and Back to Back Pizzeria.

<p>After a two-and-half-year Covid closure, Cal-Italian trattoria Delfina is back in the Mission District with a whole new look and menu, combining full-service dinner with a retail space and to-go pizzeria. Residents of Nob Hill have something else to brag about with the arrival of Ciccino Northern Italian brunchery and Back to Back Pizzeria.</p>

Next week, Miguel Escobedo parks his celebrated taco truck, Al Pastor Papi, in a permanent spot at Spark Social in Dogpatch. And the minds behind Four Barrel Coffee join up with a former Tartine pastry chef to bring Jewish diasporic and Levantine sweets to Hayes Valley with the opening of Loquat.

<p>Next week, Miguel Escobedo parks his celebrated taco truck, Al Pastor Papi, in a permanent spot at Spark Social in Dogpatch. And the minds behind Four Barrel Coffee join up with a former Tartine pastry chef to bring Jewish diasporic and Levantine sweets to Hayes Valley with the opening of Loquat.</p>

<strong>Cal-Italian Favorite Returns</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-cal-italian-favorite-returns"><strong>Cal-Italian Favorite Returns</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-cal-italian-favorite-returns"><strong>Cal-Italian Favorite Returns</strong></h2>

<a href="https://www.delfinasf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delfina</a><a href="https://www.delfinasf.com"><br></a><em>3621 18th St.</em><br><em>(415) 437-6800</em>

<p><a href="https://www.delfinasf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Delfina</a><a href="https://www.delfinasf.com"><br></a><em>3621 18th St.</em><br><em>(415) 437-6800</em></p>

At the beginning of the pandemic, after two decades of operation, Annie and Craig Stoll decided to temporarily shut their doors and regroup. Now Delfina is back in an expanded new location on 18th and Guerrero. Their reimagining includes a to-go pizzeria, a retail space, a parklet and a private room with high, vaulted ceilings. Delfina’s all-new cocktail list emphasizes amari and other Italian spirits. The dinner menu rotates regularly, but the Roman pizza bianca-inspired sourdough focaccia is a staple. Look for elevated dishes like the paccheri and petrale sole with fresh San Marzano tomatoes. The spaghetti pomodoro is also back by popular demand.

<p>At the beginning of the pandemic, after two decades of operation, Annie and Craig Stoll decided to temporarily shut their doors and regroup. Now Delfina is back in an expanded new location on 18th and Guerrero. Their reimagining includes a to-go pizzeria, a retail space, a parklet and a private room with high, vaulted ceilings. Delfina’s all-new cocktail list emphasizes amari and other Italian spirits. The dinner menu rotates regularly, but the Roman pizza bianca-inspired sourdough focaccia is a staple. Look for elevated dishes like the paccheri and petrale sole with fresh San Marzano tomatoes. The spaghetti pomodoro is also back by popular demand.</p>

<strong>Natty Wine &amp; Classic Vinyl</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-natty-wine-classic-vinyl"><strong>Natty Wine &amp; Classic Vinyl</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-natty-wine-classic-vinyl"><strong>Natty Wine &amp; Classic Vinyl</strong></h2>

<a href="https://www.backtobacksf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Back to Back</a><a href="https://www.backtobacksf.com"><br></a><em>1257 Taylor St.</em><br><em>(415) 371-9704</em>

<p><a href="https://www.backtobacksf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Back to Back</a><a href="https://www.backtobacksf.com"><br></a><em>1257 Taylor St.</em><br><em>(415) 371-9704</em></p>

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/5-new-spots-to-eat-and-drink-in-sf-malaysian-noodlery-damansara-boozy-brunch-at-hazies-and-more/">Vinyl bars may be catching on</a> in SF, if Back to Back’s soft opening in Nob Hill this past week is any indication. This wood-fired pizzeria spinning hi-fi records is a sibling project from Monica and Randall Hom in collaboration with chef Stephen Chan, previously of Noe Valley’s neighborhood eatery Hamlet. The wine list totals 57 bottles, centering natural purveyors like Iruai and Dog Fight.

<p><a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/5-new-spots-to-eat-and-drink-in-sf-malaysian-noodlery-damansara-boozy-brunch-at-hazies-and-more/">Vinyl bars may be catching on</a> in SF, if Back to Back’s soft opening in Nob Hill this past week is any indication. This wood-fired pizzeria spinning hi-fi records is a sibling project from Monica and Randall Hom in collaboration with chef Stephen Chan, previously of Noe Valley’s neighborhood eatery Hamlet. The wine list totals 57 bottles, centering natural purveyors like Iruai and Dog Fight.</p>

<a href="https://www.alpastorpapi.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al Pastor Papi</a> at <a href="https://sparksocialsf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spark Social SF</a><a href="https://sparksocialsf.com"><br></a><em>601 Mission Bay Blvd. N.</em><br><em>(415) 800-8777</em>

<p><a href="https://www.alpastorpapi.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Al Pastor Papi</a> at <a href="https://sparksocialsf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spark Social SF</a><a href="https://sparksocialsf.com"><br></a><em>601 Mission Bay Blvd. N.</em><br><em>(415) 800-8777</em></p>

Miguel Escobedo has logged thousands of miles in his taco truck, boomeranging around the Bay between beer gardens, high school football tailgates and catering everything from weddings to the Giants. Four year later, he’s landed a permanent parking spot at Spark Social, a food truck park in Dogpatch. Though slow-roasted pork remains central to Al Pastor Papi, vegetarians can try the plant-based pork, nopales tacos and chile relleno torta.

<p>Miguel Escobedo has logged thousands of miles in his taco truck, boomeranging around the Bay between beer gardens, high school football tailgates and catering everything from weddings to the Giants. Four year later, he’s landed a permanent parking spot at Spark Social, a food truck park in Dogpatch. Though slow-roasted pork remains central to Al Pastor Papi, vegetarians can try the plant-based pork, nopales tacos and chile relleno torta.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-levantine-treats"><strong>Levantine Treats</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-levantine-treats"><strong>Levantine Treats</strong></h2>

<a href="https://loquatsf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Loquat</a><a href="https://loquatsf.com"><br></a><em>198 Gough St.</em><br><em>(415) 994-6594</em>

<p><a href="https://loquatsf.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Loquat</a><a href="https://loquatsf.com"><br></a><em>198 Gough St.</em><br><em>(415) 994-6594</em></p>

In September, a gold-painted sign in Germanic script signaled the imminent arrival of Loquat, a highly anticipated Jewish diasporic bakery from Four Barrel Coffee’s Tal Mor and Jodi Geren and Tartine alum Kristina Costa. They’re serving up buttery cinnamon date sugar babka, lavender shortbread and savory noshes like ricotta sage bourekas. We can expect holiday treats like sufganiyot, or jelly donuts, later in the winter and hamantaschen in the spring.

<p>In September, a gold-painted sign in Germanic script signaled the imminent arrival of Loquat, a highly anticipated Jewish diasporic bakery from Four Barrel Coffee’s Tal Mor and Jodi Geren and Tartine alum Kristina Costa. They’re serving up buttery cinnamon date sugar babka, lavender shortbread and savory noshes like ricotta sage bourekas. We can expect holiday treats like sufganiyot, or jelly donuts, later in the winter and hamantaschen in the spring.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spaghetti-caviar"><strong>Spaghetti + Caviar</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-spaghetti-caviar"><strong>Spaghetti + Caviar</strong></h2>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciccinosf/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ciccino</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciccinosf/?hl=en"><br></a><em>1400 California St.</em><br><em>(415) 260-4810</em>

<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciccinosf/?hl=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ciccino</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciccinosf/?hl=en"><br></a><em>1400 California St.</em><br><em>(415) 260-4810</em></p>

From the executive chef at local chain Italian Homemade Company comes a new brunch and lunch spot in Nob Hill. Marcia Gagliardi of <a href="http://www.tablehopper.com">Tablehopper</a> has the intel on Ciccino, an eatery that honors the rich gastronomy of Chef GianMarco Cosmi’s native northern Italy. Lunch ranges from lighter fare, like the halibut carpaccio, to generous entrées like fried pork tenderloin, spaghetti with caviar and ravioli carbonara. Ciccino serves brunch and lunch only until Cosmi can secure a beer and wine permit—with any luck, next month.  

<p>From the executive chef at local chain Italian Homemade Company comes a new brunch and lunch spot in Nob Hill. Marcia Gagliardi of <a href="http://www.tablehopper.com">Tablehopper</a> has the intel on Ciccino, an eatery that honors the rich gastronomy of Chef GianMarco Cosmi’s native northern Italy. Lunch ranges from lighter fare, like the halibut carpaccio, to generous entrées like fried pork tenderloin, spaghetti with caviar and ravioli carbonara. Ciccino serves brunch and lunch only until Cosmi can secure a beer and wine permit—with any luck, next month.  </p>

5 new spots to eat and drink in SF: Delfina reopens, Al Pastor Papi gets permanent parking & more

The last year marked a turning point for the Bay Area restaurant industry. With the threat of Covid gradually receding, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-new-restaurants-bars-registrations-increase/">the region saw a surge in newly opened eateries</a>.&nbsp;

<p>The last year marked a turning point for the Bay Area restaurant industry. With the threat of Covid gradually receding, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/san-francisco-new-restaurants-bars-registrations-increase/">the region saw a surge in newly opened eateries</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Several Bay Area chefs also earned bragging rights in 2022. The New York Times included Filipino-Californian favorite Abacá and upscale Korean barbecue joint San Ho Won in its <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/sf-restaurants-abaca-and-san-ho-won-make-new-york-times-top-50-of-2022/">2022 list of favorite restaurants</a>. Six local places <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/even-more-bay-area-restaurants-now-have-michelin-stars/">gained Michelin stars</a> earlier this month. Marlena and Kin Khao, two SF gems that reopened in 2022, retained their stars.&nbsp;

<p>Several Bay Area chefs also earned bragging rights in 2022. The New York Times included Filipino-Californian favorite Abacá and upscale Korean barbecue joint San Ho Won in its <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/sf-restaurants-abaca-and-san-ho-won-make-new-york-times-top-50-of-2022/">2022 list of favorite restaurants</a>. Six local places <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/even-more-bay-area-restaurants-now-have-michelin-stars/">gained Michelin stars</a> earlier this month. Marlena and Kin Khao, two SF gems that reopened in 2022, retained their stars.&nbsp;</p>

Opening a restaurant in the Bay is a tall order, and each new restaurateur has their own story of trial and triumph. Chef Tracy Goh’s Damansara began as a dinner party pop-up out of her apartment, and now she owns a brick-and-mortar spot in Noe Valley. After a lengthy immigration struggle, Marco Senghor secured a larger location for his Senegalese eatery and Afrobeats dance floor, Bissap Baobab. Four years into the food truck hustle, Miguel Escobedo pulled Al Pastor Papi into a permanent parking spot at Spark Social.

<p>Opening a restaurant in the Bay is a tall order, and each new restaurateur has their own story of trial and triumph. Chef Tracy Goh’s Damansara began as a dinner party pop-up out of her apartment, and now she owns a brick-and-mortar spot in Noe Valley. After a lengthy immigration struggle, Marco Senghor secured a larger location for his Senegalese eatery and Afrobeats dance floor, Bissap Baobab. Four years into the food truck hustle, Miguel Escobedo pulled Al Pastor Papi into a permanent parking spot at Spark Social.</p>

And that’s just to name a few. Here’s The Standard’s top 10 favorite new restaurants of 2022.

<p>And that’s just to name a few. Here’s The Standard’s top 10 favorite new restaurants of 2022.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-damansara"><strong>1. Damansara</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-1-damansara"><strong>1. Damansara</strong></h2>

<strong>Noe Valley</strong><br><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1781+Church+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94131,+USA/@37.7424992,-122.4262632,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7e6867ab823b:0x747cfc4c29365d67!8m2!3d37.7424992!4d-122.4262632">1781 Church St., SF&nbsp;</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://damansarasf.com/">damansarasf.com</a>

<p><strong>Noe Valley</strong><br><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1781+Church+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94131,+USA/@37.7424992,-122.4262632,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7e6867ab823b:0x747cfc4c29365d67!8m2!3d37.7424992!4d-122.4262632">1781 Church St., SF&nbsp;</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://damansarasf.com/">damansarasf.com</a></p>

Damansara is the name of chef Tracy Goh’s childhood home, a suburb on the outskirts of Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. Home, in the literal and figurative ways it nourishes us, is at the center of Goh’s new restaurant of the same name. She first experimented with Damansara as a pop-up, serving thousands of bowls of laksa noodle soup—a Southeast Asian specialty made with potato, rice or tapioca—from her one-bedroom apartment. In 2019, she joined La Cocina’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/new-chefs-on-the-block-meet-the-six-aspiring-restaurateurs-in-la-cocinas-latest-cohort/">culinary incubator program</a>. Now, she’s found a new home in Noe Valley, debuting a menu of laksa and other Malaysian staples.

<p>Damansara is the name of chef Tracy Goh’s childhood home, a suburb on the outskirts of Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur. Home, in the literal and figurative ways it nourishes us, is at the center of Goh’s new restaurant of the same name. She first experimented with Damansara as a pop-up, serving thousands of bowls of laksa noodle soup—a Southeast Asian specialty made with potato, rice or tapioca—from her one-bedroom apartment. In 2019, she joined La Cocina’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/arts-culture/new-chefs-on-the-block-meet-the-six-aspiring-restaurateurs-in-la-cocinas-latest-cohort/">culinary incubator program</a>. Now, she’s found a new home in Noe Valley, debuting a menu of laksa and other Malaysian staples.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-chika-sake"><strong>2. Chika &amp; Sake</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-2-chika-sake"><strong>2. Chika &amp; Sake</strong></h2>

📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Chika+%26+Sake/@37.7868703,-122.42821,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xb87717d0f6fd9e80!8m2!3d37.7868703!4d-122.42821">1700 Laguna St, SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4156587388">(415) 658-7388</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://chika-sake.com/">chika-sake.com</a>

<p>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Chika+%26+Sake/@37.7868703,-122.42821,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xb87717d0f6fd9e80!8m2!3d37.7868703!4d-122.42821">1700 Laguna St, SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4156587388">(415) 658-7388</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://chika-sake.com/">chika-sake.com</a></p>

This diminutive Japantown spot specializes in buta no kakuni, a stewed pork belly with soy-cured tamago. The restaurant’s chef cooks the pork for hours to conjure deep umami flavors, which makes for a fitting pairing to the selection of craft sake on tap. The Hokkaido Hotate scallops and uni are also solid choices.

<p>This diminutive Japantown spot specializes in buta no kakuni, a stewed pork belly with soy-cured tamago. The restaurant’s chef cooks the pork for hours to conjure deep umami flavors, which makes for a fitting pairing to the selection of craft sake on tap. The Hokkaido Hotate scallops and uni are also solid choices.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-bissap-baobab"><strong>3. Bissap Baobab</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-3-bissap-baobab"><strong>3. Bissap Baobab</strong></h2>

📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/2243+Mission+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f7e3c9bb2917d:0xd157bde98d4ee1b6?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTi67M6Jr8AhWNT2wGHfCrC-AQ8gF6BAgIEAE">2243 Mission St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4158269287">(415) 826-9287</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://bissapbaobab.com/">bissapbaobab.com</a>

<p>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/2243+Mission+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f7e3c9bb2917d:0xd157bde98d4ee1b6?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiTi67M6Jr8AhWNT2wGHfCrC-AQ8gF6BAgIEAE">2243 Mission St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4158269287">(415) 826-9287</a><br>🔗 <a href="http://bissapbaobab.com/">bissapbaobab.com</a></p>

Marco Senghor provided a Mission District hub for Senegalese cuisine and Afrobeats events for two decades before <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2019/08/bissap-baobab-owner-marco-senghor-dodges-prison-sentence-in-immigration-case/">a legal battle over his immigration status</a> forced the closure of his restaurant. Then, the pandemic interrupted business at his smaller outpost, Little Baobab. At long last, Senghor has reopened Bissap Baobab on Mission and 18th streets, beginning with a breakfast menu aided by <a href="https://www.margaritaslatinofoodie.com/m-coffee-sf">Margarita’s Coffee</a>. As of Sept. 15, Bissap Baobab restarted dinner service in its sprawling, colorful dining room, which extends onto a front patio. The fufu, a cassava plate served with a choice of protein and yassa onion sauce, makes the new menu shine.&nbsp;

<p>Marco Senghor provided a Mission District hub for Senegalese cuisine and Afrobeats events for two decades before <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2019/08/bissap-baobab-owner-marco-senghor-dodges-prison-sentence-in-immigration-case/">a legal battle over his immigration status</a> forced the closure of his restaurant. Then, the pandemic interrupted business at his smaller outpost, Little Baobab. At long last, Senghor has reopened Bissap Baobab on Mission and 18th streets, beginning with a breakfast menu aided by <a href="https://www.margaritaslatinofoodie.com/m-coffee-sf">Margarita’s Coffee</a>. As of Sept. 15, Bissap Baobab restarted dinner service in its sprawling, colorful dining room, which extends onto a front patio. The fufu, a cassava plate served with a choice of protein and yassa onion sauce, makes the new menu shine.&nbsp;</p>

<strong>4. Gao Viet Kitchen&nbsp;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-gao-viet-kitchen"><strong>4. Gao Viet Kitchen&nbsp;</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-4-gao-viet-kitchen"><strong>4. Gao Viet Kitchen&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<strong>Outer Sunset</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gao+Viet+Kitchen/@37.7636502,-122.4783878,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xbda5fb88a30409d2!8m2!3d37.7636502!4d-122.4783878">1900 Irving St., SF</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://gaokitchen.com/">gaokitchen.com</a>

<p><strong>Outer Sunset</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Gao+Viet+Kitchen/@37.7636502,-122.4783878,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xbda5fb88a30409d2!8m2!3d37.7636502!4d-122.4783878">1900 Irving St., SF</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://gaokitchen.com/">gaokitchen.com</a></p>

After three years of scheming and dreaming, restaurateur Viet Nguyen finally introduced the SF outpost of his eponymous eatery, Gao Viet Kitchen. The charismatic chef has become Instagram famous for his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjOldTagnNa/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=">stylized kitchen reels</a>, which show off Frankenstein-esque delicacies like the “phozilla” and the “messiest banh mi ever.” Gao Viet Kitchen’s soft opening lasts through the end of the year, meaning it’ll be serving dinner only but staying open late—until 11 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends. No reservations, so try your luck on the waitlist.&nbsp;

<p>After three years of scheming and dreaming, restaurateur Viet Nguyen finally introduced the SF outpost of his eponymous eatery, Gao Viet Kitchen. The charismatic chef has become Instagram famous for his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjOldTagnNa/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=">stylized kitchen reels</a>, which show off Frankenstein-esque delicacies like the “phozilla” and the “messiest banh mi ever.” Gao Viet Kitchen’s soft opening lasts through the end of the year, meaning it’ll be serving dinner only but staying open late—until 11 p.m. on weekdays and midnight on weekends. No reservations, so try your luck on the waitlist.&nbsp;</p>

Honey-lacquered duck is a new dish on Marlena's tasting menu. | Dana Plucinski/Marlena


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Marlena_HoneyLacquered-Duck-2-scaled-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-78862"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Honey-lacquered duck is a new dish on Marlena's tasting menu. | Courtesy Dana Plucinski/Marlena</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-marlena"><strong>5. Marlena</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-5-marlena"><strong>5. Marlena</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Bernal Heights&nbsp;</strong></p>

📍<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/300+Precita+Ave,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f7e456785f1c7:0xbf5588ac96a04902?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwil7eG46Zr8AhXUTWwGHeQ-A0wQ8gF6BAgIEAE"> 300 Precita Ave., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4154005997">(415) 400-5997</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.marlenarestaurant.com/">marlenarestaurant.com</a>

<p>📍<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/300+Precita+Ave,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f7e456785f1c7:0xbf5588ac96a04902?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwil7eG46Zr8AhXUTWwGHeQ-A0wQ8gF6BAgIEAE"> 300 Precita Ave., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4154005997">(415) 400-5997</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.marlenarestaurant.com/">marlenarestaurant.com</a></p>

There are many family-run restaurants in SF and several Michelin-starred gems, but there aren’t a lot of local spots that check both of those boxes. Husband-and-wife chef team David Fisher and Serena Chow refresh their hyper-local tasting menu daily, putting an ever-evolving stamp on California cuisine. In September, Marlena reopened and showed off an interior redesign from SF-based architecture studio <a href="http://amlgm.com/">AMLGM</a>. The earthy color scheme and soft lighting in the new space temper the balance between upscale and neighborhood-friendly feels. Marlena’s comeback also signaled the last day of camp, so to speak. Fisher and Chow were hosting a temporary pop-up, which they called “Summer Camp at Hotel Zeppelin.” The partner chefs have also added small bites inspired by picnics they’ve enjoyed at nearby Precita Park. The “fig newton” gets a Michelin-starred treatment with duck liver mousse and caviar. Damn, that’s a next-level picnic …

<p>There are many family-run restaurants in SF and several Michelin-starred gems, but there aren’t a lot of local spots that check both of those boxes. Husband-and-wife chef team David Fisher and Serena Chow refresh their hyper-local tasting menu daily, putting an ever-evolving stamp on California cuisine. In September, Marlena reopened and showed off an interior redesign from SF-based architecture studio <a href="http://amlgm.com/">AMLGM</a>. The earthy color scheme and soft lighting in the new space temper the balance between upscale and neighborhood-friendly feels. Marlena’s comeback also signaled the last day of camp, so to speak. Fisher and Chow were hosting a temporary pop-up, which they called “Summer Camp at Hotel Zeppelin.” The partner chefs have also added small bites inspired by picnics they’ve enjoyed at nearby Precita Park. The “fig newton” gets a Michelin-starred treatment with duck liver mousse and caviar. Damn, that’s a next-level picnic …</p>

<strong>Union Square</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/55+Cyril+Magnin+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94102,+USA/@37.7849258,-122.4089419,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8085808f628a63f5:0x7ae0dc7c84ec53a9!8m2!3d37.7849258!4d-122.4089419">55 Cyril Magnin St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4153627456">(415) 362-7456</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.kinkhao.com/">kinkhao.com</a>

<p><strong>Union Square</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/55+Cyril+Magnin+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94102,+USA/@37.7849258,-122.4089419,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x8085808f628a63f5:0x7ae0dc7c84ec53a9!8m2!3d37.7849258!4d-122.4089419">55 Cyril Magnin St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4153627456">(415) 362-7456</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.kinkhao.com/">kinkhao.com</a></p>

As the Parc 55 Hilton delayed its post-Covid reopening until May, Kin Khao chef-owner Pim Techamuanvivit had a two-and-a-half year hiatus, broken up by a year-long pop-up in Dogpatch, to chart her restaurant’s long-term plan. And now the Michelin-starred Thai eatery reopened for dinner at last on Sept. 21. The Bangkok-born chef was able to reunite her former chef de cuisine, executive sous chef and even her line cook, while reviving many of Kin Khao’s original menu staples. (The pride of Techamuanvivit’s repertoire, her tangy chicken wings marinated with Nam Pla fish sauce and tossed with tamarind and Sriracha, remain a standout.)

<p>As the Parc 55 Hilton delayed its post-Covid reopening until May, Kin Khao chef-owner Pim Techamuanvivit had a two-and-a-half year hiatus, broken up by a year-long pop-up in Dogpatch, to chart her restaurant’s long-term plan. And now the Michelin-starred Thai eatery reopened for dinner at last on Sept. 21. The Bangkok-born chef was able to reunite her former chef de cuisine, executive sous chef and even her line cook, while reviving many of Kin Khao’s original menu staples. (The pride of Techamuanvivit’s repertoire, her tangy chicken wings marinated with Nam Pla fish sauce and tossed with tamarind and Sriracha, remain a standout.)</p>

Affogato from Delfina, a Cal-Italian restaurant that reopened in the Mission in October | Courtesy Albert Law/Delfina


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Delfina-Affogato_Albert-Law-2500x1663.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86929"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Affogato from Delfina, a Cal-Italian restaurant that reopened in the Mission in October | Courtesy Albert Law/Delfina</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-delfina"><strong>7. Delfina</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-7-delfina"><strong>7. Delfina</strong></h2>

📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/3621+18th+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/@37.7613671,-122.4396824,14z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7e18015358eb:0x92f63a8a08a063e!8m2!3d37.7613671!4d-122.4243616">3621 18th St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4154376800">(415) 437-6800</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.delfinasf.com/">delfinasf.com</a>

<p>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/3621+18th+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94110,+USA/@37.7613671,-122.4396824,14z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7e18015358eb:0x92f63a8a08a063e!8m2!3d37.7613671!4d-122.4243616">3621 18th St., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4154376800">(415) 437-6800</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.delfinasf.com/">delfinasf.com</a></p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-al-pastor-papi"><strong>8. Al Pastor Papi</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-8-al-pastor-papi"><strong>8. Al Pastor Papi</strong></h2>

📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/601+Mission+Bay+Boulevard+North,+San+Francisco,+CA+94158,+USA/@37.7707779,-122.3914399,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7fcfe76c261b:0xd4835a12ad17d38b!8m2!3d37.7707779!4d-122.3914399">601 Mission Bay Blvd. N., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4158008777">(415) 800-8777</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.alpastorpapi.com/">alpastorpapi.com</a>

<p>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/601+Mission+Bay+Boulevard+North,+San+Francisco,+CA+94158,+USA/@37.7707779,-122.3914399,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f7fcfe76c261b:0xd4835a12ad17d38b!8m2!3d37.7707779!4d-122.3914399">601 Mission Bay Blvd. N., SF</a><br>☎️ <a href="tel:4158008777">(415) 800-8777</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.alpastorpapi.com/">alpastorpapi.com</a></p>

Miguel Escobedo has logged thousands of miles in his taco truck, boomeranging around the Bay between beer gardens and high school football tailgates, and catering everything from weddings to the Giants. Four years later, he’s landed a permanent parking spot at Spark Social, a food truck park in Mission Bay. Though slow-roasted pork remains central to Al Pastor Papi, vegetarians can try the plant-based pork, nopales tacos and chile relleno torta.

<p>Miguel Escobedo has logged thousands of miles in his taco truck, boomeranging around the Bay between beer gardens and high school football tailgates, and catering everything from weddings to the Giants. Four years later, he’s landed a permanent parking spot at Spark Social, a food truck park in Mission Bay. Though slow-roasted pork remains central to Al Pastor Papi, vegetarians can try the plant-based pork, nopales tacos and chile relleno torta.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-for-the-culture"><strong>9. For the Culture</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-9-for-the-culture"><strong>9. For the Culture</strong></h2>

<strong>Old Oakland</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/701+Clay+St,+Oakland,+CA+94607/@37.800767,-122.2767756,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f80b9e20cb5ef:0x26aabf1e7ae459ea!8m2!3d37.800767!4d-122.2767756">701 Clay St., Oakland<br></a>☎️ <a href="tel:5102697108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(510) 269-7108</a>

<p><strong>Old Oakland</strong><br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/701+Clay+St,+Oakland,+CA+94607/@37.800767,-122.2767756,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x808f80b9e20cb5ef:0x26aabf1e7ae459ea!8m2!3d37.800767!4d-122.2767756">701 Clay St., Oakland<br></a>☎️ <a href="tel:5102697108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(510) 269-7108</a></p>

A year ago, the Bay Area Mural Program and Kiss My Black Arts collaborated on a striking pink mural on the side of the long-defunct Mexicali Rose, a 91-year-old family-owned eatery, as reported by <a href="https://oaklandside.org/2021/11/18/for-the-culture-will-blend-history-with-something-new-at-former-mexicali-rose-oakland/">The Oaklandside</a>. The painted stucco facade showed off the Oakland skyline, the Bay Bridge and a kid popping a wheelie on their bike along Lake Merritt. Now open as For the Culture, the new restaurant hopes to honor Mexicali Rose and celebrate the Town’s collective identity. The owners will host Taco Tuesdays and regular DJ nights.&nbsp;

<p>A year ago, the Bay Area Mural Program and Kiss My Black Arts collaborated on a striking pink mural on the side of the long-defunct Mexicali Rose, a 91-year-old family-owned eatery, as reported by <a href="https://oaklandside.org/2021/11/18/for-the-culture-will-blend-history-with-something-new-at-former-mexicali-rose-oakland/">The Oaklandside</a>. The painted stucco facade showed off the Oakland skyline, the Bay Bridge and a kid popping a wheelie on their bike along Lake Merritt. Now open as For the Culture, the new restaurant hopes to honor Mexicali Rose and celebrate the Town’s collective identity. The owners will host Taco Tuesdays and regular DJ nights.&nbsp;</p>

Harlan Records is a high-fidelity listening lounge that opened in Union Square in October. | Courtesy Will Herrera/Harlan Records


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/HarlanRecords_BackBar-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85093"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Harlan Records is a high-fidelity listening lounge that opened in Union Square in October. | Courtesy Will Herrera/Harlan Records</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-harlan-records"><strong>10. Harlan Records</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-10-harlan-records"><strong>10. Harlan Records</strong></h2>

📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/18+Harlan+Pl,+San+Francisco,+CA+94108,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808580896f762737:0x630adb08ba70abe7?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwic0PD3-Zr8AhWBO3AKHR83CtMQ8gF6BAgIEAE">18 Harlan Place, SF<br></a>☎️ <a href="tel:6505158024">(650) 515-8024</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.harlanrecords.com/">harlanrecords.com</a>

<p>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/18+Harlan+Pl,+San+Francisco,+CA+94108,+USA/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x808580896f762737:0x630adb08ba70abe7?sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwic0PD3-Zr8AhWBO3AKHR83CtMQ8gF6BAgIEAE">18 Harlan Place, SF<br></a>☎️ <a href="tel:6505158024">(650) 515-8024</a><br>🔗 <a href="https://www.harlanrecords.com/">harlanrecords.com</a></p>

What’s “big in Japan” might just become big in SF. An emerging trend of Japanese-style listening bars—drinking dens that play classic vinyl through pristine sound systems—is moving the nightlife needle at Harlan Records. Spinning LPs until midnight, Harlan Records is an audiophile’s ideal third place, and you can expect throwbacks like J.J. Fad alongside up-and-coming artists like Khruangbin. SF designer Marissa Jade Marsh created acoustically treated “walls of sound” so that patrons can enjoy the house picks free from distortion. The cocktail menu pays special attention to alcohol-free drinks, melding surprising ingredients like papaya leaf tea and bubble gum.

<p>What’s “big in Japan” might just become big in SF. An emerging trend of Japanese-style listening bars—drinking dens that play classic vinyl through pristine sound systems—is moving the nightlife needle at Harlan Records. Spinning LPs until midnight, Harlan Records is an audiophile’s ideal third place, and you can expect throwbacks like J.J. Fad alongside up-and-coming artists like Khruangbin. SF designer Marissa Jade Marsh created acoustically treated “walls of sound” so that patrons can enjoy the house picks free from distortion. The cocktail menu pays special attention to alcohol-free drinks, melding surprising ingredients like papaya leaf tea and bubble gum.</p>

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This is where you need to eat in 2023

Morgan Ellis

This weekend, prepare to take your senses on a roller coaster. With a new night market on the scene promising smoked barbecue in the Fillmore and a “taco takeover” taking center stage at this week’s Off the Grid food fest, the savory aromas and flavorful dishes will be treats to your taste buds. As for what you’ll be hearing this weekend, whether you love it or hate it, the Blue Angels will make their thunderous descent on the city for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-fleet-week-air-show-line-up/">San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show</a>. Keep reading to see what else you should add to your to-do list this weekend in San Francisco.

San Francisco Fleet Week air show lineup revealed for 2023

<p>This weekend, prepare to take your senses on a roller coaster. With a new night market on the scene promising smoked barbecue in the Fillmore and a “taco takeover” taking center stage at this week’s Off the Grid food fest, the savory aromas and flavorful dishes will be treats to your taste buds. As for what you’ll be hearing this weekend, whether you love it or hate it, the Blue Angels will make their thunderous descent on the city for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-fleet-week-air-show-line-up/">San Francisco Fleet Week Air Show</a>. Keep reading to see what else you should add to your to-do list this weekend in San Francisco.</p>

<strong>1. Night Market in the Fillmore&nbsp;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-night-market-in-the-fillmore-nbsp"><strong>1. Night Market in the Fillmore&nbsp;</strong></h2>


🗓️ Friday | 4-9 p.m.<br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/O'Farrell+St+%26+Fillmore+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94115/@37.7833002,-122.432726,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808580b99e5a58ff:0xf0296ff5f9fa70c2!8m2!3d37.7833002!4d-122.432726!16s%2Fg%2F11hb0b70_w?entry=ttu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">O’Farrell Street between Fillmore and Steiner streets<br></a>🔗 <a href="https://kblx.com/event/fillmores-friday-night-market/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kblx.com</a>

<p>🗓️ Friday | 4-9 p.m.<br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/O'Farrell+St+%26+Fillmore+St,+San+Francisco,+CA+94115/@37.7833002,-122.432726,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808580b99e5a58ff:0xf0296ff5f9fa70c2!8m2!3d37.7833002!4d-122.432726!16s%2Fg%2F11hb0b70_w?entry=ttu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">O’Farrell Street between Fillmore and Steiner streets<br></a>🔗 <a href="https://kblx.com/event/fillmores-friday-night-market/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kblx.com</a></p>

Open-air night markets seem to be popping up all over San Francisco, from the South Asian-inspired <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/09/san-franciscos-newest-plan-to-resurrect-downtown-involves-indian-dancing/">Bhangra and Beats</a> in the Financial District to the sprawling <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/16/san-franciscos-sunset-night-market-draws-thousands/">Sunset Night Market</a> akin to one you’d peruse in the streets of Taiwan. The Fillmore has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/22/san-francisco-night-market-fillmore/">quietly hosted a weekly Friday night market since August</a>, and the event is scheduled to continue regularly until Dec. 15. With smoked barbecue, small business vendors and a domino tournament, the Fillmore night market serves as a one-stop shop for local food, art and neighborhood pride in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/22/san-francisco-black-churches-are-on-life-support-in-historic-fillmore-neighborhood/">San Francisco’s historically Black neighborhood.</a> The event’s flier also mentions live entertainment from local artists and the <a href="https://www.westcoastbluessociety.org/caravan-of-allstars">West Coast Caravan of All Stars</a>, an Oakland-born blues band that has previously shared the stage with Etta James, the O’Jays and Chaka Khan.

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<p>Open-air night markets seem to be popping up all over San Francisco, from the South Asian-inspired <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/09/san-franciscos-newest-plan-to-resurrect-downtown-involves-indian-dancing/">Bhangra and Beats</a> in the Financial District to the sprawling <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/16/san-franciscos-sunset-night-market-draws-thousands/">Sunset Night Market</a> akin to one you’d peruse in the streets of Taiwan. The Fillmore has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/22/san-francisco-night-market-fillmore/">quietly hosted a weekly Friday night market since August</a>, and the event is scheduled to continue regularly until Dec. 15. With smoked barbecue, small business vendors and a domino tournament, the Fillmore night market serves as a one-stop shop for local food, art and neighborhood pride in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/22/san-francisco-black-churches-are-on-life-support-in-historic-fillmore-neighborhood/">San Francisco’s historically Black neighborhood.</a> The event’s flier also mentions live entertainment from local artists and the <a href="https://www.westcoastbluessociety.org/caravan-of-allstars">West Coast Caravan of All Stars</a>, an Oakland-born blues band that has previously shared the stage with Etta James, the O’Jays and Chaka Khan.</p>

<strong>2. Off the Grid at Fort Mason&nbsp;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-off-the-grid-at-fort-mason-nbsp"><strong>2. Off the Grid at Fort Mason&nbsp;</strong></h2>


🗓️ Friday | 5-10 p.m.<br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/2+Marina+Blvd,+San+Francisco,+CA+94123/@37.8053418,-122.4324908,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808580d889ed2751:0x55e925e57bb97110!8m2!3d37.8053418!4d-122.4324908!16s%2Fg%2F11gnphq9lm?entry=ttu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2 Marina Blvd.<br></a>🔗 <a href="https://offthegrid.com/event/fort-mason-center/2023-10-6-5PM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">offthegrid.com</a>

<p>🗓️ Friday | 5-10 p.m.<br>📍 <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/2+Marina+Blvd,+San+Francisco,+CA+94123/@37.8053418,-122.4324908,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x808580d889ed2751:0x55e925e57bb97110!8m2!3d37.8053418!4d-122.4324908!16s%2Fg%2F11gnphq9lm?entry=ttu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2 Marina Blvd.<br></a>🔗 <a href="https://offthegrid.com/event/fort-mason-center/2023-10-6-5PM" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">offthegrid.com</a></p>

Sample some of the Bay Area’s best tacos in one spot for Off the Grid this Friday night. This season, Off the Grid’s foodie-driven block parties explore a different theme weekly, from noodles to this “taco takeover.” Sizzling meats wrapped in freshly pressed tortillas and doused in spicy salsas will please your senses and warm you up on the Fort Mason waterfront. If you’re looking for more than just the hot meal, stick around for a drink and enjoy a night of live music, DJs and dance performances while you eat.

<p>Sample some of the Bay Area’s best tacos in one spot for Off the Grid this Friday night. This season, Off the Grid’s foodie-driven block parties explore a different theme weekly, from noodles to this “taco takeover.” Sizzling meats wrapped in freshly pressed tortillas and doused in spicy salsas will please your senses and warm you up on the Fort Mason waterfront. If you’re looking for more than just the hot meal, stick around for a drink and enjoy a night of live music, DJs and dance performances while you eat.</p>

<strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=al%20pastor">The Best Al Pastor in San Francisco Comes Carved Streetside in the Mission</a>

<p><strong>READ MORE:</strong> <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=al%20pastor">The Best Al Pastor in San Francisco Comes Carved Streetside in the Mission</a></p>

<strong>3. Middle Eastern Food Festival in Diamond Heights</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-middle-eastern-food-festival-in-diamond-heights"><strong>3. Middle Eastern Food Festival in Diamond Heights</strong></h2>


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