The Divisadero corridor is about to get even better: Mark Bright and Kris Esqueda (Saison, Markris Wine) are partnering with Nabiel Musleh (yes, that Nabiel) to open VINYL in the CAFE DIVIS space. They are working with the building owners (who operate Cafe Divis) on Vinyl, which will be a casual and comfortable wine bar that will get going around 5pm in the evening (although you’ll be able to order a glass of wine any time of day). Bright is deeply engaged with Saison, so it will mostly be Esqueda you’ll encounter on premise and behind the bar. They are going to be keeping a local focus, featuring domestic, urban wines (they have been touring the Bay Area lately for gems). The list will be compact to start, and will expand in time; wines by the glass will range from $8-$15, and will be served in Riedel glassware. There is discussion of a happy hour, and the plan is to serve until 11pm or so.
They are also going to be offering a dinner menu, with comfort food dishes like lasagna and some roasts, and some snacky items as well—this will grow since they’re just starting with a consultant, but are actively seeking a chef to lead the kitchen program. Some changes will also be made to the breakfast and lunch items in time.
As for the name, Nabiel is going to be bringing in a big part of his record collection, allowing both guests and staff to play music on a record player (kind of like a human-powered jukebox). There will also be a wall of circles, wrapped in vinyl. The communal table (made from an old exit sign for Broadway) is also gaining its own fan club. Look for an official launch the first week of January, perhaps midweek. 359 Divisadero St. at Oak, 415-621-4132.
The Broadway sign communal table at Vinyl.
