As previously mentioned in tablehopper, the former Le Charm Bistro in SoMa is home to a slightly different concept from (mostly) the same team. To recap, the new project is called MATHILDE, and Le Charm owner Lina Yew partnered with one of her longtime staff members, Mathilde Gravel, to refashion the space and reopen it. The chef is Thierry Clement (Yew’s husband) of L’Ardoise, and the menu is classic French bistro fare, with some California influence. Their Facebook page mentions that they are now open for lunch too. 315 5th St. at Folsom, 415-546-6128.
Back in July, we reported on the upcoming COCO FRIO, which is moving into the former Savanna Jazz space on Mission. The new spot is opening today, Tuesday September 1st, after being softly open for a bit. To recap, it’s from Manny Torres Gimenez and his wife Katerina De Torres of The Palace, who are bringing an island vibe to San Francisco.
The restaurant takes its inspiration from Torres Gimenez’s childhood visits to Isla Margarita, a Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela. The idea is that happy hour will actually be happening anytime the restaurant is open, with drink specials and small plates priced from $5-$10, or opt for the three-course tasting menu for $29.99 (or, um, just think of it as $30). Dishes are inspired from island street food and include arepas and lots of seafood. There is also a full bar, with tropically inspired cocktails including the signature Coco Frio ($15) for two, with rum, coconut rum, coconut water, and lime, all served in a fresh coconut. The menu will change daily, but you can check out a sample menu here. Hours are Wed-Sun 4pm-10pm. 2937 Mission St. at 25th St., 415-375-1185.
The newly refreshed interior of Mathilde. Photo from Facebook.
