Co-owner Linda Braz wrote in to let us know that Oakland wine bar and café ENCUENTRO has moved into a larger space, only six blocks away, and become a full-service restaurant. They are reopening on Tuesday May 27th (that’s today!), with an organic vegetarian and vegan menu, including wine-friendly cheese boards, salads, and new entrées. The wine list focuses on small, organic, and sustainable producers all over the world, along with a small selection of beer. 550 2nd St. at Clay, Oakland, 510-832-9463.
Berkeleyside Nosh reports that SUSHI BANZAI in Berkeley has closed. Chef and owner Hide Nagano has decided to retire (they’ve been open since 1989!), and closed his doors with a party for regulars, according to Chowhound. ABC license activity reveals that the new taker for the space is something called SANCTUARY BISTRO, a vegan, organic restaurant from Barry Horton and his wife Jennifer. 1019 Camelia St. at 10th St., Berkeley.
The bar at the new Encuentro. Photo courtesy of Linda Braz.
