As reported previously, the HOG ISLAND OYSTER BAR in the Ferry Building is expanding. Their last day in their current space is Wednesday January 15th, and they’ll be closed until this spring. Once they reopen, the new space (by Cass Calder Smith) will offer 65 seats inside and an additional 60 outside, which should make getting your paws on their oysters and clam chowder that much easier. Doubling your ease, in fact. Other new features include an expanded menu and a full bar, with cocktails from Scott Beattie and Michael Jack Pazdon of St. Helena’s Goose and Gander.
In the meantime, you can still slurp oysters at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market, where Hog Island will have some oysters available on Saturdays (8am-2pm), Tuesdays (10am-2pm), and Thursdays (10am-2pm)—and grilled cheese. And of course, you can always head to the North Bay locations in Marshall and Napa.
A tablehopper reader was unhappy to discover their reservation at ROXY’S CAFE was no longer valid when the place closed last week, and diners weren’t notified. Ends up owner Manny Torres Gimenez is going to be focusing his attention full time on his other restaurant, The Palace. Stand by for news on who is moving into the space next. 2847 Mission St. at 24th St.
Speaking of new owners, this is a small tidbit, but I hear Francesco D’Ippolito, owner of Poesia and DANTE’S TABLE, has sold Dante’s to a new (and first-time) owner. 544 Castro St. at 19th St., 415-529-2797.
In Hayes Valley, it looks like TASTE TEA LOUNGE has also closed up shop. Hayeswire reports that the owner, Vincent Fung, had to shutter because he lost his lease. However, he is currently looking for a new space to reopen, so there’s a silver lining! 535 Octavia St. at Ivy.
The (often crowded) patio at Hog Island Oyster Bar. Photo by Ed Anderson Photography, courtesy Hog Island Oyster Co.
