Some big changes are in the works for MISS OLLIE’S OAKLAND—chef-owner Sarah Kirnon is closing the beloved restaurant concept as it existed and is working on a new, Black community-centered, nonprofit concept. The Eater piece states: “Instead, starting in January, it will morph into a new project called Sanctuary, a nonprofit venture focused on providing a platform for Black creators — chefs, yes, but also artists and other creative folks.” There’s a lot more to it, be sure to read the piece—I have a follow-up call scheduled with Sarah, so stand by for an update in the next tablehopper.
I received a note from Casey Hunt, one of the owners of the new ALLEY & VINE in Alameda, who was previously the director of events at Waterbar for 12 years, along with Francisco Bazo (previously the bar manager at One Market Restaurant for 12 years, and the beverage director at Waterbar for 10 years), and chef Jason Ryczek (also at Waterbar, and most recently the executive chef at Farallon for the past five years).
It just opened for takeout and delivery in mid-December, offering farm-to-table dishes like Liberty Farms duck breast with butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and pearl onions from local farms, and caviar cultivated from California sturgeon on top of a smoked sturgeon quiche (from that same fish!), plus casual dishes like a prime rib roast French dip sandwich on locally baked bread. Take a look at their full menu on their site; there’s also a meal kit for two. They’re also offering craft cocktails, wine, and beer to go—there’s a happy hour daily from 3pm-6pm, and they conveniently have a parking lot for curbside pickup. Follow @alleyandvine for updates. Hours are daily 12pm-8pm. 1332 Park Street, Suite D at Central Ave., Alameda, 510-227-5006.
It’s a tough time to run Oakland Restaurant Week, but they’re forging ahead with a variety of specials from 59 restaurants who would love to see you and have your support, from newcomers like Daughter’s Diner to established spots like Daughter Thai. Specials run through January 18th.
According to this post on Instagram, there’s a new SEÑOR SISIG to-go window in Downtown Oakland at 1628 Webster Street. They’re offering both their original menu as well as their plant-based Señor Sisig Vegano menu. Order ahead for pick up or delivery. Open 11am-8pm.
There are additional updates of new East Bay openings and expansions and moves, like Square Pie Guys, Popoca, Augie’s Montreal Deli, breakfast at Chez Panisse, and more—read this Nosh post for details. Meanwhile, this extensive post has a full lineup of December openings and closings, including the retirement of June Taylor, after 30-plus years of making her superlative marmalades and more (you can read further details in this SFGate piece).
Wherever the Miss Ollie’s fried chicken goes, I go. Photo: © tablehopper.com.
