And so the space at 252 California Street lives on: next Tuesday October 19th, the latest incarnation of ~MICHAEL MINA~ opens for dinner. Mina’s menu, executed by chef de cuisine Jeremy Ravetz, will integrate French and Japanese influences. Lunch will be served Mon-Fri exclusively at the bar, and will feature an array of seasonal small plates as well as salads, soups, and Michael Mina Classics, like the well-known ahi tuna tartare. Guests can also choose to dine at the chef’s tasting table, with a minimum party of eight. Dinner will be served nightly, and will be an à la carte menu that will include items for the table to share, and the option to have the chef cook for your table. For dinner, appetizers will range from $15-$29, and entrées from $31-$45.
The design was by Frost Tsuji Architects (FTA), who were responsible for the design of AQUA twenty years ago. There is a dark walnut bar and tables, with an emphasis on organic and natural textures. A highlight of the experience will be the handmade and custom porcelain by Northern California ceramicists Jered Nelson, Trent Burkett, and Scott Parady.
The sommelier is Matthew Turner, and the wine list was created by Rajat Parr, featuring an eclectic collection of small, boutique, American wineries as well as celebrated French and European vineyards. There will also be cocktails featuring hand-pressed juices and seasonal ingredients—the lounge will open Mon-Fri at 11:30am, and Sat-Sun at 5pm.
Chef Michael Mina. Photo provided by Michael Mina.