The team behind Michelin-starred Ju-Ni in NoPa is due to open their latest project, HANDROLL PROJECT this Wednesday May 18th, the first hand roll sushi bar in SF. They held a soft-opening period (which was predictably busy AF), but sadly had to halt their trial run last week when some team members got sick with Covid (we’re seeing this a lot right now, it’s like December and January all over again—hopefully their staff is feeling better).
When they resume service, the menu will feature 10 different types of temaki/hand rolls, as well as specials and small plates, and a small, curated list of wine, sake, Japanese beers, and non-alcoholic beverages from GM and beverage manager Alice Lee. This casual concept from executive chef Geoffrey Lee and partner Tan Truong is designed to be approachable and fun, while still featuring quality sourcing and ingredients.
The menu has 10 different types of hand rolls, including salmon and sesame (ikura, bonito flakes), spicy tuna (shiso, shichimi aioli, cucumber, gari), spicy kani (tobiko, negi, miso aioli), smoked hamachi (shiso, negi), chef’s poke hand roll (chef’s choice poke, ikura), creamy scallop (tobiko, negi, spicy miso aioli, avocado), and toro takuan (fatty tuna, pickled radish, shiso, negi). The hand rolls will be available in sets of five, seven, and ten. Chef Lee will also offer specials including A5 wagyu (garlic chips, shiso, chives), smoked uni and ikura (smoked Hokkaido uni, ikura), and ikura and ankimo (salmon roe, monkfish liver pâté).
Located in the former AL’s Deli in the Mission (really, this time, this corner space’s curse has gotta end!), there are dual counters on either side of the restaurant with seating for 16 guests, murals from local artist The Apexer, and an airy, modern feeling. No reservations, walk-ins only (use Yelp Waitlist), open Wed-Sun 5pm-9pm. Look for lunch and takeaway kits later. 598 Guerrero St. at 18th St.
Smoked Hokkaido uni and ikura hand roll. Photo: Albert Law.
