Some really unfortunate closures to report on, starting with FAMILY CAFE in North Beach, who announced they are closing January 29th. Customers have been coming out of the woodwork to say goodbye to this beloved Japanese daytime restaurant, so co-owners Jessica and Tada Furui (along with Ray Lee of Akiko’s) have been a bit overwhelmed and are running out of dishes early, FYI. They are currently open Tue-Sat 12pm-3pm, offering outdoor dining in their parklet only, and no take out. They are grateful for everyone’s love and support. 362 Columbus Ave. at Vallejo.
Across the Bay, the news that Tanya Holland had to close her iconic BROWN SUGAR KITCHEN, after nearly 15 years in business, hit hard. Not only are her legions of fans already missing her epic buttermilk fried chicken and cornmeal waffles, but it’s really tough to see a longtime, Black, female-owned business that has been such a flagship business in Oakland close its doors. Read more in the Nosh piece here. Town Fare, Holland’s plant-based restaurant in the Oakland Museum of California, remains open.
I was very saddened to learn my lunch at DAUGHTER’S DINER a couple weeks ago was going to be my last. The family-owned, all-day restaurant from Justyna and chef Keven Wilson opened during the pandemic, and they gave it their best to make it through. The creative diner fare was so delicious, from the steak tartare to the brilliant warm duck confit salad to the hearty burgers, and will be missed by so many folks who were lucky to live nearby. Best wishes to them. 326 23rd St. at Webster, Oakland.
A tablehopper reader reported the neighborhood organic rotisserie spot, SPINNERIE, has closed. 1401 Polk St. at Pine.
Chef Tanya Holland; photo via Facebook.
