A report by Dana Massey-Todd. As mentioned on tablehopper in January, the former BIA’S on Haight Street is now SPARROW BAR AND KITCHEN. The new project comes from Veronica Lopez and Marc Diebold, with consultation on the menu from Ola Fendert of Oola. They officially opened last night for dinner. Brunch will start next weekend, and lunch should be coming soon. The space, which is larger than it appears from the street, seats 45 in the main dining room and has spectacularly high ceilings, with a mezzanine level that seats 15. In the back is additional seating for 12 at the communal table, which can be reserved for large groups. Last but definitely not least is a pretty fantastic patio that seats 40. Wisely, they’ve made sure to have plenty of patio heaters on the plank deck, and there is seating for both groups and smaller parties.
The menu has something for everyone, starting with snacks like olives ($6) and popcorn ($5) to small plates to share like roasted beets ($10) and salads. They’ve got a burger that’s available with a beef or vegan patty ($13), and the menu is definitely vegetarian-friendly. There are also several gluten-free choices, so bring all your friends without fear. They’re making ice cream and sorbet in-house for dessert, and the brunch lineup includes chicken and waffles ($14) and several different egg dishes.
You’ll find 14 beers on tap, including offerings from Old Rasputin, Pacific Brewing Laboratory, and Linden Street. The wine list is focused on food-friendly pours, and all wines are availabe by the glass or bottle—you’ll need it after an afternoon of shopping and navigating tourists. 1640 Haight at Clayton, 415-622-6137.
The interior at Sparrow. Photo courtesy Sparrow (photographer unknown).
