Eater broke the story last week about the amazing KITTEA CAFE coming to San Francisco from locals Courtney Hatt and David Braginsky. The idea came from Japan, where cat cafés are popular, and the idea is to create a space where customers can relax and slow down with tea, while in the company of a friendly feline. A location has not been selected yet, but Hatt and Braginsky are reportedly looking at spaces in Hayes Valley and the Mission. They’re working with the Health Department to make sure the project is legal and safe, which will likely involve separating the food and beverage area from the “cat lounge” area. They’re also hoping to work with a local rescue organization to provide the cats, so that they’ll be available for adoption. They’ll likely start crowdfunding soon, and the hope is to open this summer. To follow along with the project’s progress, follow them on Facebook or check for updates on their website.
Famous chicken wing slingers ~SAN TUNG~ are expanding, sort of. The café next door, formerly called NEXT DOOR SWEETS has closed, but in its place will be an annex of the original San Tung. They’ll be serving an almost identical menu, and the owner is a member of the family. The liquor license application uses the name SAN TUNG #2. A call to the restaurant confirmed the expansion, and revealed that they should be open for business in about a month. Which is excellent, because it can get really crowded over there. 1033 Irving St. at 12th Ave.
We got an update from URBAN PUTT, the miniature golf place coming to the Mission from owner Steve Fox. They’ve got a chef signed onto the project’s restaurant, called UP @ Urban Putt, and it is none other than Dane Boryta of the recently closed Bottle Cap. The menu will focus on American classics, like burgers, pizza, fries, and salads. As noted earlier, beverages are being worked out by the Bon Vivants team, with cocktails and a locally oriented beer and wine list, including a custom craft beer from a local brewery. Right now, the plan is to open in mid-April. 1096 South Van Ness at 22nd St.
The POPUP COMMUNITY MARKET at the Bayview Opera House is happening every Thursday from 5pm-7:30pm. Vendors include artists, chefs, and bakers from the Bayview District, including Earl’s Bread, Gratta Wines, and Nia Soul Food. The neighborhood party also includes live music and activities for the little ones. 4705 3rd St. at Newcomb.
OVER THE MOON ICE CREAM AND COOKIES is offering “grand opening specials” this Thursday and Friday January 30th-31st. Both their Embarcadero 4 and Marina locations will be offering $1 cookies, $2 small scoops, and $3 create-your-own sandwiches. Embarcadero 4 will be open 12pm-5pm both days, and the Marina location will have extended hours, Thu 12pm-10pm and Fri 12pm-12am. Two locations: 2144 Chestnut St. at Pierce, 415-395-0055; and Embarcadero 4 at Drumm, 415-445-9107.
It looks like owner Joseph Manzare has sold SoMa Italian restaurant ZUPPA, according to Inside Scoop. The restaurant and building have been sold to real estate investors, and there’s no word yet on what might be moving in. Manzare plans to head back into the kitchen at Globe, and is looking forward to spending more time cooking. 564 4th St. at Freelon.
Kitty loves tea. And Coca-Cola. And your lap. Photo: Dana Eastland. © tablehopper.com.
