Here’s some good news for fans of THE ORBIT ROOM: after closing in April following the death of owner Jay Johnson, Scoop is now reporting that the bar is coming back, and without too many changes.
Friends of Johnson’s, Courtney Ross and Nic DiLillo, are the new owners, and they don’t plan to mess with the formula very much. (Ross, who was a line cook at Harris’ Restaurant, is handling the food, and DiLillo, a bar manager from the Tempest, is overseeing the cocktails.) They’ll add a new layer of paint and make some repairs, and hope to streamline the drinks so they get made a little faster. They’ll also be adjusting the food to make it more consistent, and there’s talk of special rotating “nights,” like Meatball Mondays and Taco Tuesdays. The liquor license transfer is currently under way, and the plan is to open in the next few weeks. 1900 Market St. at Laguna St.
Not too far away, at MAVEN in the Lower Haight, the talented and delightful Kate Bolton, an original employee who became a valued equity partner, has decided to leave after four strong years (she has a new child and husband and wants to take a little time away from work to spend it with family). Her last shift is expected to be October 29th, so be sure to raise a glass to this fabulous bar manager! Taking over her role will be Tim Hagney, who has been there for the past two years and will continue to develop innovative cocktails. Cheers to all! 598 Haight St. at Steiner, 415-829 7982.
