Looking for someplace new to try? Here’s your monthly reminder of five new spots that recently opened around town.
Elmira Rosticceria
If you’re a fan of sandwiches (raises hand), this new Civic Center spot from chef Marc Passetti—formerly of the Fairmont—is all about Italian-influenced sandwiches, salads, and breakfast too. Sandwiches include roasted pork with fennel pollen and salsa verde, roasted eggplant with peppers and smoked mozzarella, and the lampredotto (a traditional Florentine tripe sandwich—buckle up). There’s also farro salad, a crispy pork salad, and a breakfast egg sandwich with the option of either bacon or speck. Coffee from Bicycle Coffee Co., check. Beer too! Open daily 7:30 am–7 pm, breakfast until 10:30 am, then lunch until closing. 154 McAllister at Hyde, 415-551-7332.
El Techo de Lolinda
Now open at the top of Lolinda (the stylish Argentine steakhouse in the former Medjool space) is its brand-new roof deck. It's still being tricked out, but there are heated umbrellas and a glass wall to protect you from the elements (it may be warmer in the Mission, but this is SF, after all). Just take the elevator up to the fifth floor, and enjoy the sparkling view of the city while ordering off the casual menu of South American street food (grilled skewers, sandwiches, empanadas, and more), plus cocktails (of course) and beer and wine. Open for dinner Sun–Thu 4–10 pm, Fri–Sat 4–11 pm, and for brunch on Sat–Sun from 11 am–3 pm. 2518 Mission St. at 21st St., 415-550-6970.
Glaze Teriyaki
The next time you’re in the Upper Fillmore getting your shopping or movie or Grove on, you can grab a quick lunch or dinner at this fast-casual import from Seattle that opened in the former Johnny Rockets space. The menu features a number of charcoal-grilled meats (they’re known for their teriyaki) in combo dishes and salads, plus there are vegetarian options like tofu and vegetables, and a number of appetizers. The space has a cheerful look full of colorful reclaimed wood, and there’s a small patio in the back. Bonus: They are partnering with Devil’s Teeth Baking Company in the Outer Sunset on desserts. Open daily 11:30 am–10:30 pm. 1946 Fillmore St. at Pine, 415-590-2199.
Osso Steakhouse
Mmmm, steak. Now open in the Gramercy Towers (previously home of the historic Vanessi’s) on Nob Hill is this swanky, Deco-inspired steakhouse from Jerry and Jennifer Dal Bozzo (The Franciscan Crab Restaurant, The Stinking Rose, Calzone’s, and the revamped The Old Clam House), and Dante Serafini. The Dal Bozzos and Serafini co-owned Boboquivari’s—the locally loved steakhouse on Lombard Street—along with Andrea Froncillo (who is now the sole owner of Bobo’s), so they really know their steak. The menu specifically highlights four- to six-week dry-aged, bone-in prime beef. Go nuts on that menu, Paleo people! Open nightly 5–10 pm; valet is $10. 1177 California St. at Jones, 415-771-6776.
Pisto’s
The short-lived expansion of Don Pisto’s, Pisto’s Tacos, had the plug pulled after a couple days (long story) and is now simply Pisto’s, which will be a showcase for owner Pete Mrabe’s love of seafood and raw bars. The no reservations (well, unless you know Pete), 35-seat space will serve ceviche, oysters, and some cured and smoked fish. He is also going to offer a half-pound burger (to go only) for $6 and have a couple of tacos on the menu (like suadero). The reopening is Thursday May 16th. Open Thu–Sun 6–10 pm. 1310 Grant Ave. at Vallejo.
Marcia Gagliardi is the founder of the weekly tablehopper e-column; subscribe and get more food news and gossip at tablehopper.com. Follow her on Twitter: @tablehopper.