From Korean barbecue to Italian-Argentine fare, here’s where SF’s dining scene sizzles this month.
Meat is grilled tableside at AB Steak in Union Square.
AB STEAK
“In Seoul, where I grew up, barbecue restaurants have grills built right into the tables,” says chef Akira Back. “The experience of cooking meat is just as important as the dish’s flavor.” With AB Steak, Back is bringing this vibe to Union Square. At his luxe steakhouse, diners can look forward to aged beef grilled tableside. “We combine the interactive and communal aspects of Korean barbecue with premium cuts and meticulous preparation,” he says. There’s also a cocktail list of innovative classics and a sophisticated setting unlike any other in the city. 124 Ellis St., 415.421.9014, absteaksf.com
The sleek interior at AB Steak.
VERJUS
The restaurateurs behind Quince and Cotogna are finally reopening their sensational wine bar, Versus, in Jackson Square. The eatery has been closed since the pandemic and recently obtained a liquor license. It will introduce cocktails, late-night service and a weekend DJ. Beloved classic dishes like the Boursin omelet, smoked manchego sausage and pain perdu will return. “I can’t wait to see the marquee menu board lit up again and to welcome the neighborhood back into the space,” says co-owner Lindsay Tusk. “It will be the Verjus that San Franciscans remember.” 550 Washington St., verjuscave.com
Charcuterie at Morella
GIGI’S
A team of industry vets, including Arthur Leung and chef Tu David Phu, are behind Gigi’s, a new Vietnamese-influenced wine bar. Small bites, including oysters, salads and mains like a wagyu dog, are on the menu, along with a selection of wines curated by sommelier Justin Chin. “We chose to open a wine bar versus a restaurant because we wanted to create something unique,” says Leung. “We also felt that the neighborhood and physical space are the perfect location for a more casual wine bar, something that people could come back to over and over again.” 299 Divisadero St., meetatgigis.com
Look for great bites at Verjus in Jackson Square.
MORELLA
A recently debuted chef-driven gathering spot is now serving the Marina. Morella, named for the morel mushroom, celebrates the intersection of Argentinian and Italian food. “Guests can expect a vibrant, colorful space with layers of textures, arts and furnishings to mimic the cultures on our menu,” says co-owner Kingston Wu. “Our food menus will change with the season,” says chef Jesus Dominguez, who recommends the squid ink ravioli stuffed with Dungeness crab, gnocchi with pancetta and whole Spanish jamon Iberico de bellota leg. 2001 Chestnut St., morellasf.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF AB STEAK; COURTESY OF BRANDS; COURTESY OF BRANDS; MORELLA PHOTO BY ALBERT LAW
