6 SF Restos To Try This Fall

By Katie Sweeney By Katie Sweeney | September 4, 2024

From Paris to pizza, here are the new restaurants heating up SF’s culinary scene.

Restaurateur Johnny Love brings Boto to the Marina. PHOTO COURTESY OF BOTO
Restaurateur Johnny Love brings Boto to the Marina.

Bon Delire

When restaurateur Kais Bouzidi ran into issues with his visa, he spent eight months in his native Paris and realized his desire to open a French restaurant in SF. The fruits of his labor have come to fruition with Bon Delire, a new Embarcadero hot spot with a luxe bar, classic French fare and a glamorous atmosphere. “I’m excited about sharing my vision, culture and experience of the Parisian bar restaurant,” says Bouzidi. “So it will be fun.” @bondeliresf

Fiorella

“Fiorella Noe embodies our evolution,” says Brandon Gillis, co-founder of the popular local pizza chain. “We’ve tailored this location—our fourth restaurant—to align with Noe’s needs while maintaining Fiorella’s spirit.” The family-friendly space has a large selection of spritzes, a pizza bar where people can watch the cooks making pies and a dedicated takeout window. There’s also a new pizza, the Florence pie, with Italian long hot peppers grown specifically for Fiorella. 4042 24th St., 415.875.9894, fiorella-sf.com

Key lime pie donuts at George’s Donuts & Merriment. PHOTO: BY JANINA O’LEARY
Key lime pie donuts at George’s Donuts & Merriment

Nightjar

Chef Kim Alter, the owner of Nightbird, recently debuted a sister concept, NightJar. The venue will host culinary pop-ups—the first is a prime-rib-themed menu—and serve as a private dining room for Nightbird. Alter hopes chefs, artists, creators and vintners can come together for unique gatherings at the new space. Of NightJar, she says, “I get to be creative, an advocate, a business person and help motivate the staff to go after their dreams.” 334 Gough St., 415.829.7565, nightbirdrestaurant.com

George’s Donuts & Merriment

Mexican crullers, key lime and strawberry Champagne-filled donuts are on the menu at West Portal’s George’s Donuts & Merriment. Named after owner Andrew Dudum’s spirited grandfather, the all-day eatery serves “as an homage to the beloved treat and their simple yet magical ability to bring people together,” says Dudum. Adds his wife, Lea, “George’s was built by and for the neighborhood with the hope that it becomes a destination where generations make everlasting memories, one donut at a time.” 163 West Portal Ave., georgescafesf.com

The lychee martini at Boto PHOTO: COURTESY OF BOTO
The lychee martini at Boto

Boto

The Marina has a new rooftop hot spot from restaurateur Johnny Love. Boto, named for the Amazonian pink dolphin, boasts a vibrant atmosphere with braised short ribs and rotisserie chicken Galinhada from native Brazilian chef Lucas Freire. “I wanted to help Lucas build his dream,” says Love, who’s in the business because he appreciates “making people happy. Guests come in and enjoy the food, service, and decor. They leave happier after a wonderful experience!” 1853 Union St., 415.655.9096,botosf.com

North Beach Restaurant

North Beach Restaurant, an SF institution that shut its doors last fall, is back. “The legacy of North Beach Restaurant will be honored by preserving key elements that reflect its rich history and cultural significance,” say new owners Peter Fazio and Francesco Covucci. “By blending the old with the new, the space will pay homage to its roots while embracing contemporary dining trends.” The menu features traditional Italian dishes and innovative culinary creations. 1512 Stockton St., 415.392.1700



Tags:

Photography by: COURTESY OF BOTO; BY JANINA O’LEARY; COURTESY OF BOTO