San Francisco’s culinary landscape continues to evolve, offering residents and visitors an array of new dining experiences. Here are some of the latest establishments making waves in the city’s food scene.
The Happy Crane
Located in Hayes Valley, The Happy Crane has quickly garnered attention for its modern take on Chinese cuisine. Chef James Yeun Leong Parry blends Cantonese, Sichuan, and Beijing influences, with standout dishes like crab rice rolls and Hong Kong’s golden coin chicken. The restaurant offers a tasting menu at $120 per person, showcasing the chef’s favorites. Reservations are recommended for this popular spot at 451 Gough St.
JouJou
Set to open on March 6 in SoMa, JouJou is the latest venture from the team behind the two-Michelin-starred Lazy Bear. This expansive 6,500-square-foot French bistro features a marble-topped raw bar, a spacious main dining area, and an enclosed patio dubbed the ‘menagerie.’ JouJou aims to be both a glamorous destination and a neighborhood hangout, offering a diverse menu in a vibrant setting.
Goldenette
Goldenette brings a retro diner experience to Polk Street, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A collaboration between burger expert Wes Rowe and Toast Eatery owner Eddie Naser, the menu features hearty breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and sweet options like bread pudding French toast. Notably, the Goldenette Melt—a double smash burger on rye with Pt. Reyes Toma and Russian dressing—has become a crowd favorite. Located at 1601 Polk Street, Goldenette offers a nostalgic yet fresh dining experience.
Bar Bibi
In Nob Hill, Bar Bibi redefines the neighborhood wine bar by serving as a community hub. Founded by Bahman Safari, the bar offers a curated selection of wines from small, sustainable producers, paired with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Signature offerings include brick chicken with North African chermoula sauce, complemented by Austrian orange wine. Bar Bibi’s cozy interiors and community-focused events make it a welcoming space for locals.
Jilli
Jilli introduces San Francisco to Korea’s drinking culture in the Mission District. Specializing in makgeolli—a fizzy, cloudy rice wine—the ‘sool jib’ offers curated flights alongside bold dishes like tteokbokki, shrimp toast, and gochujang-marinated pork jowl. The cozy, communal atmosphere, supported by friendly staff, provides an authentic Korean drinking experience at 1503 15th St.
These new establishments reflect San Francisco’s dynamic and diverse dining scene, offering a range of culinary experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences.