Bay Area/ San Francisco/ Food & Drinks
Published on July 24, 2017
SF Eats: The Melt Expands, Chez Nous Café Opens, China House Bar & Grill ShuttersPhoto: The Melt/Facebook

Thanks to our network of tipsters who send us the latest intel from the city's culinary scene, here's the latest on what's coming (and going). 

Photo: Albertino M./Hoodline Tipline

Mid-Market: Chez Nous Café
1145 Market St. (between 8th and 7th streets)

This week, we start in Mid-Market with Caffe Trinity's closure at 1145 Market Street. In May 2015, we reported on the café's opening, which took over the empty spot on the ground floor of a high-rise apartment.

At the time, Hoodline spoke with then-owner Jon Atkins, who was hoping to "strike a chord with the neighborhood’s working class and those who 'appreciate simple but hearty meals.'"

Photo: Albertino M./Hoodline Tipline 

Unfortunately, the business shuttered after two years of service. Now, tipster extraordinaire Al M. alerted us that Chez Nous Café—owned and operated by a Moroccan couple—took over the empty space and has been in business since July 14th.

Al said customers can expect to find coffee from Santa Cruz roaster Verve Coffee, along with "handcrafted parties delivered by a local bakery." In addition to breakfast items, customers can also also pick up sandwiches and salads.

The new café is open Monday to Friday, 7am–7pm, and on weekends from 10am to 6pm. 

Photo: The Melt/Facebook

Financial District: The Melt
455 Market St. (at 1st)

Joe Biden's favorite grilled cheese joint is expanding. "It looks like The Melt has no plans of slowing down," Al said. "They just signed a lease at 455 Market St., next to Fog City News and Starbucks. It's barebones inside for now, but expect construction to be end of the month."

In May, we reported that the sandwich group was opening its second location in the Tenderloin at 925 Market Street, following the closure of its headquarters in SoMa. 

There's no word yet on its website or Facebook page to indicate when the third spot will officially open. In the meantime, visit The Melt's other location at 1 Embarcadero Center and the Tenderloin location in August, according to the website. 

North Beach: Burger Shack
2237 Powell St. (at Vandewater St.)

Over in North Beach, Al told us that China House Bar & Grill was closing up shop and becoming "Burger Shack." 

"One of the co-owners, Raymond, said they'll retain the place somewhat the same as before [with] just some re-modeling done to freshen up," said Al.  "A full bar along with more television panels to accommodate sporting events."

Unlike the previous eatery, which served Chinese dishes, the incoming business will be "moving away from Chinese food to accommodate locals and nearby tourist demand." 

The owners are shooting for an August 1st opening date, but we'll keep you posted if that changes. 

See something interesting while you’re out and about? Text Hoodline and we’ll try to learn more: (415) 200-3233.