Inner Sunset Business: Cold Fish To Replace Hot Dogs, 'Gorkha Kitchen' Grand Opening, More

Inner Sunset Business: Cold Fish To Replace Hot Dogs, 'Gorkha Kitchen' Grand Opening, MorePhotos: Walter Thompson/Hoodline
Walter Thompson
Published on April 20, 2017

Like the sand dunes that once covered parts of the district, the Inner Sunset's business landscape continues to shift and reshape itself.

This week, two new eateries near the center of the strip are preparing to open, but one of them — like a previous tenant — may have neglected to obtain the proper permits for its new electric sign. For those details, and other highlights from the 9th Avenue and Irving Street area, read on.


Inside the new Poke Origin, formerly Takyua.

Poke Origin (716 Irving St.)

After two months in operation, Japanese hot dog emporium Takuya abruptly shuttered in recent days. Thanks to tipsters Patty C., Michael Y. and Garrick S., we've learned that the spot is being reborn as Poke Origin

Cyrus S., one of the principals involved, said the eatery plans to softly open on Saturday and that Takuya has relocated to Stonestown Mall.

Along with appetizers like kimchi, taro chips and seaweed salad, the new restaurant will offer 18 different types of protein served over bases like rice, kelp noodles and nachos. Regular three-scoop servings will go for $9.95, and five scoops for $12.95.

This Saturday, as part of the opening, customers will receive free lobster tail for sharing their meal via social media.

We weren't able to find new permits on file for this address with the Department of Building Inspection, but a new exterior sign has already been mounted, and the interior is being remade with an under-the-sea motif.

Cyrus told us over email that the city has approved their new sign, but DBI representative told Hoodline that the permit Takuya applied for has not been granted, and no new signs approved. Back in June 2015, city officials shuttered a Quickly Tea that opened at the same location for erecting an electric sign without a permit.

Gorkha Kitchen's grand opening is tomorrow.

Gorkha Kitchen (1386 9th Ave.)

Himalayan-Indian eatery Gorkha Kitchen debuted this week in the space formerly occupied by Moo Dees Indian Cuisine, which opened in March 2016.

"The grand opening is tomorrow, but the soft opening is going to find some bugs," owner Laxman Adhikari told Hoodline. The restaurateur — who's hired staff formerly associated with 2-Michelin star Taj Campton Place — said Gorkha Kitchen is "a little bit of casual fine dining at an affordable price."

Tomorrow, "for our neighbors," Adhikari is offering an $8 tasting menu with core offerings like vegetarian momos (steamed dumplings). "Beer and wine is on the way," he added, noting that he's brought on a sommelier who'll do wine pairings once the ABC license is granted.

Gorkha Kitchen will also offer a prix fixe menu: 2 courses for $35, or 3 for $45. Adhikari's Third Eye in Millbrae was recognized as the town's restaurant of the year in 2015, and "I hope we can bring some of that to the Sunset," he said.

Gorkha Kitchen (650-483-8614) is open seven days a week from 11am–10pm.

Lemonade is now hiring for its upcoming Inner Sunset location.

Lemonade (1266 9th Ave.)

Lemonade, the SoCal-based seasonal fast-casual chain, is now interviewing applicants for its soon-to-come Inner Sunset outpost, approved by Planning in June 2016.

Open positions include shift leader, steward, sandwich maker and cashier — to apply, visit Lemonade's job portal. No word yet on when the 9th Avenue location will open for business.

Marrow Gallery.

Marrow Gallery (548 Irving St.)

On April 8, new exhibition space Marrow Gallery opened on Irving Street in the former home of refurbished furniture and home decor shop Delightfully Designs, which closed in February 2016.

The gallery, "a contemporary art project that has sprung from independent curatorial ideas and a love of popular culture," features work by eight artists. An exhibition with multimedia artist Kristin Farr is planned for August.

Marrow Gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm and on Sunday from noon to 4pm.

Thanks again to tipsters Patty C., Michael Y. and Garrick S. for sharing information for this story. If you spot a new or closed business, text your tip (and a horizontal photo) to (415) 200-3233. If we use it, we'll give you credit!