In this hyperlocal edition of SF Eats, we focus on two new Tenderloin newcomers; an Italian kitchen that's opened in a former pizza joint, and a new Sudanese eatery that's taking over a shuttered Yemeni lunch spot. 

Dispensa (39 Taylor St.)

Veteran Hoodline tipster Al M. reports that Dispensa, a new Italian kitchen, has opened in the neighborhood. Al informed us last year that a new restaurant was taking over the former La Perla Pizza spot, but it wasn't clear at the time who would be moving in. 

The restaurant specializes in rustic Italian fare and features an indoor charcoal oven—said to be the first of its kind—that uses "sustainable, environmentally friendly fuel," according to its website.

Al said a soft-opening, pop-up-style lunch service has begun "to gauge demand before rolling out with its full lunch menu" daily from noon to 3pm.

While things are getting up and running, expect to see starters on the menu like grilled octopus with Gaeta olives and cherry tomatoes, coal-roasted potatoes with lemon aioli, and spicy calamari stew with tomato sauce served with rustic loaf bread.

From the charcoal oven, you'll find dishes like a grilled pork chop with charcoal-fired potatoes and apple butter, organic pork belly with Brussels sprout slaw and roasted Mary’s chicken with market veggies.

There's chocolate mousse for dessert, along with a selection of sparkling and red and white wines. (You can take a look at the menu here.)

Z Zoul (295 Eddy St.)

As we reported last month, Casbah Cafe appeared to be undergoing renovations after owners worked out a deal with the landlord to remodel the space. Al said at the time that customers should expect to see more authentic Yemeni and Middle Eastern decor once the work was complete.

As it turns out, the Casbah has closed and a new Sudanese eatery, Z Zoul, is planning to take over. 

According to a sign posted to the building's exterior, the forthcoming restaurant bills itself as "the only authentic Sudanese food in the Bay." 

Al wasn't able to reach the owners to find out more about the transition, but spoke to someone attending to the building who said that everything's ready to go except for one final inspection. 

Thanks as always to our effervescent tipster Al M.!

If you've seen something new in the neighborhood, text tips and photos to 415-200-3233, or email [email protected]. If we use your info in a story, we'll give you credit.