Here's the latest in North Beach food news. In this edition, a pizza and pasta restaurant plots a move into the former Michelangelo Cafe space; a Nepalese restaurant debuts; an Italian speciality goods store is now open and a Mediterranean restaurant shutters.
Openings
North Beach
Il Cilentano (579 Columbus Ave.)
Our veteran tipster, Al M., is the source of all of today's North Beach tips. First up: Il Cilentano, an Italian restaurant set to open soon at 579 Columbus Ave., in the former Michelangelo Cafe space.
Owner Santolo Esposito told us that the restaurant should open soon, but he doesn’t yet have an official date. He said it will serve classic Italian fare: pizza, pasta, beer and wine, with cannoli and tiramisu for dessert.
We'll keep you posted on its official debut.
Yarsa Nepalese Cuisine (1310 Grant Ave.)
As we reported a few weeks ago, Nepalese restaurant Yarsa has been planning its debut in North Beach's former Chubby Noodle space. It's now open, serving items such as chicken momos, almond cashew curry with lamb, and naan.
To celebrate its soft opening, which commenced on February 1, the restaurant is currently offering 20% off all menu items.
Hours are 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. and 5:30 - 10 p.m. daily.
Sotto Casa (1351 Grant Ave.)
Italian specialty goods store Sotto Casa quietly debuted a few months ago, at 1351 Grant Ave. It offers dry goods like pasta, olive oil, aged vinegar and panettone.
The store is open Tuesdays through Fridays from noon to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. It's closed Mondays.
Closures
Sabra Grill (419 Grant Ave.)
Mediterranean restaurant Sabra Grill, which specialized in shawarma and falafel, has closed, with a "for lease" sign hanging in its window at 419 Grant Ave. A real estate agent representing the space confirmed the closure.
We reached out to the restaurant’s owner for more information, but our calls were not returned. We'll keep you posted about any new tenants.
Thanks to our hardworking tipster Al M.! If you've seen something new (or closing) in the neighborhood, text your tips and photos to (415) 200-3233, or email [email protected]. If we use your info in a story, we'll give you credit.