A new player is entering the San Francisco brunch scene. Early to Rise is setting up shop in the NoPa neighborhood, promising a delectable morning spread from a seasoned chef. Andrew McCormack, bringing his expertise as a former chef de partie at the Michelin-starred Quince, will officially open the restaurant doors on February 29.
In an exclusive former Automat space at 1801 McAllister Street, McCormack's operation will stand where patrons seeking homemade bagels and English muffins to challah French toast, which is made all from scratch, a concept that seems to evolve naturally out of his fine dining background. Running Early to Rise as a pop-up for almost a decade, McCormack told SF Eater, "This was a way for me to focus on making basic things incredible."
The scratch-made ethos extends beyond the bread. Early to Rise features in-house smoked bacon and ham, seasonal jams, and house-cultured butter. Even their hot sauce is a once-a-year homemade affair. While many items are carefully crafted in the kitchen, McCormack is also sourcing outside for certain quality ingredients, such as creamy white cheddar grits from Anson Mills and lox from Santa Barbara Smokehouse.
Maintaining a community-first attitude, Early to Rise is set to be a haven for friends and family to connect sans screens. They're foregoing reservations for a full-service dining atmosphere. A limited takeout menu is on the cards, allowing customers to grab and go, in the future, items suited for travel without compromising on quality. "There's really about just doing the work," McCormack expressed his straightforward culinary philosophy in an interview with SF Eater.
For those thirsty for more than just coffee, which will be sourced from East Bay's Signal Coffee, low-ABV cocktails will also be on offer. The physical space keeps its familiar structure but brightens up with stained glass and hanging plants, aiming to provide a sunny spot for the duration of a meal escape.
Adding to its story and character, Early to Rise collects customer photographs and neighborhood tales, akin to "Humans of New York," to plaster its walls with local charm. For more updates on the restaurant's progress and opening, the public is directed to follow their Instagram account @earlytorisesf or visit their website at www.earlytorisesf.com.
