COMINGS AND CELEBRATIONS
The successful French-inspired Le Marais Bakery & Bistro (2066 Chestnut Street) has expanded to Ghirardelli Square (900 North Point Street) and expects to open this spring near the fountain in the premier East Plaza Apartment House building, which some may recall formerly housed Sharper Image (and way before that, Ann Taylor). Owners Joanna and Patrick Ascaso plan to continue their farm-to-table philosophy, but will offer a larger menu than the Chestnut location and include items like fresh seafood. In the meantime, they’ve opened a pop-up pâtisserie near the new site (in the former Kara’s Cupcakes space next to the Wattle Creek Winery), which Joanna said she would like to keep open as well, as the small bright space has a real European feel.
Congratulations to Ace Wasabi (3339 Steiner Street), which last month celebrated its 20th anniversary in the Marina, packing in not only its regular Marina-ite crowd, but also those as far away as the Mission, who found the neighborhood, we’re told, “a breath of fresh air.”
Barry’s Bootcamp (2246 Lombard Street) opened last month in the former Past Perfect space. Workout-of-the-stars Barry’s has a SOMA location as well as others in New York and Los Angeles, and the Marina location is one of the largest. The studio accommodates more than 50, working out on treadmills and benches with free weights to nightclub-style music, and led by an energetic trainer. Justin Roja, veep of business development (who used to work with Gavin Newsom in the day) says not only is the company committed to the community but also the workout accommodates all fitness levels of all ages and people needn’t feel like they need to get in shape just to take a class. There’s a full-service smoothie bar, plus a kiosk where you can preorder a meal from Plate (3251 Steiner Street), which will be delivered and waiting when you’ve finished your workout.
Get ready to enjoy your inventive taco combos as well as margaritas and other craft cocktails in a larger space after Tacolicious (2031 Chestnut Street) expands into the former The Grove (2250 Chestnut Street) space later this year.
LIVE PIANO AND COMEDY
Live entertainment in the Marina/Cow Hollow neighborhood just got a little more interesting: The Comet Club (3111 Fillmore Street) is hosting a comedy night every Wednesday from 8 to 10 p.m.
Reed & Greenough (3251 Scott Street) recently launched a nightly piano bar. Start time and duration were not available at press time, so those interested will need to stop by for details. We’re betting it will be a popular addition to this sophisticated and popular neighborhood spot.
NEWS ON JEWELS
After 30-plus years on Union Street, David Clay Jewelers (1872 Union Street) is calling it quits in favor of retirement. They’ll be open until their inventory is liquidated, so if you’re in the market for fine jewels, you’ll find some attractive discounts.
Prince Estate Jewelers (2181 Union Street), which has a store in Sausalito, opened another outpost several months ago in the former Old and New Estates space. Yekutiel’s father was one of Old and New’s suppliers, and at press time, Prince was having a grand opening celebration with some beautiful antique, as well as new, pieces.
Union Street Goldsmiths (2118 Union Street) has successfully reopened between Fillmore and Buchanan, just down the street from their previous location at 1908 Union Street, which suffered a devastating fire last year. The space is down a few stairs from street level, which creates a cozy interior for viewing their exotic gems and beautifully set diamonds.
GOT LEGOS?
After the Lego company refused artist Ai Weiwei’s bulk order for his next project, saying that it “cannot approve the use of Legos for political works,” the artist has been swamped with donations. Contribute yours through the sunroof (weather permitting) into the 1997 dark green BMW parked just beyond the entrance gate to Fort Mason Center (at the concrete island) daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The car is titled Collection Point, encouraging public involvement and inviting participants “to reflect on their individual role in defending freedom of expression.”
MARINA GREEN RACE ALERT
For any who have happened to drive to the Fort Mason Farmers’ Market and unwittingly encountered a race, you will know the frustration of crossing Marina Boulevard into Fort Mason. Both of these races will impede access into Fort Mason and will be held rain or shine, from 9–9:45 a.m.:
Jan. 3: Marina Green 5K
Jan. 10: Fort Mason 5K
Note the races are subject to change. Call DSE hotline at 415-978-0837 or visit dserunners.org for updated information.
