Former El Paseo chef Keiko Takahashi returns to the public eye next Wednesday when her restaurant Keiko à Nob Hill opens in the old Le Club stomping grounds. As GrubStreet reminds, she won a Michelin star in 2009, so you know this one's on Bauer's to-do list. Back in the day at El Paseo, chef was known for blending modern and classical Japanese cuisine with French technique. You'll see that signature style in play again within Keiko's two main dining rooms, where guests will choose between four- or five-course tasting menus, costing about $80. At the same time, the substantial 20-seat bar area will serve a totally different menu and vibe, hinging around an a la carte Japanese izakaya menu. According to Inside Scoop, they've re-hired much of the old kitchen crew from the Michelin-starred El Paseo days, and Takahashi's husband and co-owner Seigo Takei has brought along his notable collection of 5,000+ wines. Popping vintage bottles on a whim for the by-the-glass list isn't out of the question.
When the restaurant opens next week, diners will notice the layout, molding and original bones of the space are still intact, although the feel has shifted considerably. Reservations will be extremely limited in the early going, so keep your eye on Open Table to see when seats become available. Complete lunch and dinner hours will probably begin in late November or early December. Look for movement on the website splash page too.
· Keiko à Nob Hill comes into focus, is due next week [ISSF]
· Keiko à Nob Hill to Open Next Week, November 9 [GrubStreet]
· The Six Big Deal Restaurants To Watch [~ ESF ~]