All openings, big and small, get served up on a regular basis by The Dish. Spot a newcomer in your neighborhood? Send it along, would you?
1) Western Addition: Just as planned, Minibar finally debuted over the weekend. Local artwork adorns the walls, there are two booths upon entering, a lounge area in the back, and as you can see from the interior shot, a mere handful of seats at the bar. Open daily, plus happy hour. 837 Divisadero, near McAllister; (415) 525-3565 [EaterWire]
2) Palo Alto: We mentioned Joya way back in June, and down on University Avenue, it opened today for lunch and dinner service. Fabrice Roux (once of Grand Cafe) is the executive chef, and the cuisine at the 130-seater is influenced mostly by Spain. 339 University Avenue, Palo Alto; (650) 853-9800; website [EaterWire]
3) North Beach: Fresh off some new signage, Lou's at the Square (formerly Avenue G) remains very much under construction, but as of this weekend past, the bar area is open nonetheless. So many questions, but the place is certified: half-open. The main show remains a couple weeks out. Until then, the paint fumes only add to the experience. 1570 Stockton Street, at Union; (415) 989-0399 [EaterWire]
4) The Richmond: Speaking of concept remodels, plywood vet Sake Zone has completed its transformation from tea/boba shop Bubble Zone. Alcohol is always much more profitable, isn't it? 1115 Clement Street, between 12th Ave and Park Presidio; (415) 668-8666 [EaterWire]
5) SoMa: It's not quite certified open just yet (for now), but the new version of Mercury Lounge had its soft opening this weekend. From the inbox: "Walking up 12th by Folsom and noticed lights and people inside Mercury in the old Sneaky Tiki/Hamburger Mary's space. Could it be open so soon? Nope, a note on the door said "private party." But the paper's off the windows and the lights are on, and the restaurant is all set up, with tables, plates and everything. The space looks nice enough but a little, well, underwhelming -- the same greenish paint as Tiki as well as the same goofy wall decoration in the entry. Perhaps they're not done, or maybe the menu will be so spectacular we won't notice..." 1582 Folsom Street, at 12th Street, (415) 551-1582; website [EaterWire]
