POTRERO HILL- A tipster informs us of some turbulence over at Potrero Hill gallery/bistro/wine bar/event venue, Horatius. Apparently they have shuffled through three chefs since opening in June of last year and “just fired Chef Greg Leon on Monday before closing for dinner last week. They also laid off the rest of the staff including line cooks and pastry chefs. Oh and the owners are under attack for failing to grant all employees health coverage and for sexual harassment.” In case you’re wondering about the name, it’s Owner Horacio Gomes’ homage to the Roman poet credited with “carpe diem.” Cue Alanis Morissette. [Eaterwire]
COW HOLLOW - After a drawn-out wait for approval of its impending 1784 Union Street location, Giordano Brothers announced today via a press release they will no longer pursue development at that space. A few things seem to have instigated this decision. The permit that was issued didn't allow customer use of the back patio and chats with neighboring businesses revealed the "vast majority were challenged by conditional restrictions." And so the search for the second Giordano outpost continues. [Eaterwire]
SAN FRANCISCO—The lineup for the 23nd Annual Star Chefs & Vintners Gala has been announced. As in years past, the gala benefits Meals On Wheels of San Francisco. This year, it will take place Sunday, May 16 at Fort Mason's Festival Pavilion. As usual, JBA-Award Winner Nancy Oakes will serve as Gala Chef Chairwoman along with 70 top NorCal chefs. This year’s participants include Aziza’s Mourad Lahlou, Nopa’s Laurence Jossel, Fish & Farm’s Chad Newton, Epic’s Jan Birnbaum, Staffan Terje of Perbacco/Barbacco, and a lot more. Further information available on the Meals on Wheels Web site, although the chef list does not appear to be updated. [Eaterwire]
MILL VALLEY- Carlos Santana's Maria Maria restaurant in Mill Valley shuttered yesterday. The Walnut Creek and Danville locations remain open. No word yet as to what will take its place. [Eaterwire]
THE RICHMOND - Via SFoodie comes news that Sutro Heights diner, Louis' restaurant, is struggling to stay above water. The joint has been owned by the Hontalas family since the 1930s. Bleeding hearts can make a statement on their Facebook page, sign a petition or attend the rally on April 17. [SFoodie]
