Chris Wong Turns Around Social Kitchen's Kitchen

Former Luella chef-partner and one-time Eater Hottest Chef contestant Chris Wong took over the kitchen at the Inner Sunset's Social Kitchen and Brewery about a month ago with a goal to seriously turn around the food program. You see, since Social came onto the scene in April of 2010, resident brew master Rich Higgins has done a seriously good job holding up the brewery side of the program, crafting award-winning beers and continuing a monthly brewmaster dinner program. But the kitchen has been a revolving door, and hasn't really carved out a niche for the "cuisine à la bière" shtick they opened with. Wong, who says he's related to some of the partners at Social, has come on board intent on making it happen. See, the website has been remodeled, and Wong writes in to tell Eater he's already switched out more than 2/3 of the menu:

"So far popular items include pork belly sliders with hoisin glaze and pickled red onions (flying out the door!), my secret recipe fried chicken is getting a cult following ( I used to make it for staff meal and private parties at Luella), braised california lamb pot pie with baby root vegetables, and to pay homage to my roots- shanghai pork lumpia with garlic chili sauce and cucumber salad. Throw down some hand crafted beer and people are smiling!"

Wong will also be executing his first four-course, $40 beer pairing dinner with Higgins tomorrow night. A holiday-themed affair, it features dishes like beer-steamed cherrystone clams paired to L’Enfant Terrible ale. You can reserve a space by calling the restaurant.

More importantly, Eater would like to hear if you diners out there have noticed any improvements of late, or sampled any of the new fare. Anyone have some feedback? Do share in the comments or email us here .

· All Social Kitchen and Brewery Coverage [~ ESF ~]