New Falafel Joint Opens in Sunset, Frjtz to Shutter

Mediterranean Cafe [Photo: Tamara Palmer]

NOW OPEN — A quick-service eatery in the former Freddie's Nifty Thrifties space that was originally to be called Falafel Jumanh has simplified and emerged as Mediterranean Cafe (3848 Judah). Though bare-bones, the joint adds falafel and its fixins to the growing options by Ocean Beach. [EaterWire]

THE SHUTTER — Belgian fry palace Frjtz (581 Hayes) is to be remodeled by Tipsy Pig designer Gi Paoletti Design Lab and replaced by a restaurant inspired by film and jazz called Noir. The closure of this Frjtz is not expected to impact the Valencia location beyond motivating French fry fiends to hop to a different hood. [ISSF]

WINE COUNTRY — The French Laundry has appointed Michael Minnillo as its new general manager. A veteran of Thomas Keller ventures, he begun at TFL as a young commis and eventually helped to open Per Se in New York, where he's been since 2004. [EaterWire]

SOMA — Cass Calder Smith's design for Twenty Five Lusk (25 Lusk St.) has been shouted out by Architectural Digest. Especially admired are the cantilevered ebony tables that sound too nice to put a drink on and funky stainless steel fire orbs of seduction. [Architectural Digest via Grub Street]