The Guardian Tours SF Food; Marlena's Santas Return to Brass Tacks

SAN FRANCISCO—The Guardian (UK)'s critic, Marina O'Loughlin, did an extensive eating tour of San Francisco, sampling several dozen restaurants and singling out State Bird Provisions, Tadich Grill, Verbena, Tosca Cafe, and Nopalito as worthy of particular mention. It's a delightful read that will make you hungry. [Guardian]

HAYES VALLEY—Still missing the absurd collection of Santas that used to haunt Marlena's? Replacement Brass Tacks once again has a number of them decking their walls this Christmas, so stop by and say hello. There are also tentative plans to compile a gallery show or photo book of Garry "Marlena" McClain's full array of Santas, worth an estimated $200K, sometime next year. [Hoodline]

UPPER HAIGHT—It looks like convenience store Central Haight Market is undergoing the process to build a cafe next door. No details as of yet on what it'll offer. [Hoodline]

UPPER HAIGHT—Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Dogpatch winery Sutton Cellars' now-iconic vermouth tomorrow night at the Alembic. Carl Sutton himself will be on hand from 4-8 pm to chat about his products, and the bar will be serving up Sutton & Sodas and special vermouth-centric cocktails. [EaterWire]