Oro, the Second Restaurant From Commonwealth's Jason Fox, Goes for Gold in Mint Plaza

Mint Plaza will soon fill the vacant space left by Thermidor with the addition of Oro, a casual restaurant from chef-owner Jason Fox (Commonwealth) and partner Timothy Felkner (Vigilante Hospitality, Zero Zero).

Although it won't debut until late summer, an all-star cast of San Francisco industry folks has been assembled to oversee Fox's second restaurant. Travis Day (Central Kitchen, Fatted Calf) will fill the role of chef de cuisine, working alongside Fox to develop the menu— he'll also put his extensive butchery skills to use, implementing a whole butchery and house charcuterie program. Bar manager Randy Mariani (Tupper & Reed, Foreign Cinema) is developing the cocktail list, while Kelly Evans (formerly head sommelier at Saison) will take oversee the wine list. Front of house will be managed by GM Shaundon Castonguay (Benu, Bar Tartine). Given the lineup, it's fair to say that expectations for both food and service will be exceedingly high.

The food itself will be "eclectic California fare," with plenty of individual items like salt cod croquettes with fermented ramp aioli and shareable plates like halibut chicharrones, alongside larger dishes like a grilled rib-eye for two. There'll also be a prix fixe "blind tasting menu," which will essentially be a "chef's choice" affair offering family-style dishes not found on the menu. Classic cocktails, California and old word wines and an extensive beer selection will round out the beverage selection.

The restaurant is currently slated for a "late summer" opening, and plans to serve dinner Monday-Sunday.