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Scott on the Today Show
Chef Ryan Scott has been behind a few closures (West Portal Market & Rye and Mason), but now the Top Chef alum is focusing on an opening. Come fall, Scott is bringing an American comfort food tavern called Finn Town to the Castro. Apparently the Castro was known as Finn Town in the 1850s for its Finnish roots, which explains the name, though the menu will be decidedly American with dishes like Gruyere popovers, crab tater tots, and sweet tea-brined fried chicken. Everything will be under $25, and Scott will be making all breads and desserts in house, which is no small feat. The space has two bars, so the cocktail menu, created by Fifty Fifty Cocktail Company (Bergerac, The Dorian) will be robust.
Jim Maxwell of Architects II (Tribune Tavern) is behind the design, and he’s worked with Scott before on his past projects. Beyond the two bars, there will be large communal tables and banquettes that line the dining room. Scott’s partner in the project is Rick Hamer, and Michael Ploetz will be the general manager.