Roy Choi Discusses Locol’s Future and More A.M. Intel

How The Melt failed to disrupt the humble grilled cheese sandwich

With 18 outlets in the Bay Area and former Vice President Joe Biden as a dedicated fan, The Melt isn’t exactly a flop — but whatever happened to the plan to put 500 stores across the country and revolutionize fast-casual eateries? As Backchannel reports, The Melt CEO Jonathan Kaplan may have tried a little too hard to solve restaurant problems with advances in sandwich technology. [Backchannel]

Roy Choi discusses Locol’s successes, failures and a potential nonprofit component

At this week’s Code Conference, Eater editor-at-large Helen Rosner sat down with Locol’s Roy Choi to discuss “what it means to be a great restaurant,” the burgeoning chain’s renewed social mission and a potential nonprofit component. [Recode/Eater LA]

Lower Nob Hill gets a new watering hole

Hoodline reports the former Fly Bar location at Sutter and Larkin is now Miller’s Rest, “a rustic, cabin-inspired” drinking spot with a shortlist of $10 specialty cocktails and a homey food menu. [Hoodline]

Copyright and Trademark now open in SoMa

On Folsom Street, Hoodline also reports neighboring spots El Capitan and Carafe Cafe have softly re-opened as the casual sports bar Trademark and the more buttoned-up craft beer bar Copyright. Expect sports games, TVs, boozy boba, Frozen Kuhsterd treats and food by Filipino pop-up Alchemy SF. [Hoodline]