Nomica on Market Will Become Izakaya With Sushi Ran Rolls

Nomica, a Market Street sister restaurant to esteemed Sausalito sushi establishment Sushi Ran, will close this month after a two-year run, then reopen shortly with a new vision as Izakaya Sushi Ran. The new izakaya restaurant will serve a selection of Sushi Ran’s most popular rolls, raw fish, and shared small plates when it opens at the end of November.

The changes come as Nomica’s chef Hiroo Nagahara (a Charlie Trotter alum who also started food truck hit the Chairman) departs for a new project of his own, Bao Hiroo, in Los Angeles. Fans of his food at Nomica have until November 15 to get a final taste of his famed, four-person-feeding chicken in brioche.

Sushi Ran owner Yoshi Tome says he’s excited about the changes in store on Market Street. Izakaya Sushi Ran will strive for a casual, tavern feel, with Sushi Ran’s executive chef Seiji (Waka) Wakabayashi overseeing the menu. Look out for “a few unexpected Okinawan treats to keep things lively,” Tome says — plus Japanese beer and awamori cocktails to do the same.

• Big Changes at Nomica--Chef Hiroo Departing to Launch His Project in LA [Tablehopper]