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The sudden closure of Dogpatch Hawaiian restaurant Aina in December, originally billed as temporary, will be permanent. Co-owner Cheryl Liew tells Eater SF that she and her husband, chef Jordan Keao, have relocated to Singapore for the foreseeable future. “It was a tough decision, but one that’s right for our family as we rebuild,” writes Liew.
Known in particular for its strong brunch of taro French toast, spam musubi, and malasadas, Aina began as a pop-up before moving into its permanent home in 2016. Eventually, it expanded to include dinner and a Hawaiian tasting menu, and at one point ranked as a Michelin Bib Gourmand selection for its good value.
But shortly after chef de cuisine Chris Yang departed the restaurant, Aina owners Liew and Keao were called away to Singapore for a family emergency. They originally hoped to return to run Aina, but have changed their plans, as Liew explains somewhat in a statement on Instagram.
The business’ liquor license at 900 22nd Street was canceled this month, and the future of the space isn’t clear. But for a taste of former chef Chris Yang’s cooking, customers needn’t travel far: He’s busy popping up at Dogpatch beer hotspot Harmonic Brewing and elsewhere.