Its new location seems to befit the more upscale nature of a Michael Mina dining room, after all there weren't a lot of Westin St. Francis guests splurging on the restaurant to begin with and will probably find a more fitting dining room in its Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina replacement. The new Michael Mina dining room in the center of the Financial District oozes of old world charm with elaborate screened entry leading to a dark walnut bar in a design that mimics Mina's previous AQUA eatery more than the Barbara Barry-penned location of before. Dark walnut tables are set with dishes from Northern California Ceramicists that brings a more chunky and organic spin to traditional gourmet tableware. Playing up Mina's Egyptian roots is a soundtrack of eclectic global beats with a nod towards '50s martini culture in a sexy new bar that befits the more dressed-up eatery and crowd to a tee.
The Food
As much a part of foodie SF lexicon as Waters and Keller, Mina offers a new lunch menu of reinvented staples like Crispy Crab BLT with charred tomato, foie gras PB&J and Japanese-inspired burger with Wagyu patty. A new bar scene has unfolded at the eatery, with its close proximity to so many banking and brokerage offices, with Ceviche mixto and Lobster corndogs or pot pie as well as Hamachi crudo and famous tuna tartare with ancho chilies and mint. A chef's daily small plate tasting is also available to share at $39 per person. Dinner includes a prix fixe or ala carte menu option with caviar service, pork belly and clam salad, Kabocha sqaush souffle, truffle-stuffed chicken with foie gras rice and short rigs braised with Mission Figs.
Last Word
Michael Mina hones in namesake eatery in more worthy Financial District eatery and new bar that reclaims his titles as one of San Francisco's best culinary talents.
