After an excruciating-to-many two year closure, the Gold Mirror, which opened on Taraval in 1969, is back, and it is all but unrecognizable — at least as far as the interiors are concerned. Gone are the faux brick walls with 3D battlements that called to mind a middle school production of “Camelot.” In their place is decorative molding, color-drenched in a moody merlot, with oxblood marble to match. It’s a handsome remodel, although noise ricochets around the space in a most alarming way. Regulars will be pleased that the red sauce classics are reliable, although some fan favorites have departed. Not to worry: Veal saltimbocca ($42) isn’t listed on the menu, but the kitchen will make it for you if you ask nicely (and you should).
Gold Mirror. 800 Taraval St., San Francisco. thegoldmirrorsf.com
Last week I wrote about Via Aurelia, the marquee new restaurant at Mission Rock that screams “expense account” in a Tuscan accent. On the other end of the price spectrum is Quik Dog, the burger-and-fries spot from the cocktailians at Trick Dog. It opened two weeks ago a block away. The signature Quik Dog burger, similar in concept to Hot Dog Bills’ burgerdog, is $14, as is the very tasty double-patty smash burger, which is served on a seeded hot dog bun. Order Trick Dog’s “famous kale salad” ($13), so heavily showered with Parmesan that the greens are barely visible, to round out your meal.
Quik Dog. 1023 3rd St. Suite E, San Francisco. quikdogsf.com
Earlier this month I attended an incredibly charming popup in the backyard of a private residence in Cole Valley, a collab between Little Dishes (Angie Zheng) and Bar Turtle (Chris Tse). Both are originally from Shanghai, and the tight menu featured dishes like a lion’s head meatball and luo song tang, a Shanghainese tribute to borscht. I especially liked the sliced pork cheek with a gingery dipping sauce ($12) and a simple dish of yellow-fleshed sweet potatoes, blanketed with scallions and ginger ($7)…