Katsu Pop-Up Kiri to Open Permanent North Beach Restaurant

The new restaurant will be located at 510 Union St., a space that has seen recent turnover. The address was previously home to Chubby Noodle, which closed in April 2025, and before that, Don Pisto's. Kiri's move to a permanent location reflects a broader trend of pop-up businesses establishing long-term roots in San Francisco, some aided by city initiatives like the "Vacant to Vibrant" program designed to revitalize downtown storefronts. The name "Kiri," which is Japanese for "fog," is a direct tribute to the city of San Francisco. Co-owners Brian Ishii and Brian Jackson Lee are both San Francisco natives with family histories in the city stretching back at least five generations. The duo met while working together at the acclaimed Mission District izakaya, Rintaro, where Ishii served as sous chef and Lee worked in the front of house. While the pop-up gained a following for its katsu sandos and karaage, the permanent location will transition to a Japanese izakaya format. This will allow for an expanded menu of shareable, nostalgic Japanese pub-style dishes, including beef teriyaki and fresh sashimi. To help fund the buildout, which includes cosmetic work and new kitchen equipment, the owners have launched a Kickstarter campaign. Kiri is joining a North Beach neighborhood that, while famous for its Italian-American heritage, is experiencing a culinary renewal with a growing diversity of cuisines. The area is now home to a mix of classic establishments and trendy new spots, including other Japanese concepts. This move signals a significant step for the Kiri brand, transitioning from temporary residencies around the city to a fixed presence in a competitive and evolving dining landscape.