Katsu Pop-Up Kiri to Open in North Beach
Kiri, a popular pop-up known for its Japanese-inspired katsu sandos and karaage, is establishing a permanent restaurant in San Francisco's North Beach. The eatery has gained a strong following for its comfort food. The new brick-and-mortar location is expected to open in the fall.
The new permanent home for Kiri will be at 510 Union Street in North Beach, a location that formerly housed Chubby Noodle and Don Pisto's. The 2,349-square-foot space is slated to be transformed into a Japanese-style izakaya. The name "Kiri" (霧) is the Japanese word for "fog," chosen as a tribute to the city of San Francisco. Founders Brian Ishii and Brian Jackson Lee are both San Francisco natives with family histories in the city stretching back at least five generations. Before this, Kiri built a loyal following through a series of pop-ups and residencies at places like 46th & Taraval, New Taraval Cafe, and Rintaro. It was at the Mission District izakaya Rintaro where the two co-owners met; Ishii was a sous chef and Lee worked in the front of house. While known for its popular katsu sandos and karaage, the brick-and-mortar restaurant will feature an expanded menu. Patrons can expect a broader selection of nostalgic, shareable Japanese pub-style dishes, including sashimi and beef teriyaki, moving beyond the pop-up's more limited offerings. To help fund the buildout, which includes cosmetic work and new kitchen equipment, the owners have launched a Kickstarter campaign. The goal is to create a welcoming, homelike atmosphere with Japanese knick-knacks and Motown music playing in the background.
