>San Francisco Guide to Eating
Name: NOPA
Address: 560 Divisidero @ Hayes

Owned by native San Franciscans chef Laurence Jossel, his wife Jessica, and Jeff Hanak, all Panhandle residents, Nopa has already earned a loyal following. Frequented by neighborhood residents, socialites, political figures, and travelers, the restaurant is just as popular for their California-Mediterranean food as they are for their drinks.

Opened in 2006, the two-story building, a former bank, now houses an open, organic kitchen, communal table and a large bar. The kitchen stays open until 1am, making this place a popular hangout all night long. Nopa’s bar is always active and reservations should definitely be made, unless you’re ok with eating at the bar where you can watch the chefs hard at work over the wood-fire stove and huge rotisserie.

Bartender Neyah White knows how to make strong cocktails (some of which are so special they aren’t even on the menu). With supplies including the recently-released-in-America St. Germain Elderflower liqueur and Square One Organic vodka, White serves up beautifully garnished original creations. In addition to superb cocktails, they have a large wine list containing a number of obscure choices hailing from Italy, California and beyond, as well as a number of heavenly beer options.

The large space seats over 100 people and can get noisy at times, making it great for groups and maybe not-so-great for a private conversation. The on-the-ball waitstaff gives great food and drink recommendations and are well equipped to explain anything on or off the menu. Whether you’re in the mood for a heavy stew (note to vegetarians: try the Moroccan vegetable tagine), rotisserie chicken or just a few specialty cocktails, Nopa is worth visiting time and time again.