Eater Tastings : Openings Mania: Hutong, Padrecito, Bi-Rite Divis, The Alchemist, Umami Burger Palo Alto, More!

× Like us and you'll find top breaking news in your Facebook newsfeed. Sign up for our daily email newsletter and get top stories and breaking news delivered to your inbox. Friday, March 15, 2013, by Sally Kuchar

Hutong. [Photo: Patricia Chang]

COW HOLLOW—It's been a massive week of openings. First up: Hutong, the artist formerly known as Betelnut; check out the graffiti-inspired decor and the new pan-Asian menu from chef Alexander Ong.

COLE VALLEY—Padrecito, the new Mexican spot from the Mamacita, Umami, and Tipsy Pig team in the former EOS space, was next to open, on Tuesday; we've got photos and a menu from there as well.

WESTERN ADDITION/NOPA—The Divis corridor rejoiced as long-awaited Bi-Rite Market opened the doors on its second location on Wednesday, with Bi-Rite Creamery tucked inside the store this time.

BERKELEY—We sat down with Monica Rocchino of The Local Butcher Shop, who told us how she and husband Aaron navigated their first year and why meat is as seasonal as veggies.

THE MISSION/PALO ALTO—Three more openings in this busy week: SOMA bar The Alchemist, run by a Gitane alum; Umami Burger's new Palo Alto location; and the rebirthed Charles Chocolates, now housed in a factory/retail space in the Mission.

SAN FRANCISCO—We attempted to discern the latest in food trends from peering inside the home fridges of six local chefs and culinary folks.

BAY AREA—It looks like Top Chef: All-Stars winner and Atlanta burger impresario Richard Blais is going to be moving to the Bay Area and starting a restaurant here.

AWARDS SEASON—Today's the last day to nominate your favorite under-30 culinary professional for the Eater Young Guns awards. Help SF bring home one of the prizes, won't you?

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