The creators of Stoneburner are set to launch a new food venture in Sunset Hill: Lucky Santo will be opening in the former Cocina Esperanza location, which shut down last year after a fire caused costly damages to the restaurant and neighboring Caffè Fiorè.
Fiorè owner Deming Maclise purchased the space when Cocina owner Marcos chose not to reopen. Chef Nikki DeGidio is at the helm of new restaurant, which will be a “haven for people who want healthier food choices.” It’s named for her two dogs — Lucky and Santo. DeGidio has spent over a decade in fine-dining — she spent six years at Campagne and another six at Bastille and Stoneburner.
The menu will cater to food sensitivities, which is in part due to DeGidio’s own severe food allergies. Menu options will be mostly allergen-free: no dairy, grains, legumes, refined sugar, soy and canola oil (unless otherwise noted). They’ll have an array of smoothies, healthy and light lunch options, and grab-and-go meals that can be heated up at home to feed an entire family.
An early draft of their menu includes meals such as “green eggs” with roasted brussels sprouts, root veggie hash, poached eggs and a green tahini drizzle; coconut & scallion prawn ceviche with chili and plantain chips; steamed mussels bacon with collards, vinegar, and piri piri carrot “fries”; and a cold kelp noodle and pickled papaya salad with pulled chicken, shredded veggies, herbs and chili-almond vinaigrette.
Partnering with DeGidio is Chef Jason Stoneburner and James Lechner, beverage director of both Bastille and Stoneburner. Lechner will be stocking Lucky Santo with wine and beer, including gluten-free beer options.
The restaurant will be counter-service only, and will seat 45, including space on the back patio. They’ll offer brunch, lunch and dinner and will be open 11am to 8pm on weekdays and 8am to 8pm on weekends.
The owners are aiming for an early- to mid-December opening — we’ll keep you posted.