Radio Africa Kitchen is one of a growing list of city-supported food businesses on Third Street in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood. It’s all part of a calculated redevelopment strategy to drive foodies to this long-neglected corner of Southeast San Francisco. Yes, there is plenty of the mouthwatering barbecue and soul food you’d expect to find, but Bayview has a lot more to offer now, including at least three places to get a latte. (Is it just me, or is that a key indicator of foodie culture?)
“Welcome to our Bayview. Welcome to Third and Oakdale,” said Mayor Ed Lee at a recent press conference for the restaurant’s launch. Most restaurant openings don’t feature the local mayor, but the people packing this party were mostly city officials. Because San Francisco is this project’s biggest backer.
Radio Africa Kitchen’s chef, Ethiopian-born Eskender Aseged, has served “pop up” dinners at one venue after another over the last eight years. His approach is heavily influenced by his experience at the now-defunct Square One, one of the first restaurants to take classic recipes from the Mediterranean and reinterpret them for the California palate.
Read the complete story at KQED News Fix.
