The San Francisco food scene is heating up with some exciting restaurant transformations that are breathing new life into beloved local spaces. El Techo, the iconic rooftop bar in the Mission District, is set to reopen as Cubita, a Cuban-inspired restaurant and bar that promises to transport diners straight to the vibrant streets of Havana.

Restaurateur Adriano Paganini, known for his innovative dining concepts, is behind the transformation. The space has been thoughtfully redesigned with checkerboard floors, palm trees, and a vintage Havana aesthetic that captures the nostalgic charm of Cuba’s bygone era.

The menu at Cubita is a tantalizing exploration of Cuban cuisine, featuring small plates that blend traditional flavors with contemporary flair. Guests can expect delights like tostones, grilled mojo-marinated chicken wings, and empanadas de ropavieja – a creative take on Cuba’s national dish. The drink menu is equally enticing, with classic cocktails like Cuba Libre, Mojito, and Hemingway Daiquiri, alongside an innovative clarified pina colada featuring Cognac.

Cubita isn’t the only culinary transformation making waves. Regalito is also getting a refresh, with Andrea Becerra taking over the family restaurant and introducing new lunch and brunch items like enchiladas, cochinita pibil, and carnitas plates. Meanwhile, other local restaurants are navigating challenges, with popular Italian mini-chain Fiorella filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy for two of its locations and Niku Steakhouse preparing to reopen after a kitchen fire.

These changes reflect the dynamic and resilient nature of San Francisco’s dining landscape, where innovation, cultural celebration, and culinary creativity continue to thrive. Cubita is set to open on Friday, June 6, offering weekday evening service starting at 4 pm and weekend brunch at 11 am – perfect for those looking to add a splash of Cuban excitement to their dining repertoire.