BREAKING NEWS: Chef Gizela Ho, known for her acclaimed work at Rich Table, is launching her own restaurant, Good Morning 96, in San Francisco. This new venture is designed to celebrate seasonal ingredients with a menu inspired by Ho’s diverse culinary background, combining flavors from her childhood in Guam and family roots in Hong Kong.
Ho’s decision to open Good Morning 96 comes after four years as chef de cuisine at Rich Table, where she refined the restaurant’s market-driven, seasonal style. As San Francisco’s dining scene shifts towards intimate, chef-driven establishments, Ho is positioning herself at the forefront of this trend.
In her own words, Ho envisions Good Morning 96 as a casual space focused on sharing, with a menu emphasizing “snacky” sections and only two rotating entrees. Early reports suggest tantalizing dishes including a cold glass noodle salad with spicy shiso vinaigrette, grilled Monterey squid, and a seasonal pizookie for dessert.
The name, Good Morning 96, holds personal significance, referencing a Hong Kong kitchen-towel brand, Guam’s motto, and the year Ho’s grandfather opened a storefront. This blend of personal history and culinary artistry is expected to resonate deeply with patrons, adding an emotional layer to the dining experience.
While Ho is currently in search of a brick-and-mortar location, no official opening date has been announced yet. As she navigates this critical phase, the culinary community is buzzing with anticipation. The potential for Good Morning 96 to join the ranks of San Francisco’s notable restaurants, like its predecessor Rich Table and its offshoot RT Rotisserie, is substantial.
The movement towards smaller, personality-driven concepts is gaining momentum, and Ho’s venture exemplifies this shift. Her background includes experiences in Michelin-starred kitchens and collaborations with top chefs, which have significantly shaped her culinary skills.
As San Francisco continues to embrace innovative dining experiences, the launch of Good Morning 96 is positioned to make waves in the local food scene. The anticipation surrounding Ho’s new restaurant is palpable, and food enthusiasts are eager to see how her vision unfolds.
Stay tuned for updates on Good Morning 96 as Gizela Ho works towards securing her restaurant space and finalizing her menu. This is not just a restaurant opening; it’s a personal story coming to life through food, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!
