The Marina has just gotten a taste of South American flare paired with Italian sophistication with the opening of Morella, a new Argentinian-Italian restaurant. According to
SF Eater
, the establishment welcomed its first diners on Saturday, November 9, taking over the space once occupied by the Dorian at 2001 Chestnut St. The latest project from Proof Positive group introduces an interesting twist to local dining options, blending Argentinian asado techniques with Italian pasta finesse.
Chef Jesus Dominguez, who brings over a decade of experience from the Michelin-starred Taj Campton Place, proudly helms the kitchen. “Argentinians really do enjoy doing their asado,” Dominguez told
SF Eater
in a statement, highlighting the cultural importance of the tradition. Morella aims to not only serve meals but to capture the shared experience of gathering around the grill. The wood-fired grill itself is an impressive $6,000 piece of equipment, ready to cook up a variety of meats, from sausages to rib-eyes, imbued with the authentic smoky flavor prized in Argentinian barbecues.
Morella’s official website
reveals a menu that delves into dishes such as pancetta gnocchi, crab-stuffed squid ink ravioli, and a special Milanese with Dungeness crab. Keeping up with the indulgence, hand-sliced Iberian ham, bone marrow crostini, and porchetta sliders adorn the starter selections. The co-owners Sean Doolan and Shane Caudill, the minds behind the bar program, infused the drinks list with a good deal of playfulness, featuring a house spritz, the “Caffetini” loaded with yerba mate and cold brew, and the iconic Fernet con Coca, spotlighting Argentine cocktail culture.
With its vibrant interior design defined by bold colors and lush patterns that resonate with Argentina’s immigrant history, Morella invites patrons to immerse in a full dining experience. The establishment aims to become a neighborhood staple where both the bar and lounge can be spaces to enjoy a casual drink or indulge in a full dinner service, as mentioned on
Morella’s website
. Additionally, whiskey enthusiasts can look to join the Smoked Spirit Society, offering a curated collection of single barrels and VIP member experiences. Here, members are given to regularly engage in a community of fellow aficionados, helping them fully realize their passion for spirits.
Service at Morella operates from Tuesday to Sunday, starting from the early evening until late hours, with options for dining reservations available online. This new spot doesn’t just promise to serve up a plate – it serves a crossing of cultures. As
Morella’s story
highlights, they celebrate a convergence of cultures brought by mass migrations, now represented through the dishes they serve and the ambiance they’ve crafted. For further details and to peek at the full menu’s selection, interested parties can visit their website or follow their social media feed on Instagram.
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