Sirene, the sister restaurant to San Francisco’s the Morris, has shaped itself into a neighborhood hangout near Lake Merritt. While the Morris leans more bistro, Sirene’s strengths come from its seafood focus, thanks to chef Gavin Schmidt. He hails from Bainbridge Island near Seattle, and grew up crabbing and clamming; that intimate knowledge of the ocean and seafood really shines through here. The wood-fired oven adds another dimension to those dishes. A year into its opening, the restaurant keeps getting stronger thanks to shareable dishes such as pizza and chicken, with a handful of snacks priced at $15 or less.
Pre- or post-game at nearby wine bar Ordinaire for a sampling of their natural wine selections by the glass or bottle. (It is worth stating, however, that Sirene has a decent wine program of its own, and cocktails, should you want something with dinner.) Ordinaire also doubles as a wine shop, so if anything catches your eye, it’s easy enough to purchase something for home later. Alternatively, tag on a Sirene dinner to a movie showing at the historic Grand Lake Theatre right down the block.
Sirene is open during the day as a cafe from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., selling coffee, pastries, lunch items, and (should you choose so) wine. It’s become somewhat of a haven for the laptop crowd but, thanks to its sizable dining room, there are ample tables to find a seat. If you get in early enough, you may be able to snag a coveted spot on the back patio.