2 weeks Ago By Steven Bracco
The Castro's newest Argentinian restaurant Flora King opened earlier this month at 4248 18th Street, formerly Vico Cavone, and we have some photos to share.Vico Cavone closed last year amidst a dispute between its owners. The more fast-casual Firewood closed in 2019 in this location after 22 years in the Castro.
As Hoodline previously reported, Flora King is owned by the wife and husband team of Angela Pryor Garat and Ignacio 'Iggy' Garat."Flora King will offer an unforgettable dining experience, blending California’s rustic coastal cuisine with the rich, bold flavors of Patagonia," explained executive chef and creative director Pryor Garat.Flora King is now open at 4248 18th St.
| Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline Pryor Garat explained Flora King is named after her great-grandmother. "She was a pioneer in Argentina that came from Scotland," said Pryor Garat. "We owe much to her.
"Remodeling inside the space has been ongoing since they took over the space. Upgrades include new kitchen equipment, tile work, painting, and wainscoting throughout the space."The ambiance is something we’re especially proud of," said Pryor Garat.
"The space has been beautifully renovated and designed to be warm, welcoming, and light, with a blend of California coastal vibes and Patagonia home-style touches."Flora King owners Angela Pryor Garat and Ignacio Garat. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline "Think open spaces filled with natural light, light wood, and soft, earthy tones," added Pryor Garat.
"It will be the perfect environment for enjoying a meal with a loved one, friends, family, or colleagues, whether you’re lounging in the dining area or sitting at the bar. The vibe is casual but sophisticated — just like the food."San Francisco resident Pryor Garat says they are "deeply influenced by my background in Fine Art.
" Pryor Garat received her B.A. and M.
F.A. at the SF Art Institute.
"My years at 800 Chestnut on Russian Hill shaped my creative approach to both food and dining, and I consider San Francisco a part of who I am." said Pryor Garat. "I also want to take a moment to acknowledge the recent loss of our beloved art school, which closed its doors during the pandemic.
This is a reminder of the powerful role art plays in our city, and I aim to carry that creative spirit into every dish we serve at Flora King."Flora King menu. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline Pryor Garat explained that Flora King's menu is inspired by California flavors "with a nod to rustic Patagonian fine cooking, using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
""We are proud to offer humanely raised, grass-fed meats, organic eggs, and produce sourced from Northern California’s top farms," added Pryor Garat."Expect creative dishes that celebrate bold, smoky flavors and fresh, vibrant vegetables," said Pryor Garat. "We’ll be pairing these dishes with local wines and wines from Argentina, a carefully curated selection of Sonoma beer drafts, and house-made vermouths — all crafted to complement our food perfectly.
"Entree options include The Bariloche ($28), Francisco's Pork Tenderloin 'Milanesa' ($29), and Tornado Tournedos ($32).Flora King's Patagonian Tapas. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline While the space has been noticeably changed from the previous tenant Vico Cavone, one thing that has remained is the wood-burning pizza oven.
Signature thin-crust pizzas "with a twist" will be available. Pizza options ranging from $22-25 include Caprese, forest, Barcelona, and blue (vegetarian). "We’re adding those rustic Patagonia influences, with flavors and toppings that tell a story of both regions," said Pryor Garat.
Flora King has kept the wood-burning pizza oven. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline Flora King will also feature organic ice cream from Petaluma-based Angela's Ice Cream and in-house-made organic Dulce de Leche. Pryor Garat and her son Ignacio 'Iggy' Garat purchased LaLa's Ice Cream in 2017 and changed the name to Angela's Ice Cream.
"We will always offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can fully participate in the experience," explained Pryor Garat.Flora King applied for a new beer and wine license and has maintained the large bar built by Vico Cavone. Customers can choose from a wide selection of beer, wine, soju cocktails, mocktails, and espresso.
Liquor will not be available because of the Type 41 liquor license Flora King applied for.Selection of cocktails and mocktails. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline "Our master bartender will also be whipping up a fun collection of signature cocktails and mocktails, using the best local ingredients to create something truly special," said Pyror Garat.
Flora King is currently open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm. Pryor Garat tells Hoodline they will expand to lunch and dinner in the coming weeks.The back dining room area is currently closed.
| Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline At this time Flora King is only using the front and side dining room area. The back dining room will be opened at a later date. Pryor Garat said Flora King does not have plans at this time to add a parklet outside.
"We hope Flora King will be a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the best of what California and Patagonia have to offer," said Pryor Garat..
