So, I’ve been watching the construction at Farina for a while. Is it just me, or does this place seem to stick out a bit? It’s not understated Delfina or sign-less Tartine, who will be Farina’s neighbors on 18th Street, that’s for sure. No missing this one. But I was cheered to see that construction seems to be moving along here (safely through permitting hell and neighborhood rancor, thankfully). It’s only a matter of time before we are all digging in to Ligurian specialties—I’m hoping they have a rendition of my favorite dish, a plate of pasta tossed with pesto, cubes of potato and lengths of cooked green beans. And, as the sign clearly states, focaccia will be a major event here. Bring it on!

Also, note that Platanos (the corner of 18th and Guerrero) has papered its windows—what will happen on that block next? Dwellers in the gourmet corridor might as well just put the tow company on speed dial now—double parkers now have two more reasons to plague the neighborhood.