Indian Paradox

"Cozy neighborhood wine bar Indian Paradox is showing off a funky, refreshing new look after three years at 258 Divisadero. New interiors by artist Lorena Zertuche (also a co-owner of the restaurant Loló — see the resemblance?) reflect Indian Paradox’s playful side, and they arrive along with a new, four-course tasting menu and wine pairing option. The name of owner/sommelier Kavitha Raghavan’s restaurant refers to the purported difficulty of pairing Indian fare with wine, a task Raghavan makes appear rather effortless. Her new chef, Maribel Palomo, is preparing classic regional Indian bites and fuller dishes. Those include bhel puri (a crunchy snack of puffed rice, veggies, and chutneys served by the paper cone-full), dabelli (an Indian potato burger with tamarind date chutney), and shish kebabs. The tasting menu is $35 per person and $75 with wine pairings. A la carte options are still available. 'The new decor plus tasting menu projects have been a labor of love and lots of work, yet the most rewarding and fun,' says Raghavan. With the look, she hopes to 'recreate... Indian streets in their most vibrant form.' Raghavan’s redesigned bar seats six with table seating for up to 18. The emphasis is on drop-in diners, so no reservations. Hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. A popular brunch served Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. features masala omelettes and soft scrambled eggs akuri, a classic Parsi breakfast item served with buttered toast. And in January, Raghavan and Palomo will extend that brunch to Sundays, too." - Caleb Pershan

"Indian Paradox has been updated with bold colors, new lighting, and art installations. The wine bar has introduced a four-course tasting menu with optional wine pairings." - Janelle Bitker