ABOUT US
Cassava is a visionary culinary project by Chef Kris Toliao and his wife, Yuka Ioroi, rooted in their shared passion for hospitality, community, and equitable restaurant operations. Originally opened in 2012 as a full-service restaurant on Balboa Street in San Francisco’s Outer Richmond neighborhood, Cassava quickly became a beloved neighborhood gem, known for its warm hospitality, globally inspired Modern California cuisine, and an innovative yet approachable wine and beverage program curated by Yuka.
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Over the years, Cassava gained recognition for its commitment to culinary excellence and sustainability, earning accolades such as inclusion in Eater SF’s "38 Essential Restaurants," TimeOut SF’s "Top 45 Restaurants," and various other industry honors. Chef Kris, drawing inspiration from his extensive experience—including his formative stage at Kikunoi in Tokyo—crafted thoughtful, seasonally driven menus that reflected a refined balance of flavors and techniques.
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Yuka and Kris’ dedication to ethical and equitable restaurant operations set Cassava apart. Their leadership and advocacy for fair wages, sustainable sourcing, and a transparent business model contributed to their nomination as semi-finalists for the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s "Outstanding Restaurateur" award in 2023.
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In 2022, Cassava relocated to the historic North Beach district, bringing its signature hospitality to a larger space with soaring ceilings and abundant natural light. However, as the industry continued to evolve, so did Cassava. The couple made the strategic decision to transition from a full-service model to a more focused, high-quality takeout and coffee concept and closed the North Beach location in November 2024.
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Today, Cassava operates as a takeout kiosk and specialty coffee shop in the heart of San Francisco’s Jackson Square neighborhood, located inside the 633 Battery Street building. While the format has changed, the heart of Cassava remains the same: a commitment to quality, hospitality, and a deep connection to the community it serves.
deep connection to the community it serves.