The name of a new, tiny restaurant in Noe Valley, Alcatraces, is also a point of interest. The style of the restaurant, according to co-owner Hal Russek, is light Creole food from chef/partner Glen Thompson. Thompson last cooked at the Oaks Card Club in Emeryville and, prior to that, Storyville Classic Jazz Club in San Francisco.

The name Alcatraces has nothing to do with New Orleans food, but rather is the name of a Mexican lily. Russek is also GM of Enrico's Sidewalk Cafe and will remain there. Look for dishes such as a crawfish-stuffed chicken breast with Creole chicken gravy or jambalaya or crawfish etouffee. Prices at dinner range from $14-$19.

Alcatraces, located at 4024 24th St. (near Noe), has only 24 seats and is open daily for lunch and dinner.