Union Street's getting over its longtime fear of popped collars and allowing five— five!— new restaurants onto an eight-block stretch between Van Ness and Steiner. New restos have been banned since the late '80s for fear of turning the area into an obnoxious party scene populated by "frat boys." (Why is this in quotes?) But now, with the area losing its charm due to stagnation, Supervisor Michela Alioto-Pier is calling for eateries to return to Union, in hopes of brining in new money and visitors. While her original proposal permitting 10 new restaurants was parleyed down, the Planning Commission gave the reduced plan their rubber stamp— unanimously, no less. The catch: bar areas have to be no more than 20 percent of the business, and the restaurants have to close by midnight. Renewed party scene: firmly in check.
· Union Street eatery ban fading [SF Examiner]
[Photo courtesy Flickr photog ping ping]
Loading comments...