We were a little late on the uptake with this, but thanks to Eater SF, we've got our keester in gear to bring you this news:
Looks like the SF Planning commission approved the proposed changes to Cafe Flore's operation, including having a DJ till 2 a.m. and serving food 24 hours. Neighbors had been worried that the changes would turn the cafe into another bumping nightclub, but owner JD Petras said the Castro institution would have to close down if the changes were not approved.
In case you're a super big nerd about city politics, here's some video of the commission meeting where the issue was discussed.
Before the Dec. 6 commission meeting, Petras told the Bay Area Reporter,
"It is in a lot of danger if Cafe Flore is not able to extend its hours... Cafe Flore is just breaking even. It had lost money the first couple of years; now it is just staying afloat."
But some residents objected to the plans. Neighborhood watch leader Sabrina Chaw said, "It is easy for someone to come be a patron and walk away. We are the ones living here. We are left with the crime, the trash, and the cumulative impacts."
Well, they got the green light, so we'll see who was right by measuring the urine levels on the sidewalk.
Cafe Flore Requests Approved; NIMBYs Very Afraid [Eater SF]
Battle brews over cafe plans [Bay Area Reporter]
Help Save Cafe Flore [Website]
