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The San Francisco Port Commission approved plans to revive a long-vacant restaurant space in Fisherman’s Wharf, continuing their commitment to economic vibrancy efforts in the area.
In a unanimous vote on April 22, the Port Commission approved a lease for a new Salvadoran-themed restaurant called Chasca Rio at 340 Jefferson Street. The action follows a lease approval in February for a new barbeque restaurant at 300 Jefferson Street operated by Everett and Jones.
“The Port Commission’s action builds on the growing momentum at Fisherman’s Wharf, which is the result of Port staff’s creativity and focus combined with investor interest in this historic, scenic, and dynamic community,” said Port of San Francisco Executive Director Elaine Forbes. “We look forward to continuing our efforts in the Wharf to bring even more innovation and activation.”
The Chasca Rio restaurant will take over space that previously housed Pompeii’s Grotto, which closed in March 2020. Chasca Rio – which will offer El Salvadoran traditional soups, stews, pupusas, and fish dishes – is led by a team with roots in Central American culture and have combined more than 75 years of experience in local restaurants including Foreign Cinema and the Vine Hospitality Group. The deal includes an allowance from the Port for tenant improvements.
In a separate vote, the Port Commission took actions to enhance the aesthetic around the Fisherman’s Wharf Inner Lagoon by approving the removal of a vacated and deteriorating deck along Al Scoma Way. Removal of the deck will improve cleanliness and safety, create access to scenic views of the Inner Lagoon, and provide more opportunities for activation and public access near the recently-completed J9 float to support off-the-boat sales in Fisherman’s Wharf.
Since the onset of Covid, the Port has implemented numerous policies and projects to advance economic vibrancy in the Wharf. Examples include:
- Port grants to the Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District to provide rapid investments that will elevate the visitor experience;
- Collaborating with the Fisherman’s Wharf CBD on the Fisherman's Wharf Promenade to revitalize and reimagine the historic Little Embarcadero;
- Rent relief programs for crab and salmon fishers;
- Relocating the Skystar Observation Wheel to the Wharf;
- Advancing plans for the Fisherman’s Wharf Revitalized investment; and
- Opening a new ADA-accessible float in Fisherman’s Wharf to support off-the-boat fish sales.
About the Port of San Francisco
The Port of San Francisco manages 7.5 miles of waterfront that is home to popular destinations and attractions, historic districts, small businesses and robust maritime opportunities. The Port works to advance environmentally and financially sustainable maritime, recreational, and economic opportunities for the City, Bay Area, and California.