San Francisco's Legacy Business Registry reviews New Royal Bakery and Niu Lung Ting Cafe

The San Francisco Planning Commission convened to discuss the inclusion of several local businesses into the Legacy Business Registry, a program aimed at preserving the city's historical and cultural identity. The meeting highlighted three significant establishments: Black and Blue Tattoo, New Royal Bakery, and New Lung Ting Cafe, each with a rich history and deep community ties.

Black and Blue Tattoo, operational for 27 years, is recognized for its contributions to the local culture. The department expressed strong support for its application, noting that businesses with over 20 years of service that significantly contribute to their neighborhoods are eligible for protection against displacement.

New Royal Bakery, originally founded in 1925 by Italian Americans in North Beach, has become a staple in the Excelsior neighborhood. The bakery, known for its quality French and Italian baked goods, has been family-operated since 1982. Current owner Isaac Monroy continues to uphold the bakery's legacy, utilizing the same brick ovens since 1935. The department also recommended this bakery for the Legacy Business Registry, emphasizing its importance to the community.

New Lung Ting Cafe, a family-run restaurant in Chinatown for 92 years, has adapted over time to serve a broader clientele while maintaining its affordable menu. Owned by sisters Frances Ma and Connie Yu since 1989, the cafe has remained a vital part of the neighborhood, especially during the pandemic, by supporting local charities. The Planning Commission expressed its support for adding this establishment to the registry as well.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for public comments, allowing community members to voice their thoughts on the proposed additions to the Legacy Business Registry. The commission's recommendations aim to safeguard these businesses, ensuring their continued presence and contribution to San Francisco's diverse cultural landscape.