Mike McCaffrey proposes outdoor sound permit for Mister Digby's in Noe Valley

A proposal to enhance outdoor dining experiences at Mister Digby's restaurant in Noe Valley sparked discussions at a recent San Francisco government meeting. Owner Mike McCaffrey presented plans to obtain a new permit that would allow for outdoor amplified sound, aiming to create a more vibrant atmosphere for diners while maintaining the restaurant's core identity.

McCaffrey emphasized that the intention behind the permit is not to transform Mister Digby's into a concert venue but to provide a comfortable ambiance with music at a controlled volume. He reassured attendees that the restaurant would not host late-night events or sell tickets, focusing instead on enhancing the dining experience for guests. "We will not be turning into a concert venue," he stated, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to its primary role as a dining establishment.

The proposal received mixed feedback, with one letter of opposition and two letters of support submitted to the city. McCaffrey noted that he and his wife, who opened the restaurant in April 2021, have received requests from the community for events such as local music performances and PTA meetings, which they hope to accommodate under the new permit.

As the meeting concluded, McCaffrey expressed his desire to continue fostering a positive relationship with the neighborhood, stating, "We want to enhance what we do to benefit our guests and our neighbors." The outcome of the permit application remains to be seen, but the discussions reflect a growing interest in balancing community engagement with the preservation of local character in San Francisco's dining scene.