Finnegan's Wake owners seek approval for backyard performance area

In a recent meeting held by the San Francisco City Commission, discussions centered around the formalization of a live performance area at Finnegan's Wake, a bar with a rich history in the community. Owners Dan Surratt and Tom Frankel presented their case for the establishment, emphasizing the need for a designated space for amplified sound, primarily for memorials and community events.

Frankel, who has been a part of the San Francisco bar scene since 1976, shared anecdotes about the bar's history and its significance to the local community. He highlighted the challenges faced over the years, including lease issues that led to temporary closures. The owners expressed their desire to enhance the bar's outdoor area to better serve patrons and honor the memories of those commemorated through events held there.

The discussion also included a proposal to showcase a video that documented the space's use over time, including its legacy as Maude's, the first lesbian bar in San Francisco. This historical context underscores the bar's importance not only as a business but as a cultural landmark within the city.

While the San Francisco Police Department's Park Station did not provide additional conditions or concerns regarding the proposal, the owners are hopeful that the commission will recognize the value of their request. The meeting reflects ongoing efforts to balance community needs with regulatory requirements, particularly in a city known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse cultural heritage.

As the commission deliberates on the proposal, the outcome could have significant implications for local businesses seeking to adapt and thrive in a changing urban landscape. The owners of Finnegan's Wake are eager to move forward, hoping to solidify their role as a community hub while honoring the bar's storied past.