Historic Preservation Commission recommends 10 longrunning San Francisco businesses for Legacy Business Registry

The San Francisco Historic Preservation Commission on April 6 recommended that 10 longrunning neighborhood businesses be added to the city's Legacy Business Registry, voting unanimously to forward resolutions to the Board of Supervisors. Commissioners praised the businesses for longevity, community ties and cultural significance.

Planning staff presented the nominations during the meeting, noting each business’s age, historic role in its neighborhood and the physical or cultural features staff recommended for protection. Elena Moore described Latin Jewelers as a 46‑year‑old family jewelry store “keeping Latino traditions and culture alive” on Mission Street. Staff further recommended Valentino Market, Buddha Lounge, Far East Cafe, San Francisco Carts and Concessions Inc., a Vietnamese restaurant listed as “Size Vietnamese Restaurant” in the transcript, Paxton Gate, Buena Vista Cafe (corrected address 2765 Hyde Street), Helmand Palace, and Small Fries children’s store for the registry.

Public supporters spoke for several nominations. Deb Johnson, speaking on behalf of Valentino Market, described it as “more than just a corner store” and stressed its role as a neighborhood meeting place. Stan Roth, owner of San Francisco Carts and Concessions, recounted the business’s 48‑year history and said the company has provided entry‑level jobs for many young people; Roth said the business “hired over 4,000 young people” during its history (statement attributed to Roth in the record).

Commissioners repeatedly lauded the nominees’ endurance and contributions. Commissioner Foley called the presentations “my favorite part of being on this commission,” and Commissioner Black highlighted the program’s threshold of at least 30 years in business and the touching community stories behind many nominations. Commissioner Johns moved to approve the resolutions and forward recommendations to the Board of Supervisors; the motion was seconded and passed 7–0.

The action taken by the Historic Preservation Commission is a recommendation to the Board of Supervisors; the registry additions are subject to subsequent review by that legislative body. Staff noted a minor correction to the Far East Cafe entry in the executive summary (business name to be corrected). The commission’s packet lists specific features and staff recommendations for each business; those details will accompany the resolutions sent to the Board of Supervisors.