Latest news with #TajCamptonPlace
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Bay Area chefs nervously eye Trump tariffs as SF Restaurant Week kicks off
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - Bay Area food lovers have reason to celebrate. San Francisco Restaurant Week is back, bringing with it prix-fixe deals at some of the city's most celebrated eateries. But this year, for restaurateurs, the festivities come with a side of anxiety. The backstory A sweeping round of tariffs announced this week by the Trump administration has left many in the culinary industry scrambling to assess how rising import costs could affect their operations. For some, the impact could be minimal, but for others, it could be significant. What they're saying "Our suppliers have advised us to adjust our prices," said Tracy Goh, chef-owner of Damansara in San Francisco's Noe Valley. "They are very apologetic about having to adjust theirs as well. It will definitely hurt me." Goh's Malaysian restaurant sources key ingredients, like coconut milk, from overseas. Imports coming from Malaysia will now be taxed at 24%. Despite the challenges, Goh is focused on the present, and the additional diners Restaurant Week is expected to bring. "I'm very excited to see some foot traffic," said Goh. At Bombay Brasserie in Union Square, the kitchen is bustling as chefs prepare for the restaurant's first Restaurant Week service. The Indian restaurant, known for blending traditional flavors with French influences, is offering a special menu. Across the city, meals being offered by participating eateries during SF Restaurant Week range from $10 brunches to $90 three-course dinners. "These are the best times of the year, because of the best deals that you're getting," said Pulkesin Mohan, general manager at Bombay Brasserie and Taj Campton Place. "Usually these rates are not available." Still, Mohan acknowledged the tariff concerns that are currently looming over the industry. Goods imported from India are currently slated to face a 26% tax. Fortunately, Mohan said much of the restaurant's ingredients are purchased locally. "We are watching the tariffs very closely," said, Mohan. "Some of the prices might increase. Some might come down. But it's too early to say how things will eventually pan out." The Golden Gate Restaurant Association, which organizes the annual event, is urging diners to show support during this uncertain time. "It's a chance to get out there and try places that are new to you, but also visit some favorites," said Amy Cleary, spokesperson for the association. As for the long-term impact of the tariffs, Cleary echoed the industry's cautious optimism. "I think people are sort of in that wait-and-see moment," she said. "It's a major concern, but no one knows yet exactly how high prices will go or when the changes will take effect." For now, Restaurant Week runs through next Sunday — and participating chefs are putting their best plates forward, tariffs or not. SF Restaurant week runs through Sunday, April 13.
Yahoo
18-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
San Francisco shines as NBA All-Star Weekend draws crowds, boosts economy
The Brief NBA All-Star Weekend brought an estimated $350 million economic boost to San Francisco, with local businesses seeing record sales. Restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs, including Temple SF and EPIC Steak, reported significant increases in visitors and revenue. The city's success was highlighted by a bustling Union Square, sold-out hotels, and high-profile events, all contributing to San Francisco's recovery. San Francisco - San Francisco saw a significant economic boost this weekend as NBA All-Star events brought a surge of visitors, with local businesses including restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs reporting strong or record-breaking sales and activity. The estimated economic impact of the weekend is $350 million, according to Mayor Daniel Lurie's office. This weekend brought big crowds, big names, and big dollars to the city. By the numbers Temple SF, a popular nightclub on Howard Street, welcomed thousands more guests over the course of four days. DJ sets by Shaquille O'Neal, also known as DJ Diesel, at the venue, and a star-studded atmosphere kept San Francisco buzzing. "This was the best weekend that we've had since pre-pandemic, and it was just about five times more than we've had for just a regular weekend," said Ja'Dasia Rose, marketing assistant at Temple SF. "San Francisco is back, and this weekend was absolutely the best energy that we could have asked for." Local perspective Sister restaurants EPIC Steak and Waterbar on the Embarcadero also saw a surge in business, attracting NBA fans and stars. "We had Jason Tatum in on the Saturday night before the game, Charles Barkley was in for a steak with some of his TV people from TNT," said Pete Sittnick, managing partner of EPIC Steak & Waterbar. "We did a party for the Brooklyn Nets, we did a party for the Washington Wizards." Sittnick said sales were approximately 25% higher than a typical weekend. "The revenue was great, but for me, it's really more of a showcase for San Francisco, and for Waterbar and for EPIC Steak that just puts us on the map for more events, and more parties and celebrations to come." What they're saying Union Square was also bustling with activity, and Taj Campton Place, located on Stockton Street, sold out mid-week. "The restaurant was buzzing, we had the bar which was full, and we had back-to-back great events. NBA All-Star was a great contributor to that. We also had the Chinese New Year Parade, we also had Valentine's Day that week," said Pulkesin Mohan, general manager of Taj Campton Place. "These events generate huge publicity for the city, put the city in a good light, and put us on the right part of recovery," he added. Public transit was another big winner this weekend, with Muni offering free rides throughout the city. At 1 Hotel San Francisco on the Embarcadero, the hotel was sold out, and its restaurant, Terrene, was closed for a private event Saturday evening. "It was definitely needed, especially in the winter, winter is not a huge tourist month to come and see the rain in San Francisco, Northern California," said Joel Costa, area director of sales and marketing at 1 Hotel SF. "I really think when the city comes to life, it's amazing, and to see so many people visiting from out of town is great, because they're able to see how great San Francisco really is," he added. Despite the large crowds, the San Francisco Police Department reported no major incidents over the weekend, ensuring a smooth and safe event. Mayor Lurie stated that months of preparation went into making the weekend successful for both residents and visitors. This marks the first of three major sporting events planned for the Bay Area over the next year and a half, followed by Super Bowl 60 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The region's host committee anticipates these events will generate more than $1.4 billion and create tens of thousands of jobs. The Source KTVU interviews
