AsiaSF, Iconic San Francisco Trans Cabaret, Announces Closure

After 26 years, the renowned venue known for celebrating the transgender community and providing employment opportunities is set to close due to retirement and financial struggles.

• AsiaSF, a staple in San Francisco's LGBTQ+ community and a space for transgender visibility, will permanently close on March 31, coinciding with the International Day of Trans Visibility.
• The decision to close comes as the founders seek retirement and face financial difficulties post-pandemic, with a significant drop in dinner reservations since 2022.
• AsiaSF has been praised for creating a safe space and employment opportunities for the transgender community, with a majority of its employees being trans women, many of whom are women of color.
• Despite facing criticism for its presentation of trans people, AsiaSF has been a site for celebrations and has earned accolades from customers and city officials, including a declaration of AsiaSF Day by Mayor London Breed.
• While the brick-and-mortar location will close, AsiaSF plans to continue hosting pop-up events for private parties and corporate events, keeping the spirit of the venue alive.

3 Articles

SFGATE SFist The San Francisco Standard