Overview

• His death at 86 was confirmed by his son Michael, who notified local media of the longtime restaurateur’s passing.
• Betz bought the House of Prime Rib in 1985 and elevated the 1949-founded spot into a destination known for 21-day aged prime rib and classic cocktails.
• For more than 30 years he partnered with Glide Memorial Church on Christmas Eve, helping provide over 75,000 prime rib meals to people in need.
• Born in Bavaria, he arrived in San Francisco in 1962, bought Hoffman’s Grill at 28 as the city’s youngest restaurateur, and later ran ventures including a Transamerica Pyramid nightclub.
• He is survived by sons Michael and Steven, who are running the restaurant, as tributes poured in from city leaders and the 49ers community.