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Port of San Francisco to Demolish Alioto’s for New Public Plaza

A $10 million effort will open up lagoon views as part of a wider Fisherman’s Wharf overhaul

At the intersection of San Francisco’s Jefferson and Taylor streets, heavy tourist foot traffic contrasts with the empty buildings of historic businesses like Alioto’s Restaurant. The iconic eatery, which closed in 2020 after having operated for nearly a century, will now be torn down.
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File image of Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.

Overview

  • Port Director Elaine Forbes said years of failed operator searches and the building’s dilapidated state led to the decision to tear down the three-story Alioto’s structure.
  • Phase one of the $10 million project will create a public plaza with new lighting and an overlook to free up lagoon views for visitors; phase two will focus on seismic upgrades and protections against sea-level rise.
  • The port plans to salvage the restaurant’s iconic turquoise and black sign and explore interpretive signage in collaboration with the Alioto family to honor the site’s century-old legacy.
  • Local business leaders have welcomed improved waterfront access even as some, like Fisherman’s Wharf Community Benefit District president Taryn Hoppe, express nostalgia for the landmark’s history.
  • Demolition is slated to begin soon with first-phase completion expected by next summer and possible temporary activations for adjacent vacant spaces on Taylor Street.