Hayes Valley Leftovers: Zonal Commendation, Muffin Love, Boys & Girls Opening, And More

Hayes Valley Leftovers: Zonal Commendation, Muffin Love, Boys & Girls Opening, And MoreWarby Parker/Facebook
Meaghan Clark
Published on January 24, 2015

It's been another whirlwind week here in Hayes Valley, and in case you missed any of the news, we've got you covered. From an iconic Hayes Street retail destination closing to a bit of press for another local restaurant, here are this week's stories. 

After 24 years, today is Zonal's last day open for business. Owner Russell Pritchard is "excited for his next chapter" in life, and that includes getting a commendation from the Board of Supervisors. This Tuesday at 2:30pm, District 5 Supervisor London Breed will honor Russell's contribution to Hayes Valley, which includes cofounding the neighborhood merchants association. The event is open to the public. 

If you're looking to entertain the little ones, we've finally found them an outlet for all that extra energy: the Boys and Girls Club (Don Fisher Clubhouse) at 380 Fulton St. is now open. The 38,000 square foot space includes a gym and pool, and plans to host a number of activities for youth including academic assistance, healthy lifestyle programs and leadership development classes. 

Hungry for a new lunch spot? After two years at Noir Lounge, the Lunchpad "pop up" isn't quite on our "new and hot" list, but Wendy Hector at The Examiner delves into the afternoon spot's lineup of sandwiches with gusto. The B.L.Whaaat!, she says, is "a goofily-named but perfectly balanced riff on a classic BLT." The Teamster and A-bomb are equally high on her list. 

If all the news about foie gras returning to San Francisco has whet your appetite for some of the formerly illegal stuff, look no further than the Fatted Calf. With a new San Francisco menu up this week, the butchery unveiled the "winter favorite"–also known as foie gras torchon–on Twitter this week.  

Even if you don't need glasses, now there's no excuse not to visit the new Warby Parker at 357 Hayes Street. This Tuesday, the retailer will host an evening with Mallory Ortberg in celebration of her new publication, "Texts from Jane Eyre." If it's anything like the cheeky lifestyle space that Warby Parker set up for Hayes Valley residents, it's sure to be a good time. Check out the Facebook event page for more details. 

On the job hunt? Alla Prima is currently accepting resumes (retail experience required); more information can be acquired at it's Hayes Street location. Also, the soon-to-be-open Cotelac is in search of a part-time sales associate. Interested applicants can drop off their resume at the Cotelac Fillmore location (1930 Fillmore Street) or email [email protected]

Do you know the Muffin Man? Well, if not then now is your chance. In honor of National Muffin Day (January 26), Hayes Valley Bakeworks and a host of other national participants will be creating muffins to hand out to those who "need muffin love the most." On Sunday from 10am-1pm, Hayes Valley Bakeworks will be hosting a muffin workshop where all supplies, sans fruit or chocolate, will be provided. The annual event is the brainchild of the store's Jacob Kaufman, who's been handing out muffins for years. Get a muffin lesson and giveback at Sunday's workshop – there's more info at their event page!

Eater is prepping everyone for a "bagel-induced mini-riot" with the import of New York bagels courtesy of Azalea. There doesn't need to be an excuse to carbo load on a Saturday, but this time it's for a special occasion: Brooklyn's Classic Specs is making it's first appearance on the West Coast. The carb of choice comes from New York's famous Murray's Bagels and will be handed out free Saturday at Azalea from 11am to 2pm. RSVP here for schmear fun. 

Did we miss something? Tell us in the comments!