It's been a little over a year since Hayes & Kebab was forced to depart its location at 580 Hayes St. In April, the popular Mediterranean restaurant was demolished, to make room for a five-story mixed-use building with both housing and retail space.

Although Hayes & Kebab still hopes to return to Hayes Valley with a space in the new building, the Tekin family, who also own Marina's Kobani Mediterranean Grill (3242 Scott St.) have forged ahead with a new location on Valencia Street. 

Valencia & Kebab debuted this week at 525 Valencia St., the former home of coastal Indian seafood restaurant Gajalee, which closed in September. Emin Tekin, who helps run the restaurant, says that the Valencia spinoff is permanent, and will be unaffected by whether or not Hayes & Kebab returns. 

"We’re still working with the landlord [at 580 Hayes], but nothing is assured yet," Tekin says of the Hayes location. "They’re still interested in giving us a space, but no paperwork has been signed."

Photo: Ann L./Yelp

Tekin says that fans of Hayes & Kebab will find a similar, but slightly more streamlined menu at Valencia & Kebab. Due to the restaurant's smaller space (it seats 47), the housemade bread has been axed for now, as has the bulgur pilaf, in favor of more traditional rice pilaf. The restaurant is currently in the process of applying for its beer and wine license as well. 

Thanks to its prime location in the 16th Street bar corridor, Valencia & Kebab will be able to stay open late: hours will be 11am-10pm Sunday-Wednesday, 11am-12pm Thursday, and 11am-3am Friday-Saturday. We'll keep you posted on Hayes & Kebab's fate as we learn more.