Shake Shack sets official opening date for first San Francisco location

Shake Shack sets official opening date for first San Francisco locationPhoto: Shake Shack/Facebook
Alisa Scerrato
Published on January 29, 2020

It's been a long time coming, but Shake Shack has finally arrived in San Francisco.

The popular New York-based burger chain, known for its “Shackburgers" and crinkle-cut fries, will open its doors this Monday, February 3, Eater SF reports.

With 168 U.S. locations, Shake Shack has made inroads in Marin and the South Bay, but this is its first step into SF proper. However, it's already planning a second location in the Westfield San Francisco Centre mall, which should open sometime later this year. 

In addition to the standard lineup of burgers, fries, shakes and concretes (thick frozen custard mixed with toppings), diners can expect a few special SF-only items with local ingredients. 

They include two special concretes: the California Cold Rush, made with bits of kouign amann from Lower Pac Heights bakery B. Patisserie, and the Great Escape, with strawberry sauce and salted sugar cookie dough from local company Dough XX.

There's also a burger made with 100% local grass-fed beef, and beers from local brewers like Fort Point and Drake's. 

Shake Shack's space at 3060 Fillmore St. formerly housed grocery store Real Food Co. | Photo: Shirin Jones/Hoodline

While the opening of a new Shake Shack is a major event that often draws lines, not everyone in Cow Hollow is pleased about the chain's arrival.

In a story in the Chronicle this week, Karl Hasz, a former commissioner for the Historic Preservation Commission, said that allowing Shake Shack to move into Cow Hollow was a "shocking" decision by the city.

“We’ve fought these chains over and over,” Hasz said, noting the laws in many neighborhoods meant to deter formula retailers. “Are we now saying that it’s OK?”

Some local restaurant owners told the Chronicle they were very concerned about Shake Shack cannibalizing their business, while others said the chain was a positive force that would draw more shoppers to the struggling Union Street retail corridor.

Indeed, another business is opening right next door to Shake Shack: Michael Mina's Indie Superette, set to debut tomorrow.

In a 180-degree shift from Shake Shack, the menu at Indie Superette is largely vegetarian, vegan and keto-friendly. Expect adaptogenic smoothies, açaí and chia pudding bowls, "VLT" sandwiches and veggie burgers. Grab-and-go items and fresh produce stands will also be part of the mix. 

Photo: Aubrie Pick/Courtesy of Indie Superette

Once Shake Shack opens on Monday, hours will be 11 a.m.– 10 p.m., Sunday – Thursday, and 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Friday – Saturday.

Hours for Indie Superette will be 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.