We start with apologies for fans of the Indian soul food spot Ritu, which has been serving samosa, chicken biryani, and tandoori chicken at 24th and Folsom Streets since 2016. Ritu is now permanently closed, and its last day in business was apparently this past Sunday, October 30, though its fare will still be available on the catering platform Private Chefs of the SF Bay.

But a new restaurant tenant is already lined up for the 3111 24th Street location. The SF Business Times reports that a new Greek restaurant called Gyros and Tzatziki is coming to the spot, a project from the co-owner of popular Castro restaurant Gyro Xpress, Bem Bulutoglu.

According to the Business Times, Bulutoglu is “aiming to open Gyros and Tzatziki in early December,” and that Greek food fans should “expect a similar menu and style to Gyro Xpress, with kebabs, wraps, burgers and the namesake gyros with tangy tzatziki yogurt sauce.”

Bulutoglu is not using the name “Gyro Xpress,” because his partner in that venture is not involved in this venture. Additionally, the Business Times got this information via “a recent liquor license application and business registration from Bulutoglu.” Those applications have merely been submitted, and are not yet granted.

Bulutoglu created a little controversy in Greek cuisine circles back in 2019, using a Planning Department discretionary review process to attempt to block a rival falafel shop a few blocks away from Gyro Xpress. (The location eventually became apparel shop Freeborn Designs.) 

But Bulutoglu’s forthcoming Gyros and Tzatziki is great news for Greek food lovers near 24th Street in the Mission District. But it might not be great news if you’re thinking of opening a rival falafel place on 24th Street.