After a little more than six years in the Castro, indoor/outdoor beer garden and restaurant Willkommen (2198 Market St. at Sanchez) has announced it will close.
Willkommen's last day will be October 3.
"While this is a very difficult decision to make, closing the Willkommen location will allow us to focus our efforts and resources on the brewing side of the business,” said Willkommen owner Jim Furman.
Willkommen will close on October 3. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
In 2019, Furman opened Willkommen (German for 'welcome') in the largest of three ground-floor retail spaces beneath The Duboce, a residential apartment building that opened in 2016.
Furman also owns and operates SoMa-based Black Hammer Brewing
Earlier this year, Furman expanded the menu and remodeled the space, adding four U-shaped booths, Himalayan cedar tables, and a realignment of the bar.
Jim Furman (left), Matthew Dolan (center), and Jon Broyer (right). | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Throughout its six years in the neighborhood, Willkommen consistently adapted and adjusted its menu. The restaurant even hosted a popular monthly trivia night on Wednesdays.
Furman also brought on chef consultant Matthew Dolan (25 Lusk) to revamp the menu and hired Jon Broyer (Connecticut Yankee) as Willkommen's new general manager.
Willkommen also overcame several acts of vandalism, including an incident before it even opened in 2019.
New booths were added in January. | Photo courtesy of Jim Furman
In 2020, Furman made light of another window vandalism by turning the smashed window into a temporary "art installation".
"I want to thank all the people who supported us over the years, and am grateful for all the wonderful meals we shared and memories we made," Furman said in a statement.
The closure leaves a prominent, flat-ironed-shaped restaurant space at Sanchez and Market up for the taking.
Thanks to Hoodline tipster Reva L. If you've seen something new (or closing) in the neighborhood, text your tips and photos to (415) 200-3233, or email [email protected]. If we use your info in a story, we'll give you credit.
