Castro Argentinian restaurant Flora King (4248 18th Street) has shuttered after just over one year and pivoted to a new smashburger concept, and it's being kept in the family.
It was just last March when Flora King opened in the Castro, taking over the former Vico Cavone and Firewood space.
However, that concept did not last long. Flora King owners Angela Pryor Garat and Ignacio Garat announced the restaurant would close on Sunday, June 28.
"To our guests, neighbors, friends, and supporters of local businesses: thank you," reads a sign posted in the window. "The Castro welcomed us, encouraged us, and helped make Flora King far more than just a restaurant."
A new sign for Iggy's Burger has already been installed on the front of the restaurant. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
The space will not sit vacant for long. A sign for the new restaurant Iggy's Burger has already been installed on the facade, and workers have been seen inside the space.
This will be the third location for Iggy's Burger, which is owned by the couple's son, Igancio "Iggy" Garat. Iggy's Burger has two locations in the North Bay: Healdsburg and Sebastopol.
Iggy Garat is also opening Angela's Ice Cream at the former 7-Eleven at 3998 18th Street. Construction is currently underway at the new ice cream parlor.
"As times change, we have listened to what many people are looking for today: a welcoming, affordable place to gather any day of the week," said Pryor Garat and Garat. "With that in mind, we are excited to share that beginning in July, Flora King will transition into Iggy's Burgers, featuring grass-fed smash burgers, a full bar, and Angela's Ice Cream shakes.
A letter announcing Flora King's closure from owners Angela Pryor Garat and Ignacio Garat. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
The Iggy's Burger menu includes a selection of burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, and salads.
A liquor license application for the space to offer beer, wine, and spirits remains pending with the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. As Hoodline previously reported, the license Flora King has purchased comes with a little bit of San Francisco restaurant history.
Longtime Union Square-area French-Vietnamese restaurant Le Colonial previously held the license. Le Colonial closed in 2024 after 24 years in business.
Workers are already inside remodeling the space to become Iggy's Burger. | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodline
Iggy's Burger will be open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
"While the menu may be changing, our commitment to hospitality, quality ingredients, and serving this wonderful neighborhood remains the same," explained Pryor Garat and Garat.
Thanks to Hoodline tipster Reva L.! If you've seen something new (or closing) in the neighborhood, email your tips and photos to [email protected]. If we use your info in a story, we'll give you credit.
