The Castro's sidewalks are full of diners, drinkers and exercisers, as businesses take advantage of the city's "shared spaces" program.

"It was an era," says barber Philip Stover, who worked at the shop for nearly 40 years.

Two more Castro businesses have closed during the shelter-in-place

"We came to the ineluctable conclusion that our tiny business won't survive," said Mini-Chic owner Coralie Tran.

Opening amidst the pandemic has "been a roller coaster," says owner Diane Ramirez. "I think everyone can vouch for that."

The company has declared bankruptcy and is closing locations across the country, with the Bay Area particularly hard-hit.

Originally set to become a private events space, the 47-year-old Castro mainstay is now shifting back into cafe mode.

"It has been like the Castro’s own version of 'Cheers,' and we loved being your bartenders," said owner Phillip Rennick.

“The pressure with the conditions we are working under right now is exhausting,” said one store owner.

One of the city's first boutique pet shops is saying goodbye to customers starting this weekend, with a 20% off sale.

With no federal relief funds in sight, the Castro's gay bars and restaurants are now staring down the loss of one of their biggest weekends of the year.

Owner Ali Yaldiz says he will reopen, but his landlord says otherwise.

A brief roundup of some recent retail and restaurant changes in the Castro.