Commission approves five legacy business nominations, including Brainwash and Gino and Carlo

The Historic Preservation Commission on April 19 approved five legacy business registry nominations and will forward the resolutions recommending registration. The motion to adopt staff recommendations for items 9A–9E passed unanimously, 6–0.

Desiree Smith of Planning Department staff presented each application: Brainwash Inc. (founded 1989), a combined laundromat/cafe and entertainment venue; Cal’s Automotive Center (est. 1975), a neighborhood auto repair shop noted for classic-car work; the Chinese Historical Society of America (founded 1963), which operates from a Julia Morgan building and hosts public programs; Gino and Carlo (est. 1942), a North Beach bar with longstanding neighborhood traditions; and Noriega Produce (founded 1985), a neighborhood grocery in the Outer Sunset.

Speakers from the community urged approval. Patrick Alioto, representing the Gino and Carlo family, said the establishment is a 75‑year neighborhood institution. Jeffrey Zales, owner of Brainwash Cafe, described the cafe’s multilingual patronage and services for homeless and indigent residents. Sue Li, executive director of the Chinese Historical Society of America, welcomed the designation. Jerry Gibbons and Ernie Bile spoke in support of Gino and Carlo’s neighborhood role. Dominic Calabresi testified on behalf of Cal’s Automotive Center about community service and charitable programs.

Staff said all five applicants met registry criteria, including years in operation, contribution to neighborhood identity, and commitments to maintain physical features and traditions. The Commission adopted the staff recommendations and congratulated the businesses; staff will forward the resolutions and draft registration materials to the Board of Supervisors where required by program procedures.