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Planning commission approves conditional use for Fina Estampa to reopen at 1407 Bush Street
Summary
The San Francisco Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional‑use permit allowing longtime Polk Street restaurant Fina Estampa to relocate to a vacant storefront at 1407 Bush Street. Staff said the move will not increase the number of restaurants in the district and cited 14 letters of support.
The San Francisco Planning Commission on July 7 unanimously approved a conditional‑use authorization for Fina Estampa to open at 1407 Bush Street, the planning staff said.
Planning staff member Kevin Guy told the commission the request is to relocate a restaurant displaced by expansion of the California Pacific Medical Center. He said the storefront is currently vacant and the relocation would not create a net increase in restaurants in the Polk Street neighborhood. Staff reported receiving 14 letters in support and one additional letter after the staff report was published and recommended approval.
Veronica Chensato, representing the project sponsor, told the commission the restaurant had operated at 1100 Van Ness Avenue for nearly 20 years but closed after CPMC’s expansion. Chensato said the owner had a previous conditional‑use approval for 1407 Bush that lapsed because the project was not completed; the sponsor has secured an SBA loan to finish the kitchen hood and interior work.
Neighbors raised concerns about outreach and about alcohol licensing. John Nolte and others urged the commission to continue the item so neighborhood groups could be notified and consulted; Linda Chapman cited examples of restaurants that later operated as late‑hour bars in Polk Street and asked for conditions if the commission approved. Commissioners discussed those concerns but several members cited the restaurant’s track record and the fact the relocation would not increase restaurant density.
Commissioner Bridal, Commissioner Antonini and others said they were satisfied with the record and moved to approve the conditional use with conditions. The motion passed 6–0.
The commission also noted staff found no evidence of a dwelling unit in the basement of the subject property and recommended the sponsor work with city departments to complete required permits before opening.
