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Planning Commission approves Coco Cocktails' relocation to Polk Street after hours of public testimony
Summary
After more than two hours of public testimony both for and against, the commission approved the transfer of Coco Cocktails’ liquor license and relocation plans for 1423 Polk Street, with the applicants agreeing not to pursue an entertainment license and to run daytime coffee service and security measures.
The Planning Commission unanimously approved a conditional use authorization allowing Coco Cocktails (to be renamed the High Low Club) to relocate from 1060 Geary Street to a vacant storefront at 1423 Polk Street, a move prompted by the California Pacific Medical Center expansion.
Applicants Laurie Martins and Justin Mulford emphasized extensive neighborhood outreach, concessions to neighbors and local associations, and an agreement not to renew the entertainment license at the new location. The relocation will include daytime takeout coffee service to activate the street during the day, a security doorman at night, and a digital camera system with street view for police access. The owners told the commission they would limit occupancy to 49, maintain no daytime alcohol sales, and pursue neighborhood‑friendly operating rules.
The hearing drew broad turnout: business owners, merchants, neighborhood and merchant associations, employees and patrons supported the move citing neighborhood improvement, job preservation and safer blocks; several residents and neighborhood associations opposed the transfer citing concerns about liquor‑license saturation, sidewalk crowding and potential increases in late‑night disorder. Opponents urged the commission to consider the larger pattern of bars on Polk Street and expressed a preference for retail uses that serve daily neighborhood needs.
Commissioners who supported the relocation cited the owners’ track record at their existing location, the breadth of merchant and neighborhood support (including letters from 450+ supporters and 60 businesses), the applicants’ concessions (no entertainment license, daytime coffee service) and the view that the transfer would not result in a net increase in liquor licenses in the corridor. Commissioner Bridal said the applicants were “a model operator” and highlighted the applicants’ community contributions. The motion to approve with conditions passed unanimously.
The decision includes conditions to encourage ongoing neighborhood outreach and compliance with operational agreements. The permit is subject to the usual administrative appeals and regulatory enforcement by ABC and police.
