A culinary landmark on the Embarcadero has quietly served its final meal, marking the end of an era for San Francisco’s restaurant scene. Fog City Diner, which opened in 1985, closed its doors on May 30th after 40 remarkable years of serving locals and tourists alike.

Originally launched by chef Cindy Pawlcyn and restaurateurs Bill Higgins and Bill Upson, the restaurant became more than just a dining spot, it was a cultural institution. In its early years, the diner was part of a vibrant West Coast food scene that included legendary establishments like Stars and Chez Panisse.

In 2013, the restaurant underwent a significant transformation, rebranding simply as “Fog City” and updating its menu and interior. Chef Bruce Hill introduced wood-fired dishes like roasted chicken and steak, moving away from its original retro diner aesthetic while maintaining its core culinary spirit.

The closure announcement came abruptly on Instagram, leaving many long-time patrons and staff members nostalgic. Brett Maurice, a staff member who worked there for a decade, reflected on the closure as the “end of an era,” expressing gratitude to his colleagues who kept the restaurant running.

Located on a distinctive flatiron-shaped property, the space has a rich history predating the Fog City Diner. Before 1985, it was known by names like Mildred Pierce’s and Battery Point, and previously served as the Harbor Cafeteria, a popular hangout for longshoremen since 1958.

The restaurant’s success was attributed to its approachable cuisine and prime location, which became even more desirable after the Embarcadero Freeway’s removal in 1989. While the closure marks the end of a significant chapter in San Francisco’s culinary history, the community remains hopeful about what might occupy this iconic space in the future.

As local TV personality Liam Mayclem expressed, the closure “breaks [his] heart,” echoing the sentiments of many who saw Fog City Diner as more than just a restaurant, it was a beloved San Francisco institution.