Full Breakdown
Kitchen Story Closes After 12 Years, New Concept Promised
1/3/2026, 11:06:41 AM
Closure Announcement and Legacy
Kitchen Story, a popular brunch destination located at 3499 16th Street in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood, is set to close its doors after 12 years of operation. The restaurant, known for its signature dish, Millionaire's Bacon, will serve its final meals over the weekend, concluding on January 4, 2026. The announcement was made via an Instagram post, expressing gratitude to patrons who have supported the establishment throughout its years of service. The post stated, "We are deeply grateful to our guests who have supported, shared their mornings with us, and made this restaurant a part of their lives over the years."
Background of Kitchen Story
Opened in November 2013 by restaurateur Hoyul Steven Choi and his wife Jiyeon, Kitchen Story quickly gained popularity for its unique blend of American breakfast and Asian-inspired dishes. The restaurant was part of a mini-empire that includes Sweet Maple and Blackwood, with additional locations in Oakland and plans for expansion into Texas and Southern California. The Millionaire's Bacon, a dish featuring thick-cut bacon fried with maple syrup and cayenne pepper, became a hallmark of the menu and was even trademarked due to its popularity.
Future Plans for the Location
Despite the closure of Kitchen Story, the Choi family has indicated that a new concept will be introduced at the same location. The announcement hinted at a "fresh beginning," although specific details regarding the new venture, including its name and opening date, have yet to be disclosed. Jiyeon Choi remarked on the restaurant's pioneering role as "the first Asian-themed brunch restaurant in the American traditional breakfast," highlighting its unique position in the culinary landscape.
Impact and Community Response
The closure has elicited a wave of nostalgia among customers, many of whom took to social media to share their favorite memories and meals from Kitchen Story. While the San Francisco location will cease operations, the Oakland branch remains unaffected and continues to serve its loyal clientele. The bittersweet farewell has left many patrons reflecting on the restaurant's significant impact on the local brunch scene.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
In their farewell message, the owners emphasized their appreciation for the community's support, stating, "While this chapter is coming to a close, it is not a goodbye." The future of the 3499 16th Street location remains uncertain, but the promise of a new concept suggests that the legacy of Kitchen Story may continue in a different form.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are deeply grateful to our guests who have supported, shared their mornings with us, and made this restaurant a part of their lives over the years,” — Kitchen Story Instagram Post
- “We look forward to welcoming you back soon with a new concept and a fresh beginning," the posting says.” — Kitchen Story Instagram Post
- “As Jiyeon Choi told the Business Times, "We are really the first Asian-themed brunch restaurant in the American traditional breakfast.” — Jiyeon Choi, Co-owner of Kitchen Story
