In a pivotal meeting held at San Francisco City Hall, the Port Commission took a significant step towards revitalizing the waterfront by approving a new lease for a restaurant space at 340 Jefferson Street. The resolution, which passed unanimously, allows for a 10-year lease with 340 Jefferson Street Partners LLC, a group recognized for its commitment to enhancing the local dining scene.

The new establishment, named Chaska Rio, will feature a seafood-forward menu inspired by Salvadorian cuisine, marking a fresh addition to the Fisherman’s Wharf area. This initiative comes after the space remained vacant since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, highlighting the ongoing challenges of economic recovery in the region.

Scott Lancel, the deputy director of real estate for the port, presented the proposal, emphasizing the extensive outreach conducted to find a suitable tenant. After evaluating multiple offers, the panel selected Chaska Rio due to its innovative concept and the team's impressive 75 years of combined experience in the Bay Area restaurant industry.

The lease agreement stipulates a base rent of $10,000 per month, alongside a percentage of sales, with the port contributing approximately $470,000 for improvements to the premises. These enhancements will include a facelift for the exterior and new patio features, aimed at creating a vibrant atmosphere that complements the waterfront's charm.

While some members expressed nostalgia for the area's traditional dining experiences, there was a consensus on the necessity of filling the space to stimulate economic growth. The port's strategic investment, funded through federal and state sources related to the America Recovery Act, underscores a commitment to revitalizing the local economy and ensuring the success of new ventures.

As the meeting concluded, the committee moved to forward the proposal to the full board with a positive recommendation, signaling a hopeful future for the Fisherman’s Wharf district and its evolving culinary landscape.