San Francisco’s Richmond District’s Bazaar Café is a true local treasure, and its mom-and-pop owners, Les and Makiko, are two of the most generous, warm, community-oriented people I know. For 13 years they've provided a supportive venue for musicians and visual artists; thrown fundraisers for friends in need; acted as surrogate family to numerous SF newcomers; and brought warmth, cheer, and delicious salmon-rice soup to the Richmond neighborhood.
I personally have been there for some exceptional music concerts, a clogging performance, Ask A Scientist and sometimes just for the secure feeling of a delicious (and well-priced) evening bite to eat or a glass of wine in a cozy intelligent surrounding. Les, the pop half of the “mom and pop owners” receives people with the warmth and ease of a family member who is happy you have come home for a visit. And, add to the pleasure of all this the physical surroundings, every wall, every corner is something interesting to look at or just be in the midst of if personal serenity and a moment to yourself is what you are after. The garden? Gorgeous.
You would think that for all the years I have sauntered into that place as if it were my own private social club I, of all people, would have written a love letter already. I took for granted that it would always be there. But, now the café, in tough economic times, is in peril of closing its doors, which would be a huge loss for not only the neighborhood but for people everywhere in the Bay Area who have counted on Les and the Bazaar Café for interesting entertainment and science presentations. So, as I always advise, say what you feel while you still have the chance, I want Les to know how much I have enjoyed being there, how much like home it feels, how much his smile makes me feel welcome, how his Cappuccino is one of the best around, his baked goods great and his food delish.
The Bazaar Cafe has until January 2nd to be saved. I hope all the people who spend wonderful evenings at the Bazaar or who just have a feel for institutions that keep a neighborhood genuine might be able to come to the rescue so this café can keep its doors off the latch, its ovens humming, its mic open and its lights glowing. In San Francisco our neighborhood retreats keep us a cohesive social community.
Is there a place you love going for a respite from the day’s burdens? A counter-person who makes you feel welcome? Don’t wait. Drop a note and say so.
From me to you with love in the air,
Janet
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