Julie Zigoris

Beloved San Francisco tiki bar Trad’r Sam blinks back to life

With its inscrutable menu, old-school neon sign and deep bench of regulars, there’s a lot to love about Trad’r Sam.


Two maps show how much money the city’s priciest meters rake in. The annual revenues from some could pay for an employee’s entire salary.

Is it a vital artery that just so happens to be beautiful? Or is the westernmost street in the city a 20th-century relic in need of revision? 

He’s optimistic about the progress of several players but knows the high strikeout and low walk rates are hurting the team.

After a tough year for the industry, there’s plenty to look forward to in 2025, including The Slanted Door's long-awaited return to the Mission. 